Cottonwood Recreation Area
Sold out? Sites at Cottonwood Recreation Area open up when campers cancel.
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About Cottonwood Recreation Area
Cottonwood Recreation Area is a national park campground at Saylorville Lake in Polk County, Iowa. Reservations are managed through Recreation.gov. Instead of refreshing Recreation.gov, let Campsite Tonight watch for cancellations and automatically drop an open site into your cart the instant one frees up.
Cottonwood Recreation Area is in very high demand — sites here routinely sell out well in advance. Cancellations are often the best way in, which is exactly what Campsite Tonight watches for.
Sites here are tent or walk-in (no RV access). Campers rate it 4.6/5 across 83 reviews.
Other campgrounds at Saylorville Lake include Bob Shetler Picnic Area, Bob Shetler Recreation Area, Lake View Recreation Area (Saylorville), Cherry Glen Campground and Cherry Glen Picnic.
Total reservations in April — 2023: 15 · 2024: 15 · 2025: 19
Location
Address
Johnston, Iowa
Coordinates
41.6906, -93.6747
Very high demand - sites typically fill up immediately when the booking window opens. Plan to book the moment reservations open.
- •June sees 98 reservations - book early or set cancellation alerts.
Nearby Campgrounds
Bob Shetler Picnic Area
Saylorville Lake
Bob Shetler Recreation Area
Saylorville Lake
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Lake View Recreation Area (Saylorville)
Saylorville Lake
Cherry Glen Campground
Saylorville Lake
Cherry Glen Picnic
Saylorville Lake
Oak Grove Picnic Area
Saylorville Lake
Cottonwood Recreation Area FAQ
How far in advance should I book Cottonwood Recreation Area?
Very high demand - sites typically fill up immediately when the booking window opens. Plan to book the moment reservations open. Mark your calendar for when the booking window opens (typically 5-6 months ahead). Also set alerts - cancellations do happen.
What is the busiest time at Cottonwood Recreation Area?
June typically sees the highest reservation activity at Cottonwood Recreation Area. During peak times, 100% of reservations are made 2+ weeks in advance.
Are there campsites available at Cottonwood Recreation Area right now?
Cottonwood Recreation Area is currently fully booked for the next 14 days. However, cancellations happen frequently - download the Campsite Tonight app to get instant alerts when sites become available.
Where is Cottonwood Recreation Area located?
Cottonwood Recreation Area is located in Saylorville Lake, near Johnston, Iowa.
Track Availability at Cottonwood Recreation Area
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