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Cottonwood Point

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Cottonwood Point Overview

Rating

Phone (620) 382-2101

Address Unnamed Road,, Marion, KS 66861, USA

Website https://www.recreation.gov/camping/campgrounds/233468

Hours

Cottonwood Point Location & Map

KansasMarion CountyMarion

Cottonwood Point About

For Kansans who seek the tranquility of nature, breathtaking sunsets, and a peaceful escape from the everyday hustle, Cottonwood Point Campground in Marion, Kansas, presents a compelling option. Nestled within the scenic landscapes surrounding the Marion Reservoir, this campground is a haven for those who prioritize relaxation and a connection with the outdoors. This article aims to provide a clear, engaging, and factual overview of Cottonwood Point, highlighting its unique features and overall appeal from the perspective of local Kansas users.

Kansas offers a unique blend of prairie beauty and serene lakeside environments, perfect for camping and outdoor recreation. Cottonwood Point Campground, with its emphasis on peace and natural beauty, embodies this spirit. We'll delve into the specifics that make this campground a notable choice for your next outdoor adventure, exploring its convenient location, the essential services it provides, and the distinct features that contribute to its inviting atmosphere. Whether you're looking for a quiet spot to unwind, enjoy a stunning sunset, or simply reconnect with nature, understanding what Cottonwood Point has to offer will help you plan your ideal visit in our beautiful state.

Location and Accessibility

Cottonwood Point Campground is located on an Unnamed Road, Marion, KS 66861, USA. This places it directly within the Marion Reservoir area, a well-known recreational spot in central Kansas. Marion, a small town in Marion County, serves as the gateway to the reservoir, offering a quiet, rural setting that emphasizes natural beauty.

While the address is listed as "Unnamed Road," its association with Marion Reservoir means that it is part of a managed recreational area, typically with clear signage and established access routes. Access to campgrounds around reservoirs often involves well-maintained roads designed to accommodate vehicles with trailers and RVs. The specific location "across the cove" from the boat ramp suggests an advantageous position, offering views of lake activity without being directly in the midst of it, contributing to the peaceful atmosphere. For local Kansans, this location is ideal for those seeking easy access to fishing, boating, and other water-based activities on Marion Reservoir, while still enjoying the tranquility of a dedicated camping spot. Its central Kansas location also makes it a relatively accessible destination from various parts of the state for weekend trips or longer escapes into nature.

Services Offered

Cottonwood Point Campground provides a range of services aimed at ensuring a comfortable and functional outdoor experience, particularly for those with self-contained RVs.

  • Electric Hookups: Campers can expect electric hookups at sites, which are described as "fine," providing essential power for RVs.
  • Spacious Sites: The sites are noted for being "spacious," allowing ample room for campers and their equipment. Some spots are highlighted as being "like their own little park," suggesting varying levels of privacy and space.
  • Boat Ramp Access: The campground offers convenient access to a "boat ramp across the cove," facilitating easy launching and retrieval of boats for water activities on Marion Reservoir.
  • Designated Walking Trail: The "Willow Walk Trail" is specifically recommended, indicating a maintained path for leisurely strolls and connecting with nature.

It is crucial for prospective campers, especially those planning off-season visits, to be aware of potential limitations regarding facilities. While "shower houses would be closed" during the off-season is a common practice, a past issue with "all vault toilets in the campground were locked" is a point to verify when making reservations, particularly if relying on campground facilities. It is recommended to call ahead to confirm the availability of all desired amenities, especially during non-peak seasons.

Features / Highlights

Cottonwood Point Campground is distinguished by several key features that enhance the experience for its Kansas visitors, particularly those seeking a tranquil and scenic outdoor escape.

  • Peaceful and Relaxing Atmosphere: The campground is consistently described as "peaceful" and ideal for "relaxing nature peace." It is specifically "not recommended if you want a crowd," emphasizing its quiet ambiance.
  • Beautiful Sunset Views: A significant highlight is the opportunity to "get a beautiful sunset view," providing a picturesque backdrop for evening relaxation.
  • Well-Kept Grounds: The campground is noted as "nicely kept," indicating a commitment to maintenance and cleanliness, contributing to a pleasant environment.
  • Individualized Parking Spots: Some spots are described as "like their own little park," suggesting unique, spacious, and potentially more private settings for campers.
  • Water Access Entertainment: The "boat ramp is across the cove so you get that entertainment," offering views of boating activity without directly impacting the campground's tranquility.
  • Suitable for Nature Lovers: With its focus on peace and natural beauty, it is explicitly recommended as "the spot" for those who love "relaxing nature peace."

