Cabin accommodations near Winston, New Mexico offer rustic retreats at elevations ranging from 4,000-6,000 feet in the high desert landscape. Temperatures fluctuate significantly between seasons, with summer highs reaching 95°F and winter nights dropping below freezing. Winter cabin stays typically require additional heating preparations, while summer visits benefit from properties with shade trees or cooling systems.
What to do
Explore Gila National Forest: Located just north of Continental Divide Park & Camp, this massive wilderness area offers hiking trails ranging from beginner to advanced levels. A camper notes, "Perfect location to leave our trailer and go out exploring! Cliff Dwellings, hot springs, cat walk, farmers market, super cute old fashion bar and opera house Pinos Altos."
Boat on Caballo Lake: Cabin stays at Lakeview RV Park provide lake access for water activities. The reservoir offers fishing for bass, catfish, and walleye year-round. One visitor mentioned the "nice simple CG busy even through the winter season and the views!!!"
Stargaze from outdoor soaking tubs: Several cabin properties feature unique stargazing opportunities from hot springs. A visitor to Hot Springs Glamp Camp described the experience: "as you sit in the hot tub you're privy to the unobstructed view of the Milky Way! Bring a pair of binoculars! We saw several shooting stars and we blown away by the majesty of the heavens."
What campers like
24-hour hot spring access: Many cabins offer round-the-clock soaking options. According to a camper, "It has lovely clean hot spring tubs that are open 24/7. It's an intimate camp so we rarely had to wait for a tub. Also has clean bathrooms and showers and a grill. 2 blocks away from Main Street and 2 blocks from the Rio Grande."
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Properties like Gila Hot Springs Ranch provide chances to observe local wildlife. One reviewer shared, "At sunset we watched deer in the pasture grazing happily. Then watched them hop right over the fence one by one! How fun is that! Sunrise and sunsets there cast the most beautiful hues on the rock formations surrounding the area."
Community spaces at cabin properties: Some cabin rentals offer shared outdoor living areas. A camper at Riverbend Hot Springs reported, "They have a cute common area with coffee and tea, and a shared cooking area. You can rent towels and robes, and they have a small gift shop. These hot springs do not feel touristy, but instead quaint and relaxing."
What you should know
Steep access roads: Some cabin properties require navigating challenging terrain. A visitor to Gila Hot Springs Ranch warned, "Must be prepared for a very steep grade drive with switchbacks. Beautiful scenery with sheep and horses."
Limited cell service: Many cabin areas have spotty or nonexistent mobile coverage. Bringing downloaded maps and entertainment is recommended for most stays outside town centers.
Variable water temperature: Hot water availability differs significantly between properties. One visitor to Hot Springs Glamp Camp noted, "As a seasoned traveler I realize first impressions can be off... not reason enough to not have adequate hot water in the unit."
Diverse heating systems: Cabin heating methods vary widely. A guest at a vintage trailer accommodation shared, "Heating and cooling is covered once you figure out how to use the mini-split and oil-filled electric heater."
Tips for camping with families
Pack games and activities: Limited entertainment options near remote cabins means bringing your own activities. Board games, cards, and outdoor equipment help keep children engaged during downtime.
Check amenities carefully: Family cabin stays require advance planning for basic needs. Continental Divide Park & Camp offers "clean showers, friendly host! Laundry great too!" according to a recent visitor.
Consider town proximity: Camp Thunderbird in Mimbres provides cabin options within reasonable driving distance to supplies while maintaining a rural setting. For families with children, proximity to stores can be crucial for forgotten items or unexpected needs.
Research seasonal conditions: Summer cabin stays require sun protection and cooling options, while winter visits need additional blankets and warm clothing. Temperature variations can be extreme throughout the year.
Tips from RVers
Size limitations apply: Many cabin areas restrict large rigs. One camper at Riverbend Hot Springs noted their experience: "We were in site 4 and had no trouble parking our 37ft 5th wheel with long truck (55ft total). Each site is full hookups with cable and free high speed wifi, and a picnic table."
Consider price variations: Weekday stays typically cost less than weekends at cabin properties with hot springs. "Current rates are 75/night for week days and 95/night for weekends. RV stays include access to the public pools and areas (during operating hours) from the time of your check in to your check out time the next morning."
Limited availability: Popular cabin destinations book quickly. A visitor shared, "They only have 5 RV spots, and they are COMPETITIVELY booked. Each time we've stayed we have been lucky enough to get cancelation bookings."
