Camping cabins near Glendale, Arizona offer accommodations in a desert environment with temperatures averaging 105°F in summer and 45°F in winter. The nearby Bradshaw Mountains provide elevation changes from 1,000 to 3,000 feet above sea level. Cabin rental options exist within 30-60 minutes of Glendale, with varying levels of amenities depending on the property and season.
What to do
Water recreation at Lake Pleasant: Just 30 minutes north of Glendale, Pleasant Harbor RV Resort provides cabin stays with easy lake access. "We have stayed here a couple of times. Make sure to book a spot up on cliff overlooking the water. Great sunsets. Free shuttle to haul kayak to boat ramp," notes Margaret T. at Pleasant Harbor RV Resort.
Desert hiking trails: Cabin accommodations near the Superstition Mountains provide access to numerous hiking paths of varying difficulty. A visitor reports, "Nestled right at the base of the Superstition Mountains - this is a great location that is close to excellent hiking and riding. Also close to a unique drive out to Canyon Lake!" The trails are most comfortable during morning hours in summer months.
Swimming pools: Most cabin properties maintain year-round swimming facilities for guests. At Mesa-Apache Junction KOA, a visitor found "The pool area was fenced and had some chairs, tables, and what appeared to be covered grills. The pool is right outside the office building which also has bathrooms and a small convenience store."
What campers like
Desert fruit trees: The landscaping at some properties includes edible additions. At Destiny Phoenix RV Resorts, guests enjoy "Near I-10. Close together spots but orange, lemon, and grapefruit trees everywhere. They have 2 fenced dog runs. Pretty pool and hot tub. People are very friendly and helpful."
Proximity to supplies: Most cabin sites maintain convenience stores or are located near shopping. "If they don't have what you are looking for there is a major grocery store about 2 miles away. This KOA is in town. Don't come here if you're looking for a remote destination," reports one KOA visitor.
Cabin affordability: Weekly rates at several properties offer significant discounts over nightly stays. "Reserved 7 days at Lake Pleasant RV to get familiar with my new camper. Chose the dry site 'Vista Point' and at first was a little weary but was pleasantly surprised how many others were doing the same. The views from my spot were pretty epic," mentions Justin M. at Pleasant Harbor RV Resort.
What you should know
Temperature fluctuations: Desert nights can drop 30-40 degrees from daytime highs, requiring appropriate clothing and bedding. A camper notes, "The spaces have very little shade if any! Be very aware of the weather when you visit. It'll be hot during the day and very cold at night depending on the time of year."
Seasonal crowds: Winter months (November-March) bring significantly more visitors to cabin properties. "You can almost always get at least a boondocking spot without a reservation. They also have large events here as well so check their calendar for the weekend you are wanting to go!" advises Robert G.
Water availability: At some properties, cabins have limited water access. "Sites are rustic, they've water and electricity, no sewer. There's a dump station as you leave the park. No store, be sure you're well stocked with everything before you head out," reports Ted S.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several properties provide children's play areas near cabin sites. At Lost Dutchman State Park Campground, a visitor shared that the "Campground was great! Clean and nice bathrooms with showers, nice places to park. Gorgeous views of the mountains. The only complaint is that it's a little crowded, but not enough to ruin our experience."
Educational opportunities: The Superstition Mountain area offers learning experiences about desert ecology and mining history. "Perfect for just getting away for the weekend. Only a 45 minute drive from the house, yet far enough that you still feel like you got away. Lots of good hiking, Ghost Town, good views. Worth every second," reports Chad E.
Wildlife viewing: Children can observe desert animals safely at dawn and dusk. "Beautiful sunset, amazing view of moon rising over mountains. Heard some coyotes in the night, which was exciting. Enjoyed hiking the trails and exploring the landscape," mentions Rebecca G.
Tips from RVers
Cabin alternatives: Some RV parks offer cabin options when traveling without an RV. At Leaf Verde RV Resort, "Easy to get to from the 10 freeway, good sized RV park w decent sized sites, park is kept clean, pool, Pickleball courts, cornhole area, dog park, huge laundry room, and the people are nice."
Site selection: Request sites away from entrance roads for quieter stays. Bryan S. experienced "Large clean spots. All spots are fenced descent pool and small store if you need anything. We stayed in the loop near the entrance. Quite loud with all the cars coming and going."
Flexible stays: Some properties allow overnight accommodations without reservations. "We stayed here for two nights while visiting family and friends in the area. Gave us a chance to refill water and propane, take some long hot showers and generally recharge before heading back out on the road," shares Teresa A.
