Platoro Cabin 2
2.4813 reviewsConejos Peak Ranger District, 15571 County Road T.5, La Jara, CO, 81140, USA
Platoro Cabin 2
$75.00 - $75.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$0.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
The cabin rental fee is $75 per night during the peak season (June 1, 2025 - September 20, 2025). Rates do not include discounts, taxes, or incremental charges.
About this campground
Step back in time at Platoro Cabin 2, where the rugged spirit of Colorado's high country meets modern comfort. Perched at a breathtaking 10,000 feet in the heart of the San Juan Mountains, this authentic 1963 Forest Service cabin invites you to experience the raw beauty of downtown Platoro. Once home to hardworking forest crews who protected these wild lands, the cabin now opens its doors to adventurers seeking an authentic mountain escape where the air is thin, the stars are bright, and the wilderness beckons just beyond your doorstep.
Lodging at Platoro Cabin 2 is limited to cabin accommodations. Other types of camping, such as tent or RV camping, are not available at this specific site.
Historical SignificanceThe echoes of pickaxes and prospectors' dreams still resonate through these mountains. Platoro burst to life in the late 1800s when gold and silver fever gripped the San Juans, transforming this remote valley into a bustling boomtown. Just a short journey away lies Summitville, now a haunting ghost town that tells the story of Colorado's mining legacy. Active until the 1990s, these abandoned structures and forgotten mine shafts offer fascinating glimpses into the determined souls who once carved fortunes from these unforgiving peaks.
Weather and SeasonsMountain weather here dances to its own rhythm, painting each season with dramatic brushstrokes. Summer nights wrap you in cool mountain air while afternoon thunderstorms roll across the peaks, nature's own symphony echoing through the valleys. As autumn arrives, frost kisses the landscape, and winter transforms this high-altitude haven into a snow-globe wonderland. Spring emerges slowly at 10,000 feet, with freezing temperatures lingering well into the season. The cabin's remote location means winter access can be challenging, making each visit feel like a true expedition into Colorado's backcountry.
ElevationAt 10,000 feet above sea level, you're entering the realm where eagles soar and the atmosphere grows thin. This lofty perch offers spectacular rewards—crisp, pure air and views that stretch forever—but demands respect. The altitude here is no small matter; visitors often find themselves catching their breath more than usual as their bodies adjust to having 30% less oxygen than at sea level. Take it slow, stay hydrated, and let the mountain pace guide your adventures.
Natural Features and SceneryThe San Juan Mountains reveal their ancient volcanic past in every weathered cliff face and sculpted ridge line surrounding Platoro Cabin 2. This pristine wilderness showcases nature's artistry through dense forests of pine and spruce that climb toward the treeline, where hardy alpine tundra takes over. Dramatic peaks pierce the sky while tree-covered slopes plunge into hidden valleys. Each viewpoint offers a new perspective on this untamed landscape, where volcanic forces once shaped the earth and erosion continues to carve new chapters in stone.
Geological RegionWelcome to the geological wonderland of the San Juan Mountains, where fire and ice have sculpted one of Colorado's most spectacular landscapes. This volcanic playground in southern Colorado tells a story millions of years in the making, written in layers of ash and lava now transformed into the dramatic peaks surrounding Platoro. Heavy winter snows feed the headwaters of countless streams, while the landscape transitions from dense lodgepole pine forests through spruce and fir zones before surrendering to the windswept alpine tundra above. It's a living textbook of mountain ecology, where each elevation zone supports its own unique community of plants and wildlife.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThe cabin includes entry ramps and wheelchair-accessible facilities in the kitchen and bathroom. User reviews do not elaborate on these features.
Sites SizeThe cabin accommodates up to six people, with bunk beds featuring twin beds on top and pull-out full beds on the bottom.
Sites PrivacyThe cabin is in a quiet area but lacks shaded outdoor seating and porch facilities, limiting privacy and outdoor relaxation options.
Total Campsites1 campsites
Recommended CampsitesVisitors should bring additional seating for outdoor use and a secondary light source.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Check-in starts at 14:00 (2 PM)
Check-out
Check-out is required by 11:00 (11 AM)
Stay Limit
- Maximum 3 nights during a visit
- maximum 14 nights within rolling 30 days.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Up to 6 guests
Tents
Tents are not allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Open and Closed SeasonOpen June 1, 2025 - September 20, 2025 during the peak season.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made exclusively on Recreation.gov.
Walk-in AvailabilityNot available; reservations are required.
Cancellation Policy$10 cancellation fee applies for reservations canceled prior to arrival. Late cancellations (within 14 days of stay) result in forfeiture of the first night's cabin fee and the cancellation fee. No refund is provided for cancellations on the day of check-in or no-shows.
Accomodation available
Cabin lodgingCabin lodging is available for campers seeking a more sheltered and comfortable experience. These enclosed accommodations offer protection from the elements and are ideal for those who prefer not to camp in tents.
Amenities available
Showers
Picnic tables
Lodging and accommodations
Flush toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Platoro Cabin 2 offers a wide range of year-round recreational activities, including hiking, fishing, hunting, and winter activities such as snowmobiling, skiing, and snowshoeing. Summer activities also include scenic driving tours and horseback riding.
