What are the hours and season for Cottonwood Recreation Area?

Cottonwood Recreation Area is open May through October. Check-in: 2:00 PM. Check-out: 12:00 PM.

How do I book a campsite at Cottonwood Recreation Area?

Cottonwood Recreation Area is a federal campground — book at Recreation.gov (search "Cottonwood Recreation Area"). Sites are released 6 months in advance and sell out quickly. Set a free CamperWatch cancellation alert at camperwatch.org/campground/cottonwood-recreation-area to be notified the moment a site opens up.

Cottonwood Recreation Area

Saylorville Lake — lakeside, fishing, hiking

JOHNSTON, IA4.5 (26)

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Cottonwood Recreation Area is a day-use facility located in the tailwater area below Saylorville Dam. The 26,000-acre Saylorville Lake Project stretches over 50 miles up the Des Moines River Valley. The lake provides a wide variety of recreational activities, including boating, swimming, fishing, hiking and hunting.The day-use area offers nine group picnic areas with water and electric hookups.

Things to do nearby

Saylorville LakeDes Moines River

Best For

AnglersHikersWildlife watchersFamilies

Site Types

Tent

Amenities

Fire Rings

Picnic Tables

Flush Toilets

Electric Hookups

Fishing

Check-in

2:00 PM

Check-out

12:00 PM

Season

May through October

Max/site

6 people

Known Issues

Federal campground — book early. No hookups at most sites. Seasonal operations.

Cancellation Policy

Recreation.gov: full refund if cancelled 7+ days before arrival. $10 cancellation fee applies.

Frequently asked questions

How much does Cottonwood Recreation Area cost per night?+

Cottonwood Recreation Area costs $50 per night depending on site type and season. Hookup options: Electric hookups on select sites. No water/sewer.

What season is Cottonwood Recreation Area open?+

Cottonwood Recreation Area is open May through October. Check-in is 2:00 PM, check-out is 12:00 PM.

Does Cottonwood Recreation Area have hookups?+

Electric hookups on select sites. No water/sewer.

What is the maximum RV length at Cottonwood Recreation Area?+

Cottonwood Recreation Area is primarily a tent camping facility. Contact the campground about RV access.

How do I make reservations at Cottonwood Recreation Area?+

Cottonwood Recreation Area is a federal campground — reservations open 6 months in advance at Recreation.gov. Sites sell out quickly. Set a free CamperWatch cancellation alert to be notified the moment a site opens.

How far is Cottonwood Recreation Area from the nearest town?+

Cottonwood Recreation Area is located in JOHNSTON, IA. Check the map above for distance to nearby services.

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