Cottonwood Forest Wilderness

Cottonwood Forest Wilderness is a protected forest area near the Pine Valley Mountains covering approximately 2,600 acres. The land features varied habitats with native plants and animals across different elevations and landscapes.

This forest area became an official protected zone in 2009 to preserve natural resources long-term. The protection designation was part of a larger effort to safeguard wild lands across the United States.

The forest reflects American conservation values and how communities choose to preserve wild lands from development. Visitors experience how nature thrives when protected from human infrastructure.

The area is accessible for hikers but requires planning and proper equipment for safe exploration. Visitors should prepare in advance and follow basic safety guidelines.

The area is a transition zone between two different desert landscapes and supports rare plant species adapted to this elevation. This mixing of habitats makes it exceptional for observing how nature adapts across different environments.