Cabin camping near Prescott, Arizona provides a balance between wilderness immersion and creature comforts. Located at elevations ranging from 5,000 to 7,000 feet, the area experiences cooler temperatures than lower Arizona regions, with summer highs averaging 85°F and winter temperatures frequently dipping below freezing. Cabin options range from rustic forest retreats to properties with modern amenities situated along scenic waterways.
What to do
Water activities at Dead Horse Ranch State Park: This state park offers fishing, paddling, and swimming opportunities in its well-maintained lakes and river access points. The park has trails leading to a "little lagoon of water stopped between two dams" where children can splash and play. According to Ashley C., "There are about eight small cabins... This park offers a much needed break from the Arizona heat in the spring and summer months. The 'lakes' are really more like ponds but plenty large enough to fish in as is the Verde River."
Mini golf and recreation at Verde River RV Resort: The resort features family-friendly activities including a well-designed mini golf course, swimming pool, hot tub, and organized events. Visitors can also explore the Verde River from the property. Christina R. notes, "There was so much to do from mini golf, painting classes, live music, dinners, karaoke, and free breakfast 3 days a week, hot tub and heated pool... At the back you have the River you can walk around and you are surrounded with mountain views."
Wineries near Lo Lo Mai Springs Resort: Several wineries operate within a short drive of the resort, offering tastings in scenic settings. Jordan H. shares, "Just 15 minutes away from Sedona and Cottonwood, about 30 minutes away from Jerome! There's 2 Vineyards down the road that we enjoyed... DA Ranch was absolutely beautiful and our favorite."
What campers like
Heated pool and hot tub at Verde River RV Resort & Cottages: Guests appreciate the resort's aquatic amenities, particularly during cooler months. The resort also offers spacious sites and cabin accommodation options. According to one visitor, "They have a great heated pool and hot tub. The staff is very friendly and there are activities every weekend. Within a 30 minute of Sedona which had some of the most awesome hikes ever!"
Creek access at Lo Lo Mai Springs Resort: The property features direct creek access where guests can swim, fish, or simply enjoy the water. One camper describes, "Lo Lo Mai Springs is one of our new favorite campgrounds! There's a hot tub and swimming pool, a creek to swim and fish in, nice bathrooms and showers, a dishwashing station. They have full hookups, tent spots, and cabins."
Quiet spaces for groups at Emmanuel Pines Camp: Groups seeking a more secluded setting with basic accommodations appreciate this campground. A reviewer states, "My church took my youth group from my church to this campground plenty of times, and it is a great place to hold groups from 5-30. Multiple cabins, various sizes."
What you should know
Seasonal insect concerns: Some waterfront cabin locations may experience seasonal insect activity, particularly during warmer months. Campers should prepare with appropriate repellent and protective measures. One visitor to Lo Lo Mai Springs reported, "The site we had also had a million ant holes but we just avoided those. For the price they expect you to pay for this campground I'd have thought they would take guest concerns on this more seriously."
Variable shade coverage at Rio Verde RV Park: The park has limited tree coverage in some areas, which affects temperature comfort during summer months. Michael C. notes, "The amenities of the park are very good. Full hookups, laundry, WiFi and ice available. The down side is, the trees are few and so is the shade. We were here in November, but I could see this place getting HOT in August."
Road conditions to remote cabins: Access to some of the more remote cabin areas requires high-clearance vehicles and sometimes 4WD capability. A visitor to Crown King Area shares, "This majestic spot is roughly ~26 miles of bumpy dirt roads, steep terrain, switchbacks, and the occasional one vehicle bridge. The main city of Crown King has a general store with essentials and a 1 pump fuel station. Prices are steep so best advised to fill up on gas and supplies before heading up."
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly recreation at Dead Horse Ranch: The state park offers accessible activities for children of various ages. According to Audrey R., "They've recently improved the playground for young ones and offer horseback riding as well. Facilities are always clean. If you're tired of camping food, drive down the road to Cottonwood."
Family activities at Thousand Trails Verde Valley: The resort provides organized activities specifically designed for families with children. Michael M. shares, "All staff wore masks. They had precautions in place... and people would also keep their social distance. Outside of the camp... Cottonwood had some areas where people would not wear masks and there was a major fall festival in Prescott that we drove by."
Year-round swimming options: Multiple cabin locations offer heated pools, allowing for water recreation even during cooler months. A visitor to Verde River RV Resort notes, "We love this campground! We have camped here around 5 times and always had a great stay. They have a pool and hot tub, mini golf, playground, pickle ball court, clubhouse, and lots of crafts and activities for the kids!"
Tips from RVers
Convenience dining at 50s Diner Backseat Bar & Motel RV Park: The onsite restaurant offers affordable meal options that can reduce the need to cook during cabin stays. According to Marvin L., "Backseat bar is a great place to have a few cocktails. The restaurant serves up good food at a reasonable price. RV park seems to stay full, soooo something is going good there."
Site selection for privacy: When booking at larger resorts with cabin options, request sites with more space or natural barriers. A camper at Verde River RV Resort shares, "We had an end/corner spot, which felt very spacious. The landscaping was nice with grass between units and trees in some areas. Felt more like a park than packed in parking lot feel of others."
Highway noise considerations: Some properties are located near major roadways, which can affect the outdoor experience. A reviewer of Rio Verde RV Park mentions, "Helpful staff, clean rest rooms and laundry. Our site was near the river with full hook ups. Down side: on state highway, some noise. We don't tow a car so we use bikes and walking. Both seemed dicey with cars moving fast close by."
