Cottonwood Campground

About

Cottonwood Campground occupies a scenic position on Glendo Reservoir's northeastern shore, accessed via a half-mile gravel road just before the Sandy Beach Fee Booth. The campground's 14 sites are distributed across three distinct areas: sites 1-6 cluster beneath mature cottonwoods near the sole vault toilet and water hydrant; sites 7-13 sit further east against a cottonwood stand with partial shade; and site 14 perches isolated over a small hill with a more exposed but tree-ringed setting. The sandy terrain and lakeside location make this an appealing base for water recreation. From mid-May through mid-to-late July, campsites are a short walk from the water's edge, with the cottonwood grove and sandy beach providing excellent swimming and picnicking opportunities. As summer progresses and reservoir levels drop (averaging 55 feet of annual fluctuation), the waterline recedes from the camping area. Facilities are basic: one vault toilet, one water hydrant serving the first six sites, and one ADA-accessible pad. There are no hookups at Cottonwood, though the park has dump stations and electric hookups at other campgrounds like Two Moon and Bennett Hill.

Directions

From Glendo, take Glendo Park Road into Glendo State Park. Turn north just before the Sandy Beach Fee Booth and follow the gravel road for half a mile to reach the campground.