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Cottonwood Point Campground

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Cottonwood Point Campground Overview

Rating

Phone (620) 382-2101

Address N., 2105 Pawnee Rd, Marion, KS 66861, USA

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

Hours

Cottonwood Point Campground Location & Map

KansasMarion CountyMarionPawnee Road

Cottonwood Point Campground About

For Kansans seeking a genuine escape into the tranquility of nature, Cottonwood Point Campground in Marion, Kansas, offers a truly remarkable experience. Described as "Beautiful!" and a "nature lover's paradise," this campground provides the perfect setting to unwind, reconnect with the outdoors, and create lasting memories. Whether you're a seasoned camper, a bird-watching enthusiast, or simply looking for a peaceful lakeside retreat, Cottonwood Point Campground has something special for you.

This well-maintained campground stands out for its serene natural beauty and its commitment to offering a true outdoor experience. While a recent visitor noted some seasonal facility closures, the overwhelming sentiment points to a rewarding and enjoyable time amidst the Kansas landscape. The opportunity to kayak, enjoy pristine nature, and potentially spot diverse birdlife makes Cottonwood Point Campground an ideal destination for anyone in our state looking for a refreshing break from the everyday.

Introduction / Overview

Cottonwood Point Campground, located in Marion, Kansas, is a serene and well-regarded destination for campers and nature enthusiasts alike. It provides a quintessential Kansas outdoor experience, blending natural beauty with essential amenities to ensure a comfortable stay. The campground caters to various camping styles, from tent camping to RVs, offering a range of sites to suit different preferences, from more social areas to secluded, peaceful spots.

The primary appeal of Cottonwood Point Campground lies in its immersion in "very beautiful Kansas nature," as described by a satisfied customer. This commitment to maintaining its natural integrity, coupled with well-kept facilities, makes it a popular choice for those looking to disconnect from the hustle and bustle and truly appreciate the tranquility of the Kansas landscape. It’s a place where you can breathe deeply, enjoy the sounds of wildlife, and partake in outdoor activities like kayaking and bird watching.

While the campground embraces its natural setting, visitors should be prepared for the typical encounters with local wildlife, such as raccoons and mud daubers, which are a natural part of any outdoor adventure. This simply adds to the authentic wilderness experience that Cottonwood Point Campground proudly offers to all its guests.

Location and Accessibility

Cottonwood Point Campground is conveniently located at N., 2105 Pawnee Rd, Marion, KS 66861, USA. This address places it within easy reach of Marion, Kansas, a charming town that serves as a gateway to the beautiful Marion Reservoir and surrounding natural areas. Its location in central Kansas makes it an accessible destination for residents from across the state, offering a convenient escape without requiring extensive travel.

The proximity to the Marion Reservoir is a significant advantage, providing direct access to water-based activities like kayaking and boating. The drive to the campground is typically scenic and straightforward, allowing visitors to transition smoothly from daily life to their peaceful outdoor retreat. While immersed in nature, the campground remains close enough to the town of Marion to access essential services, supplies, and local attractions should the need arise. This balance of seclusion and convenience makes Cottonwood Point Campground an ideal spot for a stress-free camping trip for Kansans.

Services Offered

  • Campsites: Cottonwood Point Campground offers a variety of campsites to accommodate different preferences. These likely include:

    • Tent camping sites: As noted by a reviewer who "tent camped here," these sites are available for traditional camping.

    • RV sites: While not explicitly detailed in the reviews, most modern campgrounds in a location like this offer RV sites, potentially with various hookup options (electric, water, sewer) to cater to RV enthusiasts.

  • Restrooms/Outhouses: While seasonal closures are noted, the presence of these facilities is confirmed. During peak season (typically April onwards), these are expected to be open and maintained.

  • Boat Ramp: A "boat ramp is not bad" and features "some of the best courtesy docks," making it easy for visitors to launch and retrieve watercraft for activities like kayaking.

  • Picnic Tables: Most campsites typically include picnic tables for outdoor dining.

  • Fire Rings: Standard at many campsites, allowing for campfires and cooking (guests should always check for fire bans or restrictions).

  • Minimal Staff Interaction: As noted by a reviewer, staff presence might be minimal, suggesting a more self-service approach for check-in and general queries outside of peak times.

  • Well-Maintained Facilities: Customers report that facilities are "very nice," indicating a commitment to cleanliness and upkeep, even if subject to natural elements.

Features / Highlights

  • Beautiful Kansas Nature: The most prominent highlight is the stunning natural environment. Reviewers consistently praise the "Beautiful!" setting and "very beautiful Kansas nature," making it a prime spot for nature lovers.

  • Peaceful and Secluded Options: The campground offers diversity in its sites. For those seeking tranquility, "get spots 30 to 37," as these are recommended for "nature and peace." This caters to campers desiring a quiet and undisturbed experience.

  • Social Camping Areas: Conversely, there are "other areas that are more social," meaning "small campsites" where campers might interact more. This flexibility allows visitors to choose the atmosphere that best suits their camping style.

  • Excellent Water Access for Kayaking: The campground provides easy access to the water, making it ideal for kayaking. Reviewers specifically mentioned "enjoyed kayaking," reinforcing this as a key activity. The "best courtesy docks" at the boat ramp further enhance this feature.

