Cabin camping near Cheyenne, Wyoming provides access to both prairie and mountain environments with elevations ranging from 6,000 to 8,000 feet. Located in the eastern foothills of the Rocky Mountains, Cheyenne experiences distinct seasons with summer daytime temperatures averaging 70-85°F while nights often drop below 50°F even in July. Wind is a near-constant companion in this high plains region, with gusts regularly exceeding 30 mph during weather changes.
What to do
Bison viewing and feeding: 5 miles south of Cheyenne. At Terry Bison Ranch, visitors can take a unique train tour to see and feed bison. "The train to view and feed the Buffalo was really cool. Restaurant was also excellent. Friendly staff!" notes Barbara F. The ranch offers this distinctive experience not found at other area campgrounds.
Paddleboating: 30 minutes from downtown Fort Collins. Fort Collins Lakeside KOA provides water recreation options beyond just fishing. "Lake, boats, water cannon boats, fishing, bikes, peewee golf, jumping thing. Walking path around lake," reports Peggy C. The campground offers paddle boats shaped like swans, dragons, and flamingos.
Hiking trails: 25 miles west of Cheyenne. Curt Gowdy State Park features multiple trail systems surrounding the reservoir. The campground sits between the plains and mountains, creating diverse terrain for hikers of all abilities. Many trails connect directly to campground areas, allowing for convenient access without driving.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: varies by campground location. Some cabins at South Bay Campground offer better separation than others. "Our site was well spaced from our neighbors, but other areas were fairly dense," reports Timothy N., highlighting the importance of site selection. The campground layout places some cabins closer to amenities but with less privacy.
Protected water pipes: important during cold weather. According to Penélope F. at Terry Bison Ranch: "They have a breakfast service which was decent. Full hookups, pull-ins, picnic tables, and the water pipes are protected against low temperatures." This protection prevents freezing issues during spring and fall temperature drops.
Onsite activities: especially valuable during weather changes. Cameron F. appreciated the option to change accommodations at Cheyenne RV Resort: "We were allowed to trade two nights of tent camping for one night in a cabin to try to avoid a storm. Cabins have a porch swing, private table, parking, and a partial privacy fence." The campground also offers "Putt putt, croquet, birdwatching, rock painting, volleyball, basketball, large yard games, and more!"
What you should know
Nighttime visibility: pack a flashlight with fresh batteries. Navigation can be challenging in unfamiliar campgrounds after dark. Sites at Curt Gowdy State Park require careful attention to maps. "Stunning location with many campsites available. I only stopped overnight on a rainy day, but this place looks like it would be an awesome summer spot," comments Stephanie C., who also noted the facilities include "Vault toilets at campsite, quarter operated showers and flush toilets at the visitor center."
Road noise: impacts sleep quality at some locations. Campgrounds near major roads experience traffic sounds throughout the night. Joseph I. observed at Cheyenne RV Resort: "This campground is conveniently located right off the interstate, next to a Pilot and Camping World. Super easy access for all your needs. The campground and facilities are clean. It's just a gravel lot bordering the interstate, though. Road noise was quite annoying."
Military activity: affects cabin locations near Warren AFB. Helicopter operations can occur at unexpected hours. "We knew there was an Air Force Base nearby but we did not know that military helicopters would be making low passes over the campground at 10 PM," reports Brandon G. during his stay in the area. Select cabin locations farther from flight paths when possible.
Tips for camping with families
Reserve early: required for summer weekends. Jordan R. warns about Curt Gowdy State Park: "Super busy, their reservation system is all messed up, camp host can't even tell you if any spot is open so you'll have to drive around using their map. Book ahead if you want to stay here." Popular cabin locations book 3-6 months in advance for peak season.
Kid-friendly amenities: available at select campgrounds. According to Cynthia K., Fort Collins Lakeside KOA offers "LOADS of stuff to do for kids. Bounce house, jumping pillow, inflatable slide, basketball, shuffle board, pickleball, fishing, paddleboats in the shape of a swan/dragon/flamingo, a pool AND splashpad. There's a cute train that takes kids & parents through the campground."
Wildlife viewing opportunities: morning and evening hours best. Several campgrounds feature natural areas where families can observe prairie dogs, pronghorn, and various bird species. Beth W. at Colorado Cabin Escape notes: "Ranch was quiet, horses and pronghorn made for excellent neighbors."
Tips from RVers
Weather preparedness: essential for spring/fall camping. Unexpected storms can lead to facility closures. Eric P. shares: "Stayed in campground one night as our original campground was closed due to snow. Nice campground off highway 80. Nice facilities. Very clean sites are flat and level." Having backup plans and proper insulation helps during shoulder seasons.
Campsite leveling: check reviews for specific information. Not all pads are created equal. "RV site not level at all. Picnic table covered in bird poop, tree branches hanging low our TT barely fit under them," cautions Chris M. about his stay at Fort Collins North-Wellington KOA. Request specific site numbers known to be level when making reservations.
Dump station access: varies by location. Some facilities offer free use while others charge fees. Josh R. appreciated flexibility at one location: "They allowed us to use a dump station on the way out at no charge, and we topped off our potable water as well." Checking on availability before arrival prevents last-minute scrambling.
