Trip Report: Cottonwood Canyon State Park

When: 11/12/2016 Location: Cottonwood Canyon State Park Conditions: Lower 60's during the day, lower 40's during the night. Sunshine turning to liquid sunshine. Duration: 2 days / 1 night Difficulty: Easy Kid Friendly? Yes Pet Friendly? Yes Useful Links: Oregon State Parks The Full Report Cottonwood Canyon State Park is a newer park (2013) southeast of the Dalles. There are traditional campsites that accommodate RV's or tents and there is a hike and bike section with tent pads for tents only. The campground is located right on the John Day river and there is a boat ramp nearby on the main highway. The main activities best suited for this campground are fishing, hunting, and rafting. There is an established in and out trail (old road) that meanders along the river for 4.5 miles. Views are to be had in several spots but that is about it for more "outdoor" inclined adventures. I would recommend this place more as a day adventure for an easy hike or access to the river for a nice way to cool off during a hot summer day. Another option for the more adventurous and brave is to bushwack up the steep hillsides for better views of the canyon and surrounding area. Worth a visit but leave the tent at home.