Arizona and winter are two words that don’t typically go together. Arizona is more revered for its desert climate and year-round sunshine than it is being a winter wonderland. But don’t be fooled. There are plenty of outdoor getaways where you can enjoy a snow-drenched Arizona winter. Here are some cabin camping spots you can book for a winter trip.
Looking to experience a real winter? You don’t have to drive to some distant state to get a taste of a winter wonderland. Instead, head to Flagstaff. Flagstaff may only be a few hours removed from Phoenix, but it offers a brisk reprieve from the Valley of the Sun. The Flagstaff KOA is a beautiful northern Arizona campground that’s open year-round. It’s elevated at 7,000 feet, surrounded by ponderosa pines, and has epic views of the San Francisco Peaks. The snow-drenched site has plenty of camping cabins available for anyone looking for a winter adventure.
Skiing has long been a popular activity in Flagstaff. Locals and tourists flock to Arizona Snowbowl to shred fresh powder every winter. You can set up camp for a skiing adventure at Nordic Village. This camp spot is located only 20 minutes from Arizona Snowbowl and only 15 miles from downtown Flagstaff. Previously known as the Flagstaff Nordic Center, Nordic Village has rentable yurts and cabins all winter long. They also have over 40 kilometers of surrounding cross-country ski trails near their grounds.
Lo Lo Mai Springs welcomes all kinds of campers. Looking to relax? You can post up at their gorgeous grounds located right next to the flowing Oak Creek. Looking for more adventure? You can make a quick trip into Sedona for hiking, shopping, or an ATV ride. Lo Lo Mai Springs has been a popular camping spot since opening over 50 years ago. Today, it has a variety of cabin camping options available. You can book small log cabins, couple’s cabins, or large two-bedroom cabins with room for up to six-people. All cabins come with heating, basic kitchen supplies, and bedding.
The Mormon Lake Lodge has been a go-to spot for cabin camping since 1924. This long-standing lodge is located about 30 miles southeast of Flagstaff. The lodge showcases some of Northern Arizona’s most beautiful features, including the thick Ponderosa Pines. You can choose from 10 different cabin camping options. Each option has its own distinct experience. Amenities include dining, kitchen, fireplaces, and private decks. What more could you want?
Williams, Arizona, is a bit of an unknown town. It boasts a population of only a few thousand and is deep in the heart of the Coconino National Forest. Its remote location and thick pine forest make it a perfect stomping ground for campers. Visitors can set up camp at the Grand Canyon/Williams KOA. This Northern Arizona camping spot has a mix of both rustic and deluxe cabins. You can enjoy serene nights under the stars and huddle around the campfire on a trip. The best part? It’s only 40 miles away from the Grand Canyon.
Southeastern Arizona isn’t the first place that comes to mind for winter camping. There may not be snow, but there are plenty of great camping opportunities. Case in point: Roper Lake State Park. Located near Safford, it’s a perfect campground for people looking to avoid the cold. You can book one of eight cabins at Gila Campground. Each campsite includes bunk beds, air-conditioning, heating, and charcoal grills.
Variety is the spice of life. At least, that’s the case at Arizona Mountain Inn. This sprawling camping spot is located on 13 secluded acres of the Coconino National Forest. It also includes the largest variety of cabins in the Flagstaff area. You can book one of 17 fully-furnished cabins each with a wood-burning stove, furnished kitchen, and outdoor barbecue grill. Rooms accommodate anywhere from two to 16 guests. You can’t beat the setting. Ponderosa pines and a quiet outdoor setting surround the Arizona Mountain Inn.
No list of Arizona winter spots is complete without a reference to the White Mountains. During the winter, the White Mountains turn into a beautiful snow-coated oasis for local skiers. Greer Lodge is the best spot to take advantage of the White Mountains. It’s located just a few minutes from Sunrise Ski Park and right next to streams, lakes, and forest. Cabins sleep anywhere from 4-26 people and include kitchens. Did we mention they’re dog friendly?
Why should you visit Strawberry? For one, it’s in the heart of the Mogollon Rim. This beautiful city has an elevation of over 6,100 feet and is deep in the heart of the Tonto National Forest. There’s plenty of snow, mountains, and scenery in the winter. Strawberry is also home to the Cabins on Strawberry Hill. This cabin camping spot has one and two-bedroom cabins available for rent year-round. Each cabin comes with a woodstove fireplace, electric space heaters, and kitchenettes with all the essentials to make meals.
There’s no shortage of activities at Antler Ridge. Located in Greer, it’s in close proximity to fishing, skiing, and exploring opportunities in the winter. You can drive to the nearby Sunrise Park Resort. You can strap on your cross-country skis and explore the outdoors. You can also fish in their fully-stocked private pond. Antler Ridge has two to five-bedroom cabins that are equipped with kitchens, fireplaces, and grills.
