Visit Cottonwood Skirmish Sites

In the immediate aftermath of the battle at White Bird Canyon, the Nez Perce crossed the Salmon River twice and reappeared on the Camas Prairie. As they crossed the prairie, they fought with the U.S. Army and volunteers near Cottonwood, ID. From July 3rd to July 5th of 1877, skirmishes took place between the U.S. Army and the Nez Perce.

This page provides the information you need to plan your visit.

 

The actual Cottonwood Skirmish Site is on private property. The skirmish site is marked in a turnout off of Highway 95.

NPS Photo

Getting to Cottonwood Skirmish Site

A historical marker with information about the Cottonwood Skirmish Site is located off of U.S. Highway 95, aprroximately 2 miles south of the town of Cottonwood, ID.

Location:

• Located on U.S. Highway 95 at mile marker 253.

• Latitude/Longitude
  46°1'34.74"N 116°19'39.91"W

Driving to Cottonwood Skirmish Site

From Cottonwood, ID, continue south on U.S. Highway 95 South for 1.5 miles. The highway pullout will be on the left.

Things to Do at Cottonwood Skirmish Site

Explore the Site

The Cottonwood Skirmish Site is now privately owned and is not accessible to the public. Two historical markers at the highway pullout off of Highway 95 provides information about the battle.

Nearby Amenities

The Cottonwood Skirmish Site is located approximately 48 miles southwest of the Nez Perce National Historical Park's visitor center where further information is available.

In addition, the Idaho Department of Commerce has a trip planning website that will help you locate hotels, campgrounds, restaurants, and other amenities near the Cottonwood Skirmish Site.