Bob H
VerifiedAugust 20, 2026 Stayed at: 074, Loop: South Loop
We had a wonderful stay. Saw shooting stars at night and buffalo behind our site in the morning!
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2450 reviews
Cottonwood Campground offers a beautiful and peaceful experience with spacious, well-maintained sites and clean facilities. Many visitors enjoyed the close encounters with bison and the serene natural surroundings, making it a great spot for wildlife enthusiasts. While some noted issues with insects and site leveling, the overall atmosphere and friendly camp hosts contributed to a memorable stay.
Based on guest feedback
4.5
Based on 2450 reviews
Showing 2450 reviews
August 20, 2026 Stayed at: 074, Loop: South Loop
We had a wonderful stay. Saw shooting stars at night and buffalo behind our site in the morning!
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August 20, 2026 Stayed at: 060, Loop: South Loop
The campground was nice. Water at the individual campsites should be labeled as potable, or not. The only place I saw this labeled was at the front of the campground.
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August 20, 2026 Stayed at: 054, Loop: South Loop
Beautiful!
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August 19, 2026 Stayed at: 052, Loop: South Loop
While setting up camp on our arrival, we saw the bison coming down to the river for a drink. It was magical. The bathrooms were very clean and looked brand new. Staff was friendly.
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August 18, 2026 Stayed at: 069, Loop: South Loop
Nice campground, I liked the evening ranger programs. Good location
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August 18, 2026 Stayed at: 013, Loop: North Loop
Most sites are spacious and comfortable to set up. Bathrooms are clean. Location of the campground is near all the attractions in southern part of the NP and close to Medora. The host of the campground was very helpful.
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August 18, 2026 Stayed at: 070, Loop: South Loop
Cottonwood Campground is we kept, and beautiful. Our site was slightly sloped but roomy. For somewhat more privacy, look to the other side (river side) of the campground. This particular site has direct sight of the bluff across a field and also the main park road. It also has a clear view of the night sky which was beautiful. Be sure to check the board by the check in building for campfire programs by the camp host. For some reason the park does not publish the ones done by the hosts, but only ones done by ranger staff.
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August 17, 2026 Stayed at: 021, Loop: North Loop
No hookups or sewer but they did have water for fillups. Bathrooms were nice. Level campground with foliage between sites. Sites were close but with the foliage it felt more private. Bison were wandering through site so you just needed to be aware of that bit they seemed unbothered by seeing people. So if you have them space they moved on through
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August 17, 2026 Stayed at: 046, Loop: South Loop
Plenty of bison in the park and not in the campground. Ranger presentation on the park was a highlight. Some spaces in the 25 ft and under are difficult for trailers to maneuver into but just fine for motorized campers.
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August 17, 2026 Stayed at: 011, Loop: North Loop
What an amazing experience! Bison came right through our campsite, and the campground, on our first night! Be respectful and stay aware! On top of that that, the campground is well kept and clean.
One of the top experiences of our lives!
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315 2 Nd Ave, Medora, ND 58645 United States
Elevation: 690 ft
The South Unit entrance is in Medora, ND. Medora is accessible via Interstate 94 Exits 24 and 27 in North Dakota. Please note exit 27 is a westbound exit only.
Medora is 133 mi (133 mi) west of Bismarck, ND and 27 mi (26.7 mi) east of the Montana...
The South Unit entrance is in Medora, ND. Medora is accessible via Interstate 94 Exits 24 and 27 in North Dakota. Please note exit 27 is a westbound exit only.
Medora is 133 mi (133 mi) west of Bismarck, ND and 27 mi (26.7 mi) east of the Montana state line.
Cottonwood Campground is accessible via Interstate 94, with exits 24 and 27 located in Medora, ND.
The closest entrance is: South Unit Entrance Station
Approximate drive: 2.9 mi · 5 min
Last updated: October 23, 2026