Cabin camping options near Payson, Arizona range from rustic to semi-luxurious accommodations at elevations between 5,000 and 7,000 feet. The Mogollon Rim area maintains temperatures approximately 20 degrees cooler than Phoenix during summer months, making these cabin rentals popular from May through September. Winter accessibility varies by location with some properties closing due to snow conditions.
What to do
Hiking to view points: Canyon Point Campground offers the Sinkhole Trail, an easy 1.5-mile round-trip hike with good tree coverage. "We decided to brave the Sinkhole Trail while we were there. It was very easy and only about ¾ of a mile each way with great tree coverage," notes one visitor at Canyon Point Campground.
Fishing at nearby lakes: Rental cabins at Mogollon Campground provide access to multiple fishing spots. "We found a perfect site right by the trail and were able to sleep under the stars in hammocks and even on just the ground without a tent," explains one camper who enjoyed the nearby waters. Another mentions that "Woods Canyon Lake is just a short drive away to enjoy hiking and you are within walking distance to the Rim."
Stargazing opportunities: Cabin campers report exceptional night sky viewing. "You can see so many stars at night, it's wonderful," says a visitor about their camping experience at Mogollon Campground. The higher elevation and minimal light pollution create prime conditions for astronomy enthusiasts.
What campers like
Clean, well-maintained facilities: Cabin rentals at Page Springs Resort receive high marks for cleanliness. "Clean bathrooms, spacious area to tent camp and friendly staff," mentions one visitor. The resort's proximity to Oak Creek also earns praise as another camper notes, "We had a spot next to the creek and it was definitely worth it."
Natural water features: Many campers highlight the water access near cabin accommodations. "Our site was right on the creek so we fell asleep to the sound of the creek flowing over the rocks," writes a visitor to Page Springs Resort. Another adds, "We went for walks around the area and even walked down the middle of the creek. (Definitely need good water shoes for that.)"
Cool temperatures in summer: The elevation at Rock Crossing Campground provides natural air conditioning. "Awesome high elevation! Very cool for AZ summers! For the distance it is away from Phoenix you can beat it! 2hrs drive time!" shares a satisfied visitor. The temperature difference makes cabins near Payson a popular escape during hot months.
What you should know
Reservation timing recommendations: Most cabin rentals require advance booking, especially during peak periods. At Zane Grey RV Village, campers recommend early reservations. "If you want a shady site in a cooler location, this is it. The temperature was consistently 5 degrees below the towns of Camp Verde and Cottonwood," notes one visitor explaining why the location fills quickly.
Seasonal insect considerations: Some camping cabins experience seasonal insect activity. "The only negative were the bees... they were crazy!" reports a camper at Rock Crossing Campground. Bringing insect repellent is advisable, particularly during warmer months.
Cell service limitations: Many cabin locations have limited connectivity. A camper at Page Springs Resort shares, "At&t service doesn't work down there but they have WiFi available for a fee. Even with the lack of cell service, I highly recommend this location!" Some properties offer paid wifi options as an alternative.
Tips for camping with families
Look for cabin sites with playground access: Families with children should consider Verde River RV Resort & Cottages for their cabin accommodations. "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!" says one repeat visitor.
Consider creek-adjacent cabins: Water features provide natural entertainment for children. One camper at Verde River RV Resort reports, "Amazing pool and club house area. Staff is very nice and seem to enjoy their job. Spaces are spacious but not all are shaded. Right next to the river."
Check for scheduled activities: Some cabin locations offer organized programs for children. "There is a hot tub and swimming pool, a creek to swim and fish in, nice bathrooms and showers, a dishwashing station," explains a visitor about amenities that make family stays easier.
Tips from RVers
Utility connections vary significantly: Cabins at Zane Grey RV Village provide more comprehensive hookups than other locations. "They have RV sites that can accommodate big rigs with full hookups and also a tent camping area. We stayed in the full hookups up area and we had a lot of space between our RV and the one next to us," explains a visitor who appreciated the utility options.
Width restrictions on some forest roads: Large rigs should verify access routes before booking cabins. Some roads leading to rental cabins have tight turns and width limitations. "Just a 1/2 mile on dirt road so that's nice but the walk in spots for this campsite are SMALL and VERY tight/close together," warns one visitor about access conditions.
Dump station availability: For RVers using cabin facilities as a base, note that "Very clean rv park with well spaced campsites... there is a dumpsite and water, and some of the sites have electric," according to a visitor at Happy Jack Lodge & RV Park, one of the cabin rental options near Payson.
