Details
Lat:46.949934505000044
Lng:-103.53126858899998
Content provided by
National Park ServiceLast Updated: September 12, 2026
Campground
Cottonwood Campground
National Park ServiceCampground
National Park ServiceLast Updated: September 12, 2026
Cottonwood Campground lies inside the park, about 5 miles from Medora, ND. It is the South Unit's only campground. Beginning May 1, 2026 all sites are by reservation at recreation.gov. Most sites are suitable for tents and RVs (no hookups). Cottonwood Campground fills to capacity each afternoon, mid-May through mid-September.
Cottonwood Campground is open year-round. Check out time is noon. Check in any time (self-registration kiosk).
Summers are warm (highs 80 - 100 degrees) with occasional thunderstorms and lots of wind. Winter is very cold with night time temperatures dropping well below zero.
Trash & Recycling Collection
Toilets
Amphitheater
Staff or Host On-Site
Potable Water
Enter the South Unit in Medora. Travel 5.5 miles on the scenic drive (East River Road). Cottonwood Campground is on the left. Stop at the campground’s self-registration kiosk for information on how to claim a campsite. If you have already made a reservation, you may go directly to your site.
Standard Campsite - Summer Rate
One night in a standard campsite, limited to 1 family or 6 people. Summer rates are in effect May through September.
Standard Campsite - Summer Rate - Senior/Access Pass
One night in a standard campsite, limited to 1 family or 6 people. Summer rates are in effect May through September. This discounted rate applies to sites occupied by a person with a valid Senior or Access Pass. (Note: this does not include Interagency, TRNP, or Military Annual Pass holders.)
Standard Campsite - Winter Rate
One night in a standard campsite, limited to 1 family or 6 people. Winter rates are in effect October through April.
Standard Campsite - Winter Rate - Senior/Access Pass
One night in a standard campsite, limited to 1 family or 6 people. Winter rates are in effect October through April. This discounted rate applies to sites occupied by a person with a valid Senior or Access Pass. (Note: this does not include Interagency, TRNP, or Military Annual Pass holders.)
Group Site Rate
One night in the Cottonwood Campground Group Site by groups of 7 to 20 people. By reservation only - see the Reservations section. Passholder discounts do not apply.
Wheelchair Access
There are two paved pathways to accessible restrooms located in the north loop of the campground and one paved pathway leading to the amphitheater located in the south loop. Paved pathway to wheelchair accessible bathrooms and amphitheater.
Cell Phone Information
Depending on your cellular provider, you may have moderate to limited cell signal or none at all.
RV Allowed
Yes
RV Information
Maximum vehicle length among pull-through sites varies. Many sites are quite larger (over 50 feet). Back-in sites accommodate vehicles between 20 to 40 feet in length. Most of the RV and trailer sites are fairly level, which can be navigated by wheelchair users.
RV Maximum Length
0
Trailer Maximum Length
0
ADA Information
There are two accessible campsites designated for wheelchair users, one is operated on a first-come first-served basis. Accessible routes along paved roadway, and paved pathways leading to amphitheater and accessible restrooms.
Trailer Allowed
Yes
Access Roads
Paved Roads - All vehicles OK
Classifications
Developed Campground
Each camp site has a picnic table, raised grill for campfires and for cooking with wood or charcoal, and a cleared, flat area for a tent. Cottonwood Campground does not have a dump station. Commercial dump stations in Medora charge fees for use.
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