Cabins near Pine, Arizona offer temperature relief with elevations between 5,000-7,000 feet, typically 15-20 degrees cooler than Phoenix during summer months. The region sits along the Mogollon Rim, a 200-mile-long escarpment that creates distinct ecological zones. Most cabin properties remain open year-round, though facilities like shower buildings at some locations close during winter months.
What to do
Streamside relaxation: At Lo Lo Mai Springs Resort, creek access provides natural water recreation. "There's a hot tub and swimming pool, a creek to swim and fish in, nice bathrooms and showers, a dishwashing station," explains one visitor. The creek setting offers respite during hot weather.
Trail exploration: Multiple hiking options exist directly from cabin sites. At Mogollon Campground, visitors note proximity to nature trails. "Great high elevation! Very cool for AZ summers! For the distance it is away from Phoenix you can beat it! 2hrs drive time!" A camper reports that "you are within walking distance to the Rim" with "great little hiking trail down the Clear Creek."
Fishing opportunities: Cabin locations provide access to stocked lakes and streams. "Access to lakes, good fishing trouts," notes a visitor to Dead Horse Ranch State Park Campground. The Verde River runs alongside several properties, with small ponds available at others for catch-and-release fishing.
What campers like
Clean facilities: Visitors consistently mention well-maintained bathrooms and shower facilities at cabin properties. "The bathrooms were immaculate! They were clean and fully stocked with paper products, a trash receptacle, and air freshener," reports a Canyon Point Campground guest. Another adds, "Bathrooms and showers are kept very clean. Sites are very clean."
Family amenities: Verde River RV Resort & Cottages receives praise for its extensive recreational options. "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!"
Natural surroundings: Cabin guests appreciate the forest environment. According to a Zane Grey RV Village visitor, "We were running from the cold all winter and finally Zane Grey offered some warmth. There were big beautiful trees and bushes. Lots of shade and butterflies and humming birds." Sites feature varying degrees of shade depending on location.
What you should know
Reservation timing: Book well in advance for peak periods. "We were lucky to have one with a view but overall the site was decent. There are quite a few campgrounds and a couple were up the mountain slightly," notes a visitor to Dead Horse Ranch State Park Campground.
Weather considerations: Prepare for temperature fluctuations. "We love this state park. Each site has electric and water hook ups... You are close to the trailhead that leads down to the verde river with some great swimming holes," mentions a camper, though they note temperature swings between day and night can be significant.
Cabin furnishings: Most properties provide bare-bones accommodations. "Outstanding one night stay at the DHR Cabins. The family had an awesome stay. Cabins right on the river, quiet and spread out enough," notes a visitor, who recommends bringing your own bedding, cooking equipment and other essentials.
Cell service limitations: Connectivity varies significantly between properties. "Internet is almost non-existent. I had a T-Mobile, AT&T, and Verizon phone, and all were pretty much worthless most of the time," reports a Thousand Trails Verde Valley visitor.
Tips for camping with families
Recreation options: Choose locations with multiple activity options. Thousand Trails Verde Valley provides diverse amenities. "This place is huge! Nestled in the red rock country of Arizona, this Thousand Trails campground offers a scenic and tranquil escape. The sites are well-spaced, and the amenities include a pool, hot tub, 2 dog parks, hiking trails, river access and clubhouse."
Playground access: Several properties feature dedicated children's play areas. "This is a hidden gem Thousand Trails campground for us. So many amenities. The off leash dog park, pickleball court, and hot tub/pool are just a few to name that we use!" notes one frequent visitor.
Nature activities: Look for cabins near water features for natural play areas. "LoLoMai is our go-to campground. It has an ideal 2h drive distance, is nestled into the oak creek canyon, and secluded from the road. Kids can roam freely. From sitting in the creek during the summer heat, to exploring the nearby wineries, venturing to the parks, or just sitting by the fire enjoying the cicadas sing."
Site spacing: Properties differ significantly in privacy between sites. "The sites are very well maintained and for it being so big, you didn't feel cramped (although it wasn't full). Perfect site for our first camper tow," mentions a Canyon Point Campground visitor.
Tips from RVers
Utility connections: Canyon Point Campground offers specific sites with electricity. "Very nice clean rv park with well spaced campsites... Reserve and FFS sites there is a dumpsite and water, and some of the sites have electric." Another visitor adds, "Nice to be able to connect to electric a few days so didn't have to worry about solar panels."
Site selection: When booking, request shade coverage for summer visits. "The spaces are nice and big! I think all spaces are full hookups, but they price the space according to size, whether it has trees, and whether it is along the river," reports a Verde River RV Resort visitor.
Dump station access: Several properties provide this service at no additional charge. "They do free water and sewage dump. Not many sites do that," notes a Canyon Point Campground guest, who also mentions the convenience of paved roads throughout the property.
