Cabins near Ouray, Colorado offer lodging options between 7,800 and 8,750 feet elevation in the San Juan Mountains. Most cabin facilities operate from May through September, with some locations maintaining year-round availability. Winter temperatures frequently drop below freezing at night even during summer months, requiring proper insulation and heating systems in cabin structures.
What to do
Horseback riding access: At Ouray KOA Holiday, guests can ride directly from the campground. "They now offer horseback riding right from inside the KOA. They have everything from teepees to tent, cabin and RV camping," notes one visitor to Ouray KOA Holiday.
River walks: Walk along the Uncompahgre River into town from several cabin locations. "The river walk into town is so beautiful! The park is maintained with pride, hook ups and WiFi are great," reports a camper at Ouray Riverside Resort.
Perimeter trail hiking: Access the Ouray Perimeter Trail directly from some cabin properties. "This little place is on the outskirts of Ouray, tucked into the base of the mountain (perimeter trail actually has an access point at the park)," explains a visitor to 4J + 1+ 1 RV Park.
What campers like
Proximity to town: Most cabin rentals around Ouray provide walking access to local amenities. "We loved the trail into town - an easy walk to the hot springs pool or to grab something to eat. The campground is clean and offers full hookups," shares a guest at Ouray Riverside Resort.
Mountain panoramas: Cabins are positioned to maximize views of surrounding peaks. "Location is all I can Say. Every direction you look is beautiful, onsite restaurant is great, drinks are good, sites level," explains a camper at Ouray Riverside Resort.
Access to adventure: Cabin locations serve as excellent baseposts for exploring. "Primo campground right in the city of Ouray. Our site is next to the river so we've got the sounds of the river and Mountain Views on all sides. Can't beat it," notes a visitor to 4J + 1+ 1 RV Park.
What you should know
Seasonal availability: Most cabin facilities close during winter months. "Open May 1 to Sep 30," states the information for Ouray KOA.
Laundry facilities: Many cabin rentals include laundry access. "The staff is incredibly nice, and the price was right. Our cabin is the 2nd biggest option, it included: a queen, bunk beds, love seat, fridge, sink, and a microwave," reports one visitor.
Limited campfire options: Some properties restrict wood fires. "No fire rings, but there is a communal fire pit. It's a little less rustic than our preferred type of CO camping, but the location and beautiful views definitely make up for that," explains a camper staying at cabin facilities.
Tips for camping with families
Kids' amenities: Look for cabins with dedicated play areas. "This campground has so much to do for families! Stunning views, private spaces nestled amidst trees, clean facilities, a great restaurant and two playgrounds! The staff are some of the sweetest and friendliest we've met," reports a visitor to Ouray KOA Holiday.
Activity options: Some properties offer recreational facilities. "Kids loved the playground and jump pad! Close by to Ouray for great SXS and off-road trails. Must tow there with trailer. Beautiful scenery," notes another Ouray KOA Holiday visitor.
Budget considerations: Cabin accommodations vary significantly in price. "We rented a cabin (we stopped in on July 4th, sold out of tent spots) but they managed to accommodate us last minute," shares one camper.
Tips from RVers
Leveling challenges: Many cabin and RV sites require adjustment equipment. "Stayed for just one night at site 55. Needed all our levelers as the site is sloped downhill. Windy in the morning. Clean and friendly," reports a camper at Dakota Terraces Campground — Ridgway State Park.
Alternative lodging: Cabin rentals offer advantages when weather turns challenging. "After three nights in the mountains I needed to recharge batteries and clean up and do laundry and this place while expensive is located beautifully just outside of Ouray Colorado surrounded by beautiful mountains and pine trees and a creek running through the property," explains a guest at Red Mountain RV Park Ouray Colorado.
High-altitude effects: Elevation impacts equipment function. "Elevation is about 10,300 and posed a problem for our generator that caused severe spark-plug fouling. But, re-jetting the carburetor from a #61 to #58 solved the problem," notes a visitor staying at cabins in the region.