Cottonwood Campground - Naches River (Wa)
4.2244 reviewsHwy 410, Naches, WA 98937, USA
Cottonwood Campground - Naches River (Wa)
$22.00 - $22.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$22.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Peak season rates are $22.00 per night for both standard and tent-only non-electric sites. During the off-season, reservations are unavailable.
About this campground
Nestled in the heart of Washington's Northern Cascade Range, Cottonwood Campground beckons adventurers to discover a pristine wilderness where the rushing Naches River carves its way through ancient forests. Here, towering old-growth trees frame dramatic views of craggy peaks, while wildflower-dotted mountain meadows invite exploration. Whether you're casting a line into the crystal-clear river, taking a refreshing dip in natural swimming holes, or launching a thrilling rafting adventure, this riverside sanctuary offers the perfect basecamp for your Cascade Mountain experience.
Cottonwood Campground offers options for standard camping and tent-only sites. There are no RV hookups, cabins, or glamping facilities.
Historical SignificanceThe Naches River tells a story thousands of years in the making, serving as a vital lifeline through the formidable Cascade Range. Long before modern highways, indigenous peoples followed this natural corridor, establishing trails that would later guide pioneering settlers through the challenging Naches Pass. Today's campers follow in these historic footsteps, experiencing the same awe-inspiring landscape that has drawn travelers to this mountain gateway for generations.
Weather and SeasonsSummer transforms Cottonwood into a sun-drenched paradise, where warm days invite families to create lasting memories beneath the canopy of towering evergreens. The campground truly shines during peak season, when gentle mountain breezes replace winter's chill, though seasoned campers note that afternoon winds can pick up unexpectedly, adding a refreshing touch to warmer days. With snow and extreme cold remaining distant memories during the summer months, conditions are ideal for everything from morning hikes to evening campfire gatherings.
ElevationWhile the exact elevation remains unspecified, the campground's mountain setting provides that perfect sweet spot where accessibility meets alpine beauty, offering cooler temperatures than the valleys below without the extreme conditions of higher peaks.
Natural Features and SceneryImmerse yourself in a landscape where nature showcases its finest artistry. Ancient Douglas firs and Western red cedars create a cathedral-like canopy overhead, while the Naches River provides a constant soundtrack of rushing water. Dramatic rocky peaks pierce the sky, their rugged faces telling geological stories millions of years old. In nearby meadows, seasonal wildflowers paint splashes of color against emerald grass, and lucky visitors might spot deer grazing at dawn or eagles soaring overhead. This is wilderness at its most accessible yet untamed.
Geological RegionCottonwood Campground sits within the magnificent Northern Cascade Range, a geological wonderland where tectonic forces have sculpted some of Washington's most spectacular scenery. The landscape bears witness to volcanic activity, glacial carving, and millennia of erosion that created today's dramatic topography. The Naches River, your constant companion at the campground, continues this ancient work, flowing through rugged gorges and pristine wilderness areas that showcase the raw beauty of the Cascades. Here, every vista tells the story of Earth's powerful forces at work.
Campsite details
AccessibilityAccessibility features include proximity to the Naches River, although some sites have steep trails to the water, which may not be suitable for mobility-challenged guests.
Sites SizeCampsites are described as small to moderately sized. Some sites like #15 are large enough for multiple tents, while others, such as #8, may be a tight fit for more than one tent.
Sites PrivacyThe privacy level varies between sites. Some, like #15 and #16, offer good privacy with natural tree barriers, while others by the highway provide little seclusion.
Total Campsites16 campsites
Recommended CampsitesUsers suggest choosing riverside sites for better views and access. Sites near the road (e.g., #1 - #3) are noisier and less private.
Best CampsitesSites #12, #6, and #9 are highly recommended for their riverfront views and access. Site #15 is noted for spaciousness and privacy.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Check-in begins at 2 PM.
Check-out
Check-out is at 12 PM.
Stay Limit
You may stay up to 14 consecutive nights.
Guests Allowed Per Site
.
Groups
Group camping is not explicitly mentioned.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground layout includes looped areas with 16 campsites that vary in size and privacy. Sites closer to the river are more desirable.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen season runs from May 16, 2025, to October 4, 2025. Reservations are not available during the off-season.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made through Recreation.gov.
Walk-in AvailabilityReservations are required. Walk-up availability is not explicitly mentioned.
Cancellation PolicyCancellations up to 2 days prior to the reservation start date incur a $10 cancellation fee. Same-day cancellations forfeit the first night's use fee along with applicable taxes and add-ons.
Amenities available
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Firewood available
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Cottonwood Campground offers access to recreational activities like hiking, fishing, swimming, and water sports. Wildlife viewing opportunities exist, but biking trails and cultural programs are not explicitly mentioned.
