Mueller State Park Campground offers rustic cabins within 30 miles of Guffey, Colorado at elevations between 8,000-10,000 feet. Winter temperatures at cabin sites can drop below freezing even in summer months, with daytime highs rarely exceeding 80°F. The high-altitude camping conditions require preparation for temperature fluctuations of 30-40 degrees between day and night.
What to do
Hiking at Mueller State Park: Access over 55 miles of trails directly from cabin areas with varied difficulty levels and lengths from 1-7 miles. "This is a beautiful state campground. 30 amp electrical hook ups. Along with fireplaces and picnic tables at each site. Awesome hiking trails with views of the mountains," notes Kenneth F. from Mueller State Park Campground.
Wildlife viewing: Early mornings and evenings provide best opportunities for deer and small mammal sightings near cabin areas. "We saw some deer that came through our site. Just a real nice relaxing place!" shares Brian F. about his experience at Mueller State Park.
Explore Cripple Creek: Visit the historic mining town located 10 miles from several cabin locations for dining, shopping and history. "The towns of Cripple Creek and Victor are full of old mining history!" according to Sarah F. at Cripple Creek KOA.
Enjoy mountain recreation: Fish in stocked ponds available at select cabin locations with equipment sometimes available for rent. "Great hikes, fishing, cabins and views," explains Justin C. about Mueller State Park Campground.
What campers like
High-altitude scenery: Cabin locations between Cripple Creek and Divide offer panoramic mountain views from 9,500+ feet elevation. "Beautiful place to bring the family as They have activities for all ages we stayed in a couples cabin which was beautifully done log furniture comfortable bed Fire pit in front of Cabin," reports JT T. from Cripple Creek KOA.
Modern bathroom facilities: Many cabin locations feature recently upgraded shower houses and restrooms. "Each campsite feels personal and is gorgeous. Bathrooms are never far, but the well-kept shower house might be a bit of a walk," notes Alexis B. from Mueller State Park Campground.
Cabin diversity: Options range from basic sleeping quarters to units with kitchenettes. "We stayed in one of the tiny cabins, and it's adorable and so warm even when it was snowing," shares a recent visitor about winter cabin camping.
Quiet mountain atmosphere: Several cabin locations enforce strict noise policies after 10pm. "Very nice quiet stay in the woods. All camp sites are very easy to get to and nicely groomed. Very pleasant stay. Got below freezing so be ready for the cold," advises Bruce K. from Mueller State Park.
What you should know
Advance booking required: Most cabin facilities near Guffey require reservations 3-6 months ahead for summer weekends. "Reservations are a must during the season. Opens mid May - late October," notes Stephen K. from Spillway Campground.
Temperature fluctuations: Prepare for overnight temperatures that can drop below 40°F even in summer. "The air is thin up here- real thin. That also means that it's pure, clean blissfully light oxygen so breathe deep and enjoy it," explains Sarah F. about the high-altitude conditions at Cripple Creek KOA.
Limited cellular coverage: Cell service varies significantly between cabin locations with most having spotty reception. "I was surprised that I had 1 or 2 bars (Verizon) throughout most of the park, even 3 bars on parts of the Cheeseman Ranch Bike Loop," shares Steve C. about Mueller State Park.
Supplies and groceries: Most cabin areas have limited on-site stores with basic necessities. "They have a nice gift shop and provided a s'mores night for the campers for free. They have pancake breakfast for $3 on Saturday and Sunday (not always)," mentions Tasha M. from Cripple Creek KOA.
Tips for camping with families
Pack proper bedding: Bring sleeping bags rated for temperatures 10-15 degrees below forecasted lows due to high elevation temperature drops. "Got below freezing so be ready for the cold," warns Bruce K. about his experience at Mueller State Park.
Plan for varied weather: Pack layers and rain gear as afternoon thunderstorms are common in summer months. "We were there for a few, big, afternoon thunderstorms, one of which caused a little flooding around the office," shares Kelly P. from Royal Gorge-Canon City KOA.
Choose cabins with bathroom proximity: Some cabin locations have significant walks to facilities. "Close to comfort station and playground. Coin showers but are super clean," reports Lynnae C. about Mueller State Park Campground.
Kid-friendly activities: Several cabin locations offer programmed recreation for children. "The campground hosts are extremely helpful and sweet, and keep the campground clean and inviting!" notes Rea M. from Spillway Campground about the staff who often coordinate activities.
Tips from RVers
Access considerations: Some cabin areas have narrow access roads with tight turns that limit large vehicle access. "The road getting out there is sooooo bumpy- washboard for sure. We didn't require 4WD, just be aware that it's uncomfortable to drive on and at times it felt like our vehicle would shake apart," explains Anna from Spillway Campground.
Elevation affects vehicles: Engines work harder at high elevations near Guffey, affecting fuel efficiency and performance. "Nestled on the back side of the mountain very high altitude and short of breath but really enjoyed it," shares papa T. about his stay at Cripple Creek KOA.
Parking limitations: Most cabin areas limit vehicles to designated spots that may be separate from cabin location. "We have site 2, 4 and 6 - tent-only sites. Warning for parties that are larger than 2 people Site 2 was a bit small for a larger tent," explains Mindy R. from Spillway Campground, highlighting space constraints that also affect parking.
