Cottonwood Complex
The campground operates seasonally from May 15 through October 15 with full services. Due to its high elevation, the area is typically snow-free from mid-June through mid-October, and opening may be delayed by snow conditions in early season. First-come, first-served; no advance reservations.
Alcohol Prohibitions
This Order describes acts that are prohibited upon lands, roads and trails within the National Forest System administered by the Forest Service Pacific Northwest Region in regards to alcoholic beverages.
Aquatic Invasive Species
This Order prohibits 1) possessing, storing, or transporting any aquatic invasive animal species AND 2) prohibits possessing, storing, or transporting any aquatic or riparian invasive plant species - on National Forest System lands in the Pacific Northwest Region as specified in the Order.
Restrictions on Use of Forage and Mulch Products
This Order prohibits unloading, storing, or using any straw, hay, grain, seed, or other forage or mulch products that are not state-certified weed free on the National Forest System lands, roads or trails in any Closure Area as specific in the Order. Some examples of these include hay bales, hay…
About
Cottonwood Recreation Area is one of the busiest campgrounds in the southeast zone of the Fremont-Winema National Forest, located 45 minutes northwest of Lakeview, Oregon. The high-elevation setting features western white pine, ponderosa, and white fir providing shade, while aspens create stunning golden displays each autumn. Wildlife is abundant, with deer and occasional black bear passing through the area. The campground offers 22 standard campsites, four walk-in tent-only sites, and a dedicated horse camp with its own corral, water area, and trailer turnaround. Each campsite includes a picnic table and campfire ring. Six vault toilets and potable water are available, and a seasonal camp host is present during operating season. Cottonwood Meadows Lake is stocked with rainbow and brook trout, making it a prime fishing destination. Two day-use areas and a boat launch provide lake access, though only electric motors are permitted. Additional recreation includes hiking on trails like the Cottonwood Loop Trail, bird watching, wildlife viewing, and horseback riding.
Directions
From Lakeview, take US 395 North approximately 1.6 miles. Turn left onto N 4th Street/Highway 140 West toward Bly. Continue approximately 14.3 miles to Forest Road 3870. Turn right and go approximately 5.8 miles to Forest Road 3870-024. Continue straight into the campground.
Amenities
| Water | Yes |
| Fires Allowed | Yes |
| Toilets | Yes |
| Dump Station | — |
| Wifi | No |
| Pets Allowed | — |
| Showers | No |
| Electric Hookups | — |
| Water Hookups | — |
| Sewer Hookups | — |
| Camp Store | No |
| Price | $6 |
Vehicle
| Max RV Length | — |
| Max Trailer Length | — |
| Big Rig Friendly | — |
| Pull Through Sites | — |
Contact
| Phone | +1 (541) 947-2151 |
Cell Service
| AT&T | None |
| Verizon | Yes |
| T-Mobile | None |
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