Hiking
Numerous hiking trails are accessible from the campground, including the American Ridge Trail, which spans over 26 miles and connects with the Pacific Crest Trail.Fishing
Fishing is available along the Naches River, although details like types of fish or regulations are not provided.Swimming
Swimming opportunities exist along the Naches River, but the fast-flowing water may not be suitable for younger children. "The river was calm but too fast for the younger kids to play in."Boating
Nearby rivers, such as the American River, offer whitewater rafting opportunities. Boating details specific to Cottonwood Campground are limited.Wildlife viewing
Guests can enjoy wildlife viewing in the lush natural surroundings, although specific species are not mentioned.Winter Activities
Winter activities are not mentioned directly but may include general nature appreciation in the surrounding forest.Water Sports
Includes whitewater rafting on nearby rivers and swimming in the Naches River.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires are allowed but may be restricted during the height of fire season. Firewood is sold at the host site for $10 per bundle.
- Quiet hours are enforced. Disruptive behavior is discouraged, as multiple users reported disturbances from unsupervised children.
Hazards
General hazardsDead tree branches and high winds have been cited as concerns in reviews. Additionally, bright lights from nearby facilities may disrupt campsites closer to the entrance.
Weather forecast
75
°F
Aug 26
Tuesday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 35%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 4.7 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Overcast
7-Day Forecast
Access to 7-day forecasts tailored to each campground—covering temperature, precipitation, wind, and sky conditions.
Daily & Hourly Insights
View hourly forecasts with expected weather patterns throughout the day.
Temperature Trends
Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.
Precipitation Trends
Plan around rain or snow with monthly visualizations of expected precipitation patterns.
Weather Summaries
Assess conditions with visuals for easier decision-making on when and where to camp.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
Emergency services are not explicitly mentioned. Null
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 16 - October 4, annually.
Trash and recyclingGuests are responsible for managing their trash and recycling. Nearby stores may offer services for extra supplies like firewood and ice.
Proximity to water featuresThe Naches River runs adjacent to the campground, providing opportunities for swimming, fishing, and rafting.
Common complaintsCommon issues include small campsite sizes, proximity to the road, and bright lights disrupting night visibility. Users also report occasional issues with water availability.
HostHosts are frequently mentioned as friendly and welcoming. Notable hosts include 'Pam,' who is praised for her hospitality.
Campground Map
Hwy 410, Naches, WA 98937, USA
Driving directionsFrom Naches, take Highway 410 northeast 22.5 miles to milepost 99.5.
The campground is accessible via Highway 410, which is paved and well-maintained. However, the campground is somewhat close to the road, and noise may be noticeable for sites near the entrance.Nearby places
The campground is located approximately 22.5 miles northeast of Naches, WA. Gold Creek Station is a nearby landmark within 5 minutes north, offering dining and Wi-Fi.
Nearby supplies
Supplies such as firewood, ice, and basic groceries can be procured from stores within the Naches area, approximately 20 minutes away. Gold Creek Station is 5 minutes north offering basic amenities and Wi-Fi.
Camper Reviews
4.2
44 reviews
Cottonwood Campground - Naches River (Wa) is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews are mixed, highlighting the campground's tranquility and proximity to the Naches River. However, some guests express concerns about small site sizes, bright artificial lights, and road noise from SR-410.
Review Summaries
Based on 44 reviews
What Campers Love
Guests praise the cleanliness of the vault toilets, the friendly camp hosts, and the scenic river views. "Vault toilets, while not the most pleasant experience, were kept very clean and were free of...
Based on 44 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Issues include bright artificial lights affecting some campsites (#12 and higher), road noise near sites #1-3, and overcrowding during peak times. "Behind spot 13 is a large warehouse/storage area...
Based on 44 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Reviewers suggest reserving riverside campsites such as #12 and #15 for privacy and views. Guests also recommend visiting nearby attractions like Boulder Cave Trail and Gold Creek Station for...
Based on 44 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Summer is the most popular season due to favorable weather and recreational opportunities. However, wind can be an issue during this time. "SUPER, SUPER, SUPER windy. Hard to cook, tarps flying...
Based on 44 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
"We loved Cottonwood! Sites were spacious and secluded, and vault toilets were clean and barely smelled." "SUPER windy. Hard to cook, tarps flying everywhere." "Pamela was amazing and campsite #7 was...
Based on 44 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site #15 is praised for its privacy and size, while site #12 offers easy river access but suffers from light pollution. Sites #1-3 are criticized for highway noise. "Site 15 very spacious, and was...
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Accessibility Features
Accessibility features are limited due to steep trails to the river. "Accessibility for those who need flat ground may be challenging."
Based on 44 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pet-friendly policies are appreciated, and guests mention convenient spaces for dogs. "Dog-friendly and staff was so helpful and friendly."
Based on 44 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025