Cabin camping near Salida, Colorado offers options ranging from rustic accommodations to sites with amenities like mini-golf and pools. Located in the Arkansas River Valley at elevations between 7,000-8,000 feet, this area experiences temperature drops of 30-40 degrees from day to night, even in summer. Many cabin rental facilities stay open later in the season than traditional campgrounds, with some offering year-round availability.
What to do
River access: Riverside RV Park positions cabin campers right along the Arkansas River. "The Arkansas River flows through the campground at a sedate flow. Our campsite (#8) was right next to and parallel to the river which provided some soothing sounds at night," notes James.
Hot springs soaking: Cabin campers at Valley View Hot Springs enjoy natural thermal pools with mountain views. "We participated in the clothing optional experience but didn't feel like we had to. Great people all around from guests to staff," writes Brittany R. Note that this is a clothing-optional resort with both day use and overnight options.
Mountain biking: Trail access directly from some campgrounds makes biking convenient. "We visited Buena Vista mainly to mountain bike and we loved that you can ride right from the campsite onto the trails," says Becky M. Many sites offer bike storage beside cabins for overnight security.
What campers like
Riverside relaxation: Bighorn Park campers appreciate waterfront cabin options. "We have an Outlaw toy hauler so we're so lucky to get a back-in spot overlooking the river. Slept with the back open and fell asleep to the river sounds," reports Shari D. Several cabins feature patios positioned for optimal river views.
Family activities: Cutty's Resort offers cabins with extensive recreation options. "We have been here twice and had a blast both times! Quiet, clean, and plenty of things to explore," writes Alana J. Another visitor notes, "They have mini golf, a pool, a basketball court, and a game room. All are a tiny bit rundown but who cares-you're camping!"
Trail proximity: Cabins at several locations provide direct access to hiking. "The camp spots themselves are not all that great, though perfectly suitable. Most are exposed and about 1/3 have a great view of the expansive valley below," mentions Morgan Y. Many sites connect to public land trails for day hikes.
What you should know
Temperature variations: At 8,000+ feet elevation, nighttime temperatures drop significantly. "High altitude means cool to cold nights. Gorgeous area and park!" advises Eddie B. from Monarch Spur RV Park & Campground.
Limited connectivity: Cell service varies widely between cabin locations. "T mobile one bar," notes Carol J. about A-Lodge Salida. Some sites offer WiFi alternatives: "AT&T had strong 5G coverage and the starlink internet reached all the way to our campsite."
Reservation requirements: Most cabin rentals require booking 3-6 months in advance for summer weekends. "We had a good site with very easy hookups! There are hiking/biking trails right off the road from the campsites," reports Lisa D. Cabins typically book faster than tent or RV sites.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly programming: Some locations offer structured activities. "They had young staff that organized hands on crafts and science experiment classes for all the kids to participate in who were staying that weekend. One class was the kids making alka seltzer rockets," shares Thomas P.
Multi-generational accommodations: BV Overlook provides cabin options for diverse family needs. "The camp staff was all very friendly. We had a nice site with very easy hookups! There are hiking/biking trails right off the road from the campsites," says Lisa D. Many locations offer cabin clusters that allow families to book adjacent units.
Indoor alternatives: Bad weather contingencies exist at several sites. "We really appreciated the lounge for getting some work done and the kitchenette came in clutch when the regulator on our camp stove wouldn't seal," notes Becky M. Indoor common spaces provide rainy day options for families with children.
Tips from RVers
Cabin alternatives: When RV sites fill, cabins provide backup options. "This was our first night in a camper," explains Justin C. about his BV Overlook stay. Many locations offer both RV hookups and cabin rentals on the same property.
Seasonal considerations: Rafter's Roost maintains accessible cabins into shoulder seasons. "Stayed one night while passing through. Clean site, close to town and minutes from the Arkansas River. The facilities felt brand new," writes Cory. Winter cabin options typically include upgraded heating systems.
Location-specific amenities: Some cabin sites include unexpected features. "Very nice place great fishing!! Leslie is hands down the best camp host! Statues in one of the yurts by the river and the accommodations were very comfortable and very peaceful!!" shares Matt S. Several locations maintain their own fishing access points with rental equipment available.
