Cabin camping near Antonito, Colorado offers both high-altitude lodging options and valley accommodations. The region sits at elevations ranging from 7,800 to 9,500 feet, creating stark temperature differences between day and night even in summer months. Many cabins require advance booking, especially for weekend stays between June and September when temperatures average 75-85°F during daytime hours.
What to do
Fishing at river's edge: Ponderosa Campground provides immediate access to fishing opportunities. "The owner manager is great, providing quality fishing advice, conversation and even a free cup of coffee in the morning. Hiking on the CDT is near the campground and fishing is right in the campground," notes Michael M.
Hot springs soaking: At Sand Dunes Recreation, cabin guests can access multiple hot springs pools. "The Hot springs consist of a large outdoor pool and a couple of smaller pools. It's $15 to soak or half price if you camp there. The Greenhouse pool is 21+ for an additional $3," explains Andrew B.
Wildlife viewing: Early morning and evening hours offer the best chance to spot local wildlife. "Deer come in every night," mentions Pamela R. about the surrounding area. Most cabins have windows facing wooded areas, increasing wildlife spotting opportunities.
What campers like
River sound: Many cabins sit near running water, providing natural white noise. "The river runs through the park. Sites are tiered so some RVs were up in the taller trees. We loved this place, it's not far from town but fills like it's deep in nature," states Pamela R. about Road Runner RV Resort.
Night sky viewing: The area has minimal light pollution for stargazing. "The stars and the moon light up the sky. I highly recommend staying there if you have boat access. It is secluded and private," Kelly P. shares about secluded sites.
Peaceful setting: Cabins often provide quiet surroundings away from crowded areas. "We enjoyed the quiet here. There were only a few other campers and it mostly felt like we had the place to ourselves," reports Abigail R. about the camping experience.
What you should know
Water temperature variations: At some locations, water systems connect to hot springs. "One funny thing is if you have an rv and hook up to the water, it is fed from the hot springs so the water is always very warm," explains Heidi S. about Twin Rivers RV Park & Campground.
Seasonal insects: Different seasons bring various insect populations. "Unknown if it's seasonal but the biting flies, primarily deer flies are beyond bearable, I survived 4 days, most other campers left after one night," warns Marc C.
Space limitations: Some cabins and sites have tight quarters. "While I frequently camp in, and enjoy, primitive sites with all the above issues, I don't particularly enjoy paying $20 a night for a primitive level site in a developed campground," notes Anna T.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Alamosa KOA offers family-friendly facilities. "There is also a fantastic playground with updated equipment, including an elevated tunnel system that ends with safety slides. When you have a small child who loves to play, especially a special needs child, this is a big deal!" explains Kari T.
Kid-friendly pools: Some locations design facilities specifically for children. "The pools are extremely kid friendly, and there are greenhouses with 21+ soaking and bar," shares Elizabeth H. about hot spring options.
Wildlife education: Morning animal sightings provide learning opportunities. "This campsite is only accessible via boat. The mosquitoes were not too terrible even though we were right by the water. It is a nice quiet cove with amazing views," Kelly P. reports about wildlife viewing conditions.
Tips from RVers
Road conditions: Access to some cabin locations requires specific vehicles. "The gate coming into the park is tight so when the gentleman says make a lazy turn he means a REAL lazy turn," advises Gene S.
Cabin alternatives: Great Sand Dunes Oasis provides proximity to National Park sites. "Lots of spaces when we arrived. Few RV sites that had full hookups and then gravel road to a lot more primitive spots rocky but nice. Great views in the mountains and can see the Great Sand Dunes," notes Renee R.
Utility connections: RVers using cabin sites should verify hookup availability. "We stayed in site 5 for the weekend great spot to go visit dunes national park," mentions Eric P. about vacation cabin rental facilities.
