Cottingham Park

For Minnesotans who have made summer camping a cherished annual tradition, Cottingham Park Campground in Staples stands out as a true family favorite. Nestled within a picturesque landscape of Wadena County, and boasting direct access to the inviting Crow Wing River, this campground offers a blend of rustic charm and memorable outdoor activities. This article is designed to provide local users with a clear, engaging, and informative overview of what makes Cottingham Park a consistently beloved destination, from its river adventures to its friendly atmosphere and accommodating nature.

Cottingham Park Campground is more than just a place to pitch a tent; it's a destination where traditions are built and cherished memories are made. As a 56-acre property owned by Wadena County, it offers a well-maintained, welcoming environment that draws campers back year after year. The strong sentiments from repeat visitors, such as "We camp here every summer and we love this place!" and "We love to camp here every May and July," speak volumes about the lasting appeal and satisfaction this park provides. This consistent loyalty highlights the park's ability to create a truly enjoyable and reliable camping experience.

What truly resonates with local Minnesota campers about Cottingham Park is its vibrant community feel and the unforgettable river activities it offers. The "river float is amazing," a highly anticipated event that campers "look forward to it all year long!" This direct access to the Crow Wing River for tubing and canoeing is a major draw, providing endless hours of summer fun. The park's commitment to visitor well-being is also evident in the praise for individuals like "Ranger Glenn," who was "attentive and friendly" and ensured everyone's safety after a storm. This level of care fosters a sense of security and community that makes repeat visits so appealing. Furthermore, the fact that the park is "dog friendly" ensures that the entire family, including furry members, can enjoy the Minnesota outdoors together. Despite having a "permanent outhouse structure, without running water," its rustic nature is embraced by those who seek a genuine camping experience, knowing they are part of a cherished local tradition.

Cottingham Park is conveniently located at 25701 Co Rd 7, Staples, MN 56479, USA. This places it within Wadena County, a region of central Minnesota known for its natural beauty, including the Crow Wing River. The park's location just south of Wahoo Valley and near the vibrant city of Staples offers a blend of serene natural surroundings and easy access to local amenities.

For Minnesotans, accessing Cottingham Park is straightforward. Staples is situated along major routes, making the journey to the campground manageable from various parts of the state. It's approximately a 2.5-hour drive from Minneapolis, 1.5 hours from St. Cloud, and under 2 hours from Fargo, North Dakota, making it an ideal destination for weekend getaways or longer stays for a wide segment of the local population.

The accessibility extends beyond just driving. Cottingham Park is particularly well-suited for those engaging in river activities, serving as a popular spot for both launching and landing tubes and canoes on the Crow Wing River. Its connection to a 2.5-mile trail that leads to Bullard's Bluff Park also enhances its accessibility for those who prefer to explore on foot, horseback, or even ATV. The park's flat terrain and mix of open and wooded areas also contribute to ease of navigation within the campground itself. This combination of convenient road access and direct access to various recreational pathways makes Cottingham Park a highly accessible and versatile choice for Minnesota families and outdoor enthusiasts.

Cottingham Park Campground offers a range of services designed to facilitate a comfortable and enjoyable rustic camping experience for its visitors.

• Campsites for Tents, Campers, and RVs: The park accommodates various camping setups, including tents, campers, and RVs. It's important to note that while sites are available, they generally do not provide hookups for electricity, water, or sewer, emphasizing a more rustic experience.

• Picnic Tables and Fire Rings: Each campsite is equipped with a picnic table and a fire ring, essential amenities for outdoor dining and enjoying campfires under the stars.

• Permanent Outhouse Structure: The campground provides a "permanent outhouse structure, without running water," serving as the primary restroom facility. This reflects the park's rustic nature but ensures a dedicated and maintained facility.

• Canoe Launch and Landing: Cottingham Park is a popular access point for the Crow Wing River, featuring a convenient canoe launch and serves as a landing spot for river floats.

• Dog-Friendly Environment: The park is explicitly noted as "dog friendly," welcoming furry family members to join the camping adventure (with appropriate leash regulations).

• Attentive Staff/Rangers: Reviews highlight the presence of friendly and attentive staff, such as "Ranger Glenn," who actively check in on campers and ensure safety, fostering a welcoming and secure environment.

