How much does camping cost at Cottonwood Springs Campground?

Camping fees at Cottonwood Springs Campground range from $18/night. Prices may vary by site type (standard, hookup, premium) and season. Book online to see exact pricing for your dates.

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

Cottonwood Springs 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 Springs Campground before I book?

Yes! Cottonwood Springs Campground has 5 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 Springs Campground?

Cottonwood Springs Campground is open May 15 to September 14. 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 Springs Campground?

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

How many campsites does Cottonwood Springs Campground have?

Cottonwood Springs Campground has 17 campsites. Sites vary in size, privacy, and amenities. Check availability online to find the best site for your needs.

Are dogs allowed at Cottonwood Springs Campground?

Yes, pets are allowed at Cottonwood Springs 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 Springs Campground?

Cottonwood Springs 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 Springs Campground?

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

Cottonwood Springs Campground

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

Fire policies at Cottonwood Springs Campground: Summary of Park Rules and Regulations: All camping passes will be checked. Usable passes are as follows: America the Beautiful pass Senior annual, Senior Lifetime and Access Pass. Golden Age and Golden Access can also be used. Military and Annual Passes CAN NOT be used for a camping discount. All public-use of Cottonwood Springs Lake & Dam Project is governed by Title 36 Code of Federal Regulations (CFR) . Rules and Regulations are enforced by uniformed U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Park Rangers.. Always check current fire restrictions before your trip, as conditions change seasonally.

4.40

142 reviews

U.S. ARMY CORPS OF ENGINEERS, HOT SPRINGS OFFICE, P.O. Box 664, HOT SPRINGS, SD, 57747, USA

Pet FriendlySummer Destination

Featured in:Family-Friendly Campgrounds South Dakota RV Camping South Dakota Boating Camping South Dakota +7 more

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

Quick Facts

4,009 ft

Price

$18/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

17 campsites

Season

Open May 15 through ...

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

Top 1% in state

RV Friendly

Book on U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Official Website

Get Directions

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

Quick Facts

4,009 ft

Price

$18/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

17 campsites

Season

Open May 15 through ...

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

Top 1% in state

RV Friendly

Book on U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Official Website

Get Directions

Cottonwood Springs Campground

$18.00 - $18.00 / night

Campsite Fees

Standard Nonelectric: $18.00. Plus Recreation.gov reservation transaction fee ($8 online / $9 phone / $3 in person).

Standard Site Fee$18.00

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

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

605-745-5476. FOR RESERVATIONS, CALL 877-444-6777.

I manage this campground

Plan a trip to Cottonwood Springs Campground

Compare with similar sites, watch availability, and build a packing list — Camp Sage handles all of it.

Campground Map

U.S. ARMY CORPS OF ENGINEERS, HOT SPRINGS OFFICE, P.O. Box 664, HOT SPRINGS, SD, 57747, USA

Cottonwood Springs Campground

U.S. ARMY CORPS OF ENGINEERS, HOT SPRINGS OFFICE, P.O. Box 664, HOT SPRINGS, SD, 57747, USA

Nearby places

Hot Springs (5 miles, approximately 12 minutes). Wind Cave National Park (20 minutes). Mount Rushmore (1 hour). Jewel Cave National Monument (1 hour).

Driving directionsFrom Rapid City, SD take US-79 S, turn right onto US-18 W/US-385N, turn left onto US-18 BYP, turn left onto US-18W, take a right on County Road 17/Memorial Road, stay to the left as the road Y's staying on County Road 17 and then enter Cottonwood Springs by taking a right at the gate. From Chadron, NE take US-385 N, turn left onto US-18 W/US-385N, turn left onto US-18 BYP, turn left onto US-18W, take a right on County Road 17/Memorial Road, stay to the left as the road Y's staying on County Road 17 and then enter Cottonwood Springs by taking a right at the gate.

