Located in Idaho County, Cottonwood began in the spring of 1862 when Mr. Allen opened a way station on the Camas Prairie. A beautiful grove of cottonwood trees lined the banks of a nearby creek. Mr. Allen cut the trees and used them to construct a combination store, saloon, hotel, and stage station.
Cottonwood is surrounded by rich farm land and beautiful scenery. The Monestary of St. Gertrude and museum is located 3 miles away and overlooks the Camas Prairie. The Idaho County fairgrounds are located in Cottonwood and the fair is held in August of each year.