Cabin camping near Columbia, California offers shelter from the Sierra Nevada's seasonal temperature fluctuations, which can range from below freezing in winter to over 90°F in summer at elevations between 2,000-5,000 feet. Most cabin facilities remain open year-round, with peak season running May through September when water activities are most accessible. Winter cabin stays require preparation for possible snow conditions on mountain access roads.
What to do
Hiking through sequoia groves: At Calaveras Big Trees State Park, visitors can walk among ancient sequoias on well-maintained trails. "There's lots of trails to hike here, an extensive ranger station with a Visitor Center, snack bar, and organized talks and activities. The big trees are exactly as advertised: incredibly big and awe-inspiring," reports one North Grove Campground visitor.
Swimming in natural settings: Rainbow Pools offers a natural swimming area popular with families staying in nearby cabin accommodations. "Our family really enjoys Rainbow Pools and Yosemite Pine's proximity to Rainbow Pools is part of why we stay here. The kids can jump and swim there and that's all they really want to do anyway," notes a camper at Yosemite Pines RV Resort.
Fishing for trout: Lake Tulloch and nearby Pinecrest Lake provide fishing opportunities for cabin campers. "We used a size ten Tribble hook with about a foot leader and pinch weights with rainbow powerbait for those that want to catch fish for lunch," shares one visitor at Pinecrest Campground.
What campers like
Cabin comfort levels: Cabins range from rustic to well-equipped across the region. "We stayed in the cabin that sleeps 6. Super nice, close to the bathrooms. There's a community outdoors kitchen with stove and sink," reports a visitor at Angels Camp Campground.
Wildlife encounters: Many cabin areas feature regular wildlife sightings. "Deer are fearless & majestic, several 'packs' walked through our campsite all throughout Sunday night when everyone else was gone. They walked up to us to smell our campfire & our food," notes a camper at Lake Tulloch RV Campground.
Seasonal activities: Winter cabin stays offer different experiences from summer visits. "We might return for a snow visit! The hosts were nice, the rates are affordable, and there is cell service (ATT) and WiFi if you don't want to unplug completely," mentions a visitor at Three Links Camp.
What you should know
Cell service variability: Connectivity varies significantly between cabin locations. "There is no cell service and the 'pay WIFI' did not work for us...but there is complimentary WiFi at the laundry to check in on things that works just fine," notes a guest at Thousand Trails Yosemite Lakes.
Water quality concerns: Some facilities experience water system issues. "The water that was coming out of all the faucets was red and brown. People weren't allowed to shower that night," reports one Lake Tulloch visitor about an isolated incident.
Pest management: Insects can be seasonal problems at some locations. "The only and biggest downfall was the meat bees. Absolutely ruined the trip. We had a group of 9 families so we couldn't eat together. Recommend bringing nets and tents to eat under," advises a camper at Gold Country Campground Resort.
Tips for camping with families
Pool access options: Several cabin locations offer swimming facilities. "Kids had a blast! Nice Splash pad and pool. Nothing fancy but it works. They also have a mini golf course. Little traffic so our kids could ride their bikes with no worries," reports a visitor about Gold Country Campground Resort.
Entertainment amenities: Look for cabin locations with planned activities. "Pinecrest is amazing but there is no hookups which we always prefer. The lake is beautiful though and the kids really love the Amphitheatre where they play pretty good family friendly movies," notes one Pinecrest camper.
Safety considerations: Cabins provide more security from wildlife. "Bear came through our camp one night hit the Bear box and walked off. Rangers were friendly and very informative about the area," shares a North Grove Campground visitor, highlighting the importance of proper food storage even with cabin accommodations.
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategy: RV sites with cabins nearby allow mixed-group camping. "Those by the river are packed close together and more shaded. We didn't care to be packed like sardines, so we opted for one of the middle sites. Hardly anyone was in these sites so it was quiet and spacious," advises a Thousand Trails Yosemite Lakes visitor.
Utility connections: Check which cabin locations offer full hookup options. "Very peaceful location with amenities for all needs. Far enough from the road to be quiet," notes a camper at Golden Pines RV Resort, which offers both cabin and full-hookup RV options.
Supply planning: Most cabin areas have limited shopping. "Handy since there's really nothing nearby other than Groveland," describes a Thousand Trails Yosemite Lakes visitor about the on-site convenience store, emphasizing the need for advance supply planning.
