Cabins near Pitkin, Colorado occupy elevations averaging 9,200 feet with nighttime temperatures regularly dropping below freezing even during summer months. Located within the Gunnison National Forest, the rental properties typically operate from May through October, closing during winter when mountain roads become impassable. Most cabin accommodations require advance reservations during peak season.
What to do
River fishing access: Three Rivers Resort & Outfitting provides cabin lodging at the intersection of the Gunnison, Taylor, and East Rivers. "The campground is perfectly situated at the intersection of the Gunnison, Taylor, and East Rivers, making it ideal for fly fishing. They offer cabins, RV sites, and long-term housing options," notes a visitor.
Mountain biking from your cabin: BV Overlook cabins connect directly to trail systems. "We visited Buena Vista mainly to mountain bike and we loved that you can ride right from the campsite onto the trails," explains a camper who appreciated the convenient access.
Trail hiking: Monarch Spur RV Park & Campground offers cabin stays near numerous trailheads. "Salida is a quick drive away and the trail is only a mile up the road. Staff was incredible and store well stocked," states a Colorado Trail hiker who used the cabins as a basecamp.
What campers like
Cabin privacy: Tent campers upgrading to cabins at Mountain Time RV Park (formerly Tall Texan) appreciate the solitude. "This park is nestled in a beautiful section of forest with a pond on site. Great walking around the park for our pups, reliable hook ups, clean facilites, and very friendly staff," reports a recent visitor.
Kitchen amenities: Arkansas River Rim Campground cabins include cooking facilities that save campers from packing additional gear. "Pretty great campsite, the owner is awesome, a few miles outside of town. Wifi, showers, bathrooms, laundry. Off a main road, but Arkansas River is right behind and you can walk down to it from the campground," notes a satisfied guest.
Winter protection: Cabin accommodations at higher elevations provide needed shelter from freezing temperatures. "The temps were getting below freezing at night. Nice change from the Texas heat. The morning we left it was 23 degrees so protect your water lines," advises a Taylor Park Trading Post cabin guest.
What you should know
Rustic vs. deluxe options: Cabin amenities vary significantly between properties. "We stayed in number 4, it was great, secluded, and right on the river. Also has showers and a small store. Owners are wonderful people," reports a Monarch Spur camper.
Year-round restrictions: Most cabin rentals close completely during winter months. Gunnison KOA notes in their listing that they operate from "May 1 to Oct 1" with no winter availability.
Kitchen supplies: Pack essential cooking items as cabin kitchens vary in equipment. "It was an awesome experience. Nice cozy 2 bedroom cabin. Kitchen and small couch area. A campfire area too," shares a visitor about Taylor Park's cabin amenities.
Bedding requirements: Most cabin rentals provide mattresses but not linens. Blue Mesa Recreational Ranch informs cabin guests to bring their own bedding. "This is a gem in the country of Gunnison. Plenty of activities in the clubhouse along with 2 pools. Nice cool nights and love the dark nights to star gaze," notes a recent guest.
Tips for camping with families
Activity centers: Blue Mesa Recreational Ranch offers family-friendly facilities with indoor recreation. "We had such a relaxing stay! One of the major highlights was the amazing pool setup—both indoor and outdoor pools were clean, well-maintained, and perfect for unwinding after a day of exploring," reports a family visitor.
Cabin orientation: Request specific cabin locations based on your family needs. "We stayed in the upper section and had no problem getting a reservation, even on busier weekends," notes a Blue Mesa long-term guest about securing optimal locations.
Entertainment options: Arrowhead Point Resort offers varied accommodations with on-site recreation. "They have a small store where you can pick up items that you may have forgotten or run out of. (They have everything needed to make s'mores, that's for sure. Right down to the roasting sticks)," explains a visitor traveling with a large group.
Tips from RVers
Utilities in cabins: Note which cabins include full utilities if transitioning from RV camping. "We stayed here while visiting family. The staff was great! It's a great location, has hiking and biking trails and some amazing views of the mountains," reports a BV Overlook visitor.
Shower access: Confirm bathroom accommodations before booking. "Bathrooms and showers just a short walk from the campsite were convenient and refreshing. Enjoyed the campfires and beautiful sunrises and sunsets on this spot," shares a Taylor Park Trading Post guest.
Site placement: Request specific cabin locations if traveling with an RV group. "Sites are larger than many campgrounds. Laundry, bathrooms, and showers are clean. The staff is very friendly. Most sites are shaded.... a real treat in this area," notes a Mountain Time RV Park visitor.
