How much does camping cost at Cottonwood Cove Campground?

Camping fees at Cottonwood Cove Campground range from $20/night. Prices may vary by site type (standard, hookup, premium) and season. Book online to see exact pricing for your dates.

Is Cottonwood Cove Campground first-come first-served or reservation?

Cottonwood Cove Campground accepts online reservations. We recommend booking in advance, especially during peak season (typically summer weekends). Use campsite alerts to get notified when spots become available.

Can I see photos of campsites at Cottonwood Cove Campground before I book?

Yes! Cottonwood Cove Campground has 9 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.

Are there showers at Cottonwood Cove Campground?

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

Are dogs allowed at Cottonwood Cove Campground?

Yes, pets are allowed at Cottonwood Cove 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 Cove Campground?

Cottonwood Cove Campground offers: Restrooms, Potable Water, Dump Station, Pets Allowed, Camp Store. See our detailed campground page for the full list of facilities and features.

Cottonwood Cove Campground

Q: Can I have a campfire at Cottonwood Cove Campground?

Fire policies at Cottonwood Cove Campground: • Site capacity maximum is eight persons and four tents or one camping unit (motorhome/camp trailer). • Each site can have a maximum of two motorized vehicles, four motorcycles or a combination thereof if towed or carried on or by a camper. • Motor vehicles must be parked in designated parking areas only and may not be driven onto the dirt or across irrigation ditches. • The campground can accommodate RVs, but there are no hookups. • Camping is limited to a total of 90 days within any consecutiv. Always check current fire restrictions before your trip, as conditions change seasonally.

3.67

119 reviews

601 Nevada Way, Boulder City, NV, 89005

Top 20% in NVWinter

C-Report Card

SwimmingSummer Destination

Quick Facts

804 ft

Price

$20/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

Varies

Season

Year-round

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV Friendly

Book on National Park Service Official Website

Get Directions

Quick Facts

804 ft

Price

$20/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

Varies

Season

Year-round

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV Friendly

Book on National Park Service Official Website

Get Directions

Cottonwood Cove Campground

$20.00 - $20.00 / night

Campsite Fees

Shelter Nonelectric: $20.00; Tent Only Nonelectric: $20.00. Plus Recreation.gov reservation transaction fee ($8 online / $9 phone / $3 in person).

No paid fee categories listed.

Get Notified When Available

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Recreation Dot Gov

Provider

702-293-8906lake_fee@nps.gov

I manage this campground

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Campground Map

601 Nevada Way, Boulder City, NV, 89005

Cottonwood Cove Campground

601 Nevada Way, Boulder City, NV, 89005

Nearby places

Searchlight: 14 miles (approx. 20 minutes), Boulder City: 60 miles (approx. 1 hour), Las Vegas: 90 miles (approx. 1.5 hours)

Weather at Cottonwood Cove Campground

Best Time to Camp at Cottonwood Cove Campground

Best season: fall. Fall offers the most comfortable daytime temperatures (typically 70–90°F in October, dropping into the 50s by November) with cooler nights ideal for campfires and sleeping. Lake activities — boating, swimming edges, and shore fishing — are still excellent while desert hikes are much more pleasant than in summer. Crowds taper after Labor Day, so you get good access to boat ramps and quieter campsites without the oppressive heat of summer. Peak months: October, March, April, November Avoid: June, July, August

Best

Spring(Mar-May)

4.0 / 5

Spring brings wildflower blooms and good weather; reviewers give positive spring feedback.

Planning Tips

About Cottonwood Cove Campground

Cottonwood Cove Campground sits on the Nevada shore of Lake Mead, operated by the National Park Service in a low-elevation desert setting near Searchlight. The campground offers tent and RV sites with flush toilets, a dump station, potable water, and a camp store, serving as a base for boating, kayaking, and shore fishing on the lake. Reviewers praise the lakefront location and staff friendliness, though maintenance and cleanliness concerns appear in some reports.

Cottonwood Lower Campground offers a mix of accommodations for tents and RVs, with paved sites and basic amenities. Group camping is not specifically mentioned, and no cabins or glamping options are provided.

Weather and SeasonsBest season: fall. Fall offers the most comfortable daytime temperatures (typically 70–90°F in October, dropping into the 50s by November) with cooler nights ideal for campfires and sleeping. Lake activities — boating, swimming edges, and shore fishing — are still excellent while desert hikes are much more pleasant than in summer. Crowds taper after Labor Day, so you get good access to boat ramps and quieter campsites without the oppressive heat of summer. Peak months: October, March, April, November Avoid: June, July, August

Elevation804 ft above sea level

Natural Features and SceneryLake Mohave meets the Mojave Desert here, creating an unexpected green zone where mature palms and cottonwoods grow alongside oleanders and desert scrub. The vegetation attracts birds, lizards, antelope squirrels, and occasional coyotes. Spring brings wildflower blooms in yellow, purple, and orange across the surrounding desert landscape. The presence of water-loving trees this deep in the Mojave shows how dramatically moisture transforms the terrain. Some campsites get full shade from the mature canopy. Others sit more exposed.

