Cottonwood Complex

US Forest Service campground. 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. Not reservable through Recreation.gov, so plan on first-come, first-served; check with the ranger district for current conditions and fees.