Cabin camping near Sun Valley, Arizona sits on the Mogollon Rim at elevations between 6,000-7,800 feet, offering significantly cooler temperatures than Phoenix during summer months. The region features ponderosa pine forests interspersed with aspen groves and small alpine lakes. Most cabin sites close by mid-October due to snow conditions and reopen between April and May.
What to do
Hiking to Mogollon Rim: Access trails directly from Canyon Point Campground that lead to spectacular rim views. "I have been to plenty of campgrounds within 20 miles of this area but I was impressed with Canyon Point from the moment we arrived. They have a designated Contact Station at the entrance that was staffed with multiple camp hosts to assist with check in and check out," notes Krista Z., who also mentioned two trails starting from within the Canyon Point campground.
Stargazing opportunities: The high elevation and minimal light pollution make cabin sites around Happy Jack ideal for astronomy enthusiasts. "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. The area has so many trees to hammock from and provides plenty of wind-blocking so it doesn't get terribly chilly from the wind," reports Joffrey H. about Mogollon Campground.
Fishing nearby lakes: Most cabin sites are within 15 minutes of fishing lakes like Woods Canyon Lake and Willow Springs. "Rock Crossing Campground is, in my opinion, one of the best campgrounds we have stayed. It has water and toilets near the camping grounds, which by the way are super clean. They have grill, fire pit, and a picnic table and bear safe storage," shares Pablo S. about Rock Crossing Campground.
What campers like
Cool summer temperatures: The high elevation provides relief from desert heat. "Awesome high elevation! Very cool for AZ summers! For the distance it is away from Phoenix you can beat it! 2hrs drive time!" writes Jacob T. about staying at the Mogollon Campground cabins.
Clean facilities: Many campers mention well-maintained bathrooms and showers as standout features. "The sites are very well maintained and for it being so big, you didn't feel cramped. Perfect site for our first camper tow. Amenities are nice (water/dump station), showers, paved roads throughout," mentions a reviewer at Verde River RV Resort.
Well-spaced sites: Cabins typically offer more privacy than standard campgrounds. "The sites are big. Your neighbor is not on top of you. They have bathrooms and showers which are very clean and always kept up," notes a camper called "Z-Man" about staying at Thousand Trails Verde Valley.
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Most cabin sites fill quickly from June through August. "I took Friday off to get a Non-reserved spot early as this small ground can fill up quick for the weekend (Half of the sites are reservable through USDA website)," advises AJ A. about Mogollon Campground.
Road conditions: Some cabin areas require travel on unpaved roads. "Pristine and usually unoccupied lake off the beaten path. 17 miles of dirt road from Highway to the lake and the last 7 are truly a challenge for anything other than a slightly lifted vehicle," warns Steve M. about accessing Long Lake Dispersed Camping cabins.
Seasonal changes: Most cabin areas operate with different amenities and limitations based on season. "When we went the Day Use fee was $5 per vehicle and an additional vehicle costed $12.50/night," mentioned a reviewer about canyon point facilities.
Tips for camping with families
Find cabins with kid-friendly amenities: Look for properties with playgrounds or activity areas. "We went first weekend after memorial day... Moderately spaced sites in close proximity to hwy 260, Rim lakes, and general store. Vault toilets, trash, and Water are serviced and firewood can be purchased from the camp host. We took our 9 Month old and 6 year old and they had a blast," shares AJ A.
Pack for temperature swings: Even summer nights drop to 40-50°F at this elevation. "Our dog is a fairly big dog (he's a black lab) but he doesn't like to be cold. When we go camping and the sun goes down the temperatures can drop quickly especially when we have fire restrictions and no fire for warmth," notes Krista Z.
Check noise levels: Some cabin areas are quieter than others. "The only irritation I had was the speed limits. I understand the reasoning, but getting in and out of the park was a pain just because it took so long to drive 5-10 mph for 1-2 mile stretches," reports Steve N.
Tips from RVers
Electric hookups: Canyon Point Campground offers electric hookups for cabins and RVs. "Clean, very widely dispersed camp sites(lots of social distancing trees) especially in loop B (no electricity hookup); loop A sites a little closer but still great and most sites have electricity. Double lane dump station but no full hookups," advises Larry K.
Dump station availability: Not all cabin areas with RV access offer sanitation services. "Had a great experience at Canyon Point. Bathrooms and showers are kept very clean. Sites are very clean. Staff was very helpful. Stayed six nights. Have small off-road trailer. Nice to be able to connect to electric a few days so didn't have to worry about solar panels," notes Frank J.
Camp store access: Several cabin locations offer on-site stores for essentials. "Stayed here many times and always a wonderful experience. The campsites are always clean with clean toilets and drinking water. The campsites are pretty spreadout from each other. Woods Canyon Lake is just a short drive away to enjoy hiking and you are within walking distance to the Rim," shares Jessica C.
