Cabin accommodations near Emery, Utah range from rustic forest stations to modern RV parks. The region sits primarily at 7,000-8,000 feet elevation, causing significant temperature drops after sunset even in summer months. Most cabin rentals require advanced planning with availability extremely limited from June through September due to the popularity of nearby Capitol Reef National Park.
What to do
Stargazing opportunities: The dark skies around Goblin Valley State Park Campground provide exceptional night viewing. "The night sky was something I've never seen, so unreal!" notes Paige J. The park's isolation from urban light pollution creates prime conditions for astronomical observation.
Trail access: Several cabins connect to trail systems for hiking, mountain biking, and OHV use. "There are great atv trails nearby. If you like desert camping this is the place," shares Brad B. about Goblin Valley. Trails range from beginner-friendly paths to challenging technical routes across red rock terrain.
Winter activities: Seasonal cabin rentals at higher elevations support winter recreation. "Spring, summer, fall you need to see Fishlake in all seasons. The campground has beautiful views year round," reports Kelli R. about Bowery Creek. Winter access requires four-wheel drive vehicles at most higher-elevation cabins.
What campers like
Privacy levels: Cabin spacing varies significantly between locations. At Thousand Lakes RV Park, "Sites are all gravel with a little grass patch," mentions Matthew S., who also notes "the views on the north and east were stunning." Tent cabins typically offer less privacy than standalone structures.
Temperature regulation: Higher elevation cabins provide relief from summer heat. According to Alicia F., "If you want peaceful and cool it's here" at Bowery Creek where large aspen groves provide natural cooling. Most basic cabins lack air conditioning but benefit from cooler mountain air.
Evening activities: Many campers appreciate the communal spaces at cabin-equipped campgrounds. Thousand Lakes RV Park offers "a large park area in the center with a playground and volleyball court. Super kid friendly," according to Matthew S. Several locations permit campfires year-round except during extreme fire danger conditions.
What you should know
Reservation windows: Most cabin rentals in the region open reservations 6-12 months in advance. At Palisade State Park Campground, Karin W. advises "this is a great place to go kayaking (no power boats allowed)... if you are lucky enough to get a reservation." Holiday weekends book immediately when reservation windows open.
Seasonal considerations: Many cabin facilities close completely during winter. According to Carlyne F. at Sand Creek RV, Cabins, Tents, "They're still open in the Winter, but we didn't find out they closed their showers and bathrooms until we were told upon arrival. (They close 10/31)."
Noise policies: Established quiet hours apply strictly at most cabin locations. Troy L. reports at Goblin Valley that "The campground was very strict about the 10:00 PM to 7:00 AM noise policy. A buddy turned on his generator around 6:50ish AM to brew some Java and was promptly found and advised to turn off the noise."
Tips for camping with families
Wildlife viewing: Several cabin locations offer wildlife observation opportunities. "Pasture adjoining sites with bison, cows, and horses just feet from us," notes Brian B. about Wonderland RV Park. Early mornings provide the best viewing times for local wildlife.
Cabin selection: Family-sized cabins book faster than smaller units. Steven G. shares about Orange Olsen cabins: "The Dwelling is large enough to hold a really big family or two couples with small children. The cabin is pretty small but large enough for a family of four." Group sites accommodate extended family gatherings at some locations.
Recreation options: Swimming opportunities exist at select cabin locations. "The small swimming pool was loved by the kids," reports Scott O. about Thousand Lakes RV Park. Several cabin sites include playgrounds, grass areas, and other family-friendly amenities for children.
Tips from RVers
Site specifications: RV cabins often include better utility connections than forest service cabins. At Richfield KOA, "A few of the deluxe sites now have a private, permanent fenced yards for dogs, which includes waste bags and a little trash can!" reports Connie M., making these options practical for pet owners.
Weather considerations: Wind exposure affects some cabin areas significantly. Kayleigh T. noted about Sand Creek RV that "The site had nice views but is very exposed and very very windy which means we kept time outside of the van to a minimum as it wasn't very relaxing." Most cabin areas provide wind shelters or covered porches.
Supply planning: On-site stores have limited inventory and higher prices. Wonderland RV Park's store offers "food, ice, wood and souvenirs," according to Matthew S. Grocery stores in Richfield provide the most comprehensive shopping options within the region, while smaller stores in Torrey or Loa carry basic necessities.
