Cabins near Show Low, Arizona provide rustic getaway options at elevations between 6,300 and 7,600 feet. The White Mountains region experiences a four-season climate with summer temperatures averaging 70-85°F during the day and 45-55°F at night. Most cabin properties implement fire restrictions during dry periods, typically from May through July when precipitation is lowest.
What to do
Fishing at multiple lakes: Big Lake, near Brookchar Campground, offers excellent fishing for Apache trout. "Christmas Tree Lake is a beautiful little lake nestled in the White Mountains of Arizona on Apache land. It boasts some amazing fishing for the native trout species- the Apache trout," shares one camper at Hawley Lake Apache Indian Res.
Explore petroglyphs: The hiking trails at Lyman Lake State Park Campground lead to ancient rock art. "Well maintained trail system that offers amazing views of the sandstone rock formations and petroglyphs. There is a rock squeeze in the trail too," notes a visitor.
Short hiking excursions: Several cabin properties connect to local trail systems. "There are 2 trails that start from within Canyon Point campground. One goes to the edge of the Mogollon Rim and the other is the Sinkhole Trail. We decided to brave the Sinkhole Trail while we were there. It was very easy and only about ¾ of a mile each way with great tree coverage," explains a camper.
What campers like
Weather and climate benefits: Many visitors choose cabins near Show Low for relief from summer desert heat. "We have rented a cabin every August and the weather is wonderful. Some rain but very green and lovely outdoors," reports a visitor at Hawley Lake Apache Indian Reservation.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: The forested setting attracts diverse wildlife. "Elk, deer and plenty of skunks (who waddled thru the campsite but never raised their tails)," recounts a camper at Brookchar Campground. Be aware that bears are also present in some areas.
Proximity to water: Several cabin properties provide lake access. "This tent walk in site has been our family favorite for decades. The sites are across the small road from the lake. Easy walk to the lake," describes a visitor about Brookchar Campground's location.
What you should know
Cabin availability varies seasonally: Most properties require reservations well in advance, especially during peak months. At Canyon Point Campground, "We 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."
Cell service limitations: Reception is inconsistent throughout the area. "Very few boaters when we were there. There is no cell coverage at this campground, so it is impossible to go online," notes a visitor at Brookchar Campground.
Weather preparation: Mountain climate brings temperature swings. At Hawley Lake, "being in the mountains, it was pretty cold at night." During Memorial Day weekend, another camper reported "highs close to 80 and lows in the high 30s/low 40s" at Brookchar Campground.
Tips for camping with families
Book cabins with nearby activities: Properties with on-site amenities work best for families. "Canyon Point boasts 113 sites between 2 loops with both back in and pull through sites. The campground also has a shower building near the entrance that is available 8a-8p and an outdoor amphitheater the Forestry Service Rangers often use to host educational programs."
Look for cabins with bathing facilities: After outdoor activities, showers become essential. "This place is a very well maintained campground. 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. There is a lot of campers that come from other campsites to use the shower," reports a visitor at Sitgreaves National Forest Canyon Point Campground.
Prepare for wildlife encounters: Some campgrounds have frequent animal visitors. "Be aware that I did experience some free range cattle snooping through the camp at 2am which was a bit unexpected," shares a Hawley Lake camper. At another site: "Be sure to put food away nightly, the cows are no joke. They get into everything!"
Tips from RVers
Monthly rates available: Some properties offer extended stay discounts. "This place is great for the whole family and there is no trailer year restriction. You definitely cant beat the price and its nice that the rate includes water, electric and sewage," notes a visitor at Mountain Retreat in Heber.
Dump station access: Several campgrounds provide sanitation services. "Canyon Point also had a dump station available," mentions a camper. "Clean rv park with well spaced campsites. There is a dumpsite and water, and some of the sites have electric."
Paved access roads: Many properties feature improved infrastructure. "The roads throughout the campground and the driveways were all paved so there was very little dust being kicked up," reports a Canyon Point visitor. This makes cabin access easier for large vehicles during all seasons.
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