Cabin accommodations near Saratoga, Wyoming range from rustic Forest Service structures to more developed private campground options. Located in the Medicine Bow National Forest at elevations between 8,000-10,000 feet, the area experiences dramatic temperature swings even in summer months when overnight temperatures can drop below freezing. Most Forest Service cabin rentals remain inaccessible during winter months due to heavy snowfall and road closures.
What to do
Fishing access: Many Saratoga cabin rentals provide direct access to prime fishing waters. At Lazy Acres Campground and Motel, the Encampment River runs directly through the property. "Sits on the Encampment River. Owners Lee Ann & Leroy were very friendly & helpful," notes one visitor.
Winter recreation: During winter months, the Snow Survey Cabin serves as a convenient base for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing when road conditions permit access. The cabin maintains electricity year-round, allowing for overnight winter adventures in the national forest.
Stargazing opportunities: Limited light pollution makes cabin stays ideal for night sky viewing. When staying at Steamboat Lake State Park's Sunrise Vista Campground cabins just across the Colorado border, one camper noted the "Very good star watching" opportunities, making it worth the short drive from Saratoga.
What campers like
Clean facilities: Visitors consistently praise the well-maintained cabins throughout the region. At Western Hills Campground, cabin guests appreciate "Excellent showering facilities" and "The bathrooms were nice and showers clean. They also have a wonderful coin laundry room, a mini golf putting course and kids playground."
Quiet setting: The peaceful environment draws many repeat visitors to Saratoga area cabins. A guest at Jack Creek Guard Station noted how the remote location provides a true escape with minimal traffic noise and few neighboring campers during weekdays.
Wildlife viewing: Morning and evening wildlife sightings enhance cabin stays. Deer commonly visit cabin properties at dawn and dusk, while more elusive moose can sometimes be spotted near water sources. At Saratoga Lake, waterfowl viewing provides additional wildlife opportunities year-round.
What you should know
Reservation requirements: All Forest Service cabins require advance booking through Recreation.gov, often with limited availability during peak summer months. Most private campground cabins can be reserved directly with the property.
Elevation considerations: Cabins in the Medicine Bow National Forest sit at high elevations where weather can change quickly. Pack layers even in summer, as nighttime temperatures regularly drop below 40°F.
Limited connectivity: Cell service remains spotty throughout the region. At Rawlins KOA, where cabins serve as convenient overnight accommodations, a guest noted: "This camp site is a bit small but did have pull through spots large enough for our F150 and 37' trailer... The sunset was beautiful with the mountains as a backdrop."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several cabin providers offer child-friendly amenities. Western Hills Campground includes "a mini golf putting course and kids playground" that can entertain children during downtime between outdoor adventures.
Kitchen preparedness: Family cabin stays require careful meal planning. Most Forest Service cabins have limited cooking facilities compared to private options. "You may want to bring a measuring cup, spoons, knives, napkins, sponges (for washing up)," advises a family who stayed at one area cabin.
Educational opportunities: The Saratoga National Fish Hatchery offers free tours where children can learn about local aquatic ecosystems. Located just minutes from downtown Saratoga, this makes an excellent rainy-day activity for families staying in nearby cabins.
Tips from RVers
Cabin alternatives: When RV sites fill, cabins provide reliable backup accommodations. "We have a small teardrop trailer with no hookups and they had a perfect pull through spot for us," shared a visitor about Western Hills Campground, noting that both RV sites and cabins were available.
Weather preparedness: RVers switching to cabin accommodations should still pack for variable conditions. "It gets windy here so be prepared," warns a visitor to Rawlins KOA, where both cabin and RV options exist. Strong winds can impact outdoor cooking and activities even during cabin stays.
