Enjoying the great outdoors without great discomfort needn’t be tricky. In fact, it can be downright luxurious. Check out these five options for getting rustic without really roughing it.
Glen-Isle: Located in Bailey on the bank of the Platte, owner Barbara Tripp has been at Glen-Isle (pictured) for 62 years, since she and her late husband took over from her grandparents. The rustic mid-century decorated cabins range from simple one-room accommodations with a fridge only, to those with fully equipped kitchenettes and sleeping options for up to 10. The grounds include a children’s play area, a communal fire pit and game room. Bonus: Coney Island is a short hike away.$65 - $155, $5/pet/nightUS Highway 285, near milepost marker 221, Bailey; 303-838-5461
Conifer Community Park: Self-described as “wooden tents,” cabins provide walls, a roof, electricity and basic furniture. No frills. Bring cooking gear and bedding and be prepared to enjoy the natural surroundings of 450 acres of open space, miles of trails and recreational activities. $40 plus $20 cleaning fee for first 2, $8/additional person, $5/pet11369 S. Foxton Road, Conifer; 303-838-3705
Hideout Cabins: You have three fully furnished cabin options at Hideout Cabins, near Allenspark. The Honeymoon Hideout is tucked into the timbers, the two bedroom/two bath River Hideout is on the bank of the Middle St. Vrain River, and the three-bedroom/two-bath Aspen Hideout is near Willow Creek. The two larger cabins have hot tubs and all three include flat-screens. Two-night minimum with occasional exceptions; pets allowed.$150 - $260/night (high season rates)Office - 7684 Nikau Drive, Niwot; 303-652-6114
Bear Creek Cabins: Located in four log duplexes, these one-room, 350-square-foot cabins are 20 feet from the river with bedding, kitchen gear and coffee supplied. Anglers can enjoy 200 yards of private fishing stream on the property. All cabins are non-smoking. $125 - $165/night (Summer rates)27400 Highway 74, Evergreen; 303-674-3442
Elk Creek Campground: If you’re looking to stay at a campground and bring all your camping gear – but with a solid roof over your head at the end of the night – Elk Creek Campground near Glenwood Springs offers 14 onsite camper cabins. Options range from one-bedroom/one bath, which sleeps four, to two-bedroom, one-bath, which has a fridge and microwave, and sleeps six. You can also opt for the one-bedroom/no bath, although you’re welcome to use the community facilities. All cabins have a picnic table and fire pit in front; laundry facilities are on site.$50 - $70/night, no extra charge for pets581 County Road, 241; 970-984-2240