Cabin camping near Franktown, Colorado offers access to high-elevation recreation at 6,200 feet in Douglas County. Located at the intersection of State Highway 86 and U.S. Highway 285, Franktown serves as a gateway to both mountain adventures and Front Range activities. Winter temperatures can drop below freezing with seasonal snow accumulation making some cabin sites more accessible than tent camping during colder months.
What to do
Hiking at Mueller State Park: The park maintains over 44 miles of trails suitable for day hikes with varying difficulty levels. "We saw some deer that came through our site. Just a real nice relaxing place!" notes a visitor from Mueller State Park Campground.
Fishing opportunities: Wellington Lake at Castle Mountain Recreation Area provides stocked fishing without motorized boats allowed. "Great for paddleboarding (rentals available), kayaking, canoeing & kid's floats," explains a camper who adds that they appreciate how the "campground and lake are very nice."
Mountain biking trails: Golden Gate Canyon State Park offers extensive trail networks for cyclists. A visitor reports, "The options for trails are endless. Great for mountain biking or hiking enthusiasts. There are facilities, ideal for car camping or families."
Wildlife viewing: Many cabins provide opportunities to observe local wildlife. A Lone Duck Campground guest recalls, "We woke up one morning at our tent site with deer walking and eating down the creek right next to us."
What campers like
Proximity to attractions: Garden of the Gods RV Resort provides convenient access to popular landmarks. "Great location. Full hook up. Helpful staff. Safe," summarizes one visitor, while another adds it's "close to garden of the gods, pikes peak and more."
Winter accessibility: Several cabin accommodations remain open year-round. A reviewer at Mueller State Park notes, "Got below freezing so be ready for the cold," indicating that the park's cabins provide viable cold-weather options.
Creekside locations: Some cabins offer water features on-site. At Pikes Peak RV Park, a camper shares, "This RV campground is along the creek that runs through Manitou Springs. We specifically asked for a creekside spot. I slept great listening to the creek."
Distance from urban areas: Bear Creek Lake Park provides a wilderness feel despite its proximity to Denver. "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," explains a visitor.
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Many cabin sites book months in advance, especially during summer. At Castle Mountain Recreation Area, a visitor warns, "Wellington is a favorite, but has been getting more crowded over the years... Reserve ahead, gets booked."
Amenity variations: Facilities differ significantly between properties. A Lone Duck camper explains, "The bathrooms are not very big and they smell dirty," while contrasting reports from other parks mention "super clean" facilities.
Transportation options: Some areas have shuttle service available. Near Pikes Peak RV Park, a reviewer highlights the "free shuttle for Manitou has a bus stop along the road just outside the entry."
Firewood availability: Policies vary regarding fires and wood. At Golden Gate Canyon, "the drive up can be a bit breathtaking, but it can be done!" according to a visitor who appreciated having firewood available at their cabin site.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly activities: Jellystone Park at Larkspur specializes in family entertainment. "So much to do for the littles!! Recently completely redone the entire park and it is all so wonderful! The campsites are amazing and the activities are so much fun," reports a family visitor.
Safety considerations: Some water features require extra supervision. At Wellington Lake, a reviewer cautions, "Word of caution- every year I see/hear about multiple dogs going down the waterfall. No major injuries but it scares the owners. The rocks are so slick- don't let kids/dogs try to climb through or over."
Educational opportunities: Several parks offer nature programs. "The announcer speaks quickly and is difficult to hear sometimes, but is a wealth of knowledge," notes a visitor discussing the guided experiences at Pike's Peak.
Playground access: Multiple cabin locations include play structures. Bear Creek Lake Park offers "lots of park amenities like horse stables, archery range, swim beach, boat rentals, hiking trails, picnic areas," making it suitable for families with varied interests.
Tips from RVers
Site accessibility: Many cabin areas accommodate RVs with varying degrees of difficulty. A camper at Indian Paintbrush Campground reports, "Clean level spots. Geared more towards RV camping. Pros: great views of the foothills."
Utility connections: Hook-up availability varies significantly between parks. "30 amp electrical hook ups. Along with fireplaces and picnic tables at each site," notes a Mueller State Park visitor, highlighting the dual options for power and traditional heat.
Space considerations: Site dimensions can present challenges. A Garden of the Gods visitor warns, "Spots are TIGHT. We had to work so hard to get out trailer in. It's pretty cramped all around actually- too close to the neighbors."
Weather preparedness: Elevation changes mean temperature fluctuations. "You have to drive a bit to get to the lake. Some nice hiking and biking trails off the campground. Beautiful views of the mountains," explains a Bear Creek Lake visitor, noting the varying microclimates within short distances.
