Cottonwood (Ne)

4.30

462 reviews

U.S. ARMY CORPS OF ENGINEERS, COTTONWOOD CAMPGROUND, 198 TOE RD, YANKTON, SD, 57078

Summer Destination

Featured in:RV Camping South Dakota#3 Family-Friendly Campgrounds South Dakota#3 Spring Camping South Dakota +4 more

Quick Facts

1,194 ft

Price

$20 - $22/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

77 campsites

Season

Open from April 17 t...

Cell

Has Service

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV FriendlyElectricShowers

Opens U.S. Army Corps of Engineers site

Official Website

Get Directions

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

January 2026

Quick Facts

1,194 ft

Price

$20 - $22/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

77 campsites

Season

Open from April 17 t...

Cell

Has Service

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV FriendlyElectricShowers

Opens U.S. Army Corps of Engineers site

Official Website

Get Directions

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

January 2026

Cottonwood (Ne)

$20.00 - $22.00 / night

Campsite Fees

Peak season rates for standard electric sites range from $20.00 to $22.00 per night. Reservation fees are $8 online, $9 through the contact center,...

Standard Site Fee$20.00

Hookup Site Fee$0.00

Premium Site Fee$22.00

Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00

Group Site Fee$0.00

Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00

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Recreation Dot Gov

Provider

402-667-2546

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What Campers Say

4.30

Satisfactory

Based on 462 reviews

179 Google reviews

Most mentioned

cleanspaciousfriendlysites

"User reviews offer a diverse range of perspectives, highlighting cleanliness, well-maintained grounds, and friendly staff. However, recurring issues such as maintenance gaps, site confusion, and wildlife disturbances are noted. "Cottonwood is only place we like to stay at," summarized one user."

Read all reviews

Campground Map

U.S. ARMY CORPS OF ENGINEERS, COTTONWOOD CAMPGROUND, 198 TOE RD, YANKTON, SD, 57078

Cottonwood (Ne)

U.S. ARMY CORPS OF ENGINEERS, COTTONWOOD CAMPGROUND, 198 TOE RD, YANKTON, SD, 57078

Driving directionsFrom U.S. Hwy 81 in Yankton, South Dakota, drive four miles west on South Dakota Highway 52, then south on Dam Toe Road and follow signs.

The campground is accessible via paved roads, though user reviews highlighted that the roads leading to the sites have potholes that need repair. RVs might face axle issues due to uneven surfaces. The area is relatively easy to navigate from major highways.

Nearby places

Yankton, SD: Approximately 4 miles (10-minute drive)

Nearby supplies

The closest supplies can be found in Yankton, SD, just 4 miles away, including groceries, camping supplies, and fuel stations.

Best Time to Camp at Cottonwood (Ne)

Experience the best of South Dakota's outdoor splendor from late spring through early fall, when warm days and cool evenings create ideal camping conditions. The region enjoys predominantly dry weather with minimal precipitation, making it perfect for uninterrupted outdoor adventures. Plan your visit before October when facilities close for winter, allowing you to take full advantage of all amenities during the active season.

Summer(Jun-Aug)

4.0 / 5

Peak season offers best weather and full access to activities, though it can be crowded.

Fall(Sep-Nov)

4.0 / 5

Late‑season open period with pleasant weather and good scenery; quieter than summer.

Best

Spring(Mar-May)

4.0 / 5

Top 13% in SD

Open from mid‑April; spring offers good weather and activity access as season begins.

Winter(Dec-Feb)

Not recommended

Campground closed mid‑Oct to mid‑April; winter camping not supported in official season dates.

Planning Tips

Peak Season: April 17, 2025 to October 19, 2025; April 16, 2026 to October 18, 2026.. Book 2-3 months ahead.
Operating Season: Open from April 17 to October 19 (peak season).

About Cottonwood (Ne)

Discover your perfect basecamp at Cottonwood Recreation Area, where modern comfort meets outdoor adventure along the scenic Missouri River. This beloved destination welcomes families and outdoor enthusiasts with thoughtfully designed amenities including hot shower houses and convenient electric hookups. Beyond your campsite, adventure awaits with an 18-hole disc golf course winding through cottonwood groves, a cheerful playground where children's laughter fills the air, and a peaceful fishing dock extending into Lake Yankton's calm waters. While most visitors celebrate the campground's pristine cleanliness and well-maintained facilities, some have noted occasional maintenance needs on access roads and limited camp host availability during peak times.

