Part of BLM Land managed by the Bureau of Land Management's El Centro Field Office, Cottonwood Campground sits in forested terrain with rough access roads that require careful navigation. The campground enforces a no-pets policy, which campers should plan for when making reservations.
Access conditions make this location better suited for visitors with sturdy vehicles and experience on unpaved surfaces. The forested setting provides some natural cover, though specific amenities and site details remain limited in available information. Campers looking for sites outside BLM Land — El Centro Field Office can explore additional options in the broader region managed by the field office.
Description
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. Elevations range from 3,000 to 4,500 feet. This makes the area an excellent escape from the hot summer temperatures of lower elevations. Most precipitation is received from December through April. Thundershowers are common during July and August. Winter temperatures range from the 50s (F) to below freezing, with occasional snowfalls. Summer temperatures range from 60 to 95 degrees (F).Cottonwood Campground is a year-round facility with 25 developed campsites. Fire rings, tables, and vault toilets are found in the campground. Horses are allowed only in the east loop of Cottonwood Campground. No group camping sites are available. No off highway vehicle (OHV) use is permitted in Cottonwood Campground or on McCain Valley Road. A $6.00 per campsite fee is required for camping at all BLM campsites. All sites are available on a first come first served basis. Except for backpacking, all camping in McCain Valley must be in a designated campsite. A campfire permit may be required. Contact the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection for regulations.
RV Road Trip Guides
Location
Public CampgroundCottonwood Campground — Bureau Of Land Management is located in California
Directions
From Interstate 8, take the Boulevard exit. Proceed south to the first stop sign. Turn left/east on Old Highway 80. After approximately 2 miles, turn left on McCain Valley Road. A sign with mileage information is located at the junction of McCain Valley Road and the road to Sacatone overlook.
Address
Bureau of Land Managment
El Centro Field Office
1661 S. 4Th St.
E centro, CA 92243
Coordinates
32.800202 N
116.338263 W
Connectivity
T-MobileNo Coverage- VerizonNo Coverage
- AT&TNo Coverage
Connectivity
- T-MobileNo Coverage
- VerizonNo Coverage
- AT&TNo Coverage
Access
Features
Drive Time
- 1 hr 8 min from San Diego, CA
- 1 hr 19 min from El Centro, CA
- 2 hrs 21 min from Yuma, AZ
- 3 hrs 7 min from Los Angeles, CA
