Cottonwood Recreation Site Introduce
For local residents and travelers in the Ellis, Idaho area searching within the "camping near me" category, Cottonwood Recreation Site, located on Highway 28, Ellis, ID 83235, USA, offers a convenient and generally well-regarded option for an overnight stay or a longer camping trip. Based on recent customer reviews, this site is noted for its clean facilities, level campsites, and proximity to the river. However, potential visitors should be aware of occasional water outages and some highway noise.
The environment of Cottonwood Recreation Site is described as "nice grounds" and is located close to the river, offering opportunities to enjoy the water and its peaceful sounds. One reviewer mentioned "walking down to the water and just listen to it as it goes by," highlighting the relaxing aspect of the riverside location. The presence of the river is a significant environmental feature, likely providing opportunities for fishing, wading, or simply enjoying the natural scenery. The overall impression is of a well-maintained area that offers a pleasant outdoor setting.
In terms of services and features, Cottonwood Recreation Site provides several notable amenities. The restrooms are consistently mentioned as being "clean," which is a significant factor for camper comfort and hygiene. The campsites are described as "relatively level" and offer both "drive through and pull-in accommodations," catering to a variety of camping setups, including both RVs and tents. The availability of both drive-through and pull-in sites suggests flexibility in parking and setting up camp, accommodating different vehicle and trailer configurations.
Cottonwood Recreation Site also features a "dump station with flushing capabilities," which is a valuable amenity for RV campers. However, the functionality of the dump station is contingent on the water being on, as indicated by one review: "There is a dump station with flushing capabilities if the water is on." This reinforces the potential issue with water availability at the site.
One of the minor drawbacks mentioned by a reviewer is the presence of "a little highway noise," but they also noted that it is "not enough to be distracting." Given its location on Highway 28, some traffic noise is to be expected, but it seems to be at a tolerable level for most visitors.
A significant positive aspect highlighted in the reviews is the size of the campsites. One reviewer stated that there are "large enough spots for a 40’ Class A with a toad," indicating that the campground can accommodate even large RVs with towed vehicles. This is a major advantage for RV travelers seeking spacious and accessible sites.
Despite the generally positive feedback, the primary issue raised by a reviewer is the occasional lack of water in the pipes. They noted that during their stay, "the park had no water in the pipes and no notice at the fee payment area either." This lack of prior notification about a water outage was a significant inconvenience, leading the reviewer to deduct a star from their rating. They suggested that "if the groundskeepers can just leave a note so folks can adjust or decide if full price is still worth it knowing they’ll have to haul water from town," it would greatly improve the experience. This implies that water outages might be an intermittent issue at the site, and proactive communication about such issues would be beneficial for campers.
The campground also provides "sufficient trash receptacles," contributing to the overall cleanliness and maintenance of the grounds. This basic but essential amenity helps campers manage their waste properly and keeps the area tidy.
In summary, Cottonwood Recreation Site offers several appealing features for those seeking "camping near me" near Ellis, Idaho:
- Clean Restrooms: Consistently praised for their cleanliness.
- Level Campsites: Both drive-through and pull-in options available, accommodating various camping setups.
- Dump Station: Available with flushing capabilities when water is operational.
- River Proximity: Located close to the river, offering scenic views and potential for water-related activities.
- Spacious Sites: Large enough to accommodate big RVs (up to 40’ Class A with a toad).
- Sufficient Trash Receptacles: Helps maintain the cleanliness of the grounds.
- Nice Grounds: Overall well-maintained and pleasant environment.
However, potential drawbacks to consider include:
- Potential Water Outages: Water supply to the pipes might be unreliable at times, and notification may not always be provided.
- Highway Noise: Some noise from the nearby highway, although generally not considered distracting.
There is no specific promotional information available in the provided reviews. However, the positive aspects, such as the clean facilities, level and spacious sites, and river access, make Cottonwood Recreation Site a worthwhile option for a quick overnight stay or a longer visit to the Ellis, Idaho area. Local users are advised to be prepared for potential water outages by perhaps carrying extra water, especially for longer stays. It might also be prudent to inquire about the current water situation when making inquiries via phone at (760) 337-4400 or +1 760-337-4400.
For local campers looking for a convenient and generally well-maintained site near Ellis, Idaho, Cottonwood Recreation Site offers a solid choice. The level sites and drive-through/pull-in options are particularly beneficial for a variety of camping vehicles. While the possibility of water outages is a concern, the proximity to the river and the overall positive reviews suggest a pleasant camping experience, especially if you come prepared. Be sure to weigh the pros and cons based on your individual needs and preferences when considering Cottonwood Recreation Site for your next "camping near me" adventure.
Cottonwood Recreation Site Photos










Cottonwood Recreation Site Location
Cottonwood Recreation Site
Ellis, ID 83235, USA
Cottonwood Recreation Site Reviews
Nice little spot for a quick overnight stay. The park had no water in the pipes and no notice at the fee payment area either. The restrooms were clean and the sites were relatively level with both drive through and pull-in accommodations.There is a dump station with flushing capabilities if the water is on.There’s a little highway noise but not enough to be distracting.There’s sufficient trash receptacles, nice grounds, close to the river and large enough spots for a 40’ Class A with a toad.The only reason the 5th star is missing is the water. If the groundskeepers can just leave a note so folks can adjust or decide if full price is still worth it knowing they’ll have to haul water from town. Finding out after the payment has been made is kind of a bummer….
May 17, 2023 · Vincent SheridanReally enjoyed stopping here. Seems like a nice area to go camping when we get a chance. Enjoyed walking down to the water and just listen to it as it goes by
Mar 21, 2021 · Tina MichaelsonExcellent winter campspot. Far enough from the road for privacy, but easy access. The river and trees are beautiful. Nice firepits, plenty of room.
Jan 15, 2022 · James StreicherAbsolutely the best camp ground in central Idaho. Camp sites are level, on the river and shaded. You could fish the river while sitting by your campfire, or watch the deer eating across the river, Blue Herons fishing the on river.Has water hookups but no power.
Aug 10, 2016 · Charlene ClarkGorgeous! Peaceful! Quiet, RV dump site, clean, well maintained.
Jun 30, 2022 · Melissa Ray
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Cottonwood Recreation Site