Cottonwood Campground
02 reviewsForest Service Road 377, Middle Fork Boise River, Idaho
Cottonwood Campground
$0.00 - $0.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$0.00
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
No fees are required for camping at Cottonwood Campground.
About this campground
Tucked away in the pristine wilderness where Cottonwood Creek meets the Middle Fork Boise River, Cottonwood Campground offers an authentic backcountry escape. This intimate, remote camping area sits at the crossroads of Forest Service roads 268 and 377, serving as your gateway to adventure near the sparkling waters of Arrowrock Reservoir. Whether you're casting a line into crystal-clear waters, exploring hidden trails, or simply soaking in the serene mountain atmosphere, this hidden gem provides the perfect basecamp for those seeking solitude and natural beauty far from the crowds.
Cottonwood Campground is a primitive camping facility within the Boise National Forest, catering to tent campers and those seeking a rugged outdoor experience. It is accessible by car during good weather conditions.
Historical SignificanceWhile the recorded history of this tranquil spot remains unwritten, the land itself tells ancient stories through its towering trees and weathered rocks, inviting visitors to create their own memories in this timeless mountain setting.
Weather and SeasonsFrom mid-May through late September, Cottonwood Campground basks in Idaho's finest weather, with warm days perfect for river swimming and cool nights ideal for campfire gatherings. As autumn fades, winter transforms the landscape into a snow-covered wonderland, though deep snow and challenging road conditions typically close access to all but the most intrepid winter adventurers until spring's return.
ElevationNestled in the mountain valleys of central Idaho, the campground's elevation creates a perfect climate for summer camping, though specific elevation details await discovery by curious explorers.
Natural Features and ScenerySurrounded by a tapestry of dense forest and dramatic mountain peaks, Cottonwood Campground showcases nature's artistry at every turn. The melodic rush of Cottonwood Creek provides a constant soundtrack, while glimpses of the Middle Fork Boise River and the shimmering expanse of Arrowrock Reservoir reward those who venture beyond their campsite. Lucky visitors might spot majestic elk grazing at dawn, deer tiptoeing through the underbrush, or the spectacular sight of eagles and ospreys soaring overhead, while waterfowl dance across the water's surface.
Geological RegionSet within the ecological wonderland of Boise National Forest, the campground rests in a landscape sculpted by millennia of flowing water and geological forces. The convergence of Cottonwood Creek with the Middle Fork Boise River has created a rich riparian ecosystem, while the surrounding mountainous terrain tells the story of ancient volcanic activity and erosion that shaped these rugged Idaho peaks. This diverse geology supports an abundance of plant and animal life, making every visit a lesson in nature's resilience and beauty.
Campsite details
AccessibilityNo accessibility features are mentioned in the authoritative sources or user reviews.
Sites SizeThe campground hosts three campsites. Specific dimensions or size categories of the sites are not provided.
Sites PrivacyUser reviews have mixed comments about privacy. One user mentioned that the campground is 'a bit close to the main dirt road, but not too bad,' suggesting limited privacy from passing vehicles.
Total Campsites3 campsites
Recommended CampsitesSome reviews advise considering proximity to the dirt road when selecting a site.
Best CampsitesNull
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Null
Check-out
Null
Stay Limit
Null
Guests Allowed Per Site
Null
Groups
No designated group camping sites are mentioned in the sources.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are not allowed
Site layoutThe campground has three campsites near the junction of FS roads 268 and 377.
Open and Closed SeasonEnd of May - End of September
Reservation PlatformsNull
Walk-in AvailabilitySites are first-come, first-served; no reservations are available.
Cancellation PolicyNull
Amenities available
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Cottonwood Campground offers opportunities for hiking, fishing, swimming, and wildlife viewing. It is located near the Middle Fork Boise River and Arrowrock Reservoir, which are known for excellent trout fishing and recreation. Nearby trails lead to scenic locations such as Bald Mountain.
