Cabin camping near Cave Creek, Arizona provides a reprieve from desert heat with elevations ranging from 2,000 to 3,000 feet in the foothills of the Bradshaw Mountains. Winter temperatures drop to the 30s at night while summer days can exceed 100°F. Most cabins have limited availability from November through March when seasonal visitors increase occupancy rates by 70%.
What to do
Lake activities: 45-minute drive to Lake Pleasant from Cave Creek offers boating and fishing opportunities. At Pleasant Harbor RV Resort, visitors find various water recreation options. "There are several different RV/Camping options at Pleasant Harbor Marina / RV Resort... We keep a boat at Lake Pleasant and are part of the Arizona Yacht Club so we are up here all the time," notes Robert G.
Mountain hiking: 7 miles of trails available at Lost Dutchman State Park Campground with paths ranging from easy to difficult. "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," says Brad B.
Off-roading adventures: 90 minutes from Cave Creek to Crown King offers rugged terrain for off-road enthusiasts. "Gorgeous easy dirt road ~27 miles from i17/Bumble bee. There's also a much more difficult trail from lake pleasant that requires very experienced off-roading 4x4," explains Caitlin S.
What campers like
Clean facilities: Most cabin sites maintain high cleanliness standards with daily maintenance. At Mesa-Apache Junction KOA, "Bathrooms and campsite are clean, pool and spa are nice," according to Blair A. Another visitor mentions, "This was my first KOA experience, and it was such a delight."
Water recreation options: Some cabin locations offer swimming pools as alternatives to lake swimming. "Large clean spots. All spots are fenced descent pool and small store if you need anything. Marina for boat rentals with a shuttle to take you back and forth," shares Bryan S. about Pleasant Harbor.
Mountain views: Cabins positioned for optimal scenery are most requested. "Beautiful setting with spacious sites and great views of the Superstition Mountains and night lights of Phoenix. Carefully review the site you select to be sure it will accommodate your rig," advises Terri D.
What you should know
Advance planning required: For cabin stays from November-March, booking 3-6 months ahead is essential. "Suggest you make reservations well ahead for busy winter months!" notes Debbie W. at Lost Dutchman State Park.
Variable amenities: Cabin amenities differ significantly between properties. "This KOA features a year round heated pool and jacuzzi. The pool area was fenced and had some chairs, tables, and what appeared to be covered grills," explains Krista Z.
Cell service quality: Cell reception varies by location. At Happy Endings Retreat, the remote canyon location affects connectivity. "Located in a valley of the Bradshaw mountains just about and hour and a half from Phoenix, this is an awesome getaway- away from it all," shares Paul Z.
Access challenges: Some cabin locations require specific vehicles. "It's a rocky dirt road to get here, but my class C rv easily made it- and I've taken it in worse roads," Paul Z. continues about Happy Endings Retreat.
Tips for camping with families
Age restrictions: Some properties limit or prohibit children. "This 55+ community is very well organized," mentions Melissa S. about Mesa Spirit RV Resort, which caters primarily to seniors. Verify age policies before booking.
Pool access: For families with children, swimming facilities provide entertainment during hot months. "There were spots everywhere. The only bad thing I could say, the park wifi really sucked," shares Diane about Mesa Spirit, noting facilities were otherwise family-friendly.
Park amenities: Some cabin locations connect to public parks. At Mesa Gardens RV Park, "RV park backs up to a park with a coded gate so easy access to playground/big grass area for dogs," explains Jules S., providing additional recreation space.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: Some parks offer varying cabin and site types. "There are several different RV/Camping options... 1) In the resort with Full Hookups 2) Out on the 'flat' with just water and power (dump station on site) 3) Out on the 'flat' with no hookups," details Robert G.
Maneuvering space: Narrow roads can complicate arrivals. "The site I was on wasnt easy at all to get into with my 29ft trailer. After multiple attempts of trying to be on the gravel behind the concrete pad like others I stay partially on the concrete pad," reports Talia R.
Hidden fees: Budget for additional charges at some properties. "If you book less than a 30day stay you pay a fee of $4. And the electric charge that is listed for Monthly stays is charged for a few nights as well," continues Talia about Mesa Gardens.
