Cottonwood Lake Number Four

Cottonwood Lake Number Four is a high-elevation fishing and camping lake on Grand Mesa at approximately 10,100 feet, set in a dense spruce and aspen forest that feels genuinely remote despite being part of the broader Cottonwood Lakes chain. Visitors who make the drive up the rough forest roads are rewarded with good trout fishing, quiet campsites, and a mountain landscape that stays green and cool through the hottest Colorado summers.

Fishing is the primary activity at Cottonwood Lake Number Four. The lake holds rainbow trout and brook trout, stocked periodically by Colorado Parks and Wildlife. Anglers report inconsistent action — some days the fishing is slow, other days the catches are large and steady. Patience pays off here, especially for those willing to work different sections of the shoreline or fish early and late in the day. The lake is deep enough to hold bigger fish, and visitors report pulling trout of respectable size.

Cottonwood Lake Campground serves the area with dispersed tent sites and some space for smaller RVs, though there are no electric hookups, running water, or showers. Vault toilets are available. Sites operate on a first-come, first-served basis at around $14 per night, and the campground fills fast on summer weekends. The wooded sites offer good shade and reasonable privacy, making this a solid choice for tent campers who prefer a no-frills, close-to-the-water experience.

Beyond fishing, the area around Cottonwood Lake Number Four connects to a network of forest roads and trails popular with ATV riders, hikers, and those exploring by jeep. Several other lakes sit within a short drive or hike, making it easy to spend a full weekend hopping between waters.

The access road to the Cottonwood Lakes is rough and unpaved with steep, rocky sections. High-clearance or four-wheel-drive vehicles are strongly recommended. After heavy rain, the road conditions worsen considerably. Firewood collection near the lake has become restricted in recent years, so bringing your own supply is a safer bet.

Cottonwood Lake Number Four works best for anglers and campers who want a quiet, forested setting without the polish or crowds of developed campgrounds lower on the mesa. The fishing can be hit or miss, but the setting never disappoints — cool mountain air, dark timber, and water that reflects the sky on a windless morning.