A maximum of two motor vehicles, one vehicle with a trailer, one motorhome with tow vehicle or four motorcycles allowed per campsite. A maximum of four tents OR one wheeled camping unit and one tent allowed per campsite. Only 1 conversion van or other type of recreational vehicle allowed per site. Two (2) conversion vans or RVs require 2 campsites.
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Pet friendly
Picnic Table
Fire Pit
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582 reviews
Cottonwood Campground offers a peaceful and quiet atmosphere, ideal for those seeking a low-key experience near Santa Elena Canyon. While many of the original cottonwood trees have been lost, leading to reduced shade and some disappointment, the campground still provides a clean and well-maintained environment, with friendly staff and decent facilities. Visitors appreciate the beautiful surroundings, wildlife sightings, and proximity to hiking trails, making it a worthwhile spot despite its recent challenges.
Based on guest feedback
4.5
Based on 582 reviews
Showing 582 reviews
March 12, 2025 Stayed at: 009, Loop: Cottonwood (TX)
On our first morning there, it was calm and the birding in the campground was amazing. We saw 15 different birds by 10 am. Castalon VC was interesting. Hiked at Lower Burro Pouroff and Javelina Spring. Next couple of days windy but that's not the campgrounds fault.
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March 17, 2025 Stayed at: 011, Loop: Cottonwood (TX)
Great campground host.
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March 17, 2025 Stayed at: 007, Loop: Cottonwood (TX)
Lovely, quiet campground. Spots have plenty of space, although desert vegetation provides little privacy. No cell service. The host was friendly and helpful, and the campground was spotless.
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March 21, 2025 Stayed at: 007, Loop: Cottonwood (TX)
Loved the smaller campground. Lots of space, a friendly host and quick trip to Canyon.
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April 8, 2025 Stayed at: 009, Loop: Cottonwood (TX)
The camp rangers were very informative, I wish there was sinks and flushing toilets , but it’s fine.
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April 9, 2025 Stayed at: 016, Loop: Cottonwood (TX)
Great location! Short drive to Santa Elena canyon and old Maverick road! Site 17 is close to toilets, water spigot and has decent shade. Would stay at this one again
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April 12, 2025 Stayed at: 003, Loop: Cottonwood (TX)
Cottonwood is a quiet little campground with easy access to the main road. It is conveniently located close to a ranger station and the Santa Elena Canyon overlook and access. Plenty of shade to be had. Bear-proof lockers at each campsite, water spigots, drinking water, and toilets are amenities available.
Found a woodpecker nest above my tent. Lots of bird activity right in the campground.
I would stay again. Tent or travel trailer (pretty soft ground to sleep on).
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April 13, 2025 Stayed at: 014, Loop: Cottonwood (TX)
One Of The best National Park 👍
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April 14, 2025 Stayed at: 025, Loop: Cottonwood (TX)
Outstanding! One of my favorite campgrounds. You are close to Santa Elena Canyon and many, many trails. There is a small store around the corner, and you can get some cell service from this spot. Only 25 or so spots. It's very quiet and there are many birds in the trees. This is a dark sky park, and I was able to capture some pictures of the Milky Way.
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April 16, 2025 Stayed at: 011, Loop: Cottonwood (TX)
2nd time staying at this campground. Great little gem in the big state of Texas!
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Po Box 129, Big Bend Nat. Park, TX 79834 United States
Elevation: 649 ft
From Interstate 10, take State Highway 385 south to Fort Stockton and into Marathon. From Marathon, drive 40 mi (39.8 mi) south on State Highway 385 to the north entrance of Big Bend National Park. Drive straight for 26 mi (26.1 mi) to Park Headqu...
From Interstate 10, take State Highway 385 south to Fort Stockton and into Marathon. From Marathon, drive 40 mi (39.8 mi) south on State Highway 385 to the north entrance of Big Bend National Park. Drive straight for 26 mi (26.1 mi) to Park Headquarters at Panther Junction. Turn right at the intersection and go 13 mi (13 mi) west. Take a left at the Ross Maxwell Scenic Drive and drive 23 mi (23 mi) to Cottonwood Campground.
GPS Warning: GPS units may send you down Old Maverick Road, an unpaved, very rough road. Do not take Old Maverick Road unless you have a four wheel drive and high clearance vehicle.
Cottonwood Campground is accessible via State Highway 385, which connects to Interstate 10 to the north. Travelers can take State Highway 385 south from Interstate 10 through Fort Stockton and Marathon to reach the campground.
The closest entrance is: Maverick Entrance Station
Approximate drive: 13.4 mi · 23 min
Check in time
1PM
A maximum of two motor vehicles, one vehicle with a trailer, one motorhome with tow vehicle or four motorcycles allowed per campsite. A maximum of four tents OR one wheeled camping unit and one tent allowed per campsite. Only 1 conversion van or other type of recreational vehicle allowed per site. Two (2) conversion vans or RVs require 2 campsites.
Last updated: October 24, 2026
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