Weather at Cottonwood Springs Campground

Current alerts(5)

Be Weather Aware! Weather conditions can vary and can change rapidly year-round. Tune to local media or radio for weather alerts or visit the National Weather Service - Rapid City Office Website for up-to-date information.
Cottonwood Springs Campground, South Dakota will be fully closed at the start of the 2026 season. Supporting services, including contract janitorial, refuse collection, mowing, park attendant coverage, fire ring cleaning and weed control, will also be suspended during this…
Firewood Alert! Don't Move Firewood: Due to the spread of invasive insects, firewood from outside the area is not permitted. Help protect your forests from tree-killing pests by buying your firewood locally and burning it on-site.
Life Jackets Worn…Nobody Mourns, Wear your Life Jacket! The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) asks you to please play it safe while on, in, or near the water.

Best Time to Camp at Cottonwood Springs Campground

Best season: fall. Early fall offers the most scenic payoff — cool, crisp days (expect daytime highs in the upper 50s to mid-70s in early September, nights dipping to the 30s–40s) with bright fall color along pockets of cottonwood and aspen against a backdrop of evergreen ridges. Hiking, wildlife viewing and late-season fishing/boating are at their peak as bugs and summer heat wane and game becomes more active. Crowds are noticeably smaller after Labor Day, giving a quieter lakeside experience — note that Cottonwo Peak months: September, August, June, May Avoid: October, November, December, January

Best

Fall(Sep-Nov)

4.0 / 5

Early fall best: comfortable temps and fall color peaks along cottonwoods and aspens.

Planning Tips

Peak Season: May 15 to September 14. Book 2-3 months ahead.
Operating Season: Open May 15 through September 14.

About Cottonwood Springs Campground

Cottonwood Springs Campground sits on Cottonwood Springs Lake near Hot Springs, South Dakota, operated by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. This small, budget-friendly campground in mid-elevation forest offers tent, RV, and primitive sites with flush and vault toilets, a camp host, and a playground. Reviewers call it a quiet, well-maintained hidden gem with scenic lake views, ideal for fishing, boating, hiking, and wildlife viewing during the fall color season.

Cottonwood Springs Campground is a small, quiet facility offering primitive camping options suitable for both RVs and tents. The campground does not provide modern amenities like electric hookups or full RV services but is described as a peaceful retreat with scenic views.

Weather and SeasonsBest season: fall. Early fall offers the most scenic payoff — cool, crisp days (expect daytime highs in the upper 50s to mid-70s in early September, nights dipping to the 30s–40s) with bright fall color along pockets of cottonwood and aspen against a backdrop of evergreen ridges. Hiking, wildlife viewing and late-season fishing/boating are at their peak as bugs and summer heat wane and game becomes more active. Crowds are noticeably smaller after Labor Day, giving a quieter lakeside experience — note that Cottonwo Peak months: September, August, June, May Avoid: October, November, December, January

Elevation4009 ft above sea level

Natural Features and SceneryThe campground overlooks Cottonwood Springs Lake at 4,009 feet elevation, surrounded by evergreen-covered hills. The 600-acre lake was created by the Cottonwood Springs Dam and attracts deer, eagles, and other wildlife to its shores. Pockets of cottonwood and aspen mix with the evergreens, adding fall color against the darker ridges. Morning mist often sits on the water before burning off.

Lodging & AccommodationsThe campground does not provide lodging accommodations but is designed for tents and RVs. There is no glamping or cabin rental available.

Programs & ActivitiesThere are no formal cultural or educational programs offered at this campground.

Best Campsites

Curated by campers, for campers

Reveal picks

Reserving a campsite

Stay Limit

Maximum stay is 14 nights within a rolling 30-day period.

Guests Allowed Per Site

Up to one wheeled camping unit and one small tent or two tents per campsite.

Tents

Tents are allowed

RV vehicles

RV vehicles are allowed

Primitive

Primitive camping is allowed

Reservable

Reservations are allowed

Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made on Recreation.gov or by calling 1-877-444-6777.

AccessibilityAccessibility features are limited. The campground has paved roads and sites, but specific details on ADA compliance are not provided. Some users noted cramped parking areas and narrow roads.

Site SizeSites vary in size, with larger spaces available for RVs. Multiple reviews describe the sites as 'wide and deep,' suitable for big rigs, while others note that some spots are better suited for tents.

PrivacyThe level of privacy varies by site. Some sites are described as spacious and private, while others are noted for being close together. 'Some campsites are clustered very close together, and fire rings for one are almost in the next site,' remarked one user.

