Cottonwood Park

Location and Access

Found in the southwest corner of Alluvial and Clovis Avenues in Clovis, California, you'll find the charming Cottonwood Park. It sits right along the Cottonwood bike and jogging trail, making it a wonderful stop for cyclists and walkers exploring the area.

The park welcomes visitors daily from 7AM to 10PM, giving you plenty of daylight (and even some evening) hours to soak in its natural beauty. Just a heads-up though - finding the entrance can be a bit tricky your first time, so aim directly for that southwest corner of Alluvial and Clovis Avenues and you'll be good to go.

Natural Features

What really makes Cottonwood special is its natural landscaping. The park features expansive green spaces dotted with mature cottonwood trees that cast cool, welcome shade during those hot California summer days. These beautiful trees really show off in the fall when their leaves transform into a palette of warm colors.

A seasonal creek winds its way through the park, adding to the peaceful atmosphere. The park also overlooks a ponding basin/drainage area that doubles as a mini wildlife refuge - a little unexpected nature sanctuary in the middle of the city. This makes Cottonwood an ideal spot for birdwatching or simply finding a quiet moment away from the urban bustle.

If you're into birding, definitely bring your binoculars. Depending on the season, you might spot Nuttall's woodpeckers, Red Shouldered Hawks, Cooper's Hawks, or American Pipits among other feathered friends. There's even a thoughtful touch - an overlook area with public binoculars installed for everyone to use.

Recreation Opportunities

While Cottonwood Park takes a more laid-back approach than some of the city's more active parks, it offers plenty of ways to enjoy the outdoors. The perimeter trail isn't massive (the park's about 5 acres), but it's dotted with park benches where you can pause and take in the scenery.

Many locals incorporate the park into their longer bike rides or walks since it connects to the broader trail system. It's particularly popular with joggers - the paths have even hosted organized 5K events like the annual Pumpkin Run.

The tranquil setting makes it fantastic for picnicking, with several barbecue spots scattered throughout. You'll often see families gathering here, photographers capturing portraits against the natural backdrop, or individuals simply finding a quiet spot to read or reflect.

Amenities

You'll discover clean, well-maintained restroom facilities within the park. For those bringing four-legged friends, there are pet waste stations with bags available along the trail, but it's always smart to bring your own just in case.

One of the park's sweet little touches is a free little library - a community book exchange where you can grab something new to read or leave behind a book for someone else to discover.

Nearby Attractions

If you're looking to make a day of outdoor exploration, Cottonwood Park has some great neighbors. Just across the street is Dry Creek Park, which offers playgrounds and more extensive facilities if you're visiting with kids who need to burn off energy.

Plant lovers shouldn't miss the nearby Botanical Garden, which makes for a natural extension of your visit and offers even more opportunities to appreciate the region's flora.