Promotions or Special Offers

Publicly available information for Cottonwood Point Campground does not explicitly detail specific, short-term promotional offers. As a public or publicly managed campground (often associated with state parks or Corps of Engineers sites), pricing is typically standardized and published, focusing on daily rates for different types of sites (e.g., electric, non-electric).

While direct promotional discounts may not be common, the value of Cottonwood Point lies in its core offering: a peaceful, well-maintained natural setting at standard government or park service rates. For campers in Kansas, these rates are often more affordable than private RV resorts, making the campground an economical choice for outdoor recreation. It is always advisable to check the official Marion Reservoir or Kansas Department of Wildlife, Parks and Tourism websites, or to call the park directly, for the most current information on camping fees, any seasonal variations, or potential discounts available for certain passes (e.g., senior passes, access passes) that might apply to publicly managed campgrounds.

Contact Information

For inquiries, reservations, or to learn more about the specific offerings and current conditions at Cottonwood Point Campground, you can reach them through the following contact details:

  • Address: Unnamed Road,, Marion, KS 66861, USA
  • Phone: (620) 382-2101
  • Mobile Phone: +1 620-382-2101

It is highly recommended to call ahead, especially when planning a visit, to confirm the availability of specific facilities like vault toilets or shower houses, particularly during off-season periods. Direct communication ensures you receive the most accurate and up-to-date information regarding accessibility, site availability, and any important notices for your stay at Cottonwood Point.

Conclusion: Why This Place is Suitable for Locals

For Kansans, Cottonwood Point Campground in Marion stands out as an exceptionally suitable destination for those seeking a true escape into nature, prioritizing peace and tranquility over crowds and extensive amenities. Its consistent reputation as a "peaceful" and "nicely kept" campground directly caters to the desires of many local outdoor enthusiasts who want to unwind in a serene environment. The highlight of "beautiful sunset views" and the entertainment of watching boats "across the cove" offer simple yet profound joys that resonate with the spirit of Kansas's natural beauty.

While it may not be recommended for those seeking a lively atmosphere, its strength lies in providing a restorative experience, making it ideal for relaxing and connecting with nature. For RVers with self-contained units, the "spacious" sites and "fine" electric hookups provide the necessary comforts. Importantly, for locals, understanding the nuances of facility availability, especially during off-season, ensures a well-prepared and enjoyable trip. Cottonwood Point is truly "the spot" for Kansans who appreciate quiet, natural beauty, and a well-maintained setting for their camping adventures at Marion Reservoir.

Customer Reviews

4.0
62 reviews
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Chris A
Jul 12, 2024

I love the spots from 30 to 35. Every parking spot is like their own little park. Some spots more than other. You get a beautiful sunset view. The boat ramp is across the cove so you get that entertainment. It's nicely kept and it's peaceful. Not recommended if you want a crowd but for relaxing nature peace, this is the spot.

A
April Lagnevall
Mar 16, 2025

If you are a year round camper or just an occasional off season camper, I would not recommend this campground. While the sites are spacious, electric hookups were fine and I would highly recommend the Willow walk trail the main issue we had was that all vault toilets in the campground were locked. This left a pretty sour taste about wanting to come back and try this campground again. While I understand that most off season campers have large RVs with all the amenities, not everyone operates or camps this way. I did try to call the office about it to see what was going on, but no one was available to answer. I do believe this should be fully stated before making a reservation that there will be no facilities. Unfortunately when we made our reservation, it started that shower houses would be closed but vault toilets would be available, which of course was not the case.

J
Jacob Welsh
Aug 16, 2020

They've done a great job of redoing the sites since the flood in 2019. All new electrical boxes with 50/30 amp service in waterproof boxes. Sewer hookups. Nice tables and shelters. Great bath houses. Wish there were some better beaches. Very quiet. Sheriff and Ranger drove through often. Will camp here again. 👍

J
John Nguyen
Jun 29, 2023

Site 104: Cons - lots of cotton (hence the name) - had blue green algae - need big dumpsters instead of little trash cans - breeze felt good but got really windy Pros - great views - fully shaded - spaced out - covered awning - conveniently located fire ring - laid back and serene

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Kevin Kelly
Oct 23, 2022

Cottonwood point is one of my favorites. This was October 22 2020. I was at site 127. The rest rooms with the flush toilets were locked up already. I wish those were open all year.