Cottonwood Campground

🏞️ **Introduction / Overview**

For Kansans seeking a premier outdoor destination blending the tranquility of nature with the convenience of modern amenities, **Cottonwood Campground** at Lovewell State Park is a perennial favorite. Tucked away in the beautiful landscape of North Central Kansas, specifically in northern Jewell County, Cottonwood Campground serves as an ideal base camp for exploring the expansive 2,900-acre Lovewell Reservoir and the surrounding 2,200-acre Wildlife Area.

Part of the larger, meticulously managed Lovewell State Park, Cottonwood Campground is well-known for offering a wide variety of camping options to suit every type of outdoor enthusiast, from primitive tenters to large RVs needing full hookups. The campground derives its name from the excellent shade provided by the large, mature cottonwood trees scattered throughout the area—a feature that is highly valued during the warm Kansas summers. Customer reviews frequently praise the ease of setup and the spaciousness of the sites, noting that "Nice camping big campers fit in almost ball spots" and simply "Nice camp grounds," highlighting the pleasant and accommodating atmosphere.

Lovewell State Park and its Cottonwood sector offer more than just a place to sleep; they provide a true recreational haven. With excellent shade, multiple water-based activities on the reservoir, and a host of land-based sports and nature watching opportunities, this campground is a complete destination for families, anglers, boaters, and nature lovers across the Sunflower State.

📍 **Location and Accessibility**

Cottonwood Campground is located within the expansive Lovewell State Park in the northeastern corner of Jewell County, Kansas. The area is intentionally "off the beaten track," providing a genuine escape from the hustle and bustle of city life, yet it remains easily accessible from major regional routes.

P **Address:**

2446 250 Rd, Webber, KS 66970, USA

P **Directions and Regional Access:**

The park is situated approximately 18 miles northeast of the city of Mankato via US Highway 14. This location places it conveniently for residents of North Central Kansas and Southern Nebraska. Visitors should follow directional signage for Lovewell State Park upon approaching the area. The campground is well within the park's boundaries, offering a sense of seclusion and immersion in the natural environment from the moment you arrive.

P **Park Office and Permits:**

Upon entering the State Park, visitors will find a full-service area office where park permits (daily vehicle and camping permits) can be purchased, along with hunting and fishing licenses. A self-pay station is also available 24 hours a day near the office for after-hours arrivals.

🛠️ **Services Offered**

Cottonwood Campground and its immediate vicinity benefit from the extensive infrastructure provided by Lovewell State Park, ensuring a comfortable and well-equipped stay for all guests:

• **Full Utility Hookups:** The area offers a variety of designated sites, including **full utility hookup sites** (Water, Sewer, and Electric), Electric and Water only sites, and Electric-only sites, catering to different RV and trailer needs.
• **Electric Service:** Available electrical pedestals are typically 50, 30, and 20 amp, ensuring compatibility with almost all modern recreational vehicles.
• **Water Access:** Potable water hydrants are available, including **year-round freeze-proof hydrants** centrally located in the park, providing access to water even during the colder off-season months.
• **Modern Restroom Facilities:** The park features multiple **shower/toilet buildings** which are modern and well-maintained, providing accessible and clean amenities for all campers. Cottonwood Campground has a shower/toilet building located nearby, in addition to several vault toilets scattered throughout the park.
• **Trailer Dump Stations:** Two trailer dump stations are centrally located within the park, allowing RVers to easily service their waste tanks before departure.
• **Fish Cleaning Stations:** For the avid angler, two **lighted, accessible fish cleaning stations** are provided, complete with electrical outlets for using electric fillet knives.
• **Reservations:** Designated electrical sites within Cottonwood Campground are typically reservable through the state park reservation system, which is highly recommended for securing a spot during peak season.
• **Camping Cabins:** The park also offers rental options, including five Rustic (sleeper) and four Modern (deluxe) Camping Cabins, which are heated, cooled, and include electricity.

🌲 **Features / Highlights**

Cottonwood Campground is situated within a vibrant State Park setting, providing an array of features and activities that appeal to every member of the family:

• **Lovewell Reservoir:** The 2,900-acre reservoir is the main attraction, popular for fishing walleye, white bass/wipers, crappie, and catfish. The south shore's high bluffs help calm the waters, making it ideal for boating and water sports.
• **Full-Service Marina:** A full-service marina is available, offering a **double-lane boat ramp**, daily or season boat slip rental, bait, tackle, and even a full-service seasonal restaurant serving breakfast, lunch, and dinner, including famed local barbecue.
• **Archery Range:** A dedicated seven-station, 14-target archery range is located near the Cottonwood shower building, welcoming both beginners and seasoned archers.
• **Day-Use Recreational Area:** The nearby Pioneer Day-use Area is packed with family fun, featuring a large **playground**, sand volleyball court, basketball court, **disc golf course**, and horseshoe pits.
• **Swimming Beach:** The Southwinds Swimming Beach provides a perfect spot for cooling off, offering plenty of sun and shade along the reservoir shoreline.
• **Extensive Wildlife Area:** The surrounding 2,200-acre Lovewell Wildlife Area is a managed habitat inviting hunters and wildlife watchers to experience deer, turkey, waterfowl, pheasant, and quail in their natural settings.
• **Special Events:** The park hosts a variety of popular annual special events throughout the year, such as fishing clinics, fireworks displays, and themed camping events, ensuring there is always something exciting happening.

📞 **Contact Information**

Cottonwood Campground is managed by the Kansas Department of Wildlife, Parks and Tourism (KDWPT) as part of Lovewell State Park. For the most accurate and up-to-date information on reservations, events, and park regulations, you should contact the park office directly.

P **Address (Lovewell State Park Office):**

2446 250 Rd, Webber, KS 66970, USA

P **Phone:**

(785) 753-4971

P **Mobile Phone (Same Number):**

+1 785-753-4971

P **Website:**

General information and reservation links can be found on the Kansas Department of Wildlife, Parks and Tourism (KDWPT) State Parks website.

✅ **What is Worth Choosing**

Cottonwood Campground at Lovewell State Park is undeniably worth choosing for your next Kansas outdoor adventure due to its comprehensive facilities and rich recreational offerings, which are all centered around the beautiful Lovewell Reservoir.

P **Choose Cottonwood Campground because:**

You gain access to one of the most well-equipped state parks in Kansas. Whether you pilot a large RV, prefer a cozy cabin, or enjoy primitive tent camping, Cottonwood provides **excellent shade and a full spectrum of utility hookups**—including full sewer/water/electric—making your stay hassle-free. The true value lies in the immediate proximity to the **full-service marina**, exceptional fishing and boating on the reservoir, and the extensive family-friendly land activities like disc golf, the archery range, and the swimming beach. This campground is the ideal choice for Kansas residents looking for a single destination that perfectly combines high-quality, modern camping amenities with endless opportunities for water sports, hunting, and wildlife observation in a clean, friendly, and naturally beautiful setting.