Are you the owner for this park? Make it a featured listing and be seen in the top search results!
Pike-San Isabel/Cottonwood Lake
Overview
Cottonwood Lake Campground offers an authentic high-country experience within the Pike-San Isabel National Forest. Situated at an elevation of approximately 9,550 feet, this destination provides a serene retreat for travelers looking to disconnect from the digital world and immerse themselves in the Colorado wilderness. The campground is nestled among a lush mix of spruce, pine, and aspen groves, providing a vibrant canopy that changes beautifully with the seasons.
Location & Surroundings
Located just 11 miles west of Buena Vista, Colorado, the park is tucked into a scenic glacial valley. The drive along County Road 344 is a well-maintained gravel route that leads you deep into the Sawatch Range. The surrounding landscape is dominated by steep mountain peaks and the sparkling waters of Cottonwood Lake, which serves as the centerpiece of the area. The high-altitude setting ensures cool summer temperatures and incredibly clear night skies for stargazing.
Amenities & Park Features
This is a rustic, dry camping facility that prioritizes a primitive experience. While there are no electric or sewer hookups, each site is equipped with a picnic table and a fire ring for evening gatherings. Travelers have access to vault toilets and potable water via hand-pumps throughout the grounds. Most sites are designed for smaller rigs, typically accommodating trailers and motorhomes under 30 feet in length, making it a cozy and quiet spot for those with compact setups.
Nearby Attractions & Things to Do
Recreational opportunities center around the water and the surrounding forest. Anglers frequently visit the lake to fish for rainbow trout, while paddlers enjoy the calm waters for kayaking and canoeing. If you prefer land-based activities, the Cottonwood Lake Trail offers a gentle hike with rewarding views of the valley. For a bit of luxury, the nearby Mount Princeton Hot Springs provide a relaxing soak, and the town of Buena Vista offers excellent local dining and Arkansas River rafting adventures.
Who This Park Is Best For
This campground is ideal for self-sufficient RVers who prioritize natural beauty and solitude over modern resort luxuries. It is a fantastic choice for photographers, fishermen, and those traveling in smaller campers or converted vans. If you enjoy crisp mountain air and prefer the sounds of rustling leaves over highway noise, this high-altitude forest setting will perfectly suit your travel style.
Amenities
- Recreational Facilities
- Policies
- Other Amenities & Services
- Recreation Nearby (within 10 miles)
- Facility
- On-Site Rentals
- Sites
User Reviews
William Taylor
Beautiful place, I went on a hike and had a great time. Amazing views
Bryan Cornelius
This is an amazing place to camp. No water or bathrooms and you have to get your own firewood. Dispearsed camping makes you do a lot more than a campground. But being by yourself is really a cool experience!
Howard A
This National Forest encompasses numerous trails and features. We descended on the Barr Trail after ascending The Manitou Incline to enjoy the beautiful views back into Manitou Springs. However, you can use the Barr Trail in the opposite direction to ascend Pikes Peak.
Dann Leach
The Aspen trees were at their peak colour. Snow had fallen the night before and the far-off mountain peaks were glistening with the pure icing. Crisp, clean air gave each of us a boost of energy; making us glad to experience the reverent beauty of creation.
Diane Matuszewski
This is not an easy climb. You gain a LOT of altitude quickly in this hike. Be prepared! Bring water (I wore a Camelback) and electrolyte gummies were a big help. Pace yourself and take your time and you can do it! I am 64 and have RRMS. The oldest hiker on the incline that day was 90 years old and he made it! #dohardthings