Cabin accommodations near Dinosaur National Monument include options on both the Utah and Colorado sides of the park. Most cabins in this area sit between 5,000-7,000 feet elevation, with summer temperatures reaching 90°F and winter lows frequently dropping below freezing. Access roads to many of the cabin rentals require navigating unpaved forest service routes that can become challenging during spring runoff.
What to do
Kayak to dinosaur tracks: At Red Fleet State Park Campground, visitors can rent kayaks to view dinosaur footprints preserved in sandstone. "Our absolute favorite part of this campground is the ability to rent kayaks and kayak over to see the dinosaur footprints. This was our first time seeing anything of the like, and it absolutely blew our minds," reports Angela G.
Hike the surrounding trails: The cabin at Colton Guard Station provides direct access to forest service trails. During winter months, the cabin requires a 5-mile snowshoe trek from Highway 40. "Last spring we snowshoed into the Colton Guard Station. It's about a five mile snowshoe from Highway 40. There is a gate in the winter preventing you from going any further than the parking lot on Forest Road 020," notes Amanda B.
Explore Red Cloud Loop: When staying at cabins near East Park Campground, drive the scenic byway for wildlife viewing. "If you come here, make sure to take the time to drive Red Cloud Loop Scenic Byway. Within a few miles of the campground we saw 4 moose," writes Jennifer C.
What campers like
Fully stocked cabin amenities: Grizzly Ridge Yurt comes equipped with essential cooking supplies and heating. "The yurt is well stocked with two double bunk beds, a propane cooking stove, plenty of pots and pans, and a wood burning stove which kept us TOASTY WARM all night," shares Amanda B.
Proximity to Dinosaur Monument: Outlaw Trail RV Park offers cabin rentals just minutes from the main attraction. "It's a 6 minute drive to the Quarry Visitor Center of Dinosaur National Monument," notes Stephen C., making it convenient for those without camping gear.
Seasonal variety: Winter cabin camping provides different experiences than summer stays. A reviewer at Grizzly Ridge Yurt explains, "This yurt has 2 full sized bunk beds, no bedding. Has a fireplace, propane cook stove, pots, pans, and even a telescope located under one of the beds."
What you should know
Cabin reservations fill quickly: Book several months in advance, especially for summer weekends. At Iron Springs Group Campground, "Circle Camp as we have named it is a popular site and you're lucky to score it anytime during the summer months," warns Cortney M.
Limited water access: Many cabins lack running water. "There is not running water, so make sure you bring plenty... or melt snow in the winter," advises Tammy H. about Grizzly Ridge Yurt.
Terrain conditions: Roads to cabins can deteriorate after weather events. "Paved FS rd all the way except last 1/2 mile of gravel from FS rd #20," notes Greg L. about access to some forest service cabins.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly activities: Vernal Dinosaurland KOA offers cabin options with numerous amenities for children. "There was a small but functional K-9 park, a kids park, a swimming pool, a jump pad, and they had bike/3 wheeler rentals, and a mini golf course," writes Cortney M.
Teepee alternatives: Some parks offer unique sleeping structures. "Red Fleet offers RV sites, tent sites, and even has a couple teepees you can also rent out and stay in," explains Cortney M., providing an alternative cabin experience.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Cabins often provide chances to see local animals. "Antelope wander around the park all day and the water is crystal clear," reports Sara about staying near the water at Lucerne Campground.
Tips from RVers
Full hookup alternatives: When cabins are unavailable, RV sites with electricity provide comfort. "There are a few trees here and there, but it's largely just a big gravel parking lot. On the plus side, the sites are decent size, with full hookup," notes Stephen C. about Outlaw Trail RV Park.
Seasonal facility changes: Be aware that amenities vary by season. "Bathroom facilities with running water. Grassed area with covered picnic tables," mentions Cortney M. about Red Fleet facilities during summer, while winter cabin stays often have more limited facilities.
Site selection for privacy: Choose cabin or RV sites strategically. "The RV parking and hook ups are actually in the parking lot, but there is a nice green open space with tables that are assigned to each site. The tent camping is a little more primitive along a windy trail in the cedars," explains Tammy H. about nearby accommodations.