  • Bird Watching Paradise: For avian enthusiasts, Cottonwood Point is a dream. It's described as a "nature lovers paradise" where "you may find some nice birds," offering fantastic opportunities for bird watching.

  • Well-Maintained Environment: Despite being immersed in nature, the campground is "well maintained," ensuring a pleasant and clean experience. This extends to facilities that are "very nice."

  • Developing Disc Golf Course: An exciting new feature is the potential addition of a disc golf course, with a reviewer noting "they were in the process of building a disc golf course too!" This will add another recreational activity for visitors.

  • Encounters with Nature: While some may find it a challenge, the presence of "creatures such as racoons and mud dabbers" highlights the authentic natural experience, appealing to those who truly embrace being in the wild.

Promotions or Special Offers

Specific promotions or special offers for Cottonwood Point Campground are not detailed in the provided information. As a public or state-managed campground (implied by the mention of a "park ranger" and the Marion Reservoir area), pricing is often standardized and may not feature frequent, publicly advertised promotions in the same way a private business might. However, it's always worth checking for:

  • Off-peak season rates: Reduced fees during non-peak months (e.g., before April, as suggested by the restroom closure).

  • Senior or veteran discounts: Many state and federal campgrounds offer discounts for specific groups.

  • Long-term stay discounts: For those planning extended camping trips.

To inquire about current rates, reservation policies, and any potential offers, it is highly recommended to contact Cottonwood Point Campground directly using the provided phone numbers. It's also wise to check the official Kansas Wildlife, Parks and Tourism website, or the relevant reservoir management body, as they often publish detailed pricing and reservation information for public campgrounds.

Contact Information

For reservations, inquiries about seasonal openings, or more information about Cottonwood Point Campground, please use the following contact details:

Address: N., 2105 Pawnee Rd, Marion, KS 66861, USA

Phone: (620) 382-2101

Mobile Phone: +1 620-382-2101

Calling is the best way to get up-to-date information on site availability, facility status (especially outside of peak season), and specific details about your planned visit.

Conclusion: Why this place is suitable for locals

Cottonwood Point Campground in Marion, Kansas, is an exceptional destination for Kansans seeking an authentic and peaceful outdoor experience right here in our state. Its primary allure lies in its pristine natural setting, offering "beautiful Kansas nature" that encourages true immersion in the wilderness. For locals, this means a convenient escape from the daily grind without the need for extensive travel, allowing for more time enjoying the serenity.

The campground’s diverse site options cater to various preferences, from those craving solitude in spots 30-37 to those who prefer a more social camping environment. This flexibility ensures that every type of Kansas camper can find their perfect spot. The strong emphasis on outdoor activities, such as kayaking on the nearby reservoir with its "best courtesy docks" and ample opportunities for "bird watching," makes it a haven for active and nature-loving residents. The ongoing development of a disc golf course further adds to its appeal as a recreational hub.

While the seasonal closure of some facilities and minimal staff might require a bit more self-reliance outside of peak season, the overall positive feedback on the campground's beauty and upkeep indicates a rewarding experience. It’s a place where Kansans can truly disconnect, appreciate the state's natural beauty, and create lasting memories with family and friends. For a genuine and rejuvenating camping adventure in our own backyard, Cottonwood Point Campground is an ideal choice for the local community.

Customer Reviews

4.0
161 reviews
K
Katie S.
Mar 25, 2025

We tent camped here in early March. Overall it was a pretty good experience, though we were not aware that none of the bathrooms/outhouses in the camping areas would be open until April (peak season) and there was no signage to tell us that. We asked a park ranger when we happened to run into him, but they have minimal staff, so communication could be a little better. There are a few trees to pee behind, haha, but the vegetation isn’t thick enough in March to get much privacy if ya know what I mean. Still, we had a great time and enjoyed kayaking and camping out here. It looked like they were in the process of building a disc golf course too!

C
Chris A
Jul 12, 2024

Beautiful! If you want nature and peace get spots 30 to 37. There are other areas that are more social. Meaning small campsites. The nature is a very beautiful Kansas nature and it's well maintained. Facilities are very nice yet still subject to nature. Meaning you may run across creatures such as racoons and mud dabbers. The boat ramp is not bad, but it does have some of the best courtesy docks. If you like bird watching you may find some nice birds. Not guaranteed they will be there. But it's a nature lovers paradise.

J
Jonathan Kuhn
Aug 31, 2024

Nice little campground. Tons of coastline spots with nice tree coverage. Small swim area and several docks and boat ramps. Clean and well maintained. Eastern edge of the lake provides great sunset views.

D
Danette Kuzel
Apr 10, 2024

Beautiful park, nice sites though not level but not too much trouble. Disappointed the showers/ Restrooms were locked as we were only camping one night to pass through so we didn't want to stop at dump. No big deal just wish we knew ahead of time. I think water may be of until end April. Most sites have water views. Grass (well weeds) was almostfoot high. Love the covered picnic tables & grill next to the pad. Separate fire ring.

J
J W
May 22, 2024

Great secluded lakefront sites close to the water. Most sites don't have water hookups but numerous spigots are available. Not too busy during the week (early spring) but lots of campers and boaters on the weekend. Lots of fish being caught. Be wary of ticks, tornadoes, and territorial cardinals.