Cabin camping near Larkspur, Colorado offers varied accommodations situated between 6,500-9,000 feet elevation in the Pike National Forest region. Winter temperatures can drop below freezing even when spring has arrived in nearby Denver, with sudden afternoon thunderstorms common in summer months. Most cabin properties operate on reservation systems that fill 3-6 months in advance for peak summer weekends.
What to do
Trail access from cabins: At Mueller State Park Campground, hiking trails connect directly to the camping areas. "Very nice facility and clean. Very busy park as a lot of sites are on the main road. If you can choose to stay off the main road areas you will enjoy more. Lots of hiking and biking. We saw some deer that came through our site," notes one camper.
Mountain biking proximity: Castle Mountain Recreation Area at Wellington Lake provides access to mountain biking trails within a short drive. "One of our favorite campgrounds that has become an annual trip for us the last few years. There are great sites right on the water with plenty of tree shade and privacy. Great for kayaking or SUP," reports a visitor.
Water recreation options: Boating restrictions vary significantly between cabin properties. At Castle Mountain, "There were a lot of people with paddle boards, kayaks and canoes. The only downside was the road to get there. It wasn't maintained very well and there was only room for one vehicle at some points."
What campers like
Character-themed activities: Jellystone Park at Larkspur focuses on family entertainment with characters. "This place is great for little kids. 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. The staff is amazing and friendly every time," says one reviewer.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Cabin sites often host wildlife visitors. "We woke up one morning at our tent site with deer walking and eating down the creek right next to us," reported a visitor to Lone Duck Campground and Cabins. Wildlife sightings are most common at dawn and dusk.
Educational farms: Some cabin properties feature farm animals and agriculture experiences. A visitor to Rampart Reserve shared that "great people, wonderful animals...come see the farm." These properties typically offer interactive animal experiences for an additional fee.
What you should know
Varying bathroom facilities: Cabin bathroom access ranges from private facilities to centralized bathhouses. At Mueller State Park Campground, "Bathrooms are never far, but the well-kept shower house might be a bit of a walk. The end of the campground feeds into many trailheads, which are great for exploring."
Sound considerations: Train noise affects some cabin properties significantly. One camper at Jellystone Park noted: "This park is on the freeway. There is also no fence between the park and the frequently used railroad tracks." Request cabins furthest from railroad tracks when making reservations.
Winter preparedness: Cold weather camping requires proper equipment even in cabins. A visitor to Rampart Reserve noted, "We stayed in one of the tiny cabins, and it's adorable and so warm even when it was snowing." Electric heaters are typically available but bring extra blankets during shoulder seasons.
Tips for camping with families
Water features for kids: Bear Creek Lake Park provides water access with safety features. "Loved the hiking and biking trails. Beautiful lake for swimming and paddle sports. Will definitely be returning for the archery and horseback riding," mentions one visitor. Supervised swimming areas operate from Memorial Day through Labor Day.
Activity diversity: Look for properties with multiple recreation options. "Close proximity to the highway. Clean level spots. Geared more towards RV camping. Pros: great views of the foothills. Lots of park amenities like horse stables, archery range, swim beach, boat rentals, hiking trails, picnic areas," reports one camper at Bear Creek Lake Park.
Budget-friendly meals: Some cabin properties offer affordable meal options. At Lone Duck Campground, "The staff was super friendly and helpful! The facilities were always very clean. They had breakfast for you in the morning if you wanted for $5." Inquire about meal packages when booking.
Tips from RVers
Site size considerations: Garden of the Gods RV Resort can accommodate cabin guests with RVs, though spaces are limited. "Although the RV park is nice, you're more-so paying for the location. The spots were really tight, but we spent most of our time out exploring the parks and historic Manitou Springs so we made it work during our stay," notes one camper.
Access restrictions: Some cabin areas have challenging approach roads. For Castle Mountain Recreation Area, a visitor warned, "The road to get there wasn't maintained very well and there was only room for one vehicle at some points." Call ahead to confirm road conditions if traveling with a large vehicle.
Utility variations: Cabin electrical systems range from full service to minimal. At Pikes Peak RV Park, "I love the amenities. The pool and spa and exercise room are awesome. Plus it's only 10 minute from the garden of the gods. Some spots are tight to get into and the spaces are tight but the location is awesome."
