Lakeside cabin in San Juan National Forest
Looking for a relaxing yet adventurous getaway?
Book a Lakeside cabin in San Juan National Forest and experience the best of Colorado’s mountains, forests, and lakes.
At Pine River Lodge, we’ve been welcoming guests since 1960, offering cabins with the coziness of the mountains plus modern amenities.
From lakeside mornings to cozy nights by the fire pit, your Lakeside cabin becomes more than a place to stay—it’s part of your story.
Why choose a Lakeside cabin in San Juan National Forest
Forget the crowds and noise of hotels, our Lakeside cabins offer you privacy, space, and a true connection to nature.
Start your day with fresh air, spend it outdoors, and finish by the fire.
Here’s what makes a Lakeside cabin in San Juan National Forest special:
- Private cabins with complete kitchens for stress-free meals
- Outdoor seating, BBQ grills, and fire pits for memorable nights
- Indoor heated pool and playground to keep kids entertained
- Central high-speed internet access at the main lodge for checking in when needed
- Year-round access to seasonal adventures
What to expect in your Lakeside cabin
Every Lakeside cabin in San Juan National Forest is designed for comfort and convenience.
Inside, you’ll find cozy living spaces, full kitchens stocked with cookware, air-conditioning, and satellite TV.
Outside, enjoy your own fire pit, BBQ grill, and space to unwind.
Some cabins also include hot tubs, giving you that perfect mountain-lodge feel.
Types of Lakeside cabins in San Juan National Forest
No two trips are the same, which is why we offer a variety of options:
- 1-bedroom Lakeside cabins for honeymoon-style retreats
- 2-bedroom Lakeside cabins perfect for young families
- 3-bedroom or larger Lakeside cabins for groups
- Lakefront Lakeside cabins with incredible views of Vallecito Lake
- Pet-friendly Lakeside cabins so you don’t leave pets behind
Things to do near San Juan National Forest
Your Lakeside cabin isn’t just a cabin—it’s your base for exploring. San Juan National Forest offers something in every season:
Summer adventures
Summer brings perfect conditions for adventure.
Spend your mornings hiking or biking local trails, afternoons kayaking or paddleboarding on Vallecito Lake, and evenings grilling dinner outside your cabin.
Fishing is especially popular this time of year, with plenty of opportunities around Vallecito Lake.
Fall getaways
When the crowds thin out, fall colors transform the valley.
Every hillside becomes a postcard.
Hunters also find this season ideal, with easy access to the San Juan National Forest from your Lakeside cabin in San Juan National Forest.
Winter escapes
Winter is for snow days and cozy nights.
With Purgatory and Wolf Creek ski resorts nearby, plus snowmobiling trails and a fully groomed Nordic track, your cabin becomes a cozy retreat after long days outside.
Ice fishing is also popular from January through March, with tournaments that draw anglers from across Colorado.
Spring refresh
Spring is ideal for slower escapes, perfect for older couples.
Trails begin to open, wildlife comes alive, and the lake starts warming up for spring paddling and casting.
Itineraries from your Lakeside cabin in San Juan National Forest
Couples’ weekend (2 nights)
- Friday: Arrive, relax by the lake, grill dinner, sit by the fire and unwind
- Saturday: Morning hike, lunch in Durango, sunset paddle, board games and wine
- Sunday: Coffee with mountain views, slow morning
Family vacation (3–5 nights)
- Pool and playground time each morning
- Day trips to Mesa Verde
- Evenings: s’mores
Winter adventure week
- Ski Wolf Creek one day, Purgatory the next
- Snowmobile on Middle Mountain trails
- Evenings in your cabin, warming up in the hot tub
Lakeside cabins vs hotels or Airbnb in San Juan National Forest
Why choose a cabin over a hotel or Airbnb?
Hotels are often impersonal and lack kitchens or outdoor space.
Airbnb options can be inconsistent.
At Pine River Lodge, you get the consistency of professional management with the charm of a private cabin.
Our Lakeside cabins in San Juan National Forest offer better amenities, better access, and better value.
When to book your Lakeside cabin in San Juan National Forest
Summer: High demand from families and couples—book months ahead.
Fall: Great for hunters and leaf-peepers, quieter than summer.
Winter: Limited cabins available (only 14 are winterized), so plan early.
Holidays: Christmas and New Year weeks book up fast—returning guests often rebook a year ahead.
Frequently asked questions
Do the cabins have kitchens?
Yes. Every cabin includes a ready-to-use kitchen with cookware, dishes, and utensils.
Are the cabins pet-friendly?
Yes. Several cabins are pet-friendly, but not all units allow pets.
Is there Wi-Fi?
Yes. High-speed internet is available at the main lodge, and some cabins are within range.
What activities are nearby?
Hiking, fishing, boating, skiing, snowmobiling, ice fishing, hunting, and day trips to Silverton.
Is there a pool?
Yes, an indoor heated pool is open seasonally, plus a playground for kids.
Reserve your cabin now
Cabins book fast, especially in holiday seasons.
Lock in your getaway now to stay in one of the most beautiful spots in Colorado.
Book your Lakeside cabin in San Juan National Forest today and start planning your trip.