Cottonwood Campground

Closed — Closed for the season. Typically open from late May through late November, weather dependent. Operates first-come, first-served with no advance reservations.

About

Cottonwood Campground is a relatively remote campground in the Beaverhead-Deerlodge National Forest offering 10 rustic campsites ideal for adventurers seeking solitude and simplicity. Situated at 6,360 feet elevation near Ruby Reservoir, this first-come, first-served campground provides an excellent opportunity to disconnect from modern life, as there is no cell phone coverage in the area. The campground features ADA-accessible vault toilets and a bear-resistant meat pole located across the road to the east. With a maximum recommended trailer length of 28 feet, the site can accommodate smaller RVs and trailers, with overflow parking available to the north and east. Campers should come prepared with their own drinking water and be ready to pack out all trash, as no water or garbage service is provided. The remote location offers access to fishing in nearby streams and rivers, and the surrounding national forest provides opportunities for hiking and wildlife viewing. The campground operates on a first-come, first-served basis with a nightly fee of $12 per site. Forest-wide regulations limit stays to 16 accumulated days within any 30-day period, and a mandatory food storage order is in effect throughout the Beaverhead-Deerlodge National Forest.

Directions

From Sheridan travel south on Highway 287 for about 8 miles. When you reach Alder, take Ruby Reservoir Road south for approximately 36 miles. Follow the signs to the campground.

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