Camping cabins near Pagosa Springs, Colorado range from rustic off-grid structures to fully furnished accommodations with modern amenities. Located in the San Juan Mountains at elevations between 7,000-11,000 feet, the area experiences dramatic temperature drops after sunset even in summer months. Most cabin rentals near Pagosa Springs remain open from May through October, though a few operate year-round to accommodate winter sports enthusiasts visiting nearby Wolf Creek Ski Area.
What to do
Fishing at stocked ponds: Bruce Spruce Ranch offers three fishing ponds stocked with large fish. "There are 3 ponds on property for fishing and there are some whoppers in there! Do keep in mind, you need to get a permit at the office to partake in being an angler for the day," notes Sarah F.
Visit Treasure Falls: Located just 0.5 miles from Bruce Spruce Ranch, this waterfall makes an easy excursion for cabin guests. "As for the general area-you can't go wrong no matter which direction you go. Pagosa Springs is a lovely town with everything you could need. There are too many fishing opportunities to name in the area, and a MUST see-Treasure Falls," according to a review.
River tubing: Pagosa Riverside Campground offers direct access to the San Juan River where guests can enjoy water activities. "You can rent paddle boats, swim & fish in it if you want. There is a nice walking path around it & the river that you can also park near," says Sheila W.
What campers like
Peaceful environments: The Last Resort provides a quiet getaway in a secluded valley. "The Last Resort RV park is hidden into a very peaceful valley. They are open year round and have River side spots for those under 26 feet long and some very large pull through spots with lots of space," explains Joseph W.
Clean facilities: Many cabin rentals maintain high standards of cleanliness. At Pagosa Riverside Campground, Katie H. appreciated that the "store was stocked with a good amount of RV stuff and limited food options. VERY clean facilities!"
Wildlife viewing: Cabin stays often include encounters with local wildlife. "I loved waking up in the morning to see 6 deer grazing outside my window," mentions Mev W. about her stay at Pagosa Pines RV Park. The park's location "between historic downtown and the uptown stores" makes it convenient while still offering natural experiences.
What you should know
Cell service varies dramatically: Many cabin rentals have limited connectivity. At The Last Resort RV Park & Campground, Joseph W. notes there is "No Verizon cell service and very poor Wifi. If you truly enjoy your peace and quiet this is the spot for you."
Winter operations are limited: Most cabin rentals close seasonally. However, Tom S. reports that The Last Resort offers year-round accommodations: "We enjoyed tenting in relatively primitive national forests and usually avoid private campgrounds. But our friends recommended Last Resort on the River, and we were pleasantly surprised."
Reservation requirements: Advance planning is essential. At Sportsman's Campground & Mountain Cabins, capacity is limited to just 32 sites that fill quickly. "I had an excellent experience. Friendly staff, clean facilities, quiet nights. I will be back. Beautiful area with lots of hiking near by," writes Ethan D.
Tips for camping with families
Look for recreation options: Navajo State Park offers diverse activities for children. Justin C. recommends: "Plan your next trip here!! The campgrounds are spread all throughout the lake which reaches from Northern New Mexico into Colorado. The Marina is newly remodeled and expansive. There are bass fishing tournaments, every type of boat rental, lake houses, a fishing area for kids, and much more."
Consider cabins with playgrounds: The Last Resort provides family-friendly amenities. Beth B. explains, "It's a very laid back place with 2 playgrounds and plenty of activities for kids - horse shoes, volleyball, tether ball, etc. They have a nice 4th of July celebration, potluck dinners and camp fires."
Check for animal encounters: Many children enjoy seeing farm animals at certain properties. According to Heidi C., The Last Resort has "donkeys to visit!" while Beth B. mentions, "There are often horses (and a goat) on the property and plenty of space to take a nice walk. This year, we saw a lot of Canada geese and there are also chickens and ducks."
Tips from RVers
Consider site accessibility: At Sportsman's Campground & Mountain Cabins, David L. notes, "My wife and I stayed here in Aug. of 2019. We had a great time, friendly people, nice sites just a nice place. It's a little ways out but the drive makes up for the miles."
Check utilities before booking: Water connections can be problematic at some locations. At Rosa Campground in Navajo State Park, Jolene C. found their spot "#136 had 50amp hookup and water, although the water leaked pretty badly. The scenery was beautiful and quiet and the bathrooms were clean with hot showers and coin operated laundry."
Site spacing considerations: Pagosa Riverside Campground offers various site configurations. Jody R. reports, "We lucked on a pull through spot without reservations, very friendly office crew drove us to the spot. Full hookups & Wi-Fi. Right on the river with benches spread out to enjoy the scenery. The sites are pretty close together but do come with picnic table and fire ring."
