Roper Lake State Park provides cabin accommodations 40 miles from Clifton, Arizona. Located in the Safford Valley at an elevation of 2,950 feet, the park experiences hot summers with temperatures reaching 100°F and mild winters with occasional freezing nights. Current visitors should note ongoing construction at the park affecting some facilities and accessibility.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Roper Lake features multiple fishing docks and a boat launch area for anglers seeking bass, catfish, and trout. "We visited in November, so temperatures ranged from the 80s during the day down to the 40s in the night. Waking up early to watch waterfowl on the lake at sunrise is going to be one of my most memorable camping experiences," notes a visitor at Gila Campground.
Mountain exploration: Mount Graham is located near the cabin sites, providing cooler temperatures and hiking opportunities during summer months. "Sunday I drove up Mt. Graham till the road turn to dirt and enjoyed the cold and quite," reports one camper from Roper Lake State Park.
Walking trails: The park contains numerous walking paths suitable for all skill levels. "Walking trails all over the place including one that leads up to the Mesa top. There's a beach, several docks for fishing and a boat ramp," according to a December visitor.
What campers like
Natural setting: The cabins provide views of the surrounding Mogollon Mountains and access to Whitewater Creek for nature enthusiasts. "Enjoy a soak in the hot tub, gaze at the starry night sky, and listen to the silence. Views of the Mogollon Mountain Range, and 300 yards from Whitewater Creek," describes a visitor at Behr Art B&B.
Clean facilities: The bathroom and shower facilities receive consistent praise for their maintenance. "The facilities are immaculately clean. I mean the cleanest campground restrooms I've ever seen," notes a visitor who stayed at Roper Lake.
Privacy options: Some cabin sites offer more seclusion than others, with varying levels of privacy between units. "The sites are large with plenty of screening for privacy. I would not stay in the hook up loops which are more typical Arizona State Park Campgrounds offering no privacy with sites usually crammed together," advises a camper who visited in December.
What you should know
Seasonal considerations: Winter visitors report a quieter experience compared to summer months when families are more prevalent. "Camped for a week over Christmas 2020 and really enjoyed the serenity in the non-hook up loop. Tables, fire rings and grills, and water all available. Site 46 is on the lake which hosts a variety of water fowl," shares a guest at Gila Campground.
Variable site quality: Not all cabin sites offer similar views or privacy levels. "My husband, myself and our 2 small dogs live in Tucson, AZ. If you're not careful you could end up with only a view of your neighbors," warns a visitor.
Facility closures: Recent visitors report maintenance issues affecting certain amenities. "Great sites. Great atmosphere. Only down was bathroom had no hot water and springs were down. But still had a great time," explains a camper who visited during renovation periods.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly activities: The park layout provides safe recreation areas for children. "Very nice campgrounds, close to the lake. Plenty of space between campsites. Kids were able to ride bikes on the numerous paths around the campgrounds and lake," notes a visitor at Cottonwood Campground.
Swimming access: A designated beach area provides controlled water access for families with children. "Very clean and well kept park, beach swimming area is very large and never felt crowded by people," reports a summer visitor.
Weekend crowds: School holidays and weekends bring significant increases in family visitors and noise levels. "They started to come in droves, Friday afternoon. Little kids on bicycles riding in the roads like crazy people and making so much noise, it was dangerous and annoying," cautions a midweek visitor who experienced the weekend transition.
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategy: RVers recommend researching specific site layouts before booking. "We are newer to RV camping but really liked this campground. Fairly busy, Easter weekend, but didn't seem like we were on top of each other," shares a visitor to Roper Lake State Park.
Dump station availability: Check current status of sanitation facilities before arrival. "Sadly, there is construction going on in the park right now. It is windy and cold. The sites are pretty private and there are nice picnic table covers. Unfortunately, the dump station is closed for a while," notes a recent visitor.
Hook-up options: Various electrical and water connection options exist between campground loops. "Pros: larger sites and further spaced out then your typical RV park. Several sites include a covered picnic table. All sites have water, a fire pit and a table," explains a visitor comparing the different camping areas.
