How much does camping cost at Cottonwood Pass Walk In Campground?

Camping fees at Cottonwood Pass Walk In Campground are $6 - $22/night. Prices may vary by site type (standard, hookup, premium) and season. Fees are typically paid at the campground entrance.

Is Cottonwood Pass Walk In Campground first-come first-served or reservation?

Cottonwood Pass Walk In Campground operates on a first-come, first-served basis. All sites are walk-up and first-come, first-served.

Can I see photos of campsites at Cottonwood Pass Walk In Campground before I book?

Yes! Cottonwood Pass Walk In Campground has 1 campsite photos on Outdoorithm, contributed by campers who've stayed there. Browse real photos of individual sites to see what to expect before you reserve. You can also add your own photos after your trip to help the next family plan theirs.

What is the best time to visit Cottonwood Pass Walk In Campground?

Cottonwood Pass Walk In Campground is open Typically late May through mid-October.. The best time to visit depends on your preferences—summer offers the warmest weather and most activities, while spring and fall provide fewer crowds and milder temperatures. Check current conditions before your trip.

Are there showers at Cottonwood Pass Walk In Campground?

Cottonwood Pass Walk In Campground does not have shower facilities. Plan accordingly—nearby alternatives may include day-use areas or towns.

Can I have a campfire at Cottonwood Pass Walk In Campground?

Fire policies at Cottonwood Pass Walk In Campground: Campfires allowed only in metal fire rings provided at the sites.. Always check current fire restrictions before your trip, as conditions change seasonally.

How many campsites does Cottonwood Pass Walk In Campground have?

Cottonwood Pass Walk In Campground has 18 campsites. Sites vary in size, privacy, and amenities. Arrive early for the best site selection.

Are dogs allowed at Cottonwood Pass Walk In Campground?

Yes, pets are allowed at Cottonwood Pass Walk In Campground. Dogs must typically be kept on a leash (usually 6 feet or shorter) and under control at all times. Be sure to clean up after your pet and check for any breed or size restrictions.

What amenities are available at Cottonwood Pass Walk In Campground?

Cottonwood Pass Walk In Campground offers: Restrooms, Potable Water, Pets Allowed. See our detailed campground page for the full list of facilities and features.

What activities can I do at Cottonwood Pass Walk In Campground?

Popular activities at Cottonwood Pass Walk In Campground include Hiking, Fishing, Wildlife Viewing. The surrounding area offers plenty of outdoor recreation opportunities for all skill levels.

Cottonwood Pass Walk In Campground

4.45

41 reviews

Highway 395 and SR 136 Lone Pine, CA 93545

Scenic ViewsGreat Hiking

Featured in:Camping Near Sequoia National Park Primitive Camping California Camping Near Kings Canyon National Park +1 more

Quick Facts

10,000 ft

Price

$6 - $22/night

Booking

First-Come

Sites

18 campsites

Season

Typically late May t...

Cell

No Service

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

Check Availability Official Website

Get Directions

Quick Facts

10,000 ft

Price

$6 - $22/night

Booking

First-Come

Sites

18 campsites

Season

Typically late May t...

Cell

No Service

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

Check Availability Official Website

Get Directions

Cottonwood Pass Walk In Campground

$6.00 - $22.00 / night

Campsite Fees

Overnight Use: Single Site: $22 per night

Standard Site Fee$22.00

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USFS

Provider

(760) 876-6200

I manage this campground

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Campground Map

Highway 395 and SR 136 Lone Pine, CA 93545

Cottonwood Pass Walk In Campground

Highway 395 and SR 136 Lone Pine, CA 93545

Nearby places

Lone Pine - 24 miles (approximately 45 minutes drive)

Nearby supplies

Supplies, including showers, are available at Kirk's Barber Shop in Lone Pine, CA, with additional grocery and camping supplies found in Lone Pine town.