Hiking
The area offers extensive hiking trails spanning the Rio Grande and San Juan National Forests, as well as the South San Juan Wilderness. User reviews praise the accessible trails and natural beauty surrounding the cabin.Fishing
Fishing opportunities include Iron Creek, Treasure Creek, and the nearby Platoro Reservoir, which provides excellent fishing for kokanee salmon, rainbow trout, and brown trout. However, user reviews note that fishing spots require a drive from the cabin.Wildlife viewing
The cabin offers limited wildlife viewing directly from its vicinity. Guests might need to explore surrounding areas for better wildlife viewing opportunities.Winter Activities
Popular winter activities in the area include snowmobiling, skiing, and snowshoeing.Water Sports
The nearby Platoro Reservoir provides opportunities for fishing, but no additional water sports like kayaking or paddleboarding are noted.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Outdoor campfires are prohibited. Indoor use of the propane stove is permitted.
Hazards
General hazardsAltitude sickness is a potential risk at 10,000 feet. Bears frequent the area, requiring strict food storage protocols.
Weather forecast
58
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 65%
Moderately humid conditions
Wind: 4.7 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Overcast
7-Day Forecast
Access to 7-day forecasts tailored to each campground—covering temperature, precipitation, wind, and sky conditions.
Daily & Hourly Insights
View hourly forecasts with expected weather patterns throughout the day.
Temperature Trends
Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.
Precipitation Trends
Plan around rain or snow with monthly visualizations of expected precipitation patterns.
Weather Summaries
Assess conditions with visuals for easier decision-making on when and where to camp.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
Conejos Peak Ranger District Office in La Jara, CO; 15571 County Road T.5, La Jara, CO 81140
Good to know
Peak season datesJune 1, 2025 - September 20, 2025
Trash and recyclingGuests must pack out all garbage and food due to the presence of bears in the area. Trash and recycling facilities are not provided on-site.
Proximity to water featuresThe cabin is not directly near the Conejos River or Platoro Reservoir, but both are accessible by car for fishing and recreation.
Common complaintsReviews mention difficulties in retrieving the access code on weekends, lack of shaded outdoor seating, and limited mountain views.
HostHosts are described as friendly and accommodating, as noted by multiple user reviews.
Campground Map
Conejos Peak Ranger District, 15571 County Road T.5, La Jara, CO, 81140, USA
Driving directionsFrom Antonito, CO, follow Highway 17 west to its junction with FSR 250. Follow FSR 250 northwest up the Conejos Canyon about 22 miles to Platoro. Turn left on FSR 250.6A and follow it 0.2 miles to the cabin. From South Fork, take Highway 160 southwest for 7.5 miles, then turn left onto Park Creek Road (FSR 380) and continue for 27 miles. Turn right across the Alamosa River, follow National Forest Road 250 over Stunner Pass, and into Platoro. Cross the Conejos River using the lower bridge (FSR 250.6A) and continue 0.2 miles to the cabin.
The roads to the cabin include highway and forest service roads, with some stretches being unpaved and subject to seasonal closures due to snow. The drive in on FSR 250 may be daunting for first-time visitors due to winding roads and elevation changes.Nearby places
Antonito, CO - 22 miles (approximately 45 minutes)
South Fork, CO - 34.5 miles (approximately 1 hour)
Nearby supplies
Platoro town offers amenities such as a grocery store, rental cabins, a lodge, outfitter-guide services, and horseback rides.
Camper Reviews
2.5
13 reviews
Platoro Cabin 2 has mixed reviews, placing it in the bottom 85% of campgrounds based on reviews
Users generally express high satisfaction with Platoro Cabin 2, praising its coziness, cleanliness, and friendly hosts. Some concerns include limited outdoor facilities and issues with water pumps or cabin access codes.
Review Summaries
Based on 13 reviews
What Campers Love
Positive aspects include the cabin's coziness, cleanliness, and welcoming hosts. Guests also appreciate the scenic beauty of the surrounding area and the variety of recreational activities.
Based on 13 reviewsCommon Concerns
Complaints include limited outdoor sitting areas, challenges with accessing the cabin's lock code during weekends, and water pump malfunctions.
Based on 13 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Guests recommend bringing extra water to avoid altitude sickness and being prepared for cool nights at high elevations. Plan ahead for fishing trips, as spots require driving.
Based on 13 reviewsSeasonal Insights
User experiences vary by season, with summer offering ideal conditions for hiking and fishing, while fall is popular for big game hunting. Winter activities like snowmobiling and skiing are...
Based on 13 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
"Cabins are cozy, comfortable, and well maintained." - Chet Decker. "The country around the area is beautiful - it's over 10,000 feet so it was cool at nights." - Brian Chisholm. "The cabin was very...
Based on 13 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
One user reported issues with the water pump in campsite #2, Loop Platoro Cabin 2. Another mentioned challenges in obtaining the access code during weekends.
Based on 13 reviewsAccessibility Features
Accessibility features including ramps and wheelchair-friendly facilities are noted, but user reviews don't extensively discuss these features.
Based on 13 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are prohibited at this facility, and no pet-related reviews are available.
Based on 13 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025