Cottonwood Island Camping Area

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Last Updated: December 5, 2025

The Cottonwood Island Campsite is a primitive, non-reservable, no-fee camping area located in the Colorado headwaters watershed of Colorado.


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Summary

It is situated along the banks of the Rio Grande River and offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and forests. The area is rich in natural beauty and offers visitors a chance to explore the great outdoors.

Some nearby points of interest in the area include the Rio Grande National Forest, which offers a wide range of outdoor recreational activities such as hiking, fishing, and wildlife viewing. There are also several hot springs located nearby, including the Del Norte Hot Springs and the Joyful Journey Hot Springs Spa.

The Cottonwood Island Campsite offers basic amenities such as fire rings and picnic tables. There is a vault toilet available for use, but there is no potable water on-site, so visitors are advised to bring their own water or treat river water before drinking.

Interesting facts about the area include that the Rio Grande River is the fifth-longest river in North America, and it flows from its headwaters in Colorado all the way to the Gulf of Mexico. The river is also an important source of water for agriculture in the region.

The best time of year to visit the Cottonwood Island Campsite is during the summer months, from June to August, when temperatures average around 70 - 80 degrees Fahrenheit during the day and 40 - 50 degrees Fahrenheit at night. However, visitors should be prepared for sudden weather changes, as the area can experience thunderstorms and heavy rain during the summer.

       

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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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