Cottonwood Campground (Ia)
4.0121 reviews2850 Prairie Du Chien Rd NE
Cottonwood Campground (Ia)
$14.00 - $14.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$14.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$14.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Peak season nightly rate for walk-to tent sites is $14.00. Discounts, taxes, or incremental charges are not reflected.
Share this campground
Recreation.govProvider
MAY 1 - OCTOBER 31 CAMPGROUND ENTRANCE STATION: (319) 338-3685 NOVEMBER 1 - APRIL 30 CORALVILLE LAKE PROJECT OFFICE: (319) 338-3543 X.6300coralville.lake@usace.army.mil
About this campground
Nestled within the scenic Dam Complex at Coralville Lake, Cottonwood Campground offers an intimate escape into nature's embrace. Here, walk-to tent sites are tucked beneath a canopy of mature hardwoods, creating private sanctuaries for those seeking a genuine connection with the outdoors. Modern conveniences blend seamlessly with the natural setting, featuring a well-appointed restroom and shower facility at the main parking area. Adventure beckons just beyond your tent flap, with winding trails for exploration, prime fishing spots along the shoreline, and fascinating geological wonders waiting to be discovered.
Cottonwood Campground is exclusively designed for walk-to, non-electric tent camping, offering a primitive camping experience for up to 6 occupants per site.
Historical SignificanceStep back in time at the remarkable Devonian Fossil Gorge, where ancient secrets lie exposed in limestone layers just waiting to be explored. This extraordinary geological classroom reveals the story of a tropical sea that covered Iowa 375 million years ago, complete with fossilized coral, brachiopods, and other marine creatures frozen in stone. Interactive discovery points and innovative cell phone audio tours bring this prehistoric world to life, making it an unforgettable educational adventure for visitors of all ages.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the full spectrum of Iowa's seasons at Cottonwood, where each brings its own unique charm. Summer transforms the campground into a verdant paradise, with comfortable temperatures perfect for starlit evenings around the campfire and refreshing mornings by the lake. As autumn arrives, the surrounding forest erupts in brilliant colors, creating a photographer's dream. Winter blankets the landscape in pristine snow, offering a serene, frozen wonderland for the hardy souls who appreciate the quiet beauty of the off-season.
ElevationThe campground rests at a comfortable elevation within the gently rolling terrain of eastern Iowa, offering easy access for all camping enthusiasts.
Natural Features and SceneryImmerse yourself in the breathtaking beauty of the Iowa River Valley, where Cottonwood Campground serves as your gateway to a diverse ecosystem teeming with life. Towering oaks, maples, and hickories create a living cathedral overhead, while the forest floor comes alive with wildflowers and ferns. Wildlife enthusiasts will delight in frequent sightings of white-tailed deer grazing at dawn, wild turkeys strutting through the underbrush, and a symphony of songbirds greeting each new day. The shimmering waters of Coralville Lake provide a stunning backdrop, inviting you to cast a line, paddle along the shoreline, or simply relax and watch the sunset paint the sky in brilliant hues.
Geological RegionDiscover the fascinating geological tapestry of the Iowa River Valley at Cottonwood Campground, where ancient history meets modern recreation. The landscape tells a story millions of years in the making, from the mixed hardwood forests that blanket the rolling hills to the exposed limestone bedrock that hints at Iowa's prehistoric past. The crown jewel of the area's geological heritage is the nearby Devonian Fossil Gorge, an accidental masterpiece created by flooding that stripped away millennia of soil to reveal a perfectly preserved snapshot of life in an ancient tropical sea. This unique combination of geological features creates not just a camping destination, but a journey through deep time.
Campsite details
AccessibilityNo specific accessibility features for individuals with disabilities are mentioned, although the site lies within the Dam Complex, which includes the barrier-free Veterans Trail.
Sites SizeSites are standard-sized for tent camping, with some reviews noting their spaciousness. "Camped at site 15, nice large wooded site. Nicely shaded," described one user.
Sites PrivacyPrivacy levels vary. Several reviews note that sites are not separated by significant barriers and are relatively close to one another. "Good place to stay but you will be close to others so expect noise and lights," one reviewer mentioned.
Total Campsites15 campsites
Recommended CampsitesChoose shaded sites like C15 for privacy or sites closer to restrooms for convenience like C10.
Best CampsitesBased on reviews, C10 and C11 are highlighted for their clean restrooms and peaceful surroundings.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
2:00 PM
Check-out
12:00 PM
Stay Limit
You may stay up to 14 nights during a visit at this campground. Total stays are capped at 14 nights within a rolling 30-day period.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Up to 6 occupants are permitted per site.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutWalk-to tent sites within a heavily wooded area.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen May 23, 2025 - August 31, 2025. Closed for the 2025 recreation season outside of these dates.
Reservation PlatformsReservations available via Recreation.gov.
Walk-in AvailabilitySites are reservable and walk-up availability is not mentioned explicitly.
Cancellation PolicyCancellations incur a $10 fee. Late cancellations also forfeit the first night's use fee. No-shows incur a $20 fee and forfeit the first night's use fee.
Amenities available
Showers
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Dump station
Flush toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Cottonwood Campground offers a variety of recreational activities centered around its natural setting and proximity to Coralville Lake. Popular activities include hiking, fishing, and exploring the unique Devonian Fossil Gorge. "We absolutely love this place to go camping, fishing, or hiking," noted one reviewer. Wildlife viewing and birdwatching are also favored, with abundant species such as deer, turkeys, and songbirds.
