Cottonwood (Big Bend, Tx)

4.51

552 reviews

PO BOX 129, BIG BEND NAT. PARK, TX, USA, 79834

Scenic ViewsPeace & QuietStargazing

Featured in:Winter Camping Texas#2 Desert Camping Texas#2 Camping Near Big Bend#3 +11 more

Quick Facts

1,900 ft

Price

$16 - $60/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

30 campsites

Season

Open November 1 thro...

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV Friendly

Opens Big Bend National Park site

Official Website

Get Directions

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

January 2026

Quick Facts

1,900 ft

Price

$16 - $60/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

30 campsites

Season

Open November 1 thro...

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV Friendly

Opens Big Bend National Park site

Official Website

Get Directions

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

January 2026

Cottonwood (Big Bend, Tx)

$16.00 - $60.00 / night

Campsite Fees

Individual sites cost $16 per night during the peak season (November 1 - December 31, 2025), and the group tent-only area costs $60 per night....

Standard Site Fee$16.00

Hookup Site Fee$0.00

Premium Site Fee$0.00

Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00

Group Site Fee$60.00

Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00

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Provider

432-477-1121

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What Campers Say

4.51

Top-Rated

Based on 552 reviews

97 Google reviews

Most mentioned

viewsquietcleanshade

Some mention

bugs

"User reviews consistently highlight the cleanliness of vault toilets, the peaceful and remote atmosphere, and excellent opportunities for bird watching and stargazing. However, the lack of hookups, extreme heat during summer months, and occasional issues with flood irrigation and bugs are noted."

Read all reviews

Campground Map

PO BOX 129, BIG BEND NAT. PARK, TX, USA, 79834

Cottonwood (Big Bend, Tx)

PO BOX 129, BIG BEND NAT. PARK, TX, USA, 79834

Driving directionsFrom Interstate 10, take State Highway 385 south to Fort Stockton and into Marathon. From Marathon, drive 40 miles south on State Highway 385 to the north entrance of Big Bend National Park. Drive straight for 26 miles to Park Headquarters at Panther Junction. Turn right at the intersection and go 13 miles west. Take a left at the Ross Maxwell Scenic Drive and drive 23 miles to Cottonwood Campground. Note: Old Maverick Road is an unpaved road that is very rough. GPS units may send you down that road. Do not take it unless you have four-wheel drive and high clearance.

Road access is paved until the campground except for Old Maverick Road, which is unpaved and very rough. High-clearance vehicles are recommended for that road.

Nearby places

Marathon: Approximately 66 miles and 1.5-hour drive

Fort Stockton: Roughly 130 miles and a 2.5-hour drive.

Nearby supplies

A small store up the hill at Castolon sells limited groceries, ice, and cold drinks. Larger grocery stores and fuel are available in Marathon, approximately 66 miles away.

Best Time to Camp at Cottonwood (Big Bend, Tx)

Experience the dramatic seasonal shifts of the Chihuahuan Desert, where autumn and winter transform Cottonwood into a cool-weather paradise. As darkness falls, temperatures can plunge below freezing, creating crystalline mornings perfect for hot coffee and sunrise photography. But come mid-March, the desert awakens with fierce intensity—summer temperatures regularly soar past 100°F, turning the landscape into a shimmering expanse that tests even seasoned adventurers. Spring and fall offer fleeting windows of perfection, when wildflowers bloom and temperatures balance between extremes.

Summer(Jun-Aug)

2.0 / 5

Summer often exceeds 100°F; reviewers note extreme heat, bugs and uncomfortable conditions.

Fall(Sep-Nov)

4.0 / 5

Autumn turns the area into a cool-weather paradise; pleasant camping season.

Spring(Mar-May)

3.5 / 5

Spring likely pleasant with wildlife viewing; some reviews note seasonal bugs/gnats.

Best

Winter(Dec-Feb)

4.5 / 5

Top 2% in TX

Winter months highly recommended: cooler temps, fewer bugs; can dip below freezing.

Planning Tips

Peak Season: November 1 to December 31, 2025.. Book 2-3 months ahead.
Operating Season: Open November 1 through December 31 for peak season. Release periods follow a rolling 14-day window for reservations.

