Cottonwood is a historic, unincorporated community in southern Shasta County, partially extending into Tehama County. Nestled along Interstate 5 between Redding and Red Bluff, it began as a stagecoach stop in the mid-1800s and quickly grew into a key trading and cattle-driving town during California’s early ranching era.
The town was named after the abundant cottonwood trees that line the nearby creeks. In its early years, Cottonwood was a bustling frontier town with saloons, hotels, and a stockyard that supported the thriving cattle industry. The arrival of the railroad further established its importance as a regional stop.
Today, Cottonwood retains its small-town charm and historic downtown while serving as a growing residential and agricultural area. With its strategic location and rural appeal, it offers a mix of heritage, community, and access to both Shasta and Tehama County economies.
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