Lodging & AccommodationsThere is no hotel-style lodging available directly within the campground, but a nearby marina features a café, store, and motel for additional accommodations.

Best Campsites

Curated by campers, for campers

Reveal picks

Reserving a campsite

Stay Limit

Maximum stay limit not explicitly stated.

Guests Allowed Per Site

Each site accommodates up to eight people with one camping unit.

Tents

Tents are allowed

RV vehicles

RV vehicles are allowed

Primitive

Primitive camping is not allowed

Reservable

Reservations are allowed

Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made through recreation.gov.

AccessibilityAccessible sites are available, and paved roads lead to and within the campground.

Site SizeSites are paved and provide space for up to eight people and one camping unit. Some users noted narrow or uneven sites.

PrivacyThe campground features lush vegetation that provides some privacy between sites, such as cottonwood and oleander trees. However, some sites are noted to be clustered closely together.

Recommended SitesSite 14 is recommended for shade and restroom access. Prepare for uneven terrain and limited shade at most campsites.

Best CampsitesSite 14 gets mentioned for its shade and proximity to clean restrooms. Lake-view sites are popular when available.

Need help booking Cottonwood Cove Campground?

Reservation tips, booking windows, and free cancellation alerts.

Recreation.gov Guide

Booking tips & windows

When to Book

Find your booking window

Cancellation Alerts

Free alerts for this campground

Amenities available

The campground can accommodate RVs, but there are no hookups.

Potable water

Flush toilets

Dump station

Fire rings

Picnic tables

Camp Store

I manage this campground

RV details

Activities you can enjoy

Cottonwood Lower Campground offers various recreational activities, including water-based and land-based options. Being near Lake Mohave, visitors can swim, kayak, boat, or fish. The presence of hiking trails and opportunities for wildlife viewing further enhance the recreational appeal.

Winter Activities

Water Sports

Planning your trip?Check out our camping packing checklist

Policies & Safety

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.

Fire Policy• Site capacity maximum is eight persons and four tents or one camping unit (motorhome/camp trailer). • Each site can have a maximum of two motorized vehicles, four motorcycles or a combination thereof if towed or carried on or by a camper. • Motor vehicles must be parked in designated parking areas only and may not be driven onto the dirt or across irrigation ditches. • The campground can accommodate RVs, but there are no hookups. • Camping is limited to a total of 90 days within any consecutiv

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

Trash & RecyclingTrash disposal facilities are available, though several user reviews mention litter issues around the beach and campsite areas.

Cell CoverageCell phone reception varies; some reviewers noted minimal or nonexistent cell service.

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

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Reviews

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From Booking Sources

3.7

119 reviews

Mixed Reviews

Cottonwood Cove Campground has mixed reviews, placing it in the bottom 85% of campgrounds based on reviews

Reviews for Cottonwood Lower Campground are mixed, with some praising the quiet and scenic location, while others criticize the lack of maintenance and cleanliness. Positive feedback highlights the peaceful atmosphere and proximity to Lake Mohave, while negative reviews focus on issues such as trash, outdated facilities, and noise disturbances.

Review Summaries

Based on 119 reviews

What Campers Love

"Love camping/kayaking Cottonwood Cove," "Great energy & location," "Friendly staff and clean facilities," "Nice basic spot with great parking."

Based on 119 reviews

Common Concerns

Users frequently mentioned cleanliness issues ('toilets were clogged and dirty'; 'trash all over the beach'), insufficient shade ('very few campsites have any shade'), and noise disturbances ('Quiet...

Based on 119 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

Site-specific reviews highlight both positive and negative experiences. For example, Site 14 is praised for its large shade tree and proximity to restrooms, while Site 10 is noted as being 'almost...

Based on 119 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Bring shade structures as there is limited natural shade. Be prepared for minimal cell service. Some campers recommend exploring smaller beaches down the lake for a quieter experience.

Based on 119 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Summer months can be extremely hot, with temperatures surpassing 100°F. Cooler months from October through April are more favorable for camping.

Based on 119 reviews

Camper Quotes

"There is a sandy beach area with tables and shade for public use." - Noemy R. "The bathrooms were clean and the host was very helpful." - Jeff B. "Sites are uneven but lots of space in between sites...

Based on 119 reviews

Accessibility Features

Accessible sites are available, but some users have raised concerns about restroom accessibility and cleanliness.

Based on 119 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

Pets are allowed, but some reviews noted that dogs are not permitted on certain beaches and that pet areas need better maintenance.

Based on 119 reviews

Outdoorithm Community

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Cottonwood Cove Campground

$20.00 - $20.00 / night

Campsite Fees

Shelter Nonelectric: $20.00; Tent Only Nonelectric: $20.00. Plus Recreation.gov reservation transaction fee ($8 online / $9 phone / $3 in person).

No paid fee categories listed.

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

256,000+ sites monitored · Email alerts to start; SMS and in-app with an account

Learn more about alerts →

Share this campground

Recreation Dot Gov

Provider

702-293-8906lake_fee@nps.gov

Go if

You want lake access for boating or kayaking in a low-elevation desert setting with National Park Service infrastructure.

