Ridgway State Park offers cabin accommodations at approximately 7,000 feet elevation in the Uncompahgre Valley. Visitors can access three distinct camping areas within the park, each with different amenities and terrain. Several area campgrounds maintain cabins open during summer months, with select options available year-round depending on weather conditions.
What to do
Hiking perimeter trails: Ouray has accessible trails around the town perimeter. "The park is on the Ouray rim trail which was a nice hike," notes a visitor at 4J + 1+ 1 RV Park.
Swimming at beaches: The Dakota Terraces area provides water access points. "Nice swimming beach, plenty of hiking trails. Restrooms were always clean," reports a camper from Dakota Terraces.
Fishing in small ponds: Creek access provides fishing opportunities. "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 a Ridgway State Park visitor.
Water recreation: Reservoir activities include kayaking and paddleboarding. "There was access to kayak, paddle board, and boat rentals," shares a Dakota Terraces Campground guest.
What campers like
Mountain views: Ridgway cabins offer scenic vistas. "We stayed in site 021 which has a gorgeous view of the mountains," writes a visitor at Dakota Terraces Campground.
Covered picnic tables: Weather protection enhances outdoor dining. "Most sites have a covered picnic table which was very helpful during the frequent light rain showers," notes a Dakota Terraces guest.
River sounds: Water features add natural ambiance. "Our site backed up to a stream that sounded wonderful with running water," reports a visitor at Ouray KOA.
Walking distance to town: Some cabins provide easy town access. "Town is close by and you can walk to it via the river walk that runs alongside the RV park," explains a visitor at Ouray Riverside Resort.
What you should know
Site leveling requirements: Some cabins sit on uneven terrain. "Needed all our levelers as the site is sloped downhill. Windy in the morning," notes a camper at Dakota Terraces.
Limited shade: Many camping areas lack tree cover. "Overall good place but lacking trees in campground," reports a visitor from Ridgway State Park.
Cabin amenities vary: Facility options differ between properties. "The cabin included queen bed, bunk beds, love seat, fridge, sink, and a microwave," states a visitor at Riverbend RV Park & Cabins.
Advance booking essential: The region experiences high demand. "We were only here for one night but would definitely stay here again," says a BASECAMP 550 visitor who secured a last-minute spot.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly activities: Multiple areas provide recreation options. "The kids loved the playground and jump pad! Close by to Ouray for great SXS and off-road trails," shares a visitor at Ouray KOA Holiday.
Biking opportunities: Paved trails accommodate young cyclists. "There were kids riding bikes on paved walkways and some trails throughout the well maintained park," notes a Ridgway State Park camper.
Playground access: Several cabin areas include play equipment. "This is a great place for kids because there is so much to do, from the endless bike trails to fishing and water access," explains a Dakota Terraces visitor.
Wildlife viewing: Natural settings provide educational opportunities. "The Canada geese families were fun to watch," shares a Riverbend RV Park visitor about their pond-side campsite.
Tips from RVers
Cell service quality: Connectivity varies by location. "The WiFi tower was right in the campground so WiFi was screaming. Mild temperatures in October," reports a Dakota Terraces camper.
Propane availability: Some sites offer on-site services. "Propane on site and they fill," notes a Riverbend RV Park visitor.
Early season considerations: Shoulder season provides quieter experiences. "Such a peaceful campground during shoulder season. The river and pond were very nice to sit by and observe nature," shares a Riverbend RV Park guest.
Site selection strategy: Location within campgrounds matters. "The closer you get to the water (find a map online) the more leveling you will likely need to do if in an RV," advises a visitor to BASECAMP 550.
