Cottonwood — Willard Bay State Park
Laura K.
Reviewed Sep. 6, 2019

Lots of Birds, Crickets and Pretty Sunsets, but trash and noise, too

Came here in early September, post Labor Day, enroute to other places. It was over 100 so we took a FHU site in Cottonwood. Pros: big sites, mostly back ins, but some pull through with a covered picnic table. Hookups were in good shape, note the sewer is toward the back, not the middle so bring lots of sewer hose. Bathhouses with showers provided. Lots of birds, a nice nature trail, and this facility is on a fresh water lake and it was nice to take a swim. Walking around at dusk we saw deer and a large barn owl. Sounds of the crickets made for a very magical feel just after sunset. Nice sunset over the lake and to the east were some beautiful mountains- wonderful views.

Now for the bad: I-15 noise was horrible, no sleep even with a fan going and earplugs. Bath houses are small and cryptic. But clean. If it is hot, get a shady site many are in full sun. Worst for me was the trash. It was everywhere. Obviously the folks who are in charge don’t mind candy wrappers, bottle caps, zip ties, and other small trash, bottles and cans in the bushes along the nature trail. It needs some serious trash clean up. The views of the mountains were nice, but the sound of the freeway kind of ruined it.

For $40 a night and no ability to even take a look to pick a site as a walk up, I would look for another place to stay further off the freeway. Staff was helpful at the front gate, do not try to get in before 3:00 on your day of check in. They strictly enforce it. Too bad the sites were so full of trash....maybe it was the heat.