Cottonwood 4 Camping Area

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Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Cottonwood 4 Campsite is a primitive, reservable, fee-based campground located in the Colorado headwaters-Plateau watershed of Colorado.


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Summary

It is situated near the south fork of the Rio Grande River, offering stunning views of the surrounding mountains and wilderness. The campsite is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts, who come to enjoy hiking, fishing, and wildlife watching in the nearby Rio Grande National Forest.

The campground provides several amenities, including fire rings, picnic tables, and vault toilets. However, there is no potable water, so visitors should bring their own or treat water from the river. The campsite is suitable for tents and small RVs, but there are no electric or water hookups available.

There are several nearby points of interest worth exploring, such as the Rio Grande Pyramid, which is a popular hiking destination with stunning panoramic views of the surrounding mountains. The area is also popular for fishing, with several streams and rivers nearby that offer excellent opportunities for catching trout.

The best time to visit Cottonwood 4 Campsite is from June to September when the weather is pleasant, and the temperatures range from 50°F to 80°F. However, visitors should be prepared for sudden changes in weather, as the area is known for its unpredictable weather patterns.

Interesting facts about the area include that it is home to the headwaters of the mighty Rio Grande River, which is one of the longest and most important rivers in North America. The area is also known for its rich mining history, with several abandoned mining towns and ghost towns nearby.

In conclusion, Cottonwood 4 Campsite is a beautiful and peaceful place to camp, surrounded by stunning views of the Colorado headwaters-Plateau watershed. Visitors can enjoy hiking, fishing, and wildlife watching while exploring the nearby Rio Grande National Forest and other points of interest. The best time to visit is from June to September, with temperatures ranging from 50°F to 80°F.

       

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Camping Essential Practices

Pack It In, Pack It Out
Take all trash, food scraps, and gear back with you to keep campsites clean and protect wildlife.
Respect Wildlife
Observe animals from a distance, store food securely, and never feed wildlife to maintain natural behavior and safety.
Know Before You Go
Check weather, fire restrictions, trail conditions, and permit requirements to ensure a safe and well-planned trip.
Minimize Campfire Impact
Use established fire rings, keep fires small, fully extinguish them, or opt for a camp stove when fires are restricted.
Leave What You Find
Preserve natural and cultural features by avoiding removal of plants, rocks, artifacts, or other elements of the environment.

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