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Cottonwood Campground

Backcountry campsite in San Diego County, California. Run by Bureau of Land Management.

8.9 miTo Big Laguna Lake

At a glance

OperatorBureau of Land Management
Drinking waterNo
Campfires allowedYes
FeeYes
Phone(760) 337-4400
Websitewww.blm.gov/visit/cottonwood-campground
ReservationsNot reservable on Recreation.gov (first come, first served). Recreation.gov listing

We only list amenities a source records. A missing item doesn't mean the campground lacks it, so check with Cottonwood Campground before you go.

About Cottonwood Campground

Among the live oaks in southeastern San Diego County is Cottonwood Campground. The campground offers a tranquil and refreshing experience. Cottonwood Campground is an excellent starting point for day hikes, overnight backpacking trips, and equestrian use. The campground is located in the McCain Valley Resource Conservation Area. A trail out of the campground leads to the Sombrero Peak Area, Upper Bow Willow Canyon, and Anza-Borrego Desert State Park. The Pepperwood Trail and Sombrero Peak Trail are both rated moderate to strenuous. The trails are sandy in composition and meander through public, state, and private lands.

Description: Recreation.gov (U.S. federal government, public domain), shortened.

Lakes near Cottonwood Campground

Lakes and ponds on LakeRipple within 10 miles, closest first (straight-line distance to the shoreline). Each page has boat launches, beaches, fishing and today's weather.

Location & directions

Cottonwood Campground is in San Diego County.

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Sources: Recreation.gov (RIDB) · OpenStreetMap contributors (ODbL). Pulled Oct 12, 2026. Interactive map: Leaflet with © OpenStreetMap contributors. Seasons, rates and rules change; confirm with the campground.