Cabin camping near Masonville, Colorado sits at approximately 6,500 feet elevation where the plains meet the foothills. The area experiences dramatic temperature swings between day and night, often dropping 30+ degrees after sunset even in summer months. Seasonal water restrictions are common at most campgrounds from late summer through fall, with some facilities reducing water hookups completely by September.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Riverview RV Park & Campground offers riverside fishing along the Big Thompson River. "We enjoyed seeing the kids playing in the playground and riding around the park on their bikes. Nearly every day a deer would come munch on the greenery right behind our rig," notes one camper who spotted abundant wildlife during their stay.
Paddle sports: At South Shore Campground at Carter Lake, water activities abound from spring through fall. "The lake was great for paddle boarding, canoeing, and kayaking," one visitor mentioned after enjoying the calm waters. Sites along the shoreline provide easy equipment launch points without needing to drive to designated boat ramps.
Mountain hiking: Located 10 minutes from the Rocky Mountain National Park entrance, several cabin rental properties serve as perfect basehomes for trail exploration. "The campground is right on the banks of the Big Thompson river which does provide a soothing background for those fortunate enough to have sites on its banks," explains a visitor who used their cabin as a basecamp for park adventures.
What campers like
Proximity to attractions: Spruce Lake RV Park scores high for location value. "Prime location to both RMNP and Estes Park. Great WiFi. Extra clean facilities. Great Mountain views," reports a satisfied camper. Many visitors appreciate the convenience of walking to nearby stores while maintaining mountain views from their cabin sites.
Wildlife viewing: Rental cabins provide comfortable viewing platforms for local wildlife. "We had Elk & deer in the campground which is nice to see," notes a visitor at Drake Campground. Morning and evening hours typically offer the best wildlife spotting opportunities, with many guests reporting elk sightings right from their cabin porches during dawn and dusk.
Laundry access: Several campgrounds maintain on-site laundry facilities, important for extended stays. "The facilities were clean. I was able to get my laundry done at a good price and the sites are decent in size," reports a camper who appreciated these practical amenities during their multi-week cabin rental.
What you should know
Reservation requirements: All cabin rentals require advance booking, with many properties completely full 2-3 months ahead during summer. Most cabins have 2-night minimum stays, with holiday weekends requiring 3-night commitments.
Temperature considerations: The mountain climate means cabins without air conditioning can become quite warm in July and August. "Sites are basically in a field which allows for views. The creek was still running good. It is very quiet at night," explains a visitor at Elk Meadows Lodge & RV Resort.
Cell service reality: Despite advertised WiFi at many properties, connectivity varies significantly. "Verizon Cell is spotty… some days good, others..ehhh.. not so much. Not sure about the other carriers," reports a camper who found connection quality inconsistent throughout their stay.
Tips for camping with families
Activity planning: Properties with built-in entertainment options reduce travel needs. "This KOA is like summer camp for the whole family. It's not your run of the mill KOA by a highway. The lake is beautiful with a walking path all of the way around and paddle boats," shares a visitor about the family-friendly environment at Fort Collins Lakeside KOA.
Noise factors: Consider cabin location relative to main roads and gathering areas. "The tent sites were well spaced for privacy, and even on a busy weekend, we felt like we had our own space to enjoy nature," reports a camper who specifically requested a quieter spot away from the central activity zones.
Meal preparation: Most cabin rentals have limited cooking facilities requiring careful planning. "For longer stays, consider purchasing a small portable propane grill if fires are prohibited," suggests one experienced cabin camper who found cooking options limited during summer fire bans.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: When booking cabins with RV access, request specific site details. "We had a spot right on the water and our kids were able to play in the water right from the campsite," shares a family who carefully selected their location at Horsetooth Reservoir.
Utility limitations: Understand each property's utility offerings before booking. "Bathhouses and full hookups available. Dogs allowed on a leash and you're within minutes of a boat ramp, hikes, and awesome views," notes a camper describing the diverse cabin camping options available in the Masonville area.
