Cottonwood Lake Campground, Sawatch Range Travel Guide

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Escape to the Rockies at Cottonwood Lake Campground for fishing, hiking, and serene camping surrounded by aspen forests.

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Cottonwood Lake Campground

Nestled near Nathrop, Colorado, Cottonwood Lake Campground offers a serene escape into nature. Surrounded by aspen and evergreen trees, the campground provides easy access to Cottonwood Lake for fishing, kayaking, and hiking in the heart of the Rocky Mountains.

A brief summary to Cottonwood Lake Campground

Co Rd 344C, Nathrop, Colorado, 81236, US
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From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Cottonwood Lake Campground.

Arrive early, especially on weekends, to secure a campsite, as they are first-come, first-served.
Bring your own water, as potable water is not available at the campground.
Disinfect your waders and boots before fishing to help protect the endangered boreal toads.
Be prepared for cool temperatures, especially at night, due to the high elevation.

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Explore Cottonwood Lake Campground on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots near Cottonwood Lake Campground, mapped for you.

Getting There

Driving

From Nathrop, head west on County Road 306 (Cottonwood Pass Road) for approximately 6 miles. Turn left onto County Road 344 and follow the signs for Cottonwood Lake, continuing for about 3 miles. Note that the road can be rough, so drive slowly. There is a $10.00 fee for day use if you are not camping overnight. Camping fees are $22 per site per night, which includes parking for two vehicles or one RV. An additional vehicle is $10.00. Fees are payable by cash, check, or money order via a self-servicing fee tube.

Discover more about Cottonwood Lake Campground

Cottonwood Lake Campground, located in the Pike-San Isabel National Forest near Nathrop, Colorado, is a popular destination for those seeking a peaceful mountain getaway. Situated at a high elevation, the campground offers 25 campsites nestled on a gently sloping hillside surrounded by groves of aspen trees. The campground's close proximity to Cottonwood Lake makes it a favorite spot for anglers and outdoor enthusiasts.Visitors can enjoy a variety of activities, including fishing for trout in Cottonwood Lake, hiking on nearby trails, and boating on the lake with canoes or hand-propelled boats. The area is also known for its abundant wildlife, offering opportunities for wildlife viewing and photography.The campground provides basic amenities such as picnic tables, fire rings, and vault toilets. Note that there is no potable water available at the campground, so visitors must bring their own. The campground operates on a first-come, first-served basis, and sites tend to fill up quickly on weekends. Dispersed camping is permitted along County Road 344, about a mile west of the lake, if the campground is full.Anglers should be aware of the presence of endangered boreal toads in the area and are asked to disinfect their waders and boots to prevent the spread of chytrid fungus.