Cabin accommodations near Blue, Arizona offer travelers year-round shelter in the White Mountains at elevations ranging from 7,500 to 9,000 feet. Summer temperatures typically remain 20-30 degrees cooler than Phoenix, while winter brings significant snowfall from November through March. Most cabin properties require advance reservations due to limited availability during peak seasons, particularly during summer fishing and fall hunting seasons.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: The lakes near Hawley Lake Apache Indian Reservation provide excellent fishing conditions during summer months. One visitor noted, "We camped here when we had a permit to fish at nearby Christmas Tree Lake. Christmas Tree Lake is a beautiful little lake nestled in the White Mountains of Arizona on Apache land. It boasts some amazing fishing for the native trout species- the Apache trout."
Wildlife viewing: Morning and evening hours are prime times for wildlife spotting around Alpine's cabin areas. A camper at Coronado Trail RV Park observed, "The elk herds out number the cattle– a morning and evening spectacle!" Bring binoculars for optimal viewing, and maintain distance from all wildlife.
Kayaking and boating: Many cabins provide lake access with boat rental options available. A camper mentioned about Hawley Lake, "The lake is very large and very beautiful. Most of the shoreline is easily accessible for fishing or lounging lakeside... There is a little boathouse that offers boat rentals if you would like to venture out into the water." Note that swimming is prohibited in some reservation lakes.
What campers like
Cool mountain weather: The elevation provides natural air conditioning during summer months. A visitor to Brook Char Campground reported, "Over Memorial Day weekend, we saw highs close to 80 and lows in the high 30s/low 40s. Only sprinkled once!" Afternoon thunderstorms are common in July and August.
Spacious camping areas: Many cabin properties offer generous outdoor space. As one Brook Char visitor explained, "The tent-only campground is small, but the sites are large and have multiple great clearings for tents. Lots of shade and easy paths for walking around the grounds, plus there's potable water at several sites."
Convenient base camp: Cabins serve as excellent hubs for regional exploration. A Coronado Trail RV Park guest shared, "It is a great base camp to visit the area. There are plenty local attractions: lakes, rivers and streams, wilderness and national forests. Activities include: fishing, biking (wish I brought my mtn bike), hiking/walking and ATV trails."
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Most cabin facilities require advance booking, especially during peak seasons. At Griswold's Alpine Cabins, reservations can be made online or by phone, with deposits typically required during summer months.
Limited connectivity: Cell service varies widely throughout the region. A Brook Char camper noted, "The directions given on the site for how to find this campground were not very clear. We spent a lot of time double and triple checking where we were to make sure we were going the right way." Download offline maps before arrival.
Wildlife precautions: Proper food storage is essential. One camper at Brook Char advised, "Bears frequent the area so you must lock up all food and trash in your car over night." Similar precautions apply at most cabin locations throughout the White Mountains.
Tips for camping with families
Bring weather-appropriate clothing: Mountain temperatures fluctuate dramatically. A visitor to Hawley Lake recommended, "Be sure to bring rope to protect your campsite from wild horses and wandering cows." Pack layers even in summer, as nighttime temperatures regularly drop below 50°F.
Choose sites with amenities: Some cabins offer minimal facilities while others provide full services. A Brook Char camper suggested, "Central bathrooms with running water are kept very clean, plus there's trash service and a (very friendly) camp host if you need anything." Verify bathroom and shower access before booking.
Stock up on supplies: Limited shopping options exist near most cabin sites. As one visitor to Behr Art B&B noted, "Enjoy a soak in the hot tub, gaze at the starry night sky, and listen to the silence." Bring all essential supplies from larger towns like Show Low or Pinetop-Lakeside.
Tips from RVers
Age restrictions apply: Some properties cater specifically to older guests. Coronado Trail RV Park operates as an adult-oriented (55+) facility with specific quiet hours and regulations regarding visitors and activities.
Verify hookup availability: Cabins with RV parking offer varying levels of service. A camper reported about Coronado Trail, "This is a very nice, easy access CG with level back-in gravel sites." Call ahead to confirm electrical amperage, water pressure, and sewer connections if needed for your specific RV setup.
