Cottonwood Springs Campground

Star4.46
142 reviews
U.S. ARMY CORPS OF ENGINEERS, HOT SPRINGS OFFICE, P.O. Box 664, HOT SPRINGS, SD, 57747, USA

Quick Facts

4,009 ft

Price

$18/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

17 campsites

Season

Open May 15 through ...

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV Friendly

Opens U.S. Army Corps of Engineers site

Official Website
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Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

January 2026

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

January 2026
Cottonwood Springs Campground
$18.00 - $18.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Nonelectric sites cost $18.00 per night during the peak season (May 15 - September 14). Fees do not include discounts, taxes, or incremental...
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Standard Site Fee$18.00
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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Provider
605-745-5476
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What Campers Say

4.46

Recommended

Based on 142 reviews

35 Google reviews

Most mentioned

viewsquietcleanwell-maintained

Some mention

noise

"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."

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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

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.
The campground is accessible via paved and dirt roads. The dirt road leading to the campground is approximately 1.5 miles long and reportedly narrow, but well-maintained. Visitors noted the road can have some washboard sections, requiring slower driving.
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).
Nearby supplies
Hot Springs, approximately 5 miles away, provides access to groceries, camping supplies, fuel, and other essentials. A water and free dump station is available near the library in Hot Springs.

Best Time to Camp at Cottonwood Springs Campground

Under famously clear Dakota skies, Cottonwood Springs reveals its seasonal personalities with dramatic flair. Peak summer days can soar into the upper 90s, transforming the landscape into a sun-drenched canvas that demands respect and preparation. Yet as darkness falls, those same clear skies become a celestial theater—the Milky Way stretches overhead in breathtaking clarity, making this remote campground a stargazer's paradise where constellations tell their ancient stories without competition from city lights.

Summer(Jun-Aug)
3.5 / 5

Peak season May 15–Sept 14; busy and hot with limited shade but full activity access

Fall(Sep-Nov)
4.0 / 5

Early fall (until Sept 14) is noted as more comfortable than hot summer days

Best
Spring(Mar-May)
4.0 / 5
Top 13% in SD

Opens May 15; late spring noted as comfortable and pleasant by reviewers

Winter(Dec-Feb)
Not recommended

Campground closed in winter; open May 15–Sept 14

Planning Tips
  • Peak Season: May 15 - September 14. Book 2-3 months ahead.
  • Operating Season: Open May 15 through September 14.
  • Current Alerts: Firewood from outside the area is prohibited due to invasive pests. Water activities require life jackets. Weather conditions may change rapidly year-round.

About Cottonwood Springs Campground

Nestled in the rolling expanse of the Southern Black Hills, Cottonwood Springs Campground beckons those seeking authentic wilderness experiences just 5 miles west of Hot Springs. This serene hideaway offers 17 primitive campsites where modern distractions fade away—no electrical hum or water hookups here, just pure, unfiltered connection with nature. Each site rewards visitors with sweeping vistas of Cottonwood Springs Lake, where morning mist dances across the water and evening light paints the hills in golden hues.
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.
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Reserving a campsite

Check-in
2:00 PM
Check-out
12:00 PM
Stay Limit
Maximum stay is 14 nights within a rolling 30-day period.

Amenities available

Potable water
Flush toilets
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Vault toilets

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.
HikingThe campground offers a non-motorized gravel path in the wildlife area, suitable for short hikes. Pets are allowed off-leash on this trail, making it a pleasant option for pet owners.
FishingFishing is a key activity at the lake, with opportunities to catch largemouth bass, rainbow trout, and panfish. However, reviews are mixed; one user noted, 'Lake is more of a pond,' implying limited fishing experience.
BoatingThe lake is suitable for non-motorized watercraft, such as canoes, kayaks, and paddleboards. Gas-powered motors are prohibited. The boat ramp is described as steep, limiting its use.
Wildlife viewingWildlife viewing is highlighted as a popular activity. The surrounding area offers opportunities for birdwatching and photography.
Winter Activities
Water Sports
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Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsPotential hazards include wildlife, high temperatures during summer, and accessibility challenges due to dirt roads.
Active AlertsFirewood from outside the area is prohibited due to invasive pests. Water activities require life jackets. Weather conditions may change rapidly year-round.

Weather at Cottonwood Springs Campground

Reviews

4.5
142 reviews
Recommended
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

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...
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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....
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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....
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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...
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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...
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Based on 142 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

Site 6 is described as cramped and not spacious enough for larger setups. Sites 15, 16, and 17 are praised for having exceptional views and privacy. Site 18 is noted for its beautiful scenery. Site...
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Based on 142 reviews

Accessibility Features

No specific accessibility reviews were provided by users.
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

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Last updated January 13, 2026
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