A panoramic view of the Little Missouri River winding through Wind Canyon
Open

Open year-round. Water systems are not yet activated due to seasonally cold temperatures; water anticipated to be available around May 15, pending warmer weather. Vault toilets are available. Reservations available via Recreation.gov.

From Recreation.gov

Due to seasonally cold temperatures, water systems for comfort stations have not been activated at park campgrounds. We anticipate that water may be available as soon as May 15, pending warmer weather. Vault toilets are available.

About

Cottonwood Group Site is a designated group camping area within Cottonwood Campground, located five miles from the Medora entrance in the South Unit of Theodore Roosevelt National Park. The site can accommodate 7-20 campers with up to 5 vehicles (maximum 45 ft length) on a pull-through gravel pad. Facilities include picnic tables, a nearby picnic shelter, and access to vault toilets. Water is seasonal and weather-dependent, typically available from mid-May through early October. The campground sits adjacent to the Little Missouri River in a grove of cottonwood trees, providing shade and excellent birdwatching opportunities. Bison regularly travel through the campground en route to the river. The area offers access to approximately 70 miles of hiking trails, and Peaceful Valley Ranch nearby is one of the best locations in the park for night sky viewing. Reservations open March 1 at 8:00 AM MT for the upcoming season via Recreation.gov. The site is part of a primitive camping environment with no hookups, showers, or dump station. Campfires are permitted in designated fire rings, and firewood brought into the park must originate from North Dakota trees.

Directions

Enter the South Unit in Medora. Travel 5.5 miles on the scenic drive (East River Road). Cottonwood Campground is on the left.

Amenities

Water No
Fires Allowed Yes
Toilets Yes
Dump Station No
Wifi
Pets Allowed Yes
Showers No
Electric Hookups
Water Hookups
Sewer Hookups
Camp Store
Price $60

Vehicle

Max RV Length 45ft
Max Trailer Length 50ft
Big Rig Friendly No
Pull Through Sites No

Contact

Phone +1 (701) 623-4466

Cell Service

AT&T Yes
Verizon Yes
T-Mobile None

Availability

Photos

A panoramic view of the Little Missouri River winding through Wind Canyon
A hiking trail winds along a grass-covered ridge under a deep blue sky
The Little Missouri River under a deep blue sky with a dramatic butte in the background
A tent pitched with a view of the Little Missouri River

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