Total Campsites17 campsites

Recommended SitesSite 18 offers a great view. Sites 15, 16, and 17 are noted for privacy and scenic vistas. Tent campers might prefer Wind Cave National Park due to better tent-friendly setups.

Best CampsitesSites 15, 16, and 17 get the most praise for views and privacy. Some sites are spacious and private, but others cluster close together. Fire rings for one site can sit almost in the next site's space. Look for the wider, deeper sites if you're bringing a big rig.

Need help booking Cottonwood Springs 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

Cottonwood Springs Campground offers a range of amenities catering to campers looking for a mix of quiet, scenic views and practical facilities. The campground features 17 primitive campsites without water or electric hookups. Amenities include potable water available from a spigot on the bathroom building, flush toilets, a playground for children, picnic tables, and fire rings. The campground is described as well-maintained, with 'clean bathrooms' and a 'friendly camp host.' One user noted, 'Flush toilets and an outside water spigot' were available. Another mentioned, 'Bathrooms were very clean well lit and sanitary.' However, no showers are available on-site. There is no Wi-Fi, and cell service is limited to Verizon only in some areas, while AT&T and T-Mobile users report no connectivity. The campground is approximately a mile away from the lake, which features picnic shelters and a steep boat ramp for non-motorized watercraft.

Potable water

Flush toilets

Fire rings

Picnic tables

Vault toilets

I manage this campground

RV details

Activities you can enjoy

Campers at Cottonwood Springs Campground can enjoy a variety of outdoor activities. The lake, while small, is a draw for fishing and non-motorized boating. Wildlife viewing, hiking, and archery hunting in designated areas are popular. A playground provides entertainment for children. Visitors can also engage in photography and picnic at the shelters near the lake. However, there is no designated swimming area, and users describe the lake as unsuitable for swimming.

Hiking

Fishing

Boating

Wildlife viewing

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.

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 PolicySummary of Park Rules and Regulations: All camping passes will be checked. Usable passes are as follows: America the Beautiful pass Senior annual, Senior Lifetime and Access Pass. Golden Age and Golden Access can also be used. Military and Annual Passes CAN NOT be used for a camping discount. All public-use of Cottonwood Springs Lake & Dam Project is governed by Title 36 Code of Federal Regulations (CFR) . Rules and Regulations are enforced by uniformed U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Park Rangers.

Quiet HoursQuiet hours are 10:00 P.M to 6:00 A.M

Trash & RecyclingTrash collection is available, but no details about recycling facilities are mentioned. One user noted the absence of dumpsters, which was considered unusual.

Cell CoverageCell phone service is limited, with Verizon being the only provider with some connectivity. AT&T and T-Mobile users report no signal. One user stated, 'No ATT signal,' while another said, 'Great cell service....if you have Verizon.'

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

Rate Cottonwood Springs Campground

Been here? Tap a star to start. Takes about a minute.

Sign-in required only if you want your name on it.

From Booking Sources

4.4

142 reviews

Recommended

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

Reviews for Cottonwood Springs Campground are generally positive, highlighting its peace and quiet, scenic views, and well-maintained facilities. Complaints include the lack of amenities like showers, water access, and trash disposal, as well as issues with site spacing and privacy.

Review Summaries

Based on 142 reviews

Best sites at a glance

Pulled from per-site mentions in 142 reviews.

Site 18Loved
Site 18 is noted for its beautiful scenery.
Site 6Mentioned
Site 6 is described as cramped and not spacious enough for larger setups.
Site 12Mentioned
Site 12 has a steep drop from the parking pad to the picnic table, which some users found inconvenient.

What Campers Love

The campground is frequently praised for its cleanliness, quiet atmosphere, and scenic views. Reviewers appreciate the presence of a camp host, the well-maintained flush toilets, and the playground...

Based on 142 reviews

Common Concerns

Common complaints include the lack of showers and dump stations, limited potable water access, and closely spaced campsites. The lake is sometimes described as too small or not ideal for swimming....

Based on 142 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Visitors suggest bringing extra water due to limited potable access, checking Verizon signal for connectivity, and avoiding the campground during extremely hot weather because of limited shade....

