Cabin camping near Clark, Colorado allows access to Routt National Forest and several state parks with elevations ranging from 7,800 to 8,500 feet. Summer temperatures average 70-80°F during days, dropping to 40-50°F at night. Winter access to cabin rentals requires preparation for snow conditions, with many Forest Service cabins requiring advance reservations through recreation.gov.
What to do
Paddle boarding on Pearl Lake: The still waters at Pearl Lake State Park Campground are perfect for paddle boarding during summer months. "Site 30 was the best. Right on the water with shade throughout the day. Spots were spaced out for privacy," notes a recent visitor.
Hiking at Steamboat Lake: Trails around Sunrise Vista Campground offer various difficulty levels with mountain views. "The wildflowers were beautiful and the views of the lake and the mountains were gorgeous. There are nice hiking trails in the park," reports one camper.
Winter snowshoeing: State Forest State Park offers winter cabin access with snowshoeing opportunities nearby. "We spent a lot of time sledding and snowshoeing and we were basically the only ones out there. There was another large group in the bigger cabin but we barely saw them until they left on Sunday," mentions a winter visitor.
What campers like
Cabin privacy levels: Visitors appreciate the spacing between cabin sites at Steamboat Springs KOA. "We were in the original Campground with a center, gravel, pull thru, #71. Then, moved to #31 a back-in site against the fence and away from the road. Although it was smaller, we personally liked #31 better. It had more privacy then the larger open center one," explains one guest.
Seasonal temperature variations: Cabin campers should prepare for temperature fluctuations, especially in spring and fall. One camper at State Forest State Park advises, "Be prepared to have temperatures in the 20's at the end of May at night."
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Many cabin locations offer wildlife viewing. "We had a great view and deer came through the meadow in the evenings," reports a visitor to Sunrise Vista Campground, while State Forest State Park is known for moose sightings.
What you should know
Water access varies significantly: Not all cabins offer running water year-round. "There is no water directly in this loop of the campground so make sure you fill up near the cabins before driving up," warns a camper at North Michigan Campground.
Reservation requirements: Booking well in advance is essential for cabin stays, particularly for weekend bookings. At Steamboat Lake, a visitor notes, "This campground is just beautiful. Lots of space between sites and clean spacious bathroom. The views are spectacular."
Road conditions: Access to some cabin areas requires navigating unpaved roads. "Washboard road to Campground" reports a visitor to Seedhouse Guard Station, noting it's "located 25 miles north of Steamboat Springs and is at the gateway to Mount Zirkel Wilderness."
Tips for camping with families
Accessible activities for young children: Families with small children can enjoy easy activities at multiple locations. One parent at State Forest State Park shares, "Amazing views and something for everyone. My 4 year olds threw rocks in the reservoir, they bikes on nearby trails. The bathrooms were clean too."
Family-friendly cabin options: Lazy Acres Campground offers cabin rentals with amenities suitable for families. "Excellent small campground. Everything from full hookups to grassy tent spots. Bathroom with showers. Laundry facilities," notes one family visitor.
Educational opportunities: Several cabins provide access to visitor centers with educational exhibits. At State Forest State Park, rangers track moose sightings and offer informational programs for children to learn about local wildlife.
Tips from RVers
Size restrictions: Not all cabin and RV areas can accommodate larger rigs. At Steamboat Springs KOA, a visitor reports, "The park opened a new section for Memorial Weekend doubling the size. The new area added 27 paved RV lots as well as 10 deluxe cabins and 14 improved tent sites."
Winter utility considerations: Many cabin areas reduce services in winter. If staying in cabins during cold weather, RVers should note that many "cabins provide gas stoves for heat" as mentioned by a State Forest State Park winter visitor.
Supply stations: Plan ahead for supplies when staying in more remote cabin locations. One KOA visitor notes, "The general store is well stocked," which is important since many forest service cabins require bringing all your own supplies.
