Camping at Cottonwood Campground in Texas

Overview of Cottonwood Campground

Cottonwood Campground is one of the several campgrounds in Big Bend National Park, located in the scenic southwest region of Texas. It offers a tranquil setting near the Castolon Historic District and alongside the Rio Grande. Known for its large, cottonwood trees that provide shade in this desert area, the campground is a favored spot for those looking to relax and enjoy the natural beauty of the park.

Location and Access

Directions: Cottonwood Campground is situated near the Santa Elena Canyon in the western part of Big Bend National Park. It can be accessed via the Ross Maxwell Scenic Drive, which is known for its stunning views and proximity to various trailheads and historic sites.

Campsite Specifics

Number of Sites: The campground offers around 24 developed sites. These are suitable for tents and a limited number of RVs, but it's important to note that there are no hookups available for RVs.

RV Information: While RVs are welcome, there are length restrictions. It's crucial to check with the park for the latest guidelines as they can change, but generally, RVs over 24 feet are discouraged due to the small size of the sites and limited maneuverability.

Amenities: Amenities at Cottonwood Campground include:

• Pit toilets
• Picnic tables
• Grills for cooking
• An amphitheater for ranger-led programs.

However, there are no showers, RV dump stations, or electric hookups at the site.

Reservations and Fees

Reservations: Cottonwood Campground operates on a first-come, first-served basis and does not accept reservations. Visitors are advised to arrive early during peak seasons to secure a site.

Fees: The fees to camp at Cottonwood are subject to change, so visitors should check the most current rates at the National Park Service's official Big Bend National Park website or contact the visitor center.

Best Time to Visit

Seasonal Considerations: The campground is usually open year-round, but the summer temperatures can be excessively hot, so many find spring and fall to be the best times to visit. Always check weather conditions and park alerts prior to your trip.

Activities

Hiking: There are several trails and scenic walks in the vicinity of Cottonwood Campground, such as the Santa Elena Canyon trail and the Tuff Canyon trail.

Wildlife Viewing: The campground's location near the river offers opportunities for bird watching and occasionally spotting other wildlife.

Stargazing: Big Bend National Park is known for having some of the darkest night skies in the United States, and Cottonwood Campground provides a great spot for stargazing.

Regulations and Safety

Fire Restrictions: Due to the dry conditions often present in the area, there are strict fire regulations. Fires are only allowed in the designated grills, and sometimes they are banned altogether.

Wildlife: As with all wilderness areas, guests should keep a safe distance from wildlife and follow the park's guidelines for food storage and disposal to deter animals from the campsite.

Water Availability: It's important to bring your own drinking water, as the availability of potable water is limited and not always guaranteed at Cottonwood Campground.

Pets: Pets are allowed in the campground but must be on a leash at all times. There are restrictions on where pets can go, so it's essential to review the park's pet policies before you arrive.

Contact Information

For the most current information regarding Cottonwood Campground and Big Bend National Park, visitors should contact:

Big Bend National Park Visitor Center:

• Phone: (To be checked on the official NPS website)
• Website: National Park Service - Big Bend

Remember, conditions and regulations can change, so it's always a good idea to check in with the park before planning your trip.