Cottonwood Canyon State Park

Star4.54
90 reviews
PO Box 32, Wasco, Oregon, 97065, United States
Scenic ViewsStargazing

Quick Facts

617 ft

Price

$10 - $58/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

40 campsites

Season

Nov. 31 closes.

Cell

No Service

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV FriendlyShowers

Opens Oregon State Park site

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Cottonwood Canyon State Park
$10.00 - $58.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Tent camping fees start at $10 per night. Cabins range from $45 to $58 per night, depending on whether pets are allowed. An extra vehicle incurs a $7...
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Standard Site Fee$10.00
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

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What Campers Say

4.54

Top-Rated

Based on 90 reviews

307 Google reviews

Most mentioned

cleanspacioussites

"User reviews for Cottonwood Canyon are overwhelmingly positive, highlighting the park's cleanliness, thoughtful design, and variety of activities. Common themes include the park's stunning scenery, well-maintained facilities, and opportunities for stargazing and outdoor recreation."

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Campground Map

PO Box 32, Wasco, Oregon, 97065, United States

Cottonwood Canyon State Park

PO Box 32, Wasco, Oregon, 97065, United States

Driving directionsHighway 206 between Condon and Wasco
The roads appear to be in good condition and maintained even during winter months, as noted by one reviewer: 'The roads to the park are kept in great condition, I was following a snow plow dumping de-icer on the roads.' Seasonal closures may affect access.
Nearby supplies
Amenities available in Condon to the south and Wasco in the north, with the little country store in Wasco having a butcher shop with excellent local beef.

Best Time to Camp at Cottonwood Canyon State Park

Summer brings intense desert heat and dramatic winds that sculpt the landscape and whisper ancient stories through the canyons. Winter transforms the park into a crystalline wonderland, with snow occasionally dusting the sagebrush and rim rocks. But it's spring that truly enchants visitors, when desert wildflowers paint the hillsides in unexpected bursts of color and temperatures invite long days of exploration.

Summer(Jun-Aug)
3.0 / 5

Summer offers stargazing but can be intensely hot and windy; heat is a common criticism.

Fall(Sep-Nov)
4.0 / 5

Fall noted for comfortable temperatures and excellent conditions for viewing and hiking.

Best
Spring(Mar-May)
4.0 / 5

Spring praised for milder temps and blooming desert wildflowers.

Winter(Dec-Feb)
3.0 / 5

Winter brings snow and solitude; some closures/limited services reduce access for activities.

Planning Tips
  • Operating Season: Nov. 31 closes.
  • Current Alerts: Fire bans are imposed mid-spring through early fall.

About Cottonwood Canyon State Park

Where the high desert meets the John Day River, Cottonwood Canyon State Park unfolds as a hidden gem of Eastern Oregon. This remote sanctuary offers adventurers a choice between primitive campsites under endless skies, cozy cabins nestled in the canyon, and spacious group camping areas perfect for gatherings. Miles of trails wind through dramatic landscapes where wildlife roams freely, and when darkness falls, the absence of city lights reveals a celestial theater that draws stargazers from across the Pacific Northwest.
Cottonwood Canyon State Park offers a variety of camping options, ranging from primitive tent sites to cabins. Group camping and hiker/biker camps are also available. The park balances basic accommodations with unique amenities like solar charging stations and sun shelters.
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Stay Limit
Seasonal Limit

Amenities available

Showers
Potable water
Flush toilets
Fire rings
Food storage lockers
Firewood available

Activities you can enjoy

Cottonwood Canyon State Park offers diverse activities, including hiking, fishing, stargazing, and wildlife viewing. The park features well-maintained trails along the John Day River and offers unique amenities like free bike and fishing pole rentals. The trails are suitable for various skill levels and provide opportunities for both relaxation and exploration.
HikingThe park features several trails, including the Lost Corral Trail (4.3 miles one way), the Hard Stone Trail (1.5 miles one way), and the Pinnacles Trail (4.3 miles one way). These trails are known for their stunning views of the John Day River and surrounding canyons. One user described the hiking experience as 'beautiful and peaceful,' while another mentioned, 'The trails were easy to walk, and the scenery outstanding.'
FishingFishing is a highlight at Cottonwood Canyon, with opportunities to catch smallmouth bass in the John Day River. The park even offers free fishing pole rentals. A reviewer noted, 'We released loads of smallmouth bass,' and another highlighted the 'calm currents' of the river.
SwimmingThe John Day River offers swimming opportunities with pleasant water temperatures. One user described it as 'a wonderful temperature to swim in,' while another appreciated the calm currents that make it suitable for all ages.
BikingBikes are available for free use at the park, making it easy to explore the trails. The terrain is described as mostly flat, with trails like the Lost Corral Trail being particularly popular among bikers. One user noted, 'Bicycles are free to ride and just sitting on a rack next to the campground.'
BoatingThe park includes a boat ramp at the JS Burres recreation site, providing access to the John Day River. Boating is a popular activity, though some users noted challenges with submerged obstacles downstream.
Wildlife viewingWildlife sightings are common and include deer, big horn sheep, and various bird species. One user detailed seeing 'a dozen or so mulies, half as many cottontail, 1 coyote, and 50+ sheep.'
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Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsRattlesnakes are common; stay vigilant, especially near trails. Winds can be gusty, affecting tent setups.
Active AlertsFire bans are imposed mid-spring through early fall.
No Cell ServiceCell phone service is not available at this campground. Plan accordingly for emergencies and download offline maps before arriving.
Food Storage RequiredBear-proof lockers are standard in the area; details not provided.

Weather at Cottonwood Canyon State Park

Reviews

4.5
90 reviews
Top-Rated
Top-Rated
Cottonwood Canyon State Park is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews for Cottonwood Canyon are overwhelmingly positive, highlighting the park's cleanliness, thoughtful design, and variety of activities. Common themes include the park's stunning scenery, well-maintained facilities, and opportunities for stargazing and outdoor recreation.
Review Summaries
Based on 90 reviews

What Campers Love

Visitors frequently praise the park’s clean facilities, spacious campsites, and free amenities like fishing pole and bike rentals. The natural beauty and tranquility of the park are also recurring...
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Based on 90 reviews

Common Concerns

Some users mention challenges like high winds, lack of cell phone reception, and the need for additional shade structures. The presence of invasive plants like tumbleweeds and occasional rattlesnakes...
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Based on 90 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Users recommend bringing shade tents, anchoring tents securely due to wind, and reserving cabins well in advance. They also suggest exploring less crowded areas and carrying extra provisions due to...
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Based on 90 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Summer can be hot and windy but offers excellent opportunities for stargazing. Spring and fall are noted for more comfortable temperatures and blooming wildflowers. Winter visitors appreciate the...
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Based on 90 reviews

Camper Quotes

1. 'This is one of the best campgrounds we’ve ever stayed in.' 2. 'The park has everything from historical sites to fly fishing.' 3. 'Absolutely stunning experience; no light pollution and great...
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Based on 90 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

Site 5 is highlighted for its shade canopy. Cabins like Bighorn and Rattlesnake are noted for being pet-friendly. Group camp areas are appreciated for their spaciousness.
Based on 90 reviews

Accessibility Features

The ADA restroom and shower facilities receive positive feedback. One user noted, 'ADA-compliant shower building is near cabin parking.'
Based on 90 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

Pets are allowed in most areas, and cabins like Rattlesnake and Bighorn are pet-friendly. Dog owners recommend bringing water and shade for their pets due to the park’s hot and dry climate.
Based on 90 reviews

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Last updated January 13, 2026
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