Cabin rentals near Big Water, Utah range from rustic accommodations to modern facilities with varied amenities. Located in the high desert at approximately 4,500 feet elevation, the area experiences dramatic temperature fluctuations with summer highs often exceeding 100°F and winter temperatures frequently dropping below freezing at night. This climate dictates seasonal considerations for cabin rental planning, particularly regarding heating and cooling needs.
What to do
**Horseback riding tours: Paria River Ranch offers guided trail rides into nearby slot canyons, providing access to landscapes difficult to reach by car. One visitor noted, "We booked a private guided horseback ride with the ranch and stayed here in our trailer for five days. Our guided 2-hour ride in the nearby slot canyon was fantastic."
Hiking to remote hoodoos: The area surrounding cabins near Big Water features numerous geological formations like the Toadstool Hoodoos. A camper mentioned, "The spot was perfect for nearby hiking trails (wire pass, toadstool hoodoos, buckskins gulch)."
Star observation: The minimal light pollution makes cabin locations ideal for astronomy activities. At Grand Staircase Resort of Escalante, visitors can request specific sites for optimal viewing, though one camper warned about light interference: "We were at 'Stargazer T-28' where the floodlights from the aforementioned building lit up our entire tent."
What campers like
Private bathroom facilities: Most cabin guests appreciate the clean, modern facilities available at properties. At Roam America Horseshoe Bend, a visitor commented, "You get a full bathroom to yourself; a lockable room with shower, sink with large counter, toilet, shampoo/conditioner and plenty of space overall. They pipe in music so that sounds overall are muffled."
Wildlife viewing: Many cabins provide opportunities to see native species. One guest at Grand Staircase Resort of Escalante shared, "We watched mule deer out the window for a while and had fantastic views around us."
Modern amenities in remote settings: Despite the rural locations, many cabins offer unexpected comforts. A visitor to Roam America Horseshoe Bend noted, "Brand new camping, close to everything. Amazing showers, a bit close to the road."
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Some properties have strict booking policies. For Paria River Ranch, a visitor emphasized: "IMPORTANT** Stays at this private ranch are BY RESERVATION only and for people with horses or who've booked a guided trail ride with the ranch**."
Seasonal availability: Winter cabin stays require advance planning as many facilities close. One camper reported, "We arrived here in a winter storm and were very happy to find an open RV park as most campgrounds and other RV parks were closed for the season."
Service distances: Cabin locations are typically remote from major services. As one visitor mentioned, "No service (food, gas) within 25 miles, BUT I rented here for three days and the spot was perfect for nearby hiking trails."
Animal rescue awareness: Some properties like Paria River Ranch have ongoing conservation efforts. A visitor observed, "The work the owner is doing here by rescuing horses, donkeys, and goats is so important."
Tips for camping with families
Check pool availability: Antelope Hogan Bed and Breakfast and several other cabin properties maintain seasonal pools that may not be open year-round. A visitor to Roam America Horseshoe Bend noted, "The pool was closed for the season but looked nice."
Prepare for dramatic temperatures: High desert cabin sites experience extreme temperature variations. One visitor warned, "We stayed in September and by the middle of the night it was about 20 degrees so bundle up!!"
Pack entertainment: While natural activities abound, indoor options can be limited. At cabins with reliable WiFi, campers can download entertainment in advance, though one visitor cautioned about connectivity: "Wi-Fi was weak even right by the office but, if you're patient (or have a booster) it's fine."
Tips from RVers
Site leveling considerations: Many cabin and RV sites in the Big Water region require leveling equipment. A visitor to Rubys Inn RV Park and Campground observed, "Campground has sites for all kinds of campers from tent/dry camping to huge sites for big rigs. Some are shaded and in the trees and some are open."
Winter hookup precautions: Cold temperatures require water system preparation. One camper shared their experience: "We were here for 7 nights mid-November. It was very cold so we had to disconnect water at night but hook-ups were easy to use and worked well."
Backup planning: Remote cabin locations mean technical issues can be significant. A visitor warned, "The road to the gulches was rough and our truck got a flat. Be prepared with lots of water, food and full gas tank in case you run into trouble on the road. No signal on the road to the gulches."
