How much does camping cost at Cottonwood (Big Bend, Tx)?

Camping fees at Cottonwood (Big Bend, Tx) range from $16-$60/night. Prices may vary by site type (standard, hookup, premium) and season. Book online to see exact pricing for your dates.

Is Cottonwood (Big Bend, Tx) first-come first-served or reservation?

Cottonwood (Big Bend, Tx) 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 (Big Bend, Tx) before I book?

Yes! Cottonwood (Big Bend, Tx) has 14 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 (Big Bend, Tx)?

Cottonwood (Big Bend, Tx) is open January 01 to December 31. 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 (Big Bend, Tx)?

Cottonwood (Big Bend, Tx) does not have shower facilities. Plan accordingly—nearby alternatives may include day-use areas or towns.

How many campsites does Cottonwood (Big Bend, Tx) have?

Cottonwood (Big Bend, Tx) has 30 campsites. Sites vary in size, privacy, and amenities. Check availability online to find the best site for your needs.

Are dogs allowed at Cottonwood (Big Bend, Tx)?

Yes, pets are allowed at Cottonwood (Big Bend, Tx). 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 (Big Bend, Tx)?

Cottonwood (Big Bend, Tx) offers: Restrooms, Potable Water, Pets Allowed, Camp Store. See our detailed campground page for the full list of facilities and features.

What activities can I do at Cottonwood (Big Bend, Tx)?

Popular activities at Cottonwood (Big Bend, Tx) include Hiking, Fishing, Wildlife Viewing. The surrounding area offers plenty of outdoor recreation opportunities for all skill levels.

Cottonwood (Big Bend, Tx)

Q: Can I have a campfire at Cottonwood (Big Bend, Tx)?

Fire policies at Cottonwood (Big Bend, Tx): Campfires. No wood or ground fires are permitted in Big Bend. Charcoal may be used in the raised grills provided at each site.. Always check current fire restrictions before your trip, as conditions change seasonally.

4.50

552 reviews

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

Top 1% in TXWinter

Scenic ViewsStargazing

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

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

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

Book on Big Bend National Park Official Website

Get Directions

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

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

Book on Big Bend National Park Official Website

Get Directions

Cottonwood (Big Bend, Tx)

$16.00 - $60.00 / night

Campsite Fees

GROUP TENT ONLY AREA NONELECTRIC: $60.00; Standard Non-electric: $16.00. Plus Recreation.gov reservation transaction fee ($8 online / $9 phone / $3...

Standard Site Fee$16.00

Group Site Fee$60.00

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Recreation Dot Gov

Provider

432-477-1121

I manage this campground

Plan a trip to Cottonwood (Big Bend, Tx)

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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

Nearby places

Marathon: Approximately 66 miles and 1.5-hour drive

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

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.

Weather at Cottonwood (Big Bend, Tx)

Current alerts(11)

A maximum of two motor vehicles, one vehicle with a trailer, one motorhome with tow vehicle or four motorcycles allowed per campsite. A maximum of four tents OR one wheeled camping unit and one tent allowed per campsite.
Are you still camping? I f you leave your site during the day, please leave something at the site so we know you are not checking out early. A tent, camp chair, stove, book, etc. Something of little value but that indicates you plan to return.
Border Crossing. There is only one authorized border crossing within Big Bend National Park, located at Rio Grande Village. Crossing the border in an unauthorized location is illegal.
Check-in. You may occupy your campsite anytime after 1:00 p.m.. Your site will be marked. There is no official check-in. procedure.

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

Best season: winter. Winter delivers the most comfortable daytime temperatures (generally 50–65°F) with crisp, clear skies that make hiking Santa Elena Canyon, river trips, and stargazing exceptional while nights can dip into the 20s–30s so warm layers are essential. Cottonwood’s riparian shade and lower water temperatures create fantastic wildlife viewing and photographic opportunities, and this is the park’s peak reservation period so expect moderate-to-high crowds on holiday weekends but generally a peaceful feel Peak months: December, January, February, November Avoid: July, August

Best

Winter(Dec-Feb)

5.0 / 5

Top 1% in TX

Winter described as the best time: clear skies, 50–65°F days and prime hiking/paddling conditions.

Planning Tips

Peak Season: January 01 to December 31. 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)

Cottonwood sits in the riparian corridor of Big Bend National Park, operated by the National Park Service along the Rio Grande. The campground offers shaded tent and RV sites in a quiet, generator-free zone where vault toilets stay remarkably clean and wildlife viewing thrives in the cooler months. Primitive and group options extend into the surrounding foothills, making this a base for exploring Santa Elena Canyon and the park's desert landscapes.