Cottonwood Recreation Area provides reservable camping options, including sites with electric hookups. Primitive camping is not mentioned.

Historical SignificanceStep into the pages of American history at this remarkable location near Gavins Point Dam, where the mighty Missouri River has witnessed centuries of exploration and discovery. Follow in the footsteps of Lewis and Clark, whose epic expedition passed through these very waters over 200 years ago. The nearby Lewis and Clark Visitor Center brings this fascinating heritage to life with engaging exhibits and programs that connect today's adventurers with the intrepid explorers of the past.

Weather and SeasonsExperience the best of South Dakota's outdoor splendor from late spring through early fall, when warm days and cool evenings create ideal camping conditions. The region enjoys predominantly dry weather with minimal precipitation, making it perfect for uninterrupted outdoor adventures. Plan your visit before October when facilities close for winter, allowing you to take full advantage of all amenities during the active season.

Natural Features and SceneryImmerse yourself in the breathtaking beauty of the Missouri River Valley, where golden chalkstone cliffs frame pristine waterways and create a stunning natural amphitheater. Lake Yankton's tranquil waters offer a serene alternative to the mighty Missouri, providing sheltered coves and quiet inlets perfect for paddling and wildlife observation. This rich ecosystem serves as a sanctuary for diverse bird species, creating exceptional opportunities for nature enthusiasts to observe waterfowl, songbirds, and raptors in their natural habitat.

Geological RegionNestled within the magnificent golden chalkstone-lined Missouri River Valley, Cottonwood Recreation Area showcases nature's artistry at every turn. The unique geological formations create a dramatic backdrop for outdoor adventures, while Lake Yankton's protected waters provide a haven for wildlife. Keep your binoculars ready for unforgettable encounters with majestic Bald Eagles soaring overhead, graceful Whitetail Deer emerging from wooded areas at dawn and dusk, and wild turkeys strutting through the campground's natural spaces.

Best Campsites

Curated by campers, for campers

Reveal picks

Reserving a campsite

Check-in

4:00 PM

Check-out

2:00 PM

Stay Limit

Maximum consecutive stay is 15 nights
maximum total stay is 14 nights within rolling 30 days.

Guests Allowed Per Site

Maximum 8 people allowed per campsite.

Tents

Tents are allowed

RV vehicles

RV vehicles are allowed

Primitive

Primitive camping is not allowed

Reservable

Reservations are allowed

Site layoutSites are divided into loops: SLOO and NLOO. Some sites offer pull-through options.

Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made through Recreation.gov, the mobile app, or by calling 1-877-444-6777.

Walk-in AvailabilityAll 77 sites are reservable; no indication of walk-up availability in the authoritative sources.

Cancellation PolicyCancellations incur a $10 fee, with additional penalties for late cancellations. Late cancellation is defined as the day before check-in for individual sites, resulting in forfeiture of the first night's fee.

AccessibilityCampsites include accessible fishing docks and paved trails. Users highlighted the accessibility of restrooms and picnic facilities.

Site SizeCampsites are described as spacious and capable of accommodating larger rigs, though specific dimensions are not provided.

PrivacyPrivacy varies by campsite, with some sites being well-shaded and secluded, while others are noted for a lack of ground-cover separation between sites.

Total Campsites77 campsites

Recommended SitesRecommend sites 11, 10, 9 for proximity to the water and trees for hammocks. Larger rigs should be cautious about site lengths.

Amenities available

Showers

Electricity hookups

Flush toilets

Dump station

Fire rings

Picnic tables

Activities you can enjoy

A wide range of activities are available at Cottonwood Recreation Area. Popular options include fishing, boating, hiking, biking, and disc golf. Reviews highlight the lake's suitability for kayaking and paddleboarding, though some complain about moss and plants interfering with water activities. Winter recreational opportunities include ice fishing, snowmobiling, and sledding. "The biking and hiking trails nearby were good," said one reviewer.

