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Map showing campground location near Merriman, Nebraska
Camper submitted image from Cottonwood Lake State Rec AreaView 6 Photos
NatureMap showing campground location near Merriman, Nebraska

Cottonwood Lake State Rec Area

3 ReviewsAdd Review

Cottonwood Lake State Rec Area near Merriman, NE, features flat terrain with grasslands and a lake. Temperatures range from lows of 10°F in winter to highs of 90°F in summer. Visitors can explore the nearby Valentine National Wildlife Refuge and enjoy fishing or birdwatching.

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Location

Public Campground

Cottonwood Lake State Rec Area is located in Nebraska

Detail location of campground

Directions

From town: Go 1 mi E on US-20.

Coordinates

42.91600064 N
101.67700067 W

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Connectivity

  • signal strength bars
    T-Mobile5G
    Excellent Coverage
  • signal strength bars
    VerizonLTE
    Some Coverage
    Verified by 8 users
    Last on 3/27/26
  • signal strength bars
    AT&TLTE
    Some Coverage

Connectivity

  • signal strength bars
    T-Mobile5G
    Excellent Coverage
  • signal strength bars
    VerizonLTE
    Some Coverage
    Verified by 8 users
    Last on 3/27/26
  • signal strength bars
    AT&TLTE
    Some Coverage

Access

  • Drive-In
    Park next to your site

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

Drive Time

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Reviews

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1 Star

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3.5

out of 5

3 Reviews

Guests frequently mentioned the peaceful, low-traffic environment perfect for relaxation and wildlife viewing. However, some recent feedback indicated pricing concerns for out-of-state visitors relative to available amenities.

lThe Dyrt PRO User
Reviewed Jul. 9, 2025

Nice little lake, buggy

Lake was nice little size. We felt the CG was way over priced for amenities offered. Out of state cost $14 each day just to be at park. Then $15 to camp. Sections A & C were to have vault toilet and water nearby. Area C did not have a water. Some locals came to swim. We were the only campers so it was quiet with birds, frogs, turtles, and deer. Just some biting flies and over priced.

Month of VisitJuly
  • Review photo of Cottonwood Lake State Rec Area by lee's freelance M., July 9, 2025
  • Review photo of Cottonwood Lake State Rec Area by lee's freelance M., July 9, 2025
  • Review photo of Cottonwood Lake State Rec Area by lee's freelance M., July 9, 2025
  • (4) View All
C
Reviewed Jun. 28, 2020

Nice bird watching

Small primitive site with nice camping choices peaceful and clean . Great bird life here w views of Sandhills .

Showing results 1-3 of 3 reviews

Frequently Asked Questions

Are fires allowed at Cottonwood Lake State Rec Area?

Yes, according to campers on TheDyrt.com, fires are allowed at Cottonwood Lake State Rec Area, although make sure to check current fire restrictions in the area.

Does Cottonwood Lake State Rec Area have wifi?

No, according to campers on TheDyrt.com, Cottonwood Lake State Rec Area does not have wifi.

Is there cell phone reception at Cottonwood Lake State Rec Area?

According to campers on TheDyrt.com, there is some coverage for AT&T, excellent coverage for T-Mobile, and some coverage for Verizon.

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