Cabin camping near Beulah, Colorado offers access to elevations ranging from 6,000 to 9,000 feet in the scenic San Isabel National Forest region. Summer temperatures typically range from 75-85°F during the day, while nights cool to 45-55°F even in July. Most rustic cabin rentals in this area operate from May through October, though several provide year-round accommodations with heating systems.
What to do
Hiking near Bishop Castle: Campers staying at Aspen Acres Campground can access nearby mountain trails within minutes. One visitor shared: "We used this campground to explore the surrounding area and Bishop Castle. Staff was very friendly and they had a lot things to do for the kids in the camp store/facility."
Fishing at Lake Isabel: The lake offers trout fishing from shore or rental boats. A camper at St. Charles Campground noted: "Lake Isabel is gorgeous & perfect for our kayaks. Can't wait until out next trip there. Oh yeah, there's a new owner of the store/restaurant & it's better than in the past."
Wildlife viewing: Early mornings and evenings provide opportunities to spot mule deer and various bird species. One camper at St Charles Campground - Lake Isabel shared: "We were visited by several mule deer and very friendly chipmunks. Bears are in the area, but a bear-proof locker is on the site."
What campers like
Autumn aspen viewing: Fall brings spectacular golden colors to the cabin areas. A visitor at St. Charles Campground reported: "Aspen leaves in full color. Peaceful park, great place for hiking. Camp host was great and helped us find a great spot."
Family-friendly amenities: Many locations offer dedicated activities for children. According to a guest at Pueblo South-Colorado City KOA: "Although placed next to the highway the campground is relatively quiet. Everyone is respectful of other campers. The staff are friendly and helpful. Amenities are accurately described."
Stargazing opportunities: The area's minimal light pollution creates excellent conditions for night sky viewing. A visitor to Great Sand Dunes Oasis mentioned: "The campground was clean and well maintained... If you plan on visiting during the pandemic, the shower facilities are closed to the public."
What you should know
Fire restrictions: During dry periods, fire bans are strictly enforced throughout the region. A camper at Mingus Ranch shared: "National forest cabin that is affordable. Very rustic with no water and only one outlet. Cabin has an outhouse that is fifty feet from cabin. Located in a great area with San Isabel lake and Bishops castle near by."
Cell service limitations: Most cabin areas have limited or no mobile coverage. As one Aspen Acres visitor explained: "We were too far away to take advantage of WiFi which is fine, we just wandered up near the office to check our texts once daily. It might be more accessible if you are located closer to the office. No cell service for Verizon."
Bathroom facilities: Most rustic cabins utilize vault toilets or outhouses rather than flush facilities. A camper at Lake Isabel noted: "We spent the first day in our tent due to weather. The road was a bit washed out but the camp host was great. We didn't let the rain keep us down, and the day we were leaving the sun made a visit! Beautiful!"
Tips for camping with families
Bring entertainment options: Pack games and activities for evenings or weather delays. A family at Aspen Acres Campground shared: "This was a campground that had RV spots, cabins and tent spots. Our tent spot was tucked back in a quiet place, close walk from our tent to plumbed toilets and a further walk to the bathhouse with showers."
Choose cabins with private spaces: Multiple room cabins offer better sleeping arrangements for families with children. A visitor to Lake Isabel Cabin noted: "This was a great cabin to stay in for our family. It is a nice size living area, kitchen, bathroom and bedroom. For the price we paid it was a great safe place to stay (they give you the code and lock the gate)."
Consider shoulder seasons: May/June or September/October often provide more availability and cooler temperatures. One Piñon Campground visitor mentioned: "Great spot for our first RV stay. Good views of Spanish peaks and site was very quiet. Bathrooms with showers and toilets were close by."
Tips from RVers
Check road conditions: Access roads to some cabins may be challenging for larger vehicles. An RVer at Piñon Campground — Lathrop State Park suggested: "We stayed at the piñon campground and was very pleased with all what it had to offer. Nice clean restrooms and showers!! Can get hot and windy during the summer, but will definitely return in the fall."
Bring extension cords: Power outlets may be limited or poorly positioned in rustic cabins. One RVer at Aspen Acres Campground shared: "We have a 26' trailer and stayed in site 18. It was near the end of the row and relatively quiet. We only wish we had a longer power cable. (Our next purchase!) Our port is at the back and the outlet was way up front."
Water considerations: Not all cabins include water hookups, so plan accordingly. A visitor to St. Charles Campground advised: "The sites are separated from each other with plenty of trees & space. The sound of the nearby river is very relaxing. Amenities are as expected with a secluded campground, we had no phone or internet service at all with AT&T or Verizon."