Driving directionsIn Lone Pine, CA, at intersection of US Rt. 395 and Whitney Portal Rd, take Whitney Portal Rd west and go 3.2 miles to Tuttle Creek campground sign. Turn left at sign onto Horseshoe Meadow Road and go 20 miles to New Army Pass sign. Turn right after sign and go 0.5 miles to campground on right.

Located 24 miles southwest of Lone Pine, California, the campground is accessed via Horseshoe Meadow Road. The road provides a spectacular drive but may be challenging for individuals with vertigo due to the high elevation and winding path.

Weather at Cottonwood Pass Walk In Campground

Current alert: Water spigots may be non-functional, and vault toilets may be periodically closed as reported in user reviews.

Best Time to Camp at Cottonwood Pass Walk In Campground

The campground is only accessible from late May through mid-October due to snow. Summer brings chilly mornings around 25-35°F (dawn temperatures near 27°F) and comfortable afternoons reaching 60-65°F. July and August offer peak wildflower displays and the most reliable trail access, but expect afternoon thunderstorms typical of the Sierra. Strong sun at this elevation requires preparation. Early and late season visits may encounter snow.

Best

Summer(Jun-Aug)

4.0 / 5

Summer offers wildflowers and full access to trails; mornings very chilly and site crowding noted.

Planning Tips

Operating Season: Typically late May through mid-October.

About Cottonwood Pass Walk In Campground

Cottonwood Pass Walk In Campground sits at 10,000 feet in Inyo National Forest, where the Golden Trout and John Muir Wildernesses meet. The 18 walk-in sites cost $6-22 per night and operate first-come, first-served from Memorial Day weekend through October 10. You'll park and carry your gear a short distance to reach the sites.

Cottonwood Pass Campground is a small, walk-in only campground with 18 sites, primarily catering to backpackers and hikers.

Weather and SeasonsThe campground is only accessible from late May through mid-October due to snow. Summer brings chilly mornings around 25-35°F (dawn temperatures near 27°F) and comfortable afternoons reaching 60-65°F. July and August offer peak wildflower displays and the most reliable trail access, but expect afternoon thunderstorms typical of the Sierra. Strong sun at this elevation requires preparation. Early and late season visits may encounter snow.

ElevationAt 10,000 feet above sea level, you'll find yourself in a world transformed. The thin mountain air carries the scent of pine and adventure, while panoramic vistas stretch endlessly toward distant peaks. This remarkable elevation places you at the threshold of the high country, where alpine meadows meet rocky pinnacles and every sunrise feels like nature's grand performance. The altitude offers cooler temperatures, crystalline skies, and unparalleled access to some of California's most spectacular wilderness trails.

Natural Features and SceneryLodgepole pines adapted to harsh high-altitude conditions dominate the landscape, their open canopy allowing views of surrounding peaks and clear night skies. Granite boulders scattered through the forest reveal the glacial history that carved these valleys. Wildflowers bloom in July and August. The elevation and terrain mark the southern Sierra Nevada's characteristic geology: volcanic rock, glacial sculpting, and the transition zone between two major wilderness areas. Reviews consistently mention the stunning scenery and dramatic drives approaching the campground.

Geological RegionDiscover the dramatic convergence of natural wonders in the Horseshoe Meadow Recreation Area, where the southern Sierra Nevada mountains reveal their geological majesty. This unique location sits at the crossroads of the Golden Trout and John Muir Wildernesses, showcasing the raw power of ancient glaciers that carved these peaks and valleys over millennia. The high-altitude terrain, dominated by resilient Lodgepole pines adapted to harsh conditions, tells the story of volcanic activity, glacial sculpting, and the relentless forces that created one of North America's most spectacular mountain ranges.

Scenic ViewsThe surrounding mountainous terrain provides expansive views of Horseshoe Meadow Recreation Area and nearby wildernesses.

Lodging & AccommodationsNo hotel-style lodges are available within the park.

Programs & ActivitiesNo information available on cultural or educational programs.

