Cottonshed Park (Ar)
4.77164 reviews145 GATEHOUSE ROAD
Cottonshed Park (Ar)
$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
Facility rates are $25/day for standard electric sites. This fee applies during both peak season (March 1 - October 31) and non-peak season (November 1 - December 31). Additional fees may apply for reservations and cancellations.
About this campground
Hidden away from the crowds and nestled in tranquil woodlands, Cottonshed Park offers an authentic escape where the only sounds you'll hear are rustling leaves and gentle lapping waves. This peaceful retreat on Millwood Lake beckons anglers with some of the region's most productive fishing waters, while nature enthusiasts find themselves immersed in a living wildlife sanctuary. Choose between coveted lakeside spots where you can cast a line from your campsite, or elevated sites offering sweeping water views through the trees.
Cottonshed Park offers various camping options, including RV, tent, and group camping. The campground is particularly noted for its lakeside sites and well-maintained facilities.
Historical SignificanceJust 25 miles down the road, history comes alive at Old Washington Historic State Park, where Civil War-era buildings and frontier stories provide a fascinating day trip. This proximity to living history adds another dimension to your camping experience, allowing you to combine outdoor adventure with cultural exploration.
Weather and SeasonsWinter brings crisp mornings with temperatures hovering between 36°F and 52°F, perfect for cozy campfires and peaceful solitude. The typically dry conditions make for comfortable camping, though nature occasionally puts on a dramatic show with passing storms that send sheets of rain dancing across the lake. Summer visitors should note that warm months sometimes bring clouds of mayflies - a minor inconvenience that signals the lake's healthy ecosystem and exceptional fishing conditions.
ElevationSet in the gentle lowlands where ancient timber forests meet the water's edge, Cottonshed Park occupies the kind of terrain that defines this region - level ground perfect for easy camping, surrounded by towering trees that have watched over these waters for generations.
Natural Features and SceneryMillwood Lake's distinctive landscape creates an otherworldly camping experience, where ghostly submerged timber rises from emerald waters like nature's own sculpture garden. These aquatic forests, combined with lush vegetation along the Saline River access, create a haven for spectacular wildlife. Watch majestic bald eagles soar overhead, spot white pelicans gliding across the water, catch glimpses of deer at dawn, and yes - keep an eye out for the occasional alligator basking in shallow coves, adding a touch of wild excitement to this diverse ecosystem.
Geological RegionCottonshed Park sits in the heart of the region's characteristic flat lowlands, where dense timber forests create a natural amphitheater around Millwood Lake. This unique geography, where the Saline River feeds into the sprawling reservoir, has created a water wonderland surrounded by level camping terrain - the perfect basecamp for exploring both aquatic and forest environments.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThe campground offers some features to accommodate individuals with disabilities, such as handicap-accessible bathrooms and fishing piers. A reviewer highlighted, 'This park was a great place to take the kids and handicap family members to fish. The pier/bridge was easily accessible for the wheelchair.'
Sites SizeCampsites are described as large and well-spaced. Specific examples mention, 'Large, shaded campsites,' and 'Nice big water/electric sites.'
Sites PrivacySites are generally well-spread out, offering a degree of privacy. However, some reviews note that sites in specific loops may feel more clustered than others.
Total Campsites50 campsites
Recommended CampsitesSite-specific recommendations include extra-long water hoses for sites with distant hookups and avoiding Loop 2 for privacy concerns due to tree clearing.
Best CampsitesCampsite-specific user reviews indicate many lakeside sites provide stunning views, shaded conditions, and easy access to amenities. Campers frequently praised sites 7, 40, and 42.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Not specified.
Check-out
Not specified.
Stay Limit
You may stay up to 28 nights during a visit at this campground.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Exact guest limits per site unspecified.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground is organized into loops, with sites varying in privacy and accessibility. Loops include North Loop, Loop 1, and Loop 2.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen March 1 to December 31.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made on Recreation.gov.
Walk-in AvailabilityNo specific mention of walk-up or first-come, first-served sites. Users should rely on reservation system.
Cancellation PolicyChanges to the reservation ahead of arrival incur a $10 fee. Late cancellations (within 1 calendar day prior to check-in) also incur an additional fee equivalent to the first night's recreation use fee. $10 cancellation fee applies to all reservations.
Amenities available
Showers
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Dump station
Cell phone service
Flush toilets
Electricity hookups
Water hookups
Activities you can enjoy
Cottonshed Park offers a variety of recreational activities, many centered around its lakeside location. Visitors can enjoy excellent fishing, as Millwood Lake is known for its diverse aquatic species. Boating is popular, with direct access to the Saline River. Wildlife viewing opportunities are abundant, featuring over 300 bird species, including bald eagles and great white pelicans. The park also has a disc golf course, a playground, and basketball facilities. One reviewer described it as 'a beautiful campground with endless views.' Another noted, 'Great fishing, sunsets, and so much wildlife to observe!'