Skip if

You need consistently maintained facilities or prefer cooler mountain camping over desert heat.

Nearby Campgrounds

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3.4

(42)

Cottonwood Cove Rv Park

Lake Mead National Recreation Area

Cottonwood Cove RV Park sits on the Nevada shore of Lake Mohave within Lake Mead National Recreation Area, about an hour from Laughlin. Operated by Cottonwood Cove Resort & Marina, this very small lakefront park caters to boaters and water-sports enthusiasts who want direct access to one of the Colorado River's major reservoirs. The on-site cafe and store serve campers and day visitors, though sites are narrow and shade is scarce in the desert terrain.

Katherine Landing Rv Park

Lake Mead National Recreation Area

Katherine Landing RV Park sits on the Nevada shore of Lake Mead National Recreation Area at Lake Mohave, offering full-hookup RV sites and tent camping with direct access to desert canyon boating and fishing. Operated within the national recreation area, the campground provides hot showers, laundry, and a dump station alongside lakefront recreation. Visitors spend their days on the water or exploring canyon shorelines, returning to clean facilities and attentive camp hosts.

Katherine Landing Campground

Lake Mead National Recreation Area

Katherine Landing Campground sits on the Nevada shore of Lake Mohave within Lake Mead National Recreation Area, operated by the National Park Service. This full-service campground offers tent, RV, and primitive sites with direct access to a marina, boat ramp, and sandy swim beach. Visitors come for boating, fishing, and water sports on the reservoir, with desert hiking and wildlife viewing along the shoreline.

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Cottonwood Cove Rv Park

Lake Mead National Recreation Area

Katherine Landing Rv Park

Lake Mead National Recreation Area

Willow Beach RV Park sits along the Colorado River in Lake Mead National Recreation Area, operated by the National Park Service. This very small campground offers full hookups for RVs and tent sites with access to Black Canyon's boating and fishing. Clean facilities and quiet riverside character draw visitors seeking water-based recreation in a low-elevation desert setting.

Willow Beach Campground

null

Willow Beach Campground sits on the Nevada shore of Lake Mohave within Lake Mead National Recreation Area, a low-elevation desert site with direct water access. This small campground offers full-hookup RV sites and tent camping with modern amenities including showers, WiFi, and laundry facilities. Visitors come for boating, fishing, and kayaking on Lake Mohave, with the marina and water activities serving as the primary draw.

Callville Bay Campground

601 Nevada Way, Boulder City, NV 89005

Callville Bay Campground sits on the northeastern shore of Lake Mead, 40 miles from Las Vegas in the Lake Mead National Recreation Area. This large campground operated by the National Park Service offers tent and RV sites with flush toilets, a dump station, and a camp store. Visitors come for desert hiking, biking, and proximity to the lake, with a helpful camp host maintaining clean facilities during the seasonal operating period.

$20.00 - $20.00 / night

Frequently Visited

3.7

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Katherine Landing Campground

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Las Vegas Bay Campground

Lake Mead National Recreation Area, Park Headquarters, 601 Nevada Way, Boulder City, NV, 89005

Las Vegas Bay Campground sits in the Lake Mead National Recreation Area foothills, a short drive from Boulder City and the Las Vegas metro. Operated by the National Park Service, this large campground offers tent and RV sites with dump station access, flush toilets, and potable water. Campers come for desert hiking and proximity to the lake, enjoying a quieter alternative to urban camping.

$20.00 - $20.00 / night

Campgrounds

Lake Mead National Recreation Area

Cottonwood Cove Campground

C-

Camper Report Card

How campers graded it

Rated higher than 1% of graded campgrounds

Graded on what 74 campers actually wrote - graded on 14 things that make or break a trip. Each topic is graded against every other campground on it - A is among the best, C about average. No star ratings.

Strengths

Grade B-.Staff & hosts
Grade B-.Getting there
Grade C+.Facilities

Watch-outs

Grade F.Cleanliness
Grade F.Campsites
Grade D.Belonging

Every grade - tap to see what campers said

Each topic is graded against every other campground on it; a topic campers liked never grades below C−. ± shows the 95% confidence range from the sample size.

How we grade →See how Nevada grades overall

About Lake Mead National Recreation Area

Context for the broader area surrounding Cottonwood Cove Campground, sourced from the federal Recreation.gov rec-area record.

Swim, boat, hike, cycle, camp and fish at America’s first and largest national recreation area. With striking landscapes and brilliant blue waters, this year-round playground spreads across 1.5 million acres of mountains, canyons, valleys and two vast lakes. See the Hoover Dam from the waters of Lake Mead or Lake Mohave, or find solitude in one of the park's nine wilderness areas.

Directions

By car you can drive to one of the park's many entrances. The six main entrances to Lake Mead are as follows: Northshore, Lake Mead Boulevard, Lake Mead Parkway, and Boulder, Temple Bar and Meadview. For the southern sections of the park, near Lake Mohave, there are entrance stations at Willow Beach, Katherine Landing and Cottonwood Cove.