Best Campsites

Curated by campers, for campers

Reveal picks

Reserving a campsite

Stay Limit

One night stay limit.

Tents

Tents are allowed

RV vehicles

RV vehicles are not allowed

Primitive

Primitive camping is allowed

Reservable

Reservations are not allowed

Site layoutSites are close together with unclear boundaries. Reviews mention difficulty determining which bear box or table corresponds to which site. The walk-in format and crowded conditions create confusion during busy periods.

Reservation PlatformsNo reservations accepted; self-registration upon arrival.

Walk-in AvailabilityAll sites are walk-up and first-come, first-served.

Cancellation PolicySites are first-come, first-served; no reservations accepted.

Site SizeThe sites are walk-in and designed for small group usage. Specific dimensions are not provided.

PrivacyThe sites are close together, and user reviews describe the campground as crowded and lacking clear demarcation of which site corresponds to specific bear boxes or tables.

Total Campsites18 campsites

Amenities available

Cottonwood Pass Walk-in Campground offers a variety of amenities tailored for backpackers and hikers. Official sources confirm that the campground includes food storage boxes, tent pads, picnic tables, fire rings, potable water, and toilet facilities. The area has bear-proof lockers at each site, which are mandatory for food storage due to high bear activity in the region. Communal bear-proof food containers and trash receptacles are also available. Reviews indicate some discrepancies in amenity functionality, such as non-functional water spigots and closed vault toilets during specific periods (e.g., August 2023).

Potable water

Fire rings

Food storage lockers

Picnic tables

Vault toilets

I manage this campground

Things to do at Cottonwood Pass Walk In Campground

The campground's location offers direct access to exceptional hiking opportunities in the southern Sierra. Hiking is the primary activity supported by the campground due to its adjacency to the Cottonwood Pass Trailhead and Golden Trout Wilderness.

Hiking4.5/5Top 4% in California

Hiking is the primary activity; 2 mi to PCT access and 5 mi to Cottonwood Lakes/New Army Pass.

Fishing4.0/5

Cottonwood Creek fishing for Golden Trout is nearby; fishing is mentioned as an activity.

Wildlife viewing4.0/5

Winter Activities

Water Sports

Signature experiences

Stargazing4.0/5Open lodgepole canopy allows views of clear night skies and surrounding peaks.

Photography4.5/5Granite boulders, wildflowers, expansive peak views and clear night skies offer top photo ops.

Not sure what to pack?Our complete camping packing checklist

Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsActive bear area; improper food storage may result in fines. High elevation at 10,000 feet may pose risks for individuals unaccustomed to altitude.

No Cell ServiceCell phone service is not available at this campground. Plan accordingly for emergencies and download offline maps before arriving.

No Flush ToiletsFlush toilets are not available at this campground.

Food Storage RequiredBear-proof lockers are available at each site, measuring approximately 48" x 30" x 36".

No Electric HookupsElectric hookups are not available at this campground. RV campers should arrive with a full battery and plan for off-grid power (generator hours/quiet rules permitting).

No Water HookupsSite-level water hookups are not available. RV campers should fill freshwater tanks before arrival; check the No Potable Water note above if applicable for drinking water.

No Dump StationThere is no dump station at this campground. Plan to use a dump station along your route or at a nearby facility before or after your stay.

Fire PolicyCampfires allowed only in metal fire rings provided at the sites.

Quiet HoursQuiet hours are 10:00 p.m. to 6:00 a.m.

Emergency ServicesEastern Sierra Interagency Visitor Center is located at Highway 395 and SR 136 Lone Pine, CA 93545. Phone: (760) 876-6200. Hours: Open daily, 8:30am-4:30pm.

Trash & RecyclingBear-proof trash receptacles are available for waste disposal. Trash must not be left accessible to bears.

Water FeaturesCottonwood Creek fishing for Golden Trout is nearby.

