Cottonwood Complex
USFS · Campground · Fee
Fast facts
- Cost
- Fee charged
- Managed by
- USFS
- Type
- Campground
- Reservations
- fs.usda.gov
- Nearest dump station
- Medicine Lake Dump Station · 67.9 mi
- Coordinates
- 42.2803, -120.6468
- Last verified
- September 18, 2026
About this place
The Cottonwood Recreation Area, located 45 minutes northwest of Lakeview, Oregon, is one of the busiest campgrounds in the southeast zone of the Fremont-Winema National Forest. Western white pine, ponderosa, and white fir offer shade and aspens turn sunny gold every autumn. Abundant deer and even black bear can be sighted strolling through the campground on occasion. It's essential to pack all food away in vehicles or hang it high. This campground features 22 campsite, six vault toilets, potable water, and a seasonal camp host. Each campsite has a picnic table and campfire ring. Additionally, there are four walk-in, tent only sites and one horse camp site. The horse camp includes its own corral and water area as well as a trailer turn-around. This high-elevation camp is generally free of snow mid-June through mid-October. Cottonwood Meadows Lake, stocked with rainbow and Brook trout, offers excellent fishing. There are two, day-use areas and a boat launch on the lake. Only electric boat motors are allowed. Other recreation opportunities include hiking, bird watching, wildlife viewing, and exploring.
From the USFS.
Is Cottonwood Complex free?
No. Cottonwood Complex charges a fee. It is managed by the USFS. Sites are reservable through fs.usda.gov.
How do I get to Cottonwood Complex?
Cottonwood Campground is located 45 minutes northwest of Lakeview, Oregon. From the Lakeview Interagency Office take US 395N approximately 1.6 miles. Turn left onto N 4th Street/Highway 140W toward Bly, approximately 14.3 miles to Forest Road-3870. Turn right, go approximately 5.8 miles to Forest Road-3870-024. Continue straight on Forest Road 3870-024 into campground.
What are the rules at Cottonwood Complex?
ONLY electric motors allowed for boating.
Nearby
SourceData from the USFS. Last synced September 18, 2026. Community reports and photos are submitted by travelers and are not verified by the agency.
