Cabin options near McNary, Arizona provide rustic and modern accommodations at elevations between 8,000-9,000 feet. The White Mountains region features numerous cabin rentals at Big Lake, Hawley Lake, and within surrounding pine forest areas. Most cabins are available for rent from May through October, though some locations close earlier depending on weather conditions.
What to do
Fishing for Apache trout: At Hawley Lake Apache Indian Res, visitors can fish for native species with proper permits. "Some campsites were just recently upgraded with metal picnic tables. Fishing was on point this Labor Day holiday," notes reviewer Liza C. The lake supports various trout species with boat rentals available.
Hiking to petroglyphs: Near Lyman Lake State Park Campground, visitors can explore ancient rock art. "Well maintained trail system that offers amazing views of the sandstone rock formations and petroglyphs. There is a rock squeeze in the trail too," explains Jessica S. Trails range from easy quarter-mile walks to more challenging routes.
Wildlife viewing: At Rainbow (AZ) campground, wildlife encounters are common. "Quiet, beautiful, and clean. We even had visits from deer, a very bold skunk, chipmunks, squirrels, and blue jays," reports Renee H. Early morning and dusk offer the best wildlife viewing opportunities.
What campers like
High elevation relief: The McNary area cabins sit at approximately 9,000 feet elevation, providing cool summer temperatures. According to one camper at Big Lake Campground, "The elevation is 9000 ft. So it will affect your breathing somewhat however it will also take your breathe away from the beauty." Summer daytime temperatures typically range from 65-80°F.
Stargazing opportunities: The remote location offers minimal light pollution for night sky viewing. At Lyman Lake State Park Campground, visitors appreciate the "Nice viewing of stars at night." The best viewing occurs between 10pm-2am, with summer meteor showers visible from July through August.
Private, wooded sites: The campgrounds feature well-spaced cabin options with natural screening. A visitor to Rainbow campground noted, "The sites have plenty of space, shade, and privacy." Many cabins feature covered porches with views of surrounding pine forests or lake access.
What you should know
Weather considerations: Mountain weather can change rapidly, especially during monsoon season. "We camped here in March 2017. It was a good price for hookups, plus you're only feet away from the water. Weather was nice, but super windy," explains a visitor to Lyman Lake. Afternoon thunderstorms are common from July through September.
Permit requirements: Most cabins and glamping facilities near McNary require specific permits for activities. At Brook Char Campground, campers must follow strict regulations: "bears frequent the area so you must lock up all food and trash in your car overnight." Fishing permits must be purchased separately from camping permits.
Limited services: Many cabin areas have minimal services during certain seasons. "The little shop is closed, not covid related, looks as though it's been boarded up and closed for a while. Make sure you get the correct passes for camping and fishing permits since you're on the reservation," advises a visitor to Reservation Lake Apache Indian Reservation.
Tips for camping with families
Cabin amenities: For families visiting glamping facilities near McNary, amenities vary significantly between sites. "We tent camped and it was freezing cold, poured rain. We had huge sleeping bags and a little propane heater, and still really enjoyed it," notes a Rainbow campground visitor. Most cabins offer basic bedding but require guests to bring additional blankets.
Kid-friendly activities: Families should plan activities appropriate for various weather conditions. At Timber Camp Recreation Area, "We reserved this spot for a large family gathering and it served our needs perfectly. The spot is in a great patch of Ponderosa Pines... and still have space for wiffle ball!" Many locations offer junior ranger programs during peak season.
Safety considerations: Families should prepare for wildlife encounters and changing conditions. "Be aware that I did experience some free range cattle snooping through the camp at 2am which was a bit unexpected. Also, being in the mountains, it was pretty cold at night," warns a Hawley Lake camper. Most cabins require families to bring their own drinking water.
Tips from RVers
Road conditions: Access roads to many glamping sites near McNary require preparation. At Reservation Lake, one camper notes "The dirt washboard road getting in (45 mins) was enough for me to not love this place. But, once you're there it really is a beautiful place." Many access roads become impassable after heavy rain.
Site selection: RV campers should carefully research site specifications before booking. "Sites are well maintained and level. Vault toilets were clean. Each site has a steel fire ring and grate as well as a nice metal picnic table," reports a visitor to Timber Camp Recreation Area. Most developed glamping areas can accommodate RVs up to 30 feet long.
Cell service limitations: Connectivity varies significantly throughout the region. "The entire campground had zero reservations for that evening besides us," notes a Brook Char camper who couldn't make online reservation changes because "THERE IS NO CELL COVERAGE at this campground." Verizon typically offers the best service in the McNary area.
