About
Cottonwood Group Campground is one of the best places in Joshua Tree National Park for stargazing and wildflower viewing. The group campground is part of the main Cottonwood Campground and has three sites that are by reservation only. It is one of three group campgrounds in the park and the only campground that lies in the southern section. Travelers who enjoy warm, dry winters flock to Joshua Tree from October through May, when temperatures reach between 70 to 90-degrees during the day and drop to 40 to 60-degrees at night. Summer is the park’s off-season due to the uncomfortably high desert heat. Cottonwood Group Campground is at an elevation of 3,000 ft. and has little shade from vegetation; however, there are picnic shelters that provide shade at each site. This campground group sites are limited to tent camping only; recreational vehicles and habitable trailers are prohibited. There are no electric, water or sewer hook-ups available at individual campsites; drinkable water spigot is located nearby. There is no overflow parking. Check in at Cottonwood Visitor Center, right near the campground. When you arrive; hours are 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. If arriving one or more days late, call (760) 362-4367; or your reservation will be forfeited if we do not hear from you within 24 hours of your arrival date. Commercial guided operations must obtain a Commercial Use Authorization Permit; please call (760) 367-5545. No special events shall be held at reserved campsites. Special events must use designate area with a special use permit. Resale or auction of advance reservations is prohibited. Gathering firewood is not allowed in the park. Pets are not allowed on trails and must be restricted to stay within developed areas only. For additional park information, call (760) 367-5500 or visit www.nps.gov/jotr
Don’t Move Firewood: Help protect our forests! Prevent the spread of tree-killing pests by obtaining firewood at or near your destination and burning it on-site. Moving firewood is illegal in some states. Visit dontmovefirewood.org to learn more.
