Within Nebraska's Sandhills region, Cottonwood Lake State Recreation Area operates this drive-in campground managed by Nebraska Game and Parks Commission. The facility divides into sections A and C, with vault toilets and water access planned for both areas, though campers report water availability varies by section.
The small lake draws local day-use visitors for swimming while providing fishing opportunities for overnight guests. Wildlife sightings include deer, turtles, and various bird species, with frogs active around the water. Camping sections offer primitive sites with picnic tables and fire rings. Cell service reaches the area, and pets are welcome year-round. Daily park entry fees apply in addition to camping costs for out-of-state visitors.
RV Road Trip Guides
Location
Public CampgroundCottonwood Lake State Rec Area is located in Nebraska
Directions
From town: Go 1 mi E on US-20.
Coordinates
42.91600064 N
101.67700067 W
Connectivity
T-Mobile is introducing T-Satellite to extend coverage in the outdoors
T-Mobile5GExcellent Coverage
VerizonLTESome CoverageVerified by 8 usersLast on 5/1/26- AT&TLTESome Coverage
Connectivity
T-Mobile is introducing T-Satellite to extend coverage in the outdoors- T-Mobile5GExcellent Coverage
- VerizonLTESome CoverageVerified by 8 usersLast on 5/1/26
- AT&TLTESome Coverage
Access
- Drive-InPark 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
- 2 hrs 12 min from Rapid City, SD
- 3 hrs 52 min from Cheyenne, WY
- 4 hrs 9 min from Grand Island, NE
- 4 hrs 42 min from Greeley, CO
