Cabin camping near Wenden, Arizona offers alternatives to tent and RV camping in this desert region where summer temperatures regularly exceed 100°F. Located in La Paz County at an elevation of 1,936 feet, Wenden sits amid a landscape dominated by low desert mountains and vast open spaces. Winter visitors typically encounter mild temperatures ranging from 40-70°F, making this a popular destination for snowbirds seeking economical accommodations.
What to do
Explore wild burro territory: At Alamo Lake State Park Campground, wild burros roam freely throughout the area. "Lake Alamo is one of our favorite spots!!! Great place for SxS riding. I've been riding here over 15yrs and always find new trails. Must visit the Wayside Oasis for Lunch and a beer on every visit," notes Bob & Ramona F.
Try night fishing: The lake at Alamo State Park provides excellent fishing opportunities, especially at dawn or dusk when temperatures are cooler. "The fishermen on boats bring in a ton of fish, so if you have a boat then you'll have better luck. It's always very windy at night, so remember to put your awnings up!" advises Jamey R.
Take advantage of water recreation: With the Colorado River nearby, many cabin locations offer direct water access. At Echo Lodge, visitors enjoy various water activities. "Echo Lodge is in a beautiful area situated on the Colorado River where the river water is just cool enough to take the sting out the 100+ degree temperatures. Plenty of boating, jet skiing, swimming, or lounging around on floatation devices to be had on the river throughout the site," shares G F.
What campers like
Stargazing opportunities: The dark skies in this remote area provide exceptional stargazing. "This is all ugly desert landscape, but the lake is nice and the night sky is AMAZING! We pay $22 per night for water and electric," reports Jamey R. about Alamo Lake State Park.
Protected swimming areas: River Island State Park Campground offers cabin options with safer swimming areas. "It sits right off of a cove off the river, so if you have kiddos, it's perfect! It keeps you away from all the boat traffic and is an ideal spot to kayak, swim, fish, and hike," writes a visitor.
Wildlife viewing: The area around Wenden offers chances to see desert wildlife. "I love taking my kayak because it's so quiet and it's a great lake for birding - I saw tons of migrating water birds this weekend, as well as an osprey, Harris hawks, and an owl early this morning. There are also tons of wild burros, coyotes, and other desert creatures," shares Chenery K. about their experience at Alamo Lake.
What you should know
Cell service limitations: Connectivity varies significantly throughout the area. At Gateway Ranch RV Resort, visitors report decent connectivity, but other locations have none. "I heard a rumor there was good cell coverage with Verizon, but that was false. Nice Campground, good place to fish, trails are short but ok," reports Kim M. about Alamo Lake.
Distance from services: Plan ahead for groceries and fuel. "The closest gas station is 45 minutes away. There is a shop up the road that sells 10 gallons in case of emergencies," advises Lisa H. about the Alamo Lake area.
Seasonal considerations: Summer temperatures regularly exceed 110°F, making water access essential. "We had zero cell service (ATT) and the sites don't have wifi. The extremely loud boats started racing up and down the river around 730 am so not ideal for those that like to sleep in but they were fun to watch. It was extremely hot (for us) 110+ but staying in the cool clean river made it tolerable," notes Jesse R. about Echo Lodge.
Tips for camping with families
Look for protected swimming areas: Some cabin locations offer sheltered coves ideal for children. "We absolutely adore this campground. It sits right off of a cove off the river, so if you have kiddos, it's perfect! It keeps you away from all the boat traffic and is an ideal spot to kayak, swim, fish, and hike," shares Kourtney H. about River Island State Park.
Check for family activities: Some resorts offer organized activities for children. "We've stayed here several times. They have tons of spots for RV's but they also have cottages you can rent if you don't have an RV or have extra people visiting with you. It's hot in the summer but the river is right there to jump in and stay cool. They also have 2 pools near the tiki bar and that's where we spent a lot of time with the kids," notes Michelle Z. about Emerald Cove Resort.
Bring plenty of water and sun protection: The desert environment requires extra precautions, particularly in summer months. "It was extremely hot (for us) 110+ but staying in the cool clean river made it tolerable," shares a camper about their experience at Echo Lodge.
Tips from RVers
Prepare for extreme temperatures: Emerald Cove Resort offers cabin options with air conditioning, essential during summer. "This is the main campground for CRA, Colorado River Adventures, membership campground. Well over hundred gravel pull through sites. Down side was if your not in or on the Water it was hot. Was there last October for two nights and was very warm in hi 90's but this time was 115° to 120°," notes Craig & Linda L.
Check cabin amenities before booking: Cabin options vary significantly between locations. "This is a membership park, you get 3 free nights stay but have to attend a 90 minute sales presentation. This is a nice park if you have jet skis a boat or ORV. They have great restrooms, a store, pool and restaurant bar," explains Ed Gonsalves G. about Emerald Cove Resort.
Consider noise levels: River locations can be busy, especially during peak season. "The extremely loud boats started racing up and down the river around 730 am so not ideal for those that like to sleep in but they were fun to watch," shares Jesse R. about their cabin stay at Echo Lodge.
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