Camping cabins near Youngsville, New Mexico provide access to the high desert plateaus and river valleys of northern New Mexico, with elevations ranging from 6,000 to 7,500 feet. The area experiences distinct seasons with summer temperatures typically reaching 85°F during day and dropping to 50°F at night. Cabins in this region are positioned along the Chama River watershed, creating opportunities for fishing and water recreation even in this arid landscape.
What to do
Dinosaur discoveries nearby: Ghost Ranch maintains a paleontology museum with exhibits featuring fossils found on the property. "Ghost Ranch is an artist paradise. So many beautiful land formations and gorgeous sunsets," notes a visitor to Ghost Ranch. The site offers educational programs about the dinosaurs once native to the area.
Fishing access: Cabin rentals at Chama River provide direct access to fishing spots. "After a drive up to Abuquiu Lake NM from Albuquerque we checked out some possible boondocking campsites down river from the lake. Very peaceful area, beautiful views and decent Verizon cell service," reports a camper who stayed at Riana - Abiquiu Lake. The lake supports multiple fish species including trout and crappie.
Train excursions: The historic Cumbres & Toltec Scenic Railroad operates from Chama, 1 hour from Youngsville. A visitor to Twin Rivers RV Park commented, "Our stay at Twin Rivers has been awesome. The manager is sweet and helpful. The spaces are Huge lots of room to roam. Full hookups 50/30amp. Not much in town to do but there is the Cumbres & Toltec train to ride."
What campers like
Mineral hot springs access: Cabin guests receive discounted entry to therapeutic pools. A guest at Ojo Caliente Mineral Springs Resort & Spa shared, "The bathhouse at the camping area was well heated with wonderfully hot showers, flush toilets, and plenty of space. Water and a dump station was available in the camping area for an extra fee."
Hiking trails: Many cabin properties connect to trail systems across various skill levels. "There are nice trails that you can hike or mountain bike. Some are near cliff edges and not for the beginners," explained a visitor to Riana - Abiquiu Lake. Trail maps are available at most property offices.
Proximity to cultural sites: Cabins place visitors near Georgia O'Keeffe's painting locations. "The area is near where Georgia O'Keefe lived and did some of her work," mentioned a camper at Riana - Abiquiu Lake. Ghost Ranch provides educational programming about the artist's connection to the landscape.
What you should know
Seasonal closures affect availability: Several cabin sites close during winter months. A reviewer noted about Riana - Abiquiu Lake: "The campground is open April 15-Oct 15," highlighting the importance of checking operational dates.
Limited supplies in immediate area: Stock up before arrival at cabin sites. A reviewer at Little Creel mentioned, "This is a larger RV Park. They provide full hookups, spaces for tent camping, and some small cottages. I have not used their restrooms, but the laundry is clean and reasonably priced."
Alcohol restrictions vary by property: Some cabin locations prohibit alcohol consumption. One camper reported at Riana - Abiquiu Lake: "There is NO alcohol allowed in the park so don't get caught with any they will pour it out. 2 Older men were having a beer in their site & they made them pour out 2 cases of beer."
Tips for camping with families
Meal planning options: Some cabin sites offer meal packages in addition to cooking facilities. A reviewer at Ghost Ranch shared, "If you're in the area and they have availability, it's hard to beat Ghost Ranch for value. RV spots with hookups are $45 a night! Most guests stay in housing/lodging, so the ranch has a dining hall that serves three meals a day. $16 per person per meal but $30 for three meals on a 'meal plan' when you book, and kids eat for free!"
Swimming opportunities: Cabins near water features provide swimming options during summer months. "Great views of the lake in which you can swim (and boat). Not a lot of shade, unless you snuggle in with a Piñon tree, but we spend our days on the lake or hiking Ghost Ranch, which is a few minutes away," noted a visitor to Riana - Abiquiu Lake.
Educational programming: Several cabin locations offer structured activities for children. A visitor to Ghost Ranch mentioned, "Georgia O'Keefe lived in the property for a while, so there's a lot of history about her, and there's a small dinosaur and anthropology museum on site. Chimney Rock hike is not to be missed!"
Tips from RVers
Urban base camps: Cabin sites near Santa Fe provide access to city amenities. A reviewer at Los Sueños de Santa Fe RV Park & Campground stated, "The RV park is excellent, don't know why there are poor reviews. The location could not be better! The sites were very clean and easy to get into with a class A. The managers were very gracious and helpful for all our needs and gave great recommendations for Santa Fe."
Wi-Fi and connectivity: Cell service varies considerably across cabin locations. One camper at Twin Rivers reported, "No wifi but very good Verizon and AT&T service," while sites closer to towns generally offer better connectivity options.
Spacing considerations: Some cabin areas provide more separation between units than others. A reviewer at Little Creel noted, "Many of the spaces are pretty close together, but we've had worse! They have nice picnic tables and fire pits. There is a creek that runs behind the park and the spaces along this creek cost more."
