Cottonwood Cove Upper Campground Camping Area

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Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Cottonwood Cove Upper Campground is a picturesque camping area situated in Nevada's Lake Mead National Recreation Area, surrounded by stunning views of towering mountain peaks and vast desert landscapes.


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Summary

The campground is located on the western shore of Lake Mohave, which is a part of the Colorado River system.

Nearby Points of Interest: The area is filled with a plethora of exciting outdoor activities, including hiking, fishing, boating, and swimming. The campground is located near several popular hiking trails, such as Grapevine Canyon and Spirit Mountain. The nearby Colorado River offers excellent fishing opportunities for those looking to catch striped bass, catfish, and sunfish. Visitors can also explore the nearby Hoover Dam and historic Boulder City.

Campground Amenities: Cottonwood Cove Upper Campground offers 29 campsites, each equipped with a picnic table, fire ring, and grill. The campground has potable water, flush toilets, and showers. There is also a boat launch ramp and a dock for boating enthusiasts. The campground is pet-friendly, but dogs must be kept on a leash at all times.

Interesting Facts: The Cottonwood Cove Upper Campground is named after the native cottonwood trees that grow in the area. Cottonwood trees are known for their unique ability to absorb water, which helps to prevent soil erosion and provides a natural habitat for a variety of wildlife. The area is also home to many ancient petroglyphs, which are rock carvings created by Native Americans over a thousand years ago.

Best Time to Visit and Average Temperatures: The best time to visit Cottonwood Cove Upper Campground is from March to May and from September to November when the weather is mild, and the crowds are thin. The average temperatures during this time range from the mid-60s to low 80s. During the summer months, temperatures can soar above 100 degrees, making it uncomfortable for outdoor activities. The winter months can be chilly, with temperatures dropping below freezing at night. It is advisable to check weather conditions and plan accordingly before visiting the campground.

       

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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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