About Cottonwood (Big Bend, Tx)

Discover your desert sanctuary at Cottonwood Campground, where ancient cottonwood trees create a verdant refuge in Big Bend's southwestern wilderness. At 1,900 feet elevation, this tranquil retreat offers 30 individual sites and one group campsite, each thoughtfully positioned beneath nature's canopy. Here, the modern world fades away—no generators disturb the desert silence, no hookups tether you to civilization. Instead, you'll find the essentials for authentic desert camping: sturdy picnic tables, secure bear boxes, raised grills for evening cookouts, and clean pit toilets. Fresh drinking water flows from spigots throughout this remote haven, where stargazing becomes an nightly ritual and the desert's natural rhythms guide your days.

Cottonwood Campground offers primitive camping options suited for tents, small RVs, and group camping. It is entirely dry camping with no utility hookups, making it ideal for campers seeking a quiet and remote experience.

Historical SignificanceStep into living history at the nearby Castolon Historic District, where a former military outpost now welcomes visitors as a fascinating interpretive center. This corner of Big Bend whispers stories of frontier soldiers, Mexican traders, and Native peoples who once traversed these borderlands. Follow the legendary Ross Maxwell Scenic Drive to discover hidden historical gems scattered across the landscape—each adobe ruin and weathered foundation a testament to the generations who sought fortune, freedom, or simply survival in this unforgiving yet beautiful terrain.

Weather and SeasonsExperience the dramatic seasonal shifts of the Chihuahuan Desert, where autumn and winter transform Cottonwood into a cool-weather paradise. As darkness falls, temperatures can plunge below freezing, creating crystalline mornings perfect for hot coffee and sunrise photography. But come mid-March, the desert awakens with fierce intensity—summer temperatures regularly soar past 100°F, turning the landscape into a shimmering expanse that tests even seasoned adventurers. Spring and fall offer fleeting windows of perfection, when wildflowers bloom and temperatures balance between extremes.

ElevationPerched at 1,900 feet above sea level, Cottonwood occupies a sweet spot in Big Bend's varied topography. This modest elevation creates a microclimate where desert floor meets cooler air currents, especially noticeable during autumn and winter nights when temperatures drop dramatically. The elevation provides just enough lift to catch cooling breezes while remaining low enough to explore the Rio Grande's riparian corridors without strenuous climbs.

Natural Features and SceneryImmerse yourself in an unexpected desert paradise where majestic cottonwood trees stretch their branches toward endless Texas skies. These verdant giants, nourished by their proximity to the legendary Rio Grande, create a rare riparian ecosystem that attracts an impressive array of birdlife—from brilliant vermillion flycatchers to elusive zone-tailed hawks. Just minutes away, the magnificent Santa Elena Canyon awaits, where sheer limestone walls rise 1,500 feet above the Rio Grande, creating one of North America's most spectacular river gorges. This natural amphitheater transforms with the light, painting shadows and highlights that photographers dream about.

Geological RegionWelcome to the heart of Big Bend country, where the Rio Grande carves its famous curve through ancient volcanic landscapes and limestone plateaus. This geological wonderland showcases millions of years of Earth's history, from fossil-rich sedimentary layers to dramatic igneous intrusions. The campground's cottonwood grove thrives in this unique convergence of desert and river ecosystems, creating an ecological crossroads where Chihuahuan Desert species mingle with riparian life. Santa Elena Canyon stands as the crown jewel of this geological theater, its towering walls revealing the slow, patient work of water against stone over countless millennia.

Best Campsites

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Reserving a campsite

Check-in

1:00 PM

Stay Limit

Maximum stay is up to 14 nights during a visit.

Guests Allowed Per Site

Campsites allow a varying number of guests depending on size and regulations.

Groups

The group site is walk-in and tent-only, with vehicle parking restricted to an adjacent area. It is spacious and includes multiple bear boxes and grills for larger groups.

Tents

Tents are allowed

RV vehicles

RV vehicles are allowed

Primitive

Primitive camping is allowed

Reservable

Reservations are allowed

Site layoutCottonwood Campground features a single loop layout with dirt/gravel parking spaces, picnic tables, and raised grills at each site.

Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made via Recreation.gov website or app, or through their contact center.

Walk-in AvailabilityNo specific walk-up availability mentioned; reservations required and restricted to 14 days in advance.

Cancellation PolicyIndividual campsites can be canceled prior to arrival with a $10 cancellation fee and forfeiture of the first night's fee for late cancellations. Group sites require cancellation 14 days prior to arrival to avoid penalties.