Based on 142 reviews

Seasonal Insights

The campground is busiest during the summer months, and some users note that it can get fully booked. Hot weather is a concern due to lack of shade, while spring and fall are considered more...

Based on 142 reviews

Camper Quotes

1. 'Beautiful spacious, grass bed and silent campsites. Restrooms were clean but old. Plenty of bugs and mosquitoes in the evening, so carry your bug repellent.' – Prashanth B S 2. 'Great little...

Based on 142 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

Pets are allowed on leashes within the campground and can be off-leash in the wildlife area. One user highlighted this as a great option for pet owners.

Based on 142 reviews

Outdoorithm Community

Be the first to review this campground

Every adventure creates another. Share what you learned so the next camper feels a little more prepared heading out.

Go if

You want a clean, budget-friendly lake campground with a camp host and good fall wildlife viewing.

Skip if

You need spacious sites, on-site dumpsters, or guaranteed potable water access.

Nearby Campgrounds

Frequently Visited

4.5

(127)

Cold Brook Campground

12814-12826 Cold Brook Road Hot Springs, SD 57747

Cold Brook Campground sits in the foothills near Hot Springs, South Dakota, on the shore of Cold Brook Lake. Operated by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, this small seasonal campground offers tent, RV, and primitive sites with vault toilets, potable water, and fire rings. Visitors come for the clear lake water, quiet atmosphere, and opportunities for non-motorized boating, fishing, swimming, and wildlife viewing.

$18.00 - $18.00 / night

Highly Popular

4.2

(463)

Elk Mountain Campground

26611 US-385, Hot Springs, SD 57747

Elk Mountain Campground sits in mid-elevation ponderosa pine forest within Wind Cave National Park, near Hot Springs in the Black Hills. Operated by the National Park Service, this mid-sized campground serves as base camp for cave tours, prairie wildlife viewing, and trail access into one of the country's longest cave systems. Sites accommodate tents, RVs, and groups, with flush and vault toilets, potable water, and ranger-led evening programs during the summer season.

$12.00 - $45.00 / night

Forest Recreation Management, Inc, P.O. Box 1168, 1019 N 5TH STREET, Hill City, SD, 57745, USA

Comanche Park sits in the Black Hills National Forest near Custer, operated by Forest Recreation Management, Inc. This mid-sized campground offers tent, RV, and primitive sites among ponderosa pines at mid-elevation, with vault toilets, potable water, and a 14-day stay limit. Campers use it as a base for hiking, biking, wildlife viewing, and exploring nearby attractions like Jewel Cave.

$26.00 - $26.00 / night

Forest Recreation Management, Inc, P.O. Box 1168, Hill City, SD, 57745, USA

Bismark Lake sits in the Black Hills National Forest near Custer, South Dakota, operated by Forest Recreation Management, Inc. This small mid-elevation forest campground offers tent and RV sites with lake access for fishing, boating, and kayaking. Campers use it as a base for exploring Custer State Park, Mount Rushmore, and Needles Highway while enjoying spacious, secluded sites with picturesque water views.

$30.00 - $30.00 / night

Campgrounds you may also like

Less Visited

3.7

(12)

Redbank Springs Campground

Redbank Springs Campground, Road #294, Black Hills National Forest, South Dakota, USA

Redbank Springs sits at 6,680 feet in Black Hills National Forest with just four primitive sites. The campground costs $16 per night and draws visitors willing to trade amenities for seclusion. Expect no cell service, rough access roads, and vault toilets only.

$16.00 - $16.00 / night

Campgrounds

Cottonwood Springs Lake

Cottonwood Springs Campground

About Cottonwood Springs Lake

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

Cottonwood Springs Dam, SD was constructed to reduce flood damages in the Fall River Basin. Located just 5 miles west of Hot Springs on U.S. Highway 18 and nestled in the rugged hills and evergreen trees of the southern Black Hills, Cottonwood Springs Lake is the place to go for nature lovers. This recreation area offers primitive camping only (no hookups), hiking, fishing (only electric motors), and picnicking.

Directions

5 miles west of Hot Springs just off Highway 18.