How do I access Cottonwood Beach?

Cottonwood Beach is a public boat ramp in Wyoming. There is no entrance fee.

What activities are available at Cottonwood Beach?

Cottonwood Beach supports kayaking, canoeing, kayak fishing. The difficulty level is rated beginner, making it great for all skill levels.

What amenities are at Cottonwood Beach?

On-site amenities include boat ramp, parking. Parking: Parking lot available at boat ramp facility.

When is the best time to visit Cottonwood Beach?

The best time to paddle at Cottonwood Beach is during summer. June through August

What are the water conditions at Cottonwood Beach?

Water conditions at Cottonwood Beach include calm, sheltered.

Is Cottonwood Beach good for beginners?

Yes, Cottonwood Beach is rated beginner difficulty, making it an excellent choice for first-time paddlers and families. Calm, flat water suitable for first-time paddlers. No significant current or wave hazards expected.

Kayakers paddling through a dramatic desert canyon at sunset

Activity

KayakingCanoeingKayak FishingBeginner

Conditions

ReservoirCalmSheltered

Amenities

Boat RampParking

Best Time to Visit

Summer

Cottonwood Beach

Alcova, WY · Boat Ramp · Public

Cottonwood Beach is a public boat ramp on Alcova Reservoir near Alcova, Wyoming. This beginner-level spot offers kayaking, canoeing, kayak fishing. Amenities include boat ramp, parking. Best visited in summer.

At a Glance

Water Body

Reservoir

Launch Type

Boat Ramp

Difficulty

Beginner

Activities

Kayaking, Canoeing, Kayak Fishing

Parking

Parking lot available at boat ramp facility

Cell Service

Limited

Calm, flat water suitable for first-time paddlers. No significant current or wave hazards expected.

About This Location

Cottonwood Beach offers reservoir paddling on Alcova Reservoir in Wyoming. Located near Alcova.

For calm-water paddling in Wyoming, Cottonwood Beach offers a launch into Alcova Reservoir with its protected reservoir waters.

Kayakers will find the waters here well-suited to touring and exploration. The waters here are approachable for canoes, making it a good option for family outings.

Water conditions are generally calm and sheltered. June through August is the recommended window for paddling here. Facilities include boat ramp and parking.

Getting here from Alcova takes about 10 min, putting Cottonwood Beach within easy reach for a day trip or afternoon paddle.

New to paddling? This is a great beginner spot.

Calm reservoir waters make Cottonwood Beach ideal for first-timers. Make sure you have the right gear:

Kayaks →Life Jackets →Paddles →

Paddling Tips

•Watch for submerged stumps and debris, especially at lower water levels.
•Early morning and late evening are prime times for calm water and fishing.
•Water levels can fluctuate significantly — check current levels before your trip.
•The upper arms of reservoirs are often calmer than the main body.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I access Cottonwood Beach?: Cottonwood Beach is a public boat ramp in Wyoming. There is no entrance fee.
What activities are available at Cottonwood Beach?: Cottonwood Beach supports kayaking, canoeing, kayak fishing. The difficulty level is rated beginner, making it great for all skill levels.
What amenities are at Cottonwood Beach?: On-site amenities include boat ramp, parking. Parking: Parking lot available at boat ramp facility.
When is the best time to visit Cottonwood Beach?: The best time to paddle at Cottonwood Beach is during summer. June through August
What are the water conditions at Cottonwood Beach?: Water conditions at Cottonwood Beach include calm, sheltered.
Is Cottonwood Beach good for beginners?: Yes, Cottonwood Beach is rated beginner difficulty, making it an excellent choice for first-time paddlers and families. Calm, flat water suitable for first-time paddlers. No significant current or wave hazards expected.

Location data: USGS ScienceBase · Water conditions: USGS NWIS · Weather: National Weather Service · Coordinates: 42.5246, -106.7466