Fishing
Fishing is one of the standout activities at Cottonshed Park. The Saline River and Millwood Lake provide excellent fishing opportunities. Anglers have noted catching a variety of fish types, and one review highlighted, 'Fishing is great year-round for all types.' Another added, 'If you're a fisherperson, you'll love it here.'Boating
Boating is a popular activity at the park, with many visitors enjoying access to the Saline River and Millwood Lake. However, caution is advised due to submerged timber and vegetation outside marked lanes. One review noted, 'The area is made navigable by boat lanes which mark the river and other man-made paths through the lake.'Wildlife viewing
The park is a haven for wildlife enthusiasts, with over 300 bird species, including bald eagles and great white pelicans. Visitors frequently spot deer, alligators, and other animals. As one reviewer stated, 'Alligators, deer, woodpeckers, bald eagles, and so much more.'Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports such as kayaking and canoeing are popular and well-suited to the environment, as noted in reviews like, 'It's great for kayaking.'Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires are permitted in designated fire pits or rings.
- Quiet hours are Not explicitly mentioned.
Hazards
General hazardsAlligators in Millwood Lake are a known hazard, and caution is advised. Other potential hazards include snakes in tall grass, water moccasins near showers, and biting insects such as sugar ants and mayflies.
Active alertsNo current alerts reported.
Weather forecast
71
°F
Aug 26
Tuesday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 72%
High humidity, may feel muggy
Wind: 7.4 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 basic services appear to be in Mineral Springs, ~8 miles southwest; further details unspecified.
Good to know
Peak season datesMarch 1 - October 31 (Peak Season), November 1 - December 31 (Non-Peak Season).
Trash and recyclingTrash and recycling facilities are available, but one reviewer noted that garbage areas can occasionally become 'filled to overflowing.'
Proximity to water featuresDirectly on Millwood Lake and Saline River with boat ramps and fishing access.
Common complaintsRoad conditions to the campground are described as poor by several reviewers. Additional complaints include biting insects (mayflies and sugar ants), suboptimal WiFi and cell service, and issues with awkwardly placed water hookups.
HostHosts Stan and Dan received high praise for their friendliness and helpfulness. 'Stan and Dan were fantastic, greeting us with a smile and frequently stopping by to see how we were doing,' noted one camper.
Campground Map
145 GATEHOUSE ROAD
Driving directionsApproximately 5 miles south of Mineral Springs on Highway 355, turn right / west onto Bright Star Road travel approximately 3 miles, turn left / south onto Cottonshed Lane. OR North on Hwy 355 approximately 5 miles, turn left / west onto Bright Star Road travel approximately 3 miles, turn left / south onto Cottonshed Lane.
Road access is moderately challenging. User review observations indicate that roads into the campground from the main highways require repairs. One reviewer stated, 'Roads into the campground from the main highways need some repairs.','Several users described the area as 'sketchy' and 'off the beaten path.'Nearby places
Mineral Springs ~8 miles southwest (driving time not specified)
Old Washington Historic State Park ~25 miles northeast.
Nearby supplies
Mineral Springs (8 Miles Southwest): User reviews mention the nearest store is 8 miles away, with further details about available supplies unspecified.
Camper Reviews
4.8
164 reviews
Cottonshed Park (Ar) is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
Cottonshed Park is highly praised for its peaceful environment, abundant wildlife, and well-maintained facilities. The staff and hosts are frequently described as friendly and accommodating. The park's spectacular sunsets and excellent fishing opportunities are recurring themes in reviews.
Review Summaries
Based on 164 reviews
What Campers Love
Positive aspects include clean and spacious campsites, well-maintained facilities, abundant wildlife, and friendly staff. Reviewers also consistently praise the beautiful sunsets and excellent...
Based on 164 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Common complaints include poor cell service, occasional tall grass, the presence of alligators (limiting water activities), and maintenance issues such as filled garbage areas.
Based on 164 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Campers recommend bringing extra-long water hoses for some sites, as hookups can be distant. They also suggest insect repellent due to bugs and caution for pets and children near the water due to...
Based on 164 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Spring and fall are particularly popular seasons, with many visitors praising the mild weather and fewer bugs. Summer reviews often note the presence of mayflies and high temperatures.
Based on 164 reviewsCamper Quotes
1. 'The views are beautiful, the staff was great, the grounds well kept and the bathhouse was clean.' 2. 'Great fishing, sunsets, and so much wildlife to observe!' 3. 'Bathrooms are clean, sites are...
Based on 164 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site-specific reviews highlight the beauty of lakeside sites and the adequacy of facilities. For example, 'Campsite 7, large shaded campsites with many right on the lake.' Another noted, 'Site 19 was...
Based on 164 reviewsShow more
Accessibility Features
Accessibility is praised, with features such as wheelchair-accessible fishing piers and handicap-friendly facilities highlighted in reviews.
Based on 164 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed, but campers are advised to keep them leashed and away from the water due to the presence of alligators.
Based on 164 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025