Hiking
Several trails, including the Squire Point Trail, Woodpecker Trail, Tailwater Riverwalk, and Veterans Trail, are accessible within the Dam Complex. The latter is designed to be barrier-free. No specific details on trail lengths or difficulty levels were found.Fishing
Fishing opportunities are abundant in Coralville Lake, with species such as large and smallmouth bass, crappie, walleye, and catfish. "Anglers will find large and smallmouth bass, crappie, walleye, and catfish," according to the official description.Swimming
Swimming is available at Coralville Lake, although specific information about designated areas or safety measures is not provided. One reviewer mentioned, "The beach is fairly close!"Boating
Coralville Lake supports various water activities, including boating and water skiing. Details specific to boat types or docking facilities at Cottonwood Campground are not provided.Wildlife viewing
The surrounding area is rich in wildlife, including whitetail deer, waterfowl, turkeys, and songbirds. "Wildlife is abundant throughout the project," according to official sources.Beach activities
Beach-related activities such as sunbathing and lake swimming are possible given the campground's proximity to Coralville Lake.Cultural and Educational Programs
The Devonian Fossil Gorge offers an educational experience to explore a 375-million-year-old sea floor with fossil remains. There are 20 discovery points and a cell phone audio tour to enhance understanding.Water Sports
Water-related activities include swimming, fishing, and boating. Specific rentals or equipment availability is not detailed.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfire rings are available at each site. Campfires must be contained within provided rings.
- Quiet hours are 10:00 PM - 6:00 AM
Hazards
General hazardsRaccoon activity is high, requiring campers to store food securely. Mosquito presence is significant due to stagnant water areas.
Active alertsCampground closed for the 2025 recreation season.
Weather forecast
53
°F
Aug 26
Tuesday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 77%
High humidity, may feel muggy
Wind: 5.4 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Clear sky
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
Veterans Affairs Medical Center in Iowa City; University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics; Coralville Police Department; emergency services located within approximately 3 to 15 miles in Iowa City.
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 23, 2025 - August 31, 2025
Trash and recyclingTrash and recycling facilities are present but located outside the campground at the West Overlook Campground.
Proximity to water featuresCoralville Lake provides opportunities for water activities, but the campground itself lacks waterfront views.
Common complaintsSome reviews report loud noise during quiet hours, lack of rule enforcement, and raccoon disturbances. Others praise clean facilities and serene camping experience.
HostNo specific host information provided.
Campground Map
2850 Prairie Du Chien Rd NE
Driving directionsFrom Interstate 80 (Iowa City, Iowa), take Exit 244 towards Dubuque St./North Liberty. Travel north on Dubuque St. for 3 miles and turn right onto West Overlook Rd. NE. Travel on West Overlook Rd. NE for 1.1 miles. At the second stop sign, turn right onto Prairie Du Chien Rd. NE. Travel east on Prairie Du Chien Rd. NE for 0.1 miles. The entrance to the Cottonwood Campground will be located on the right side of the road. From Interstate 380 (North Liberty, Iowa), take Exit 4 towards North Liberty. Travel east on W. Penn St. for 2 miles and turn right onto N. Dubuque St. Travel south on N. Dubuque St. for 1.9 miles, at the traffic circle, continue straight onto Dubuque St. NE. Continue traveling south on Dubuque St. NE for 1.9 miles. Turn left onto West Overlook Rd. NE. Travel on West Overlook Rd. NE for 1.1 miles. At the second stop sign, turn right onto Prairie Du Chien Rd. NE. Travel east on Prairie Du Chien Rd. NE for 0.1 miles. The entrance to the Cottonwood Campground will be located on the right side of the road.
Paved roads throughout the route. Easily accessible from major highways (I-80 and I-380).Nearby places
Iowa City (3 miles, approximately 10 minutes)
North Liberty (4 miles, approximately 15 minutes)
Cedar Rapids (25 miles, approximately 35 minutes)
West Branch (12 miles, approximately 15 minutes)
Amana Colonies (21 miles, approximately 30 minutes)
Kalona (25 miles, approximately 35 minutes).
Nearby supplies
Grocery stores, restaurants, and camping supplies available in Iowa City, Coralville, and Coral Ridge Mall, approximately 3-10 miles away.
Camper Reviews
4.0
21 reviews
Cottonwood Campground (Ia) is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews present Cottonwood Campground as a serene and beautiful place for tent camping, often highlighted for its mature trees, clean facilities, and peaceful environment. However, some reviewers noted issues with noise enforcement and raccoon activity.
Review Summaries
Based on 21 reviews
What Campers Love
Positive aspects include the cleanliness and functionality of the restrooms and showers, ample shade from tall trees, and the quiet, natural setting. "The bathrooms are kept very clean," and "the...
Based on 21 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Frequent complaints include lack of noise regulation during quiet hours and issues with raccoons damaging personal belongings. "Rules not enforced," noted a user about noise levels, while another...
Based on 21 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Campers are advised to stow food securely to prevent raccoon tampering. Parking trailers in the designated lot and arriving early to select the best spot are also recommended. Several reviewers also...
Based on 21 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Spring and fall are preferred for their moderate weather and fewer visitors. Summertime sees increased wildlife activity and occasional disturbances from other campers. "The campground was very quiet...
Based on 21 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
"The bathrooms are maintained and clean. The showers are hot and in good condition," "We absolutely love this place to go camping, fishing, or hiking," "Camped at site 15, nice large wooded site....
Based on 21 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site 15 is noted for its large, shaded area but is uphill from the parking lot. Site 11 is praised for its cleanliness and serenity. Site 6 is favored for its peaceful environment and proximity to...
Based on 21 reviewsShow more
Accessibility Features
No specific accessibility reviews were found.
Based on 21 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed but must be leashed or restrained, as required by campground rules. No specific reviews address pet-related features.
Based on 21 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025