Cabin camping near Drake, Colorado offers rustic to modern overnight options within reach of Rocky Mountain National Park. The area sits at approximately 6,300 feet elevation in the foothills of the Rocky Mountains, with dramatic elevation changes across the landscape. Winter temperatures can drop below freezing at night, while summer days typically range from 70-85°F with cool evenings in the 50s.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Horsetooth Reservoir provides excellent fishing with multiple species. "The lake was great for paddle boarding, canoeing, and kayaking. Electric hookups (we used 50amp at our site) but no water hook up. Drinkable water close by at various locations within the campground," notes one visitor.
Wildlife viewing: Many cabin areas offer chances to see native Colorado wildlife. "Nearly every day a deer would come munch on the greenery right behind our rig. The staff were super friendly and I believe we received good value for our payment considering the prices and sold-out state of other nearby parks," shared a camper at Riverview RV Park.
Hiking trails: Access numerous trails within a short drive of most cabin locations. "The 3 mile hike behind campground is beautiful but rocky - wear shoes that can withstand rocks. Must return the same way so 6 miles total," advises a visitor to Carter Lake South Shore Campground.
Mini-golf and recreation: Some campgrounds feature on-site family activities. "Mini golf is fun (clubs and balls and borrowed from the office) but is a little run down," mentioned a visitor about Spruce Lake RV Park.
What campers like
Mountain views: Many cabins feature scenic vistas of surrounding peaks. "We had a spot right on the water and our kids were able to play in the water right from the campsite. Noise level was a little high but not bad," noted a visitor at South Bay Campground.
Proximity to attractions: Quick access to Rocky Mountain National Park is highly valued. "This campground is ideally located in my opinion, situated between Estes Park and Rocky Mtn NP, right next to a river, short walk to a grocery store (with shuttle to downtown) and alongside a road you can use to bypass the nasty summer traffic," shared a camper at Spruce Lake RV Park.
Clean facilities: Well-maintained bathrooms and showers are consistently appreciated. "The vault toilets were the cleanest we have ever seen! Basically no cell service unless the wind blew just right," reported a visitor to Bobcat Campground.
Kid-friendly amenities: Families enjoy campgrounds with activities for children. "This is kid paradise & there's a lot of them on bikes & running around the campground. There was just my husband & I camping here. My husband enjoyed the catch & release fishing," noted a visitor to Fort Collins Lakeside KOA.
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Most cabin sites require advance booking. "This campground was better than expected--the tent sites were well spaced for privacy, and even on a busy weekend, we felt like we had our own space to enjoy nature," shared a visitor to Carter Lake South Shore Campground.
Bear safety: Some areas have bear activity, requiring proper food storage. "Night 1: Dont be dumb and leave anything out. I was, I left out my water jug, a bear bit it open. Everything else is amazing here! We're staying in the Bobcat loop," warned a camper.
Site limitations: Cabin sizes and amenities vary significantly between locations. "The sites were a little uneven for a tent and the restrooms were a walk. The highway traffic also made for a long night if you are a light sleeper," noted a camper at Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park.
Weather considerations: Be prepared for rapid temperature changes and occasional strong winds. "We stayed. The wind gusts must have been close to 60mph! I live locally and am so happy I found this area..so much history to explore here!" shared a visitor to Bobcat Campground.
Tips for camping with families
Activity planning: Choose campgrounds with built-in entertainment options. Fort Collins Lakeside KOA offers numerous activities: "Great place. We will have to return and spend at least two nights so we can enjoy it all. Lake, boats, water cannon boats, fishing, bikes, peewee golf, jumping thing. Walking path around lake."
Site selection: Request sites away from busy roads for safer play areas. "This campground has a ton of activities for the kids and they wore themselves out daily to the point of falling asleep while eating dinner. They made lots of friends and proclaimed it the best part of our 18 day trip," noted a visitor to Jellystone Park.
Special accommodations: Some locations offer unique sleeping options beyond standard cabins. "You can also rent a Teepee or Yurt to stay in. Vault toilets are available. Electric hook ups at all sites. Reservoir waterfront sites are best as these are the shaded sites," explained a camper at Flatiron Reservoir Campground.
Tips from RVers
Leveling challenges: Some sites require significant leveling equipment. "We had to pull in forward just to attempt leveling our Class A RV—completely unsuitable for big rigs. Adding to that, this is not a full hookup site. You're paying over $50 per night for electricity only, with the nearest dump station 7 miles away," cautioned a visitor to Flatiron Reservoir.
Road access considerations: Access roads to some cabin areas can be challenging for larger rigs. "The road in is a bit narrow so if you have a trailer/RV over 30-35 feet, it'll be tight. With that being said, I pulled my 30 foot trailer with no problems.... just go slow," advised a camper at Bobcat Campground.
Hookup availability: Confirm which utilities are available before booking. "Sites are very hard to get your unit level. Very high price for no hookups. Close to Estes Park," shared an RVer about Bobcat Campground.
