Cabin camping near Dolores, Colorado offers access to both mountain and high desert landscapes at elevations ranging from 6,900 to 8,500 feet. The area experiences distinct seasons with summer daytime temperatures typically reaching 80-85°F while dropping to the 40s at night. Campers can find log structures, forest-set cottages, and riverside accommodations within 20 miles of Dolores, creating multiple options for different camping preferences.
What to do
Hiking trails nearby: Several cabin campgrounds offer direct access to hiking areas. At Mancos State Park Campground, visitors can take advantage of the Bear Hiking trail with "Verizon coverage was okay" during the hike. The park "adjoins the San Juan National Forest, including multiple hiking trails, the Chicken Creek cross country ski area, the Sawtooth and Millwood trails."
Water activities: Fishing is popular at multiple cabin locations. Stoner RV Resort offers riverside cabin sites where "the river puts you right to sleep at night." One camper noted the resort has "RV spots right on the river, Stoner Creek!" with excellent access for water activities. Many sites include riverside fire pits for evening relaxation after a day on the water.
Mesa Verde exploration: Cabin accommodations provide a comfortable base for exploring the national park. A visitor at Mesa Verde RV Resort appreciated that it's "located 1/2 mile east of the National Park entrance. Sites are roomy, property very clean and staff friendly." Another noted it's "the perfect place to stay if you want to visit Mesa Verde."
What campers like
Clean facilities: Cabin campers consistently praise the cleanliness standards at resorts near Dolores. At Cortez, Mesa Verde KOA, guests appreciated "Spotless, modern bathrooms with enough showers and stalls to not have to wait." Another mentioned "Bathrooms were close by. The all you can eat pancakes for $10 is a pretty good steal."
Outdoor cooking options: Many cabins feature outdoor cooking amenities. One camper at The Views RV Park & Campground highlighted "a beautiful covered pavillion with great views, gas grills, gas fire pit, and picnic table that is available for anyone to use." A different visitor mentioned "Very well-kept and the views are amazing. Most sites are huge."
Location conveniences: Cabin locations provide strategic access to area attractions. A visitor noted, "Delores (10 min) is a smaller town with nice dining and shops. Cortez (15 min) has all modern amenities including Walmart, chain stores, and grocery." Another mentioned appreciating the location because "Mesa Verde was a 12 min drive."
What you should know
Reservation timing: Most cabin facilities require advance planning. At Morefield Campground — Mesa Verde National Park, a camper noted, "You can pick your site. Managed by Aramark services. They have flush toilets around the sites." Cabins typically fill faster than other accommodations, especially during summer months.
Weather preparedness: The area experiences significant temperature fluctuations. One camper warned, "There were lots of sites in mid May probably bc it is cold. We left a night early bc we're not prepared for below freezing." Another mentioned, "The high desert location can bring intense storms with strong winds."
Cell service variations: Connectivity varies significantly between cabin locations. A camper reported, "AT&T & Verizon service wasn't great, but was usable. WiFi worked well enough to stream Netflix!" At another location, visitors noted "no cell signal in the area, but I was able to use the Wi-Fi fine and made Wi-Fi calls."
Tips for camping with families
Playgrounds and amenities: Several cabin locations offer family-friendly facilities. At Ancient Cedars Mesa Verde RV Park, a visitor noted, "The park has a playground with a miniature golf course. There's a recreation room with a pool table, TV, and games. It's a great place for the kids to hang out in."
Pet accommodation: Many cabin sites welcome four-legged family members. One camper mentioned, "They have 2 little dog parks. A basketball court. Lots of toys for the kids and adults to play with." Another praised "a really nice dog area" with "a 3 acre dog park. It was so nice for our dogs to get out and run."
Swimming options: Pools provide relief from summer heat. A visitor shared, "This would be the perfect spot to meet with friends or family who don't have an RV" and specifically mentioned the "heated (seasonal) swimming pool" as an attraction. Another noted "A nice pool and hot tub" among the amenities.
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategy: When booking cabins, location within the property matters. One experienced RVer advised, "Try to ask for a spot on the outer edge, much nicer" while another mentioned "We were at site 13 with our 30' Grand Design bumper pull trailer. Plenty of room. Our site backs up to a fishing pond."
Seasonal considerations: Weather affects cabin comfort significantly. A camper noted, "We stayed in a cabin and RV site. After a long hot day at Mesa Verde we were pleasantly surprised to have AC and a TV in the cabin." Winter visitors should check for heating options as temperatures frequently drop below freezing.
Hookup variability: Cabin facilities offer varying levels of services. As one camper noted, "Kitchen facilities vary significantly between locations, with some offering only outdoor cooking options while others include microwaves or small refrigerators." Always verify what's included when booking cabin accommodations near Dolores.
