About COTTONSHED PARK (AR)
Overview Cottonshed Park is located off the beaten path, eight miles southwest of Mineral Springs and Tollette. It is a quiet, wooded area with access to some of the best fishing on Millwood Lake.Recreation The campground is located on Millwood Lake with direct access to the Saline River. The area is made navigable by boat lanes which mark the river and other man made paths through the lake. Outside of these channels is submerged timber and aquatic vegetation that entice anglers and duck hunters to the area. Millwood Lake is home to over 300 species of birds including the American Bald Eagle and Great White Pelicans, many of which can be found in the Cottonshed area.Facilities The campground contains lake side campsites as well as those not located directly on the lake but with a lake view. Flush toilets, showers, and potable water are located throughout the campground. The facility also offers one centrally located sewage dump station. Campsites are equipped with picnic tables, grills, fire rings, 30/50 amp electricity, water hydrants and lantern poles.Natural Features The campground is located directly on Millwood Lake with lake views from most of the campsites. The surrounding landscape is flat, low land areas with dense timber. Nearby Attractions Old Washington Historic State Park is located 25 miles northeast of the park.
How to Get There
Approximately 5 miles south of Mineral Springs on Highway 355, turn right / west onto Bright Star Road travel approximately 3 miles, turn left / south onto Cottonshed Lane. OR North on Hwy 355 approximately 5 miles, turn left / west onto Bright Star Road travel approximately 3 miles, turn left / south onto Cottonshed Lane.
Driving directions (Google Maps) →What to Pack for Your Stay
Tuned to the live forecast for this park.
👔 What to Wear
- 👕
Long-sleeve shirt
Synthetic or merino, sun-protective.
- 🧥
Light shell or windbreaker
Even on warm days, wind can chill (avg wind 0 mph).
- 👖
Hiking pants or convertible
Layer for variable conditions.
- 🥾
Trail runners or low boots
Comfortable, broken in.
🎒 What to Pack
- 💧
Water
Bring at least 1L of water; more in heat.
- 🍫
High-energy snacks
A snack for the trail.
- 🧴
Sun protection
Sunscreen, sunglasses, brimmed hat.
- 🩹
First-aid kit
Blister patches, ibuprofen, tape, antiseptic wipes.
- 🗺
Offline map
Download your route in advance via Gaia, Caltopo, or OSM-based apps.
Recommendations adapt to the current forecast + trail stats. Use them as a starting point — local conditions, your experience, and the time of day you start all matter.
Plan Your Visit to COTTONSHED PARK (AR)
Heading to COTTONSHED PARK (AR)? A few things to know before you go:
- Reservations: popular sites fill up fast — check Recreation.gov 6 months in advance
- Fees: day-use and camping fees vary; check current rates on the official park page
- Trash & pack-out: follow Leave No Trace principles
- Wildlife: store food in bear boxes where provided; never feed wildlife
- Weather: the 5-day forecast above is updated every 6 hours; verify just before you go
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a reservation for COTTONSHED PARK (AR)?
No central reservation system listed for COTTONSHED PARK (AR). Check the official page (https://www.recreation.gov/camping/campgrounds/251355) for the latest entry policy and availability.
How do I get to COTTONSHED PARK (AR)?
Approximately 5 miles south of Mineral Springs on Highway 355, turn right / west onto Bright Star Road travel approximately 3 miles, turn left / south onto Cottonshed Lane. OR North on Hwy 355 approximately 5 miles, turn left / west onto Bright Star Road travel approximately 3 miles, turn left / south onto Cottonshed Lane.
How do I contact COTTONSHED PARK (AR)?
You can reach the park at phone: 870-287-7118 or email: brooke.s.kervin@usace.army.mil.
References & Official Resources