• Free Firewood (at some county-operated campgrounds): While not explicitly stated for Cottingham, other Wadena County campgrounds often provide a limited amount of block firewood, which could also be a service offered here.

Cottingham Park Campground is celebrated for several unique features and highlights that make it a standout destination for Minnesota campers.

• Amazing River Floats on the Crow Wing River: A top highlight, as noted by enthusiastic campers, is the "amazing river float" on the Crow Wing River. This popular activity, whether by tube or canoe, provides endless summer fun and is a key reason many families return annually.

• Dog-Friendly Environment: The park's welcoming attitude towards dogs ensures that the entire family, including pets, can enjoy the outdoor experience together, making it an inclusive choice for many Minnesotans.

• Attentive and Friendly Staff: The positive mention of "Ranger Glenn" highlights the presence of dedicated and caring staff who enhance the camping experience by being attentive to campers' needs and safety, even during adverse weather.

• Spacious 56-Acre Property: Cottingham Park spans a generous 56 acres, providing ample space for camping, picnicking, and outdoor activities, contributing to a less crowded and more relaxed atmosphere.

• Multi-Use Trails: The park offers approximately 2.5 miles of trails connecting to Bullard's Bluff Park. These trails are versatile, suitable for "nature walking, horseback riding, ATV riding, and hiking," catering to a diverse range of outdoor interests.

• Campsites for Horse Enthusiasts: Cottingham is unique in that it has "campsites available for accommodating horse enthusiasts," a significant draw for those who wish to camp with their horses and explore equestrian trails.

• Popular for Picnicking and Swimming: Beyond camping, the park is a very popular spot for day use, particularly for "picnicking and swimming," indicating its appeal for a broader range of recreational visitors.

• Rustic Charm: While facilities like the outhouse are rustic ("without running water"), this contributes to the park's authentic camping experience, appealing to those who prefer simplicity and a closer connection to nature.

• Family-Friendly Atmosphere: The repeated testimonials from families who "camp here every summer" for kids' birthdays underline its suitability as a family-oriented destination, fostering annual traditions and creating lasting memories.

For reservations, inquiries, or to learn more about Cottingham Park Campground, please use the following contact information:

Address: 25701 Co Rd 7, Staples, MN 56479, USA

Phone: (218) 631-7604 (This phone number is listed as the Parks Administrator for Wadena County, managing Cottingham Park and other county parks.)

Mobile Phone: +1 218-631-7604

It is highly recommended to contact Wadena County Parks directly via the provided phone number or check the official Wadena County website for the most current information regarding camping availability, fees, and any specific park rules or alerts.

Cottingham Park Campground is an exceptionally suitable destination for locals in Minnesota, serving as a cherished spot where annual traditions are born and outdoor memories thrive. For Minnesotans, the consistent praise from families who "camp here every summer" speaks volumes about its enduring appeal and its ability to deliver a reliable and joyful outdoor experience right in their backyard. The ease of access from various parts of the state makes it a convenient choice for frequent visits, whether for a weekend getaway or an extended stay.

The park's most significant draw for local users is undoubtedly the "amazing river float" on the Crow Wing River. This activity encapsulates the spirit of Minnesota's lake and river country, offering a refreshing and exhilarating way to enjoy the summer heat. The fact that campers "look forward to it all year long" highlights its status as a beloved seasonal ritual. Beyond the river, the multi-use trails for hiking, horseback riding, and ATVing provide diverse recreational options, catering to a wide range of local outdoor enthusiasts.

The personal touch provided by attentive staff, like "Ranger Glenn," who prioritizes safety and community, fosters a welcoming atmosphere that encourages repeat visits. The dog-friendly policy further extends this inclusivity, allowing Minnesotans to share their outdoor adventures with their beloved pets. While the amenities are rustic, this simplicity aligns with the desires of many local campers who seek an authentic experience free from the distractions of modern conveniences. Cottingham Park is more than just a campground; it's a testament to the simple pleasures of Minnesota's natural beauty and the strong community bonds forged through shared outdoor traditions. It’s a place where families can grow, year after year, around the campfire and by the river.