By:
Submission
Cottonwood is a campground on the northeastern shore of the reservoir, and can be accessed by turning north, just before the Sandy Beach Fee Booth and following the gravel road for a half mile. Largely situated on the sand, Cottonwood provides excellent beach access for most of the summer, and is mostly situated in a cottonwood grove, which provides excellent picnicking opportunities. The campground has 14 sites spread across three separate areas. Sites 1 through six are clustered together underneath a stand of cottonwood trees. The campground’s only toilet and water hydrant are near these sites. Sites 7 through 13 are further east, and are situated against a stand of Cottonwood trees; these sites are all at least partially shaded. Site 14 is further east, and sits just over a hill away from the main campground. The level camping area at site 14 is fairly exposed, but trees surround the campsite. From mid-May to mid-late July, the campsites at Cottonwood are a short walk from the water’s edge, with cottonwoods and a sandy beach in between. During the rest of the year, Cottonwood Cove is drained or in the process of draining, and the campground becomes farther away from the water.
The park is open year-round for day use and camping. Day use permits are required from 6AM to 10PM, and camping permits are required from 10PM to 6AM. Fee booths are open Mon-Sun, from Memorial Day to Labor Day. Otherwise, fees can be paid by cash or check, at canisters stationed at each park entrance, which are available 24/7.
Camped over the Labor Day weekend in 2023.
Had two sites next to eachother for the trip which was nice. Sites were clean and well maintained, so no trash or pokey things on the ground. We were all able to walk barefoot around camp and down to the beach. Covered toilet and drinking water source were very welcome.
No joke about draining the lake this time of year. It was receeding about 10 feet+ a day but it was expected. Kids had fun in the quicksand mud they were warned about and the dogs had a blast as well.
Neighbors were friendly and respectful of hours and the Rangers waved but never intruded. I'd go back here despite the 4 hour drive in a heartbeat. Locals were friendly and welcoming in Glendo proper and prices weren't crazy expensive compared with Colorado.