HikingThree trails are accessible, including a paved trail connecting Yankton and Gavins Point, a multi-use trail in Gavins Point, and the Calumet Bluff hiking trail near the Lewis and Clark Visitor Center. User reviews generally praise the trails, highlighting their suitability for biking as well.

FishingFishing is a popular activity at Lake Yankton, but reviewers provide mixed feedback. While some caught fish onshore, others experienced difficulty due to moss and water plants. "Excellent fishing opportunities year-round," but also notes of challenges with moss and vegetation.

SwimmingSwimming is possible at the Training Dike Day-Use Area, featuring a designated beach. However, some reviews describe the lake as "gross to swim in" due to moss and plants.

BikingBiking trails are well-maintained and popular with visitors. "The campground connects up with a lot of bike trails," noted one reviewer, emphasizing the area's suitability for cycling enthusiasts.

BoatingBoating opportunities abound, with Lake Yankton offering calmer waters compared to upstream Lewis and Clark Lake. Kayaking and canoeing are popular, though moss and shallow areas present challenges.

Wildlife viewingLake Yankton's habitat supports diverse bird species, including Bald Eagles and waterfowl. Other common wildlife sightings include Whitetail Deer and turkeys. "Beautiful white ducks left," commented one user following disturbances.

Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsBranches may fall from Cottonwood trees during windy conditions. User review: 'This stay, 3 branches came down on three separate occasions, one huge one barely missing a tent.'

Fire PolicyFirewood must be purchased locally; outside firewood is prohibited to prevent invasive insects.

Quiet HoursQuiet hours are 10:00 PM to 6:00 AM

Emergency ServicesEmergency services are accessible in Yankton, SD, which is approximately 4 miles away. This includes hospitals and local law enforcement.

Trash & RecyclingTrash collection facilities are available, but specific details about recycling services are not mentioned. Reviewers noted that dumpsters are well-maintained.

Water FeaturesLocated between Lewis and Clark Lake and Lake Yankton, with water activities like fishing, kayaking, and canoeing available.

Camp HostHosts Brenda and Gloria were praised for attentiveness and efficiency. However, some reviewers noted host absence during their stay.

Weather at Cottonwood (Ne)

Reviews

4.3

462 reviews

Satisfactory

Cottonwood (Ne) is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews

User reviews offer a diverse range of perspectives, highlighting cleanliness, well-maintained grounds, and friendly staff. However, recurring issues such as maintenance gaps, site confusion, and wildlife disturbances are noted. "Cottonwood is only place we like to stay at," summarized one user.

Review Summaries

Based on 462 reviews

What Campers Love

Clean bathrooms and shower houses, scenic beauty, spacious sites, and friendly hosts consistently earn praise. "Beautiful setting! Spacious campsites!" wrote one reviewer.

Based on 462 reviews

Common Concerns

Negative aspects include potholes, inconsistent maintenance, lack of signage clarity, and disturbances from wildlife or other campers. "We lost our $20 dollar fee. Stayed at Yankton KOA instead,"...

Based on 462 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Bring extra toilet paper and cleaning supplies in case of shortages. "Bathrooms were very clean, they were just out of toilet paper a lot," advised a user. Plan for water-related activities but be...

Based on 462 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Peak seasons like summer are crowded but offer excellent weather and activities. Winter months provide opportunities for ice fishing and skiing. "Time at Cottonwood is always enjoyable," a reviewer...

Based on 462 reviews

Camper Quotes

"Very clean bathrooms available." "Cottonwood campground has many families camping together throughout the summer." "Beautiful park with lots of trees, a few spots on the water." "Bathrooms were...

Based on 462 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

Site 40 faced issues with being occupied upon arrival. Site 11 experienced wildlife disturbances post-spraying. Site 66P offered scenic beauty but had tight navigation due to tree placement. Site 71...

Based on 462 reviews

Accessibility Features

Accessible docks and paved trails are available, but no reviews specifically from users with disabilities emphasize accessibility experiences.

Based on 462 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

Pet policies require leashes under six feet. Some reviewers mentioned issues with barking dogs and disturbances but overall pet policies seem accommodating.

Based on 462 reviews

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