AccessibilityNo specific accessibility features were mentioned in the official sources or user reviews.

Site SizeSites are described as level and spacious, with gravel or dirt parking pads. The group site is large enough for multiple tents and vehicles.

PrivacySites are generally well-spaced, providing a decent level of privacy. The group site offers ample space for large groups.

Total Campsites30 campsites

Recommended SitesChoose shaded sites like 7, 5, or 13 for comfort. Avoid grassy areas during irrigation to prevent flooding and bugs.

Amenities available

Potable water

Food storage lockers

Picnic tables

Vault toilets

Camp Store

Group Sites

Activities you can enjoy

Cottonwood Campground is particularly popular among bird watchers due to its proximity to diverse ecosystems supporting rare and unique bird species. Hiking trails are located nearby, and the area is known for wildlife viewing and stargazing opportunities. The Santa Elena Canyon and Ross Maxwell Scenic Drive provide scenic views and additional recreational activities.

HikingHiking trails are available near Cottonwood Campground, including the Santa Elena Canyon Trail, which is highly recommended by users for its stunning views.

BoatingBoating permits for the Santa Elena Canyon are available at the nearby ranger station. The canyon offers excellent opportunities for boating enthusiasts.

Wildlife viewingWildlife viewing is a highlight of Cottonwood Campground, with frequent sightings of birds such as great horned owls, vermilion flycatchers, roadrunners, and occasional appearances by javelinas and bobcats.

Cultural and Educational ProgramsThe Castolon Visitor Center nearby offers historical and educational exhibits about the area. Occasional ranger-led programs are held across the park.

Winter Activities

Water Sports

Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsWildlife such as bears, bobcats, and javelinas frequent the area. Extreme heat in summer and flooding due to irrigation can occur. Coyotes may pose a threat to pets.

Food Storage RequiredLarge bear-proof lockers are available at every site for safe food storage.

Fire PolicyNo ground fires permitted. Charcoal may be used in raised grills provided at each site.

Quiet HoursQuiet hours are not explicitly specified but no generators are allowed ensuring a peaceful environment.

Emergency ServicesEmergency services are likely available in Marathon, which is approximately a 1.5-hour drive from the campground.

Trash & RecyclingRecycling bins and animal-proof dumpsters are available at the campground. Trash disposal is emphasized due to wildlife such as javelinas and bobcats frequenting the area.

Water FeaturesClose to Rio Grande and Santa Elena Canyon, known for its stunning views and recreational activities like boating.

Camp HostCampground hosts are frequently commended for their friendliness and helpfulness. Specific host noted is Bonnie.

Weather at Cottonwood (Big Bend, Tx)

Reviews

4.5

552 reviews

Top-Rated

Cottonwood (Big Bend, Tx) is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews

User reviews consistently highlight the cleanliness of vault toilets, the peaceful and remote atmosphere, and excellent opportunities for bird watching and stargazing. However, the lack of hookups, extreme heat during summer months, and occasional issues with flood irrigation and bugs are noted.

Review Summaries

Based on 552 reviews

What Campers Love

Positive reviews praise the quiet and remote setting, clean facilities, abundant shade, and opportunities for wildlife viewing. Vault toilets were frequently described as 'spotlessly clean,' and many...

Based on 552 reviews

Common Concerns

Complaints include lack of cell service, extreme heat during summer months, flood irrigation causing wet tent areas, and bug infestations such as gnats and black flies. Some users also mentioned the...

Based on 552 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Visitors recommend choosing shaded sites for better comfort, particularly sites like #7 and #13. Bringing extra water and supplies is advised due to the remote location. A red headlamp is suggested...

Based on 552 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Winter months are highly recommended for camping due to cooler temperatures and fewer bugs. Summer months can be extremely hot, with temperatures over 100°F, making camping less comfortable.

Based on 552 reviews

Camper Quotes

- 'Vault toilets were spotlessly clean and odor-free.' - 'The peace of this place restored us.' - 'Great horned owls kept us entertained.' - 'Great place for stargazing, but gnats were unmerciful.'

Based on 552 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

Site #7 is noted for its excellent shade and owl sightings. Site #13 has partial shade and is close to the bathrooms. Site #24 is close to the river and offers views of Mexico. The group site is...

Based on 552 reviews