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Established Camping

Cottonwood Recreation Site

CAMPER SUMMARY PRESENTED BYFord

Cottonwood Recreation Site near Ellis, Idaho, is surrounded by rugged terrain with a mix of forested areas and open spaces. Temperatures can range from lows in the 30s Fahrenheit during spring and fall to highs in the 80s during summer. Nearby, visitors can explore the Salmon River for fishing and rafting or visit the nearby Salmon-Challis National Forest for hiking and wildlife viewing.

Fee Info

Camping fee: $10/night; standard stay limits. Day use area with horse shoe pits and reservable covered group shelter: $25/day (Call Challis Field Office at 208-879-6200 for reservation)

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Location

Cottonwood Recreation Site is located in Idaho

Detail location of campground

Directions

north of Challis, Idaho. Travel north from Challis on Highway 93 for approximately 14 miles. The recreation site will be on your left between the highway and the Salmon River.

Coordinates

44.68277704 N
114.07882655 W

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Connectivity

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Drive Time

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Connectivity

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    T-Mobile
    No Coverage
  • signal strength bars
    Verizon
    No Coverage
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    AT&T
    No Coverage

Access

  • Drive-In
    Park next to your site
  • Walk-In
    Park in a lot, walk to your site.
  • Boat-In
    Sites accessible by watercraft.

Site Types

  • Tent Sites
  • RV Sites
  • Standard (Tent/RV)
  • Group

Features

For Campers

  • ADA Access
  • Trash
  • Picnic Table
  • Phone Service
  • Drinking Water
  • Toilets
  • Alcohol
  • Pets
  • Fires

For Vehicles

  • Sanitary Dump
  • Pull-Through Sites

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Reviews

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4.5

out of 5

2 Reviews

Reviewed Apr. 10, 2022

Very nice place!

Probably 15-20 camper spots all paved. 5 or so tent sites. Very nice. Water and dumpsters!

My recommendation: stay on the river side, the highway side can get a little loud.

Site10
Month of VisitApril
Reviewed Jul. 27, 2020

We only stopped

For water and to unhitch so we could get a flat repaired. But host very nice and looked pretty

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I get to Cottonwood Recreation Site in Idaho?

Cottonwood Recreation Site is accessible via a paved road, making it convenient for both regular vehicles and campers. The campground is located near a highway, which provides easy access but can create some noise on the highway-facing side of the campground. For specific directions, it's recommended to use GPS navigation or contact the campground directly for the most current access information. The site's location makes it a convenient stop for travelers, including those who might need to unhitch temporarily for vehicle repairs or maintenance.

What recreational activities can I do near Cottonwood Campground in Challis?

The Cottonwood Campground in Challis offers excellent outdoor recreation opportunities, particularly for water enthusiasts as it's situated along a river. Visitors can enjoy fishing, swimming, and riverside relaxation. The river setting provides a scenic backdrop for photography and wildlife observation. While specific trail information isn't detailed, the surrounding area likely offers hiking opportunities typical of Idaho's outdoor spaces. For travelers, the campground serves as a convenient base for exploring the broader Challis region and its natural attractions. Contact the camp host for up-to-date information about seasonal recreational opportunities in the immediate vicinity.

What amenities are available at Cottonwood Campground in Challis, Idaho?

Cottonwood Recreation Site offers approximately 15-20 paved camper spots and about 5 tent sites, making it suitable for various camping preferences. The campground provides basic amenities including water access and dumpsters for waste disposal. The site is maintained by a helpful camp host who ensures the grounds remain clean and attractive. For the best camping experience, consider choosing a site on the river side of the campground, as the highway side can experience some traffic noise that might disrupt the peaceful atmosphere.