Cabins near Continental Divide, New Mexico provide camping accommodations at elevations around 7,000-8,000 feet, with distinct seasonal temperature variations. Summer brings daytime highs of 80-90°F while winter temperatures regularly drop below freezing. Many cabin locations offer proximity to volcanic formations and ancient lava flows that characterize this high desert region.
What to do
Explore volcanic landscapes: The Ice Cave & Bandera Volcano trails showcase unique geological features within a short hiking distance. "We did the hike up the Volcano and then down to the ice cave which cooled us off after the hike. They charge $12 per person with a discount for children," notes Joseph W. The site includes a 1.5-mile volcano trail and a shorter ice cave trail with stairs.
Visit nearby monuments: El Morro RV Park and Cabins serves as a convenient base for exploring El Morro National Monument and Malpais Volcano flows. "It is just minutes from El Morro Nat'l Monument and close to Mal Pais Volcano flows. I recommend the place," writes Max M., highlighting the strategic location for regional exploration.
Water recreation: Bluewater Lake State Park Campground offers lakefront activities from many cabin sites. "Great state run campground with options from primitive to full hook ups at great prices. The primitive camping is all along the lake so you can park and walk right in with your canoe or SUP," reports Sara S. The park includes a boat ramp, playground, and swimming areas.
What campers like
Convenience to Interstate 40: USA RV Park in Gallup provides easy highway access for travelers. "Just a mile off of I-40. I thought it was very well priced," reports Mike F. This makes the cabins particularly suitable for overnight stays during longer journeys.
Cultural attractions: Cabin guests appreciate the proximity to Gallup's cultural sites. "Gallup is a super interesting place and could have easily spent way more time than we did," writes Mike M. The town offers Native American arts, trading posts, and historical points of interest within a short drive.
Quiet settings: Many cabins offer peaceful environments away from urban noise. At Ice Cave & Bandera Volcano, "We were the only campers there on a VERY cold late March night so I imagine it would be very different during warmer months. We only heard an occasional car but otherwise, it was very quiet, and the night sky was beautiful," shares Lee D.
What you should know
Seasonal operations: Grants KOA Journey and several other cabin providers operate seasonally. "We stayed at this KOA on our way to California from Texas as an overnight stop. We liked it so much that we stayed there on our way back," notes Richard G. The KOA specifically runs from February 1 to December 1.
Site leveling concerns: Some cabins and RV sites require leveling equipment. "Have this 4 stars instead of 5 cause literally almost all of the sites are unleveled so it was hard to find the right fit but other than that, it's beautiful here!" explains Shirlee A. about Bluewater Lake State Park.
Limited water quality: Many cabin locations have water access but quality varies. "The only downside was that the water didn't taste great," mentions Edith L. about the Grants area. Bringing bottled water is recommended at most locations.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly amenities: Several cabin locations offer specific family facilities. "Playground for the kiddos, lots of areas to explore with the puppers, and plenty of bathrooms and Ramadas available for day use," notes Sara S. about Bluewater Lake State Park Campground.
Meal options: Ice Cave & Bandera Volcano provides on-site food services. "The trading post is also super cool, and has enough food to hold you over for a while if you come without anything," reports Taylor P. Several cabin providers offer similar convenience stores or meal delivery.
Entertainment considerations: Some locations allow food delivery services. At USA RV Park, one guest noted, "We were able to get pizza delivered to our RV site which was a big hit with the kids." This convenience helps when traveling with children after a long day of activities.
Tips from RVers
Satellite and cell connectivity: Service levels vary dramatically by location. At Ice Cave & Bandera Volcano, one camper noted, "We have a signal booster that let us get enough bars of reception to work our remote jobs, but once the booster went off it was intermittent at best." Verizon generally provides the most reliable service in the region.
Shower facilities: Cabin guests without private bathrooms should check shower availability. "They have amazing FREE showers, very cheap laundry services, amazing views, FREE breakfast," reports April W. about the Grants KOA facilities.
Supplemental bedding needs: Most cabin accommodations require guests to bring linens. Even at sites with beds, plan to pack sleeping bags, pillows, and additional bedding for comfort during cooler nights when temperatures can drop significantly.
