Cabin accommodations in the Strawberry area provide visitors with forest-based lodging between 5,000-6,500 feet elevation, offering cool summer retreats from Arizona's desert heat. Most cabins sit within Ponderosa pine forests with seasonal temperature variations from below freezing in winter to mid-80s during summer months. Rental cabins serve as base camps for exploring the Mogollon Rim's extensive hiking trails and fishing spots.
What to do
Enjoy river access: At Verde River RV Resort & Cottages, visitors can walk trails leading to the Verde River. "Right next to the river, you can walk around and you are surrounded with mountain views," according to Christina R. Fishing, wading, and wildlife watching opportunities exist directly from several cabin sites.
Explore nearby historic towns: Cabins near Cottonwood provide convenient access to surrounding attractions. "Within a 30 minute of Sedona which had some of the most awesome hikes ever!" notes marcia F. at Verde River RV Resort. The mining town of Jerome sits perched on Mingus Mountain just 30 minutes from most cabin locations.
Take advantage of water recreation: Lo Lo Mai Springs Resort offers cabin guests creek access plus pool facilities. "There's a hot tub and swimming pool, a creek to swim and fish in, nice bathrooms and showers, a dishwashing station," notes Jordan H. Some cabins sit directly alongside Oak Creek for easy water access during warm months.
What campers like
Clean facilities: Cabin guests consistently mention facility maintenance as a highlight. "The cabins are on a separate road and have so much space and shade between," notes one visitor at Dead Horse Ranch State Park Campground. Kathy B. observes, "Spent the afternoon watching bluebirds in the trees outside my RV and woke up to cottontail rabbits hopping around."
Family-friendly amenities: Cabins often include extras that tent campers don't have access to. "They have a pool and hot tub, mini golf, playground, pickle ball court, clubhouse, and lots of crafts and activities for the kids!" reports Mstwister E. about their stay at Verde River RV Resort. Organized activities frequently occur during peak season.
Shade coverage: The forested setting provides natural cooling. At Zane Grey RV Village, Beverly M. notes, "Beautifully kept up grounds... Group firepit, they supply the wood. Sites are kept very clean and ready for the next renter." Shade trees help moderate summer temperatures which can exceed 85°F during July and August.
What you should know
Seasonal availability limitations: Many cabin facilities operate with restricted winter hours or close completely during snow season. According to Mogollon Campground visitors, most rim-area cabins operate from "May to October" with limited winter availability due to snow conditions.
Reservation requirements: Advanced booking becomes essential during peak periods. "We arrived late so it was very dark. The signage was very difficult to see and no one was available to help us find our spot," reports Cindy E. about their arrival at Thousand Trails Verde Valley. Book several months ahead for summer weekends.
Varied amenity levels: Cabin furnishings range from basic to fully equipped. "Some shaded sites. They have a great heated pool and hot tub," notes marcia F. about Verde River. Michael M. advises, "Next time we will do our best to get there as early as possible (noon is the earliest to check in)...as the spots are first come/first serve."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several cabin areas include dedicated children's facilities. "We took a 3.3 mile hike to woods canyon lake. There is a marina and boat rentals are available," notes Mike C. from Mogollon Campground. This makes cabin stays more engaging for younger visitors.
River wading spots: Look for cabins with shallow water access for safe play. "The kids rode bikes all over. There's a store that sells a bunch of stuff," reports Maura about Lo Lo Mai Springs Resort. Spencer A. adds, "Cabins right on the river, quiet and spread out enough. Walked and fished the river, so peaceful."
Pack for temperature shifts: Evening temperatures can drop significantly even in summer. "Camped in november from the 13th to the 15th, not cold at all!!!" shares Levi V. about Dead Horse Ranch. Fall and spring visits require layered clothing as temperatures frequently fluctuate 30°F between day and night.
Tips from RVers
Late arrival challenges: RVers who also use cabins note arrival timing matters. "At registration they will give you a map and highlight which spots are open. It can be tough to decide which section to focus on and which spot to pick," advises Michael M. Arrive during daylight hours to properly assess site conditions.
Insect considerations: Seasonal bugs affect some locations. "We are right by the river, right on the rio verde river," notes Matt L. from Rio Verde RV Park. Screens and insect repellent become necessary during warmer months when insects are active around waterways.
