Duncan Cabin
Closed for winter. The cabin opens May 22, 2026 and operates through November 18, 2026. Reservations via Recreation.gov up to 6 months in advance. Contact Saguache Ranger District at (719) 655-2547 prior to arrival for current fire and road closure information.
Wheeled Vehicles in Wilderness
This order describes the prohibition of wheeled vehicles in all National Forest Wilderness Areas of the Rocky Mountain Region and any exceptions thereof.
Weed Free Forage Products
The purpose of this Order is to prevent the introduction or spread of noxious weeds.
Cave Closure and Restrictions
The purpose of this Order is to reduce the spread of the fungus that causes White nose syndrome and to protect bat species during critical biological periods.
About
Duncan Cabin is a historic one-room cabin dating to the 1880s, situated at 8,120 feet elevation in the Rio Grande National Forest southeast of Crestone, Colorado. The cabin sits on a west-facing slope overlooking the San Luis Valley, surrounded by pinon, juniper, and rabbitbrush vegetation with larger conifers nearby. Access requires a 4-mile hike, bike, or horseback ride from Liberty Gate; no motorized or e-bike access is permitted. The cabin sleeps up to 6 people with two bunk beds (single top bunk, fold-out futon bottom) and includes a wood stove, table and chairs, and basic cooking utensils. Outside amenities include a vault toilet, picnic table, fire pit, and a corral for horses. There is no electricity or potable water on-site. The nearest water source is Pole Creek, approximately 1,500 feet from the cabin. The area offers excellent opportunities for horseback riding, hunting, hiking, and stargazing near the Great Sand Dunes National Park, which is designated an International Dark Sky Park. Large herds of elk, pronghorn, and mule deer inhabit the surrounding area.
Directions
From Moffat, CO on State Highway 17, turn toward Crestone on County Road T for 12 miles. Before reaching Crestone, turn right at Camino Baca Grande Road for 2 miles. Turn right at Camino Real Road (look for small brown 'Liberty Road' sign). Follow Camino Real for 3.4 miles, then turn left at Camino Del Ray. Continue 2.5 miles to the top of the hill and turn right at Camino Baca Grande at the brown 'Liberty' sign. Pavement ends; continue on the rough road 5 miles to Liberty Gate on Forest Road 952. From Liberty Gate, it is 4 miles on foot, bicycle, or horseback to the cabin (note stream crossing 2 miles from the gate).
Location
Amenities
| Water | No |
| Fires Allowed | Yes |
| Toilets | Yes |
| Dump Station | No |
| Wifi | No |
| Pets Allowed | Yes |
| Showers | No |
| Electric Hookups | — |
| Water Hookups | — |
| Sewer Hookups | — |
| Camp Store | No |
| Price | $40 |
Vehicle
| Max RV Length | — |
| Max Trailer Length | — |
| Big Rig Friendly | No |
| Pull Through Sites | No |
Contact
| mailroom_r2_rio_grande@usda.gov | |
| Phone | +1 (719) 655-2547 |
Cell Service
| AT&T | None |
| Verizon | Yes |
| T-Mobile | None |
Useful Links
| View on Recreation.gov | |
| USFS Rio Grande NF - Duncan Cabin |
Availability
Photos
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