Trip Planning Tools

Set an AlertGet notified when sites open up Check WeatherHistorical weather data Gear for This TripMatched gear recommendations Packing ListCustomizable checklist

Questions & answers

Researching this campground? Ask anything — other campers and our team will weigh in. No visit required.

Tips from campers

Short heads-ups about the road in, gear quirks, timing, and more. You don't have to have been here to share what you know.

Reviews

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From Booking Sources

4.5

41 reviews

Recommended

Cottonwood Pass Walk In Campground is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews

User opinions about the campground vary, with some praising its scenic location and proximity to major trailheads, while others criticize the crowded conditions and maintenance issues.

Review Summaries

Based on 41 reviews

What Campers Love

Positive feedback includes the campground's stunning natural surroundings at 10,000 ft elevation, easy access to hiking trails, and spectacular drives to the site.

Based on 41 reviews

Common Concerns

Common complaints include the campground's crowded nature, unclear designation of site amenities, and maintenance problems such as closed vault toilets and non-functioning water spigots.

Based on 41 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

Specific issues with site designation and bearbox allocation are mentioned, but no specific best or worst sites are identified.

Based on 41 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Campers recommend bringing your own water and being prepared for no cell service. Early arrival is suggested as the sites are first-come, first-served.

Based on 41 reviews

Seasonal Insights

The campground is operational from Memorial Day weekend through October 10, subject to weather conditions. User reviews from the summer months highlight maintenance concerns and crowding.

Based on 41 reviews

Camper Quotes

"Small campground with 18 sites, all walk-in, all close together. It’s not always clear which bearbox or table belongs to which numbered site." - Ingrid Hutman. "For a camping area it’s too crowded."...

Based on 41 reviews

Accessibility Features

There are no specific reviews addressing accessibility for individuals with disabilities.

Based on 41 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

Dogs are allowed but must be leashed at all developed recreation sites. No specific user reviews about pet-related experiences are available.

Based on 41 reviews

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Cottonwood Pass Walk In Campground

$6.00 - $22.00 / night

Campsite Fees

Overnight Use: Single Site: $22 per night

Standard Site Fee$22.00

Get Notified When Available

We'll monitor this campground and alert you the moment sites become available.

Free to start · paid plans add 2-min scans

263,000+ sites monitored · Email alerts to start; SMS and in-app with an account

Learn more about alerts →

Share this campground

USFS

Provider

(760) 876-6200

Nearby Campgrounds

Frequently Visited

3.5

(274)

Tuttle Creek Campground

null

Tuttle Creek Campground sits at the base of the Alabama Hills near Lone Pine, offering direct access to Mount Whitney views and sculpted granite formations. Managed by the BLM Bishop Field Office, this large campground accommodates tent, RV, primitive, and group camping with basic amenities including vault toilets, potable water, and a dump station. Visitors hike the Alabama Hills trails, photograph the Sierra Nevada backdrop, and stargaze under some of California's darkest skies.

Cottonwood Pass Walk In Campground

Quick Facts

Quick Facts

Get Notified When Available

Ask Camp Sage about Cottonwood Pass Walk In Campground

Campground Map

Weather at Cottonwood Pass Walk In Campground

Best Time to Camp at Cottonwood Pass Walk In Campground

Planning Tips

About Cottonwood Pass Walk In Campground

Best Campsites

Reserving a campsite

Amenities available

Things to do at Cottonwood Pass Walk In Campground

Policies & Safety

Trip Planning Tools

Reviews

What Campers Love

Common Concerns

Site-Specific Reviews

Get Notified When Available

Overview

About the campground

Seasons & access

Facilities

Directions

Explore related camping guides

Ask Camp Sage about Cottonwood Pass Walk In Campground

Best Time to Camp at Cottonwood Pass Walk In Campground

Planning Tips

Best Campsites

Reserving a campsite

Amenities available

Things to do at Cottonwood Pass Walk In Campground

Policies & Safety

Trip Planning Tools

Reviews

What Campers Love

Common Concerns

Site-Specific Reviews