Cabin camping near Englewood, Colorado offers diverse lodging across several mountain settings within 30-60 miles of the city. The area sits at elevations ranging from 5,300 feet at Standley Lake Regional Park to over 8,500 feet at campgrounds like Denver West-Central City KOA. Temperature swings are significant, with summer nights dropping into the 40s even when daytime temperatures reach 85°F.
What to do
Water activities at Standley Lake: The 1,200-acre reservoir at Standley Lake Regional Park provides options for paddling and fishing. "We were wishing we would have brought paddleboard and fishing gear but next time!" notes Brooke A. The lake prohibits swimming unless participating in water sports, but offers equipment rentals. "They do have canoes, paddle bikes, and paddle boards for rent," mentions Shannon S.
Hiking at Golden Gate Canyon: Over 35 miles of trails with varying difficulty levels wind through forest and meadow landscapes. Hikers at Frazer Meadow Campground enjoy convenient trail access. "The bike trails are awesome and a sweet pond tucked in the meadow to fish at," reports Meghan H. The terrain provides multiple viewpoints of the Continental Divide.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Several campgrounds offer chances to observe native wildlife. "I don't know how you could not like a place with a huge lake that bald eagles nest beside. With a rookery, this is the spot for bird enthusiasts!" shares Blair S. about Standley Lake. Early morning or dusk provide the best viewing times, with moose occasionally spotted at higher elevations.
What campers like
Proximity to city with mountain feel: Bear Creek Lake Park provides a natural setting just minutes from urban areas. "While this campground is minutes from the city and seconds from a highway, at night you feel like you are in a quiet, mountain campsite with stars to gaze for days," writes Kandisa S. The proximity allows for quick weekend getaways without long travel times.
Family-friendly cabin options: Many campgrounds feature climate-controlled cabins suited for families with young children. "Base Camp at Golden Gate Canyon is everything you expect it to be and more from the overview! We stayed in a climate controlled cabin! I have 3 children and not one of them wanted to leave!" reports Anne B. at Base Camp.
Site spacing and layout: Campers consistently mention site design at Reverend's Ridge Campground. "Loop E (electric hookups) is very spacious and well laid out. Every campsite is a pull thru allowing you situate anywhere along the paved area to best suit your needs. Mostly level, fire rings, and very large metal picnic tables. Enormous amount of room," notes Dennis G.
What you should know
Seasonal variations in availability: Many cabin facilities close during winter months. "Spots are a little small, I don't suggest bringing a large tent or truck," reports Will T. about Base Camp. Reverend's Ridge operates year-round, while Standley Lake is only open May 1 to September 29.
Shower facilities vary significantly: Denver West-Central City KOA receives high marks for cleanliness. "The showers were clean and spacious," mentions Lexi A. In contrast, other campgrounds require quarters for shower use, with Base Camp visitors noting "bathrooms were very clean and recently remodeled, but require coins if you were going to shower."
Noise considerations: Highway and train noise impact some locations. "The campground is right on a busy road into the State Park so road noise is almost constant," shares Sarah F. about Base Camp. Urban-adjacent locations like Bear Creek Lake Park experience light pollution: "Con: Orange glow of Home Depot sign at night and no shade during the day."
Tips for camping with families
Playground amenities: Several campgrounds feature dedicated play areas for children. "Our nine year old really liked the playground area," mentions Jason G. about Base Camp. At Jellystone Park at Larkspur, families find extensive amenities: "So much to do for the littles!! The campsites are amazing and the activities are so much fun."
Kid-friendly cabin designs: Cabins with bunk bed configurations work well for families. "My family of four stayed in a cabin. It's basic and the price and staff were great," shares Valerie C. about Base Camp's accommodations. Most cabin sites require families to bring bedding, pillows, and towels.
Activity scheduling: Several campgrounds run structured activities for children during summer months. "From flag raising in the morning to hay rides, all day activities to the camp fire story times there is something for every kids to keep busy," notes Deanna M. about Jellystone Park, which offers character interactions and seasonal events.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling preparation: Many RV sites require leveling equipment. "The sites were level and very clean, hookups were easy (nice threaded, tidy black/grey water)," shares Jason G. about Base Camp. Most campgrounds with cabin options also accommodate RVs but vary in pad material from gravel to concrete.
Elevation considerations: Higher elevation campgrounds experience temperature fluctuations that affect RV systems. Denver West-Central City KOA sits at over 8,100 feet elevation, with Shari noting: "7 miles off I-70 at Idaho Springs. 25 miles into outskirts of Denver. Don't worry they have oxygen! Not kidding!!" Propane heating is essential for cabin and RV camping during spring and fall.
Hookup variations: Electric options range from 30-50 amp service depending on location. "Our space was a big rig space on concrete pad with ample seating, a table, a fire pit, and a propane grill stove… use your own propane! Full hook ups," explains Shari about Denver West-Central City KOA. Many cabin camping areas share utility infrastructure with RV sections.
