Little Cottonwood Campground
4.4048 reviewsPO Box E, Beaver, UT 84713, USA
Little Cottonwood Campground
$25.00 - $25.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$25.00
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
The fee for standard non-electric sites is $25 per night during both peak and off-peak seasons. Additional reservation fees may apply.
About this campground
Nestled along the meandering Beaver River, Little Cottonwood Campground offers an intimate escape into the heart of Fishlake National Forest. This hidden gem features 14 thoughtfully designed campsites, each with its own paved area, sturdy picnic table, and fire grill where memories are made over crackling flames. The gentle murmur of the Beaver River provides a natural soundtrack to your stay, while anglers will find themselves drawn to its trout-filled waters. Despite its modest size, this well-maintained sanctuary delivers an authentic wilderness experience just outside Beaver, Utah.
The campground is suitable for tent campers, RVs up to 40 feet, and accessible camping, but lacks group camping facilities, cabins, or glamping options.
Historical SignificanceWhile Little Cottonwood may not boast ancient ruins or historic landmarks, its story is written in the timeless rhythm of the seasons and the countless families who have found respite beneath its sheltering trees. This peaceful corner of Fishlake National Forest continues a tradition of simple pleasures and connection with nature.
Weather and SeasonsSummer days unfold with pleasant warmth, typically reaching a comfortable 75-80°F, perfect for hiking and exploration. As evening approaches, the mountain air brings a refreshing coolness that makes campfire gatherings all the more inviting. Gentle breezes whisper through the trees while the region's naturally low precipitation ensures plenty of starlit nights for outdoor adventures.
ElevationPerched at 6,500 feet above sea level, Little Cottonwood occupies a sweet spot where the air is crisp and clean, yet still comfortable for most visitors. This elevated position gifts campers with sweeping mountain vistas and naturally cooler temperatures that provide welcome relief from summer heat. The altitude creates perfect conditions for restful sleep under star-studded skies.
Natural Features and SceneryA living cathedral of cottonwood giants, stately ponderosa pines, and aromatic junipers creates a natural canopy overhead, filtering sunlight into dancing patterns on the forest floor. The surrounding mountains frame breathtaking views that shift with the changing light, while the diverse ecosystem supports an impressive cast of wildlife. Lucky visitors might spot majestic elk grazing at dawn, deer tiptoeing through camp at dusk, or catch a glimpse of the elusive black bear or moose that call these forests home.
Geological RegionThe Fishlake National Forest showcases nature's artistry through its dramatic mountainous terrain carved by ancient forces. The life-giving Beaver River winds through this geological tapestry, nourishing a rich variety of vegetation from towering cottonwoods and quaking aspens to hardy pines, piñons, and junipers. This diverse landscape tells the story of millions of years of natural history, creating a playground for outdoor enthusiasts and a sanctuary for wildlife.
Campsite details
AccessibilityTwo accessible campsites are available with paved pathways. The campground features an accessible fishing path and seating area near the Beaver River. User reviews frequently praise the disabled-friendly features, describing the path as 'very disabled friendly' with seating.
Sites SizeSites are described as large and level in authoritative content and reviews; most sites can accommodate RVs up to 40 feet but lack hookups.
Sites PrivacyReviews highlight good privacy between sites, with comments such as 'Quiet secluded spots' and 'Great amount of privacy between sites.'
Total Campsites14 campsites
Recommended CampsitesSites 10 and 12 are praised for their privacy and accessibility features. Site 1 is noted for being more remote from other campers.
Best CampsitesSite #10 is highly recommended for its privacy and proximity to the Beaver River.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Check-in: 2:00 PM
Check-out
Check-out: 12:00 PM
Stay Limit
Camping is limited to 15 consecutive nights per reservation.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Most sites accommodate camping groups of typical size.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutA small campground with 14 sites, two of which are ADA-accessible. Sites are paved and include amenities like tent pads, picnic tables, and grills.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen May 1 - September 30 annually.
Reservation PlatformsReservations are managed via Recreation.gov.
Walk-in AvailabilityLimited availability during off-peak season (October 1-25) on a first-come, first-served basis.
Cancellation PolicyReservations can be canceled online or via the contact center up to the day before arrival. A $10 cancellation fee applies, and late cancellations forfeit the first night's fees.