Hiking
Hiking is popular around the campground, with the Cottonwood Trail providing access to Bald Mountain.Fishing
Arrowrock Reservoir is a premier fishing destination in southwest Idaho, offering excellent trout fishing for species such as rainbow and cutthroat trout. The Middle Fork Boise River also provides great fishing opportunities.Swimming
Swimming holes are mentioned as part of the recreational opportunities offered in the area.Biking
The campground supports mountain biking activities, though specific trails or difficulty levels are not detailed.Wildlife viewing
Campers may encounter deer, elk, waterfowl, eagles, and osprey, which are attracted to the river and surrounding areas.Winter Activities
Winter activities are not mentioned, but the campground is operational only from late May to late September, likely limiting winter recreation.Water Sports
Other non-motorized water sports such as kayaking or canoeing are not mentioned in the authoritative sources or user reviews.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Campfires are allowed, with rings provided at each campsite.
- Quiet hours are Null
Hazards
General hazardsRough, hazardous roads, particularly Forest Service road 268, present risks for travelers.
Active alertsChecking road conditions before arriving is advised, particularly for FS road 268.
Weather forecast
71
°F
Aug 26
Tuesday
Mainly clear
Precipitation: 0%
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Humidity: 50%
Moderately humid conditions
Wind: 2.9 mph
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Mainly clear
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
Mountain Home Ranger District: 208-587-7961 (contact for road conditions and emergencies).
Good to know
Peak season datesEnd of May - End of September
Trash and recyclingThe presence and details of trash and recycling facilities are not discussed in the sources.
Proximity to water featuresNear Middle Fork Boise River and Arrowrock Reservoir. Cottonwood Creek runs alongside the campground.
Common complaintsSome reviews mention proximity to the main dirt road as a minor drawback for camping.
HostMountain Home Ranger District can be contacted at 208-587-7961 for assistance.
Campground Map
Forest Service Road 377, Middle Fork Boise River, Idaho
Driving directionsFrom Boise, Idaho, travel north along State Highway 21 and turn right at the Forest Service (FS) road 268 junction that goes to Arrowrock Reservoir. Travel along FS road 268 east past Arrowrock Dam approximately 16 miles to Cottonwood Campground. Turn left on the switchback that junctions with FS road 377. Reminder: please use caution when traveling FS road 268; it can be quite hazardous in narrow and rough sections.
Accessible by car in good weather, but the road can be rough with narrow and hazardous sections. Checking road conditions before heading out is recommended.Nearby places
Boise (distance not provided, approximately 16 miles from Arrowrock Dam)
Nearby supplies
Null
Camper Reviews
0.0
2 reviews
Cottonwood Campground has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews reflect a generally positive impression of the campground. While some users highlight its scenic location and suitability for hiking and family traditions, others note its proximity to a dirt road as a minor drawback.
Review Summaries
Based on 2 reviews
What Campers Love
The scenic beauty of the campground, its proximity to recreational activities like hiking and fishing, and its suitability for family traditions are frequently praised. One user stated, 'One of our...
Based on 2 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Some users expressed concerns about the campground's proximity to the main dirt road, which may affect privacy and noise levels. One reviewer commented, 'It’s a bit close to the main dirt road, but...
Based on 2 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Campers should prepare for a rugged experience and bring their own potable water, as none is available on-site. Checking road conditions in advance is also recommended due to rough and hazardous...
Based on 2 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
The campground is open from late May to late September, with mid-May to late September being most favorable for weather conditions. Seasonal trends in reviews are not explicitly discussed.
Based on 2 reviewsCamper Quotes
- 'A fun place to hike if you’re looking for somewhere nice to go for a day!'
- 'One of our family’s favorite places to camp, and our yearly tradition.'
Based on 2 reviewsSite-Specific Reviews
There are no specific details about the individual campsites provided in the reviews or authoritative sources.
Based on 2 reviewsAccessibility Features
No reviews specifically addressing accessibility features were found.
Based on 2 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
No reviews or details regarding pet policies or pet owner experiences were found.
Based on 2 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025