Listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1985, the area at the Cottonwood Dam is a place to enjoy watching the fishing for catfish on the bridge. Stop and listen to the relaxing sound of the falls. North of the river is Bates Grove Park which offers picnic facilities.
A group of concerned citizens is applying for grants and loans for a community trail project which will link Cottonwood Falls to Strong City via a pedestrian/bike trail which will continue on to the Tallgrass Prairie National Preserve. This project includes restoration of the bridge.