The Cottonwood 5 Campsite is a primitive, reservable, fee area located in the Colorado headwaters-Plateau watershed of Colorado. The campsite is situated at an elevation of 8,400 feet and offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and forests.

The area is teeming with wildlife, including elk, deer, moose, and black bears. Visitors can enjoy hiking, mountain biking, fishing, and wildlife viewing in the nearby Arapaho National Forest.

The campground amenities include vault toilets, picnic tables, fire rings, and access to potable water. Campers are required to pack out all trash and leave the area clean.

Interesting facts about the area include its status as a high-altitude watershed, which provides water for the Front Range of Colorado, as well as neighboring states. The nearby Fraser River is a popular destination for rafting and kayaking.

The best time of year to visit the Cottonwood 5 Campsite is from late spring to early fall, when temperatures range from the mid-60s to low 80s during the day and drop into the 40s at night. It is important to note that the area can experience sudden weather changes, so visitors should be prepared for potential rain, hail, or snow.