Cottonwood Campground

Q: Is there cell service at Cottonwood Campground?

Cell service is generally not available.

Q: Is there a dump station on-site?

No; the nearest dump station is at Rio Grande Village.

Q: Are pets allowed at Cottonwood Campground?

Yes; pets are allowed but must be leashed at all times and not on trails or in buildings.

Q: Can I run a generator at Cottonwood Campground?

No; generators are not permitted.

Overview

About This Campground

Cottonwood Campground sits in Big Bend's desert pocket, offering 22 individual sites and a group site that’s tent-only. It’s a dry camping zone—no hookups; water is only via on-site spigots, and bear boxes keep your food safe. There are flush toilets with lights, but no showers on-site; Rio Grande Village has them. Bring water, pack out charcoal ashes, and enjoy the quiet desert nights and star-filled skies.

Highlights

Site Types

22 individual sites, 1 group site

Scenic Views

Desert mountains and canyon views

Nearby Attractions

Ross Maxwell Scenic Drive, Castolon Store; Panther Junction fuel nearby; Castolon area

Family Friendly

Quiet desert environment; good for kids who can handle long drives; leashed dogs allowed; bear country requires supervision

Best Time to Visit

Fall and early spring; avoid peak heat

Camping Tips

Bring water jugs; there are potable spigots but no on-site fill
Store all food in bear boxes; no stray scents
Expect a long drive from Panther Junction; plan groceries
No on-site showers; bring quick-dry gear and a headlamp for late runs
Reserve early on Recreation.gov; fall/spring availability is best

RV Driver Intel

The Setup

Big rigs: interior roads are paved enough for sedans; group site is tent-only with adjacent parking; no hookups. Arrive with water; plan for a remote, quiet setup.

The Vibe

Functional basecamp in a remote desert; privacy between sites is modest; expect dark skies, limited services, and a rigorous drive from main park entrances.

Bath & Laundry

Shower: none on-site; Rio Grande Village has showers. Laundry: not listed; plan accordingly.

Details

Campsite Information

Total Sites: 221

RV Max Length: Small RVs; larger rigs not advised

Hookups: Dry camping; no electrical, water, or sewer

Site Types

22 individual sites, 1 group site

Each Site Includes

Each site includes a charcoal grill and a picnic table; bear boxes at each campsite

Activities

Hiking, fishing, birding, wildlife viewing, stargazing

Amenities & Facilities

Campground Amenities

Showers: Showers not on-site; Rio Grande Village has showers
Restrooms: Flush toilets with lights
Water: Potable water spigots available
Trash: Trash and recycling collected year-round; bear-proof dumpsters

Facilities

RV Dump Station: No on-site dump station; nearest at Rio Grande Village
Camp Store: Nearby camp store offers essentials, ice, and firewood
Firewood: Gathering firewood prohibited; charcoal allowed; ashes packed out
Amphitheater: Not listed

Utilities

Restrooms: Flush toilets with lights

Showers: Showers not on-site; Rio Grande Village has showers

Policies & Rules

Reservations

Recreation.gov (Booking: Reservations required; up to 14 days in advance)

Pet Policy

Pets Allowed - Leashed at all times; not on trails or in buildings

FAQs

Are there bears near Cottonwood Campground?

Yes; bear boxes are provided and food must be stored properly to keep wildlife distance.

Is there cell service at Cottonwood Campground?

Is there a dump station on-site?

Are pets allowed at Cottonwood Campground?

Can I run a generator at Cottonwood Campground?

📖 nps.gov 📖 justgotravelstudios.com 📖 thedyrt.com 📖 treksw.com 📖 wanderlog.com 📖 hipcamp.com 📖 visitbigbend.com 📖 youtube.com 📖 reddit.com ⭐ Google Reviews 📝 YourNPGuide Editorial

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