Cabins near Placerville, Colorado sit within the San Juan Mountain range at elevations between 7,000-10,000 feet. This area experiences distinct seasonal changes with summer highs averaging 75-85°F and evening temperatures dropping significantly. Winter cabin stays require preparation for mountain conditions, with most access roads cleared regularly but some facilities operating on reduced winter schedules.
What to do
Hiking the Perimeter Trail: Access this popular trail directly from 4J + 1+ 1 RV Park in Ouray. "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)," notes a recent visitor. The trail offers mountain views without requiring 4x4 vehicle access.
Fishing opportunities: Cabin rentals at Ridgway State Park provide access to both reservoir and creek fishing. "Fish were very good at not staying on hook. Nice reservoir nearby within a few miles drive. There was 'lil walk down a hill to fishing in a creek and small pond from our campsite which is optimal for the fishing enthusiast," explains one camper who stayed at the park.
Winter activities: Several cabin locations maintain year-round operations. Ridgway State Park remains open through winter months for cabin guests. During colder seasons, fewer visitors mean more solitude but require additional planning. "We stayed in the main part of the campground. Nice sites. Very friendly hosts. Clean bathrooms. Plenty of shade," reports a summer visitor, though winter stays have different considerations.
What campers like
Easy town access: Cabins at Ouray Riverside Resort feature a riverside walking path. "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 one visitor. This walkability eliminates parking challenges during peak tourist season.
Mountain views: Cabin accommodations at BASECAMP 550 provide panoramic vistas. "Our site had a beautiful view and was right next to a ranch where cows would come right up to the fence," notes a recent guest. The property also includes a clubhouse with kitchen access and workspace areas for longer stays.
River sounds: Many cabins feature creekside locations for natural ambient noise. "Our site backed up to the creek. The sites are a little crowded but they were level for a tent site," explained one visitor at Ouray KOA. Another guest at Ouray Riverside Resort mentioned, "We stayed 3 nights. Nice campground with full hookups. Within walking distance to town. Easy in and out with fair sized camp spot."
What you should know
Seasonal considerations: Summer cabin reservations fill quickly, particularly between June-August. Winter operations vary by location, with some properties closing entirely. Most cabins at Ridgway State Park require advance booking, with reservations opening six months ahead.
Elevation effects: Cabin locations sit at high elevations, affecting both weather and equipment performance. A guest at Dakota Terraces Campground noted, "We needed all our levelers as the site is sloped downhill. Windy in the morning." Another camper mentioned, "Mild temperatures in October. 5 stars!!!"
Wi-Fi variability: Internet access differs significantly between properties. At Ouray KOA, a visitor reported, "WIFI is there but omg.. good luck catching it." Conversely, at Dakota Terraces, another camper found, "The WiFi tower was right in the campground so WiFi was screaming." Cell service remains spotty throughout the region regardless of accommodation.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly amenities: Ouray KOA Holiday offers specific family features. "This campground has so much to offer families! Stunning views, private spaces nestled amidst trees, clean facilities, a great restaurant and two playgrounds!" notes a family who stayed there. Another visitor mentioned, "Kids loved the playground and jump pad!"
Family activities: Ridgway State Park provides recreational options beyond cabin accommodations. A visitor explained, "This park is a great place for families because there is so much to do, from the endless bike trails to fishing and water access." The park also features a swimming beach during summer months.
Spacious cabin options: Some properties offer multi-room arrangements. At Dakota Terraces Campground, a guest noted, "The spacing of the sites is ample and most of the sites have covered picnic tables." This covered space proves valuable during afternoon rain showers common in summer.
Tips from RVers
Parking considerations: Cabin areas sometimes share facilities with RV sites, affecting overall spacing. At Ouray Riverside Resort, one RVer mentioned, "Small sites with little over flow parking." Another noted, "Close to everything and priced reasonably."
Leveling challenges: Mountain terrain creates uneven parking at many cabin locations. A visitor at Dakota Terraces advised, "The closer you get to the water the more leveling you will likely need to do if in an RV. There are level camp sites."
Highway proximity: Road noise affects some cabin locations. A visitor at Ouray Riverside Resort noted, "The RV park is so noisy. So much come and go through the park which is gravel so it's noisy, also close to the hwy which is non stop." This factor varies significantly between properties and specific cabin locations within each facility.
