Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest — Cottonwood Campground

Cottonwood sits along the Methow River about 7 miles west of Mazama on Lost River Road, tucked into ponderosa pine and cottonwood. It’s a small, no-frills USFS camp with vault toilets and room for rigs of most sizes — no hookups, no water, just a flat spot by the river and the sound of moving water. Fills up on summer weekends but mid-week you’ll often have it to yourself. Fire rings are present but check current forest restrictions before you light anything.

Access is on paved and well-maintained gravel — any 2WD rig can make it out here. This is your last comfortable sleep before grinding up the switchbacks to Harts Pass or Slate Peak. Season runs roughly June through October depending on snowpack. No drinking water on-site — tank up in Winthrop or Mazama before arriving.

River camp below Hart's Pass country.