Roper Lake State Park in Safford offers cabin rentals providing shelter in the desert landscape at an elevation of 2,900 feet where temperatures can reach over 100°F in summer months. The park features two distinct campgrounds: Cottonwood and Gila, which together provide diverse lodging options for visitors seeking accommodations near Mount Graham. Cabin rental options throughout the Safford region vary seasonally with winter being peak reservation time.
What to do
Hiking at Mount Graham: Trails accessible within a short drive from Roper Lake State Park offer outdoor recreation opportunities. "We visited Mt Graham, picnicked and hiked. Enjoyed the hot springs hot tub in the campground. Clean, beautiful and friendly staff," notes Betty F.
Birdwatching at Willcox Playa: The winter months attract sandhill cranes and over 15 species of birds of prey to the Playa Dispersed Campsite area. "Got here about 6 PM and the lagoon was filled with cranes. Got amazing pictures of them. In the morning the lagoon was empty. You must have to get here during certain migrations," reports Ken.
Fishing: Multiple fishing spots around lake perimeters provide recreational opportunities, though success varies. "If you like fishing you might be a bit disappointed. You could see a ton of fish around the dock, but sadly none of them were biting or we just didn't have the right kind of bait," mentions one camper about the fishing conditions.
What campers like
Hot springs access: The natural hot springs feature remains popular when operational. "Visited in November, so temperatures ranged from the 80s during the day down to the 40s in the night. The campsites were very clean and well-maintained, and at the time we visited, the campground was very quiet," notes Colby F. about Gila Campground.
Privacy levels: Some cabins and campsites offer more seclusion than others. "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. The sites are large with plenty of screening for privacy," shares Lisa S.
Wildlife viewing: Morning waterfowl observation opportunities create memorable experiences. "Waking up early to watch waterfowl on the lake at sunrise is going to be one of my most memorable camping experiences," recalls one visitor about their stay at the waterfront cabins.
What you should know
Construction issues: Ongoing facility improvements may affect amenities. "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," reports Shawn from Cottonwood Campground.
Weather considerations: The Safford area experiences significant temperature fluctuations. "Maybe because of the season, maybe because of all the kids running around wild... All AZ State parks are clean and have hook-ups, water and bathrooms. There is some nice hiking around the lake and Mt. Graham is very close by, so more hiking there," notes Mindy H.
Site selection importance: Choosing the right campsite significantly impacts experience quality. "We would not stay in the hook up loops which are more typical Arizona State Park Campgrounds offering no privacy with sites usually crammed together. Walking trails all over the place including one that leads up to the Mesa top," advises a regular visitor.
Tips for camping with families
Bike-friendly paths: Multiple campgrounds offer paved routes for children's activities. "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," shares Ryan V.
Swimming options: Designated swimming areas provide safe recreation. "Great family friendly camping! Very clean and well kept park, beach swimming area is very large and never felt crowded by people!" notes a visitor to Willcox-Cochise KOA.
Busy weekend considerations: Holiday periods bring increased child activity. "I got there on Thursday afternoon and all was nice and quite and calm. They started to come in droves, Friday afternoon. Little kids on bicycles (many, many of them) riding in the roads like crazy people and making so much noise, it was dangerous and annoying," cautions one weekender.
Tips from RVers
Winter bookings: Cabin rentals near Safford fill quickly during peak winter season. "Camped for a week over Christmas 2020 and really enjoyed the serenity in the non-hook up loop," notes a winter visitor about availability at Apache Gold RV Park.
Site spacing: Some loops offer more generous spacing between units. "Fairly busy, Easter weekend, but didn't seem like we were on top of each other," reports Justin G. about the Cottonwood Campground layout.
Highway noise: Some campgrounds experience road noise issues. "Very well maintained with decent size sites and ample area to run your dogs. I would give this 5 stars if not for Highway noise. If that does not bother you too much then stay here!" advises a regular visitor about location considerations.
