Cabins near Edwards, Colorado offer mountain accommodations at elevations ranging from 7,500 to 9,000 feet. The alpine environment experiences temperature fluctuations of 30-40°F between day and night, even in summer months. Winter cabin access often requires snow-ready vehicles with four-wheel drive capability from November through April.
What to do
Fishing at Sylvan Lake: The 42-acre lake provides trout fishing opportunities with rental equipment available at the state park. "I love this lake. It's beautiful and you can always walk away with some fish," notes a visitor to Sylvan Lake Campground.
Winter activities: During snowy months, cabin stays support cross-country skiing and snowshoeing. A reviewer at Beyul Retreat - Valley View mentioned, "Wildlife activity is high here, so make sure to pack your binoculars!"
Paddle sports: Non-motorized watercraft access is available at several locations. According to a camper, "Stand up Paddle Boarding and Canoeing; Both which can be rented there. The surrounding area offers hiking and scenic drives."
What campers like
Wood-burning stoves: Many cabins feature wood heating, particularly valued during cooler months. "Warm up next to the wood burning stove after a day of snowplay. The little touches truly make this place a gem," writes a visitor to Beyul Retreat - Red Mountain.
Bathroom facilities: Access to clean restrooms varies by location. "Clean bathrooms are fully equipped," noted a camper who appreciated the facilities at a state park campground.
Mountain views: Cabin locations offer visual access to surrounding peaks. One camper stated, "We saw a few other cars. It felt secluded enough but had hiking trails around," regarding their stay at Bellyache Road.
What you should know
Road conditions: Access routes to some cabins require appropriate vehicles. A reviewer cautions, "Absolutely requires four-wheel drive for two and a half miles of extremely rough unpaved road that goes up a thousand feet. Beautiful views and some shade but no break at all from the wind which can be intense up here."
Seasonal planning: Availability and accessibility change throughout the year. A camper at Sugar Loafin' RV/Campground & Cabins reported, "We were only able to stay two nights out of the five I reserved. Being from Alabama, I couldn't handle the snow in June while in a tent."
Varying amenities: Cabin facilities range from basic to well-equipped. "The bathroom is stocked with organic products too, so thoughtful!" mentions a visitor to Beyul Retreat.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Some locations provide dedicated children's areas. "The kids play area needed attention. The restrooms were very clean. Helpful staff lead us to our spot and helped us park," noted a family staying at Sugar Loafin' Campground.
Lake activities: Water access provides recreation options for children. A visitor to Sylvan Lake reported, "This park has so much character that it should have its own tv show. There are conservation areas, trails galore, historical buildings, and a beautiful lake that is surrounded with alpine forests."
Space considerations: Cabin sizes vary significantly around Edwards. At Heaton Bay Campground, a camper noted, "The sites at Heaton Bay are spacious, well-maintained, and equipped with picnic tables and fire rings, providing a comfortable setting for both tent campers and RV travelers."
Tips from RVers
Road access limitations: Not all cabin areas accommodate larger vehicles. A visitor to Bellyache Road warned, "Definitely would advise 4x4, and not for travel trailers at all. Bringing one up could lead to a serious situation, since there are no places to turn around whatsoever."
Hook-up availability: Services vary significantly between developed and primitive sites. "The sites were a bit small but full hook ups with a lodge and general store on-site. Only about 5 minute drive the lake and Leadville," reported an RVer at Sugar Loafin' Campground.
Winter preparation: Cold weather requires additional planning for cabin stays in RVs. A camper mentioned, "The road to get out here can be rough in bad weather but low clearance is fine to get out here. Winter excursions are probably a bit tougher and would require an all wheel drive."
