Cottonwood Bay Group Site

Open — Open year-round on a first-come, first-served basis. The reservation season runs May 1 through September 30; outside of this period, all sites operate as walk-in only. Water systems at Cottonwood Bay are typically closed from mid-September to mid-April, though Brannon Campground maintains water service year-round.

About

Cottonwood Bay Group Site is part of Boysen State Park, Wyoming's largest state park, situated on the western shore of the expansive Boysen Reservoir. The group site is one of several smaller camping areas along the west side of the reservoir, including North Muddy, Sand Mesa, Wilson Bay, and Trout Bay. Cottonwood Bay offers direct lake access and features a boat ramp, making it convenient for groups interested in water-based activities. The reservoir itself spans 19,560 acres with 76 miles of shoreline and is generally ice-free from March through December. Fishing is a primary draw, and the clear skies rank as Class 2 on the Bortle Dark-Sky Scale, making it excellent for stargazing. The park is located at the southern end of the Owl Creek Mountains near the mouth of Wind River Canyon, where the original Asmus Boysen Dam was built in 1908. The current dam was completed in 1951, and the state park was established in 1956. The area sits on the edge of the Wind River Indian Reservation in Fremont County, with the Wind River flowing north through the canyon. During peak season, water systems operate at most campgrounds, though facilities are more limited in winter months. The park offers diverse recreational opportunities including boating, fishing, swimming, wildlife viewing, and exploration of geological features.

Directions

From Shoshoni, Wyoming, head west on US-26 for approximately 2 miles. Turn right onto Boysen Route and continue for about 5 miles to reach Cottonwood Bay Campground within Boysen State Park.

Nearby Campgrounds