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.

Weather and SeasonsBest season: winter. Winter delivers the most comfortable daytime temperatures (generally 50–65°F) with crisp, clear skies that make hiking Santa Elena Canyon, river trips, and stargazing exceptional while nights can dip into the 20s–30s so warm layers are essential. Cottonwood’s riparian shade and lower water temperatures create fantastic wildlife viewing and photographic opportunities, and this is the park’s peak reservation period so expect moderate-to-high crowds on holiday weekends but generally a peaceful feel Peak months: December, January, February, November Avoid: July, August

Elevation1900 ft above sea level

Natural Features and SceneryThe campground's cottonwood canopy creates a rare pocket of shade in the Chihuahuan Desert, fed by the nearby Rio Grande. This riparian zone attracts desert and river species alike: vermillion flycatchers, zone-tailed hawks, and other birds that draw enthusiastic reviews from birdwatchers. Santa Elena Canyon lies a short drive away, its limestone walls rising 1,500 feet above the river. The canyon's light shifts throughout the day, and the lower elevation keeps river temperatures cool enough for decent wildlife viewing even in warm months.

Lodging & AccommodationsCottonwood Campground does not offer hotel-style lodging accommodations. It is a primitive campsite with sites for tents and RVs.

Programs & ActivitiesThe Castolon Visitor Center nearby offers historical and educational exhibits about the area. Occasional ranger-led programs are held across the park.

Best Campsites

Curated by campers, for campers

Reveal picks

Reserving a campsite

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

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

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.

Best CampsitesSites 7 and 13 get frequent mentions in reviews. Site 7 has good shade and draws owls at night. Site 13 offers partial shade and clear views for stargazing. Site 5 is noted for its quiet location and tree cover. Shade matters here: reviewers consistently recommend choosing shaded sites for comfort.

Need help booking Cottonwood (Big Bend, Tx)?

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

There are no hook-ups or fill and dump stations, and the use of generators is not allowed.

Potable water

Food storage lockers

Picnic tables

Vault toilets

Camp Store

Group Sites

I manage this campground

RV details

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.

Hiking

Fishing

Wildlife viewing

Cultural and Educational Programs

Winter Activities

Water Sports

Planning your trip?Check out our camping packing checklist

Policies & Safety

No Flush ToiletsFlush toilets are not available at this campground. Pit toilets are the only bathroom option, which users have stated are regularly cleaned and well-maintained.

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

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 PolicyCampfires. No wood or ground fires are permitted in Big Bend. Charcoal may be used in the raised grills provided at each site.

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.

Cell CoverageAccording to user reviews, there is no cell service or Wi-Fi at Cottonwood Campground. Visitors have reported relying on satellite services like Starlink for connectivity. Occasional cell service was noted near the Castolon Visitor Center.

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

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Tips from campers

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Reviews

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From Booking Sources

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

Best sites at a glance

Pulled from per-site mentions in 552 reviews.

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

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

Accessibility Features

Specific accessibility features were not mentioned, but the campground overall is described as level and clean.

Based on 552 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

Pets are allowed but must be leashed at all times. Wildlife such as coyotes and javelinas can pose a threat to pets, so caution is advised.

Based on 552 reviews

Outdoorithm Community

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Go if

You want a tranquil winter base for hiking and wildlife viewing without generator noise.

Skip if

You need showers, dump stations, or plan to visit during the scorching summer months.

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Campgrounds

Big Bend National Park

Cottonwood (Big Bend, Tx)

About Big Bend National Park

Context for the broader area surrounding Cottonwood (Big Bend, Tx), sourced from the federal Recreation.gov rec-area record.

There is a place in Far West Texas where night skies are dark as coal and rivers carve temple-like canyons in ancient limestone. Here, at the end of the road, hundreds of bird species take refuge in a solitary mountain range surrounded by weather-beaten desert. Tenacious cactus bloom in sublime southwestern sun, and species diversity is the best in the country. This magical place is Big Bend...

Directions

Several highways lead to Big Bend National Park: TX 118 from Alpine to Study Butte or FM 170 from Presidio to Study Butte (then 26 miles east to park headquarters) or US 90 or US 385 to Marathon (then 70 miles south to park headquarters). Distances between towns and services are considerable. Be sure you have plenty of gas, food, water, and supplies for your trip. There are no electric vehicle charging stations in Big Bend National Park. The closest EV charging station is 130 miles away in Fort Stockton.