Birdwatch at Cottonwood Campground

Great Horned Owl perches in a tree at Cottonwood Campground.

NPS/CA Hoyt

Cottonwood Campground is a great location to look for both riparian and desert birds. Numerous large cottonwood trees attract owls, woodpeckers, tanagers, warblers, orioles, and many other species. Year-round residents include golden-fronted woodpeckers, verdin, vermillion flycatchers, curve-billed thrashers, roadrunners, and rufous-crowned sparrows. 

Details

Duration

15-60 Minutes

Activity

Birdwatching

Age(s)

Great for all ages!

Pets Allowed

Yes

Dogs are allowed on the dirt road that circles the campground. Just like everywhere else in the park, dogs must be on a leash at all times. 

Activity Fee

No

Entrance fees may apply, see Fees & Passes information.

Location

Cottonwood Campground

Cottonwood Campground is a quiet, shady desert oasis located between the Castolon Historic District and scenic Santa Elena Canyon.

Reservations

No

Season

Year Round

Time of Day

Day, Dawn, Dusk

Visitors who are not camping at Cottonwood are allowed to drive into the campground, park and walk the gravel road through the campground. If entering early in the morning, please remember that other visitors are sleeping here and be as quiet as possible. Keep in mind that generators are not allowed in this campground at any time of the day. We also ask that you not idle your vehicle for long periods of time.

Accessibility Information

A flat gravel road circles the center of Cottonwood campground, with a pullout near the picnic area and vault toilet. The tables in the picnic area are a good place to sit and listen/watch for birds. If you are not camping in Cottonwood, this pullout is a great place to park for the duration of your visit.