Amenities available
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Firewood available
Flush toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Recreational activities include stream fishing on the Beaver River with accessible fishing paths, hiking trails such as the rugged Cottonwood Trail, and nearby ATV trailheads that require trailering ATVs. Wildlife viewing opportunities are abundant, with elk, deer, black bears, moose, cougars, and mountain goats frequently spotted.
Hiking
The Cottonwood Trail, accessible via the lower part of the campground, is described as rugged and leads southwest for about two miles before turning east through Horse Flat. Other trails are mentioned nearby but not within direct campground access.Fishing
Fishing is available in the Beaver River, which runs through the campground. An accessible fishing area with benches is provided.Wildlife viewing
Opportunities to observe elk, deer, black bears, moose, cougars, and mountain goats in their natural habitats are available.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires are allowed within designated fire rings. Firewood can be purchased on-site for $6.
- Quiet hours are enforced, especially during late evenings.
Hazards
General hazardsPotential hazards include encounters with wildlife such as black bears and cougars. Campers are advised to follow safety guidelines for food storage and wildlife encounters.
Weather forecast
64
°F
Aug 26
Tuesday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 55%
Moderately humid conditions
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
Closest hospital and emergency services located in Beaver, approximately 10 minutes away.
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 1 - September 30
Trash and recyclingNo garbage services are available; campers must pack out trash. Some reviews indicate frustration with litter left by other campers, as noted in one user comment: 'Someone left pull-ups & random trash all over.'
Proximity to water featuresLocated adjacent to the Beaver River, which offers fishing opportunities. However, the river's high flow rate makes it unsuitable for swimming.
Common complaintsSome user reviews mention lack of cell service, road noise, and occasional maintenance issues such as unclean bathrooms or fire pits.
HostHosts have been described as friendly and helpful, keeping the facilities clean and tidy. Firewood is available for $6.
Campground Map
PO Box E, Beaver, UT 84713, USA
Driving directionsTravel east of Beaver approximately 6 miles on SR 153.
The campground is conveniently located off Utah's I-15 and accessible via SR 153. Roads are paved and well-maintained, making access easy for both RVs and cars.Nearby places
Beaver: 6 miles, approx. 10 minutes
Nearby supplies
Groceries and camping supplies available in Beaver, including gas stations and convenience stores.
Camper Reviews
4.4
48 reviews
Little Cottonwood Campground is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews highlight clean facilities, friendly and helpful hosts, and well-maintained sites. Common praises include privacy, accessible features, and proximity to the Beaver River. Complaints primarily focus on lack of cell service, road noise, and litter left by previous campers.
Review Summaries
Based on 48 reviews
What Campers Love
Positive aspects include clean bathrooms ('Flush toilets that are well cleaned'), friendly hosts ('Hosts John and Belinda are so great'), accessible features ('Very disabled-friendly path to the...
Based on 48 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Issues raised in reviews include lack of cell service ('There really is none'), road noise ('Close to the road & you can hear cars pass by'), and occasional littering ('Someone left pull-ups & random...
Based on 48 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Bring an awning for extra shade as some sites are less sheltered. Prepare for no cell reception by downloading offline maps. Use portable containers for water as spigots may not connect to standard...
Based on 48 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Summer months are popular due to accessible water and fishing activities, but some reviews mention high temperatures during July. Fall offers quieter experiences but limited water availability.
Based on 48 reviewsCamper Quotes
1. 'The bathrooms were clean and bug-free with flush toilets.'
2. 'Hosts John and Belinda are so great. We loved the dog-friendly nature of the camp.'
3. 'The river is rushing, definitely not...
Based on 48 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site 10 is often praised as one of the best, while Site 04 received complaints about being unclean ('Had to dig the firepit out myself'). Site 03 is noted for privacy and proximity to the creek.
Based on 48 reviewsAccessibility Features
Two accessible campsites are available, along with an accessible path leading to the creek. Multiple reviews highlight these features, calling them 'very disabled-friendly.'
Based on 48 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
The campground is described as dog-friendly with shade and running water making it suitable for pets. One user said, 'We loved the dog-friendly nature of the camp.'
Based on 48 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025