Cottonwood Campground is at the southern end of Joshua Tree National Park. Visitors to the campground often come for the opportunities for star gazing and for the colorful spring wildflowers (best February - March). The campground is surrounded by flat, open desert with a beauty all its own.
Due to narrow parking areas, most campsites cannot accommodate RV slideouts. Campsites at Cottonwood Campground may now be reserved during peak times. The three Group Camps require reservations year-round.
| Cottonwood Campground Basics | |
|---|---|
| Cottonwood Campground Location: | off Box Canyon Rd., southern Joshua Tree National Park |
| Elevation: | 3,000 feet |
| Mileage/Driving Time: | 160 miles from Los Angeles, 2:37 |
| Number of Sites: | 66 |
| Camping Season: | Open year-round |
| Max. People per Site: | 6 (including children) |
| Vehicles/tents per Site: | 2 vehicles, 3 tents |
| Pets: | On leash, always attended |
| Operated by | Joshua Tree National Park |
| Park information: | (760) 367-5500 |
| Reservations | |
|---|---|
| Reservations: | Reservations are required for Cottonwood Campground during the busy season from the end of August through early June At other times B Loop is closed, while all other campsites are first come, first served. |
| Booking Window: | from 1 day up to 6 months in advance of arrival date. |
| Camping Limit: | 14 nights from October through May with 30 days total per year |
| Maximum RV/Trailer Length: | 25 - 35 feet, varies by site |
| Accessible Sites: | None designated |
| Fees: | $25 per night |
| Campground Photos and Map: | Cottonwood Campground Photos and Map |
| Reservations: | Cottonwood Campground Reservations |
| Check-in, check-out: | Noon, Noon |
| Cottonwood Campground Amenities | |
|---|---|
| Campsites: | Picnic table, fire grate |
| Campground: | Vault toilets, tap water, amphitheater, |
| Showers and laundry: | No showers; laundry in Indio, 20 miles |
| Dump station: | Yes, $5 |
| Attractions near Cottonwood Campground: | Tour the Cottonwood Visitor Center. Enjoy interesting interpretive programs. Hike the trail to Mastodon Peak, Visit Cottonwood Springs. |
Cottonwood Campground has 3 tent-only, group sites. Habitable trailers and RVs are not allowed at the campsites. There are restrooms with flush toilets, sheltered picnic areas, and drinking water. Group reservations can be made up to 12 months in advance.
Site 1: 7-15 people, 7 vehicles, $35 per night
Site 2: 7-20 people, 11 vehicles, $35 per night
Site 3: 7-25 people, 14 vehicles, $40 per night
Reservations: Cottonwood Group Camps
Opening and closing dates of campgrounds are only estimates, usually dependent on weather conditions. Not all campsites can accommodate trailers or RVs of all lengths. Check carefully on the website when you make your reservation to be sure your vehicle will fit your campsite.
Water is not available at all campgrounds. Plan ahead and carry plenty of water.
Designated Accessible sites are usually reserved for people with disabilities who have a vehicle displaying an accessible parking placard or license plate.
Visitors to Joshua Tree National Park appreciate the stark beauty of the desert and the wonderful flora and fauna of the region. Campers at Cottonwood Campground are in the southern part of the park, but many of its attractions are within easy driving distance.
Check Joshua Tree National Park Camping for any park and campground updates.
