Shaw House
3.8221 reviewsWest Ironwood Road, Pearce, AZ, 85625, USA
Shaw House
$150.00 - $150.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$0.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Facility rates are $150 per night for cabin rental. Prices do not reflect discounts, taxes, or incremental charges.
About this campground
Step back in time at this enchanting stone masonry cabin, where century-old walls whisper stories of the Old West. Nestled among dramatic granite formations, this lovingly preserved historic retreat welcomes up to 10 guests with the perfect blend of rustic charm and modern comforts, offering an unforgettable escape into Arizona's rugged beauty.
The Shaw House is a cabin rental in the Coronado National Forest, offering an alternative to primitive tent or RV camping.
Historical SignificanceWalk in the footsteps of legends at the Shaw House, where over a century of frontier history comes alive within weathered stone walls. These sacred Dragoon Mountains once sheltered the legendary Apache Chief Cochise and his people, who found sanctuary among the towering rocks and hidden canyons that still echo with whispers of their remarkable story.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the magic of high desert seasons, where crisp winter days unfold under brilliant azure skies and moderate temperatures invite endless exploration. While the dry season dominates, nature occasionally graces the landscape with refreshing rainfall and gentle mountain breezes that rustle through the surrounding woodlands.
ElevationPerched at a comfortable mountain elevation where the desert meets the sky, offering cool respites from valley heat and star-filled nights that seem close enough to touch.
Natural Features and SceneryImmerse yourself in the breathtaking East Cochise Stronghold, where nature has sculpted an otherworldly landscape of towering granite spires reaching skyward like ancient sentinels. Massive balanced rocks defy gravity while shaded wooded slopes harbor diverse wildlife—from graceful deer browsing at dawn to wild turkeys strutting through clearings and elusive bobcats padding silently through the shadows.
Geological RegionDiscover the geological wonderland of East Cochise Stronghold, where millions of years of natural forces have carved the Dragoon Mountains into a photographer's paradise. Rugged granite formations create a natural fortress of stone, while verdant wooded slopes and seasonal streams paint ribbons of life through this magnificent high desert sanctuary.
Campsite details
AccessibilityAccess to the house is through a locked gate with a combination lock, and physical accessibility issues such as broken windows and unreliable water supply were mentioned. High clearance vehicles are recommended for the access road, although it is passable by regular cars.
Sites SizeThe cabin is spacious with three bedrooms and various sleeping arrangements, suitable for up to 10 people.
Sites PrivacyThe cabin is fenced, providing a defined yard space. However, reviews noted the sparsely wooded surroundings and lack of shaded areas.
Total Campsites1 campsites
Recommended CampsitesBring cleaning supplies and extra cookware. Consider bringing candles or alternate lighting sources. Prepare for potential septic issues.
Best CampsitesOnly one rental unit, Shaw House.
Reserving a campsite
Stay Limit
14 nights maximum stay within rolling 30 days.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Up to 10 guests allowed in Shaw House.
Tents
Tents are not allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutSingle cabin with fenced yard suitable for groups up to 10 guests.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen from January 1 through December 31. Reservations can be made starting June 24, 2025.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made on Recreation.gov.
Walk-in AvailabilityNot specified.
Cancellation PolicyCancellations incur a $10 fee plus forfeiture of the first night's recreation use fee if canceled less than 14 days before the arrival date. Late cancellations and no-show penalties apply.
Accomodation available
Cabin lodgingCabin lodging is available for campers seeking a more sheltered and comfortable experience. These enclosed accommodations offer protection from the elements and are ideal for those who prefer not to camp in tents.
Amenities available
Showers
Potable water
Picnic tables
Lodging and accommodations
Flush toilets
Electricity hookups
Activities you can enjoy
Shaw House offers diverse recreational opportunities, including hiking trails, mountain biking, rock climbing, horseback riding, and wildlife viewing. The Cochise Stronghold area provides interpretive trails for exploring natural and cultural resources. Nearby attractions include Chiricahua National Monument and Fort Bowie National Historic Site.
Hiking
Nearby trails offer excellent hiking opportunities, including Cochise Trail and Rockfellow Dome Trail. Rockfellow Dome is noted as challenging and 'not suited for the over-60 crowd.' Interpretive trails are available for natural and cultural exploration.Climbing
Climbing opportunities may be available in nearby natural areas such as rocky outcrops, boulders, or cliff faces. Visitors should bring appropriate gear and check local regulations or park guidelines before attempting any climbs.Biking
Mountain biking is available, with trails winding through the rugged granite formations of Cochise Stronghold.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife observed includes deer, western bluebirds, rabbits, squirrels, and various nocturnal animals such as bats, mountain lions, and bobcats. User remarks: 'Saw lots of deer in the pasture, birds in the trees.'Cultural and Educational Programs
The Cochise Stronghold area offers signed interpretive trails for exploring natural and cultural resources.Winter Activities
During colder weeks, visitors can explore trails or enjoy the cabin ambiance. Reviews noted minimal heating options, making it less ideal for winter stays.Water Sports
Water-related activities are not mentioned, although issues with water supply within the cabin were identified in reviews.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Indoor fireplace non-functional; propane grill allowed but guests must bring their own fuel.
- Quiet hours are Not explicitly stated.
Hazards
General hazardsPotential wildlife hazards include rodents, scorpions, snakes, and larger predators such as mountain lions. Rodent infestations have been noted in user reviews.
Active alertsNone specified.
Weather forecast
91
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Mainly clear
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 19%
Very dry conditions, stay hydrated
Wind: 11.6 mph
Strong wind, exercise caution
Mainly clear
7-Day Forecast
Access to 7-day forecasts tailored to each campground—covering temperature, precipitation, wind, and sky conditions.
Daily & Hourly Insights
View hourly forecasts with expected weather patterns throughout the day.
Temperature Trends
Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.
Precipitation Trends
Plan around rain or snow with monthly visualizations of expected precipitation patterns.
Weather Summaries
Assess conditions with visuals for easier decision-making on when and where to camp.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
Closest emergency services information is not explicitly provided.
Good to know
Peak season datesJanuary 1, 2025 - December 31, 2025.
Trash and recyclingTrash disposal directions are unclear, as one user stated, 'We took our trash with us because we did not know where to dispose of it.' Guests are required to clean up and remove all trash before departure.
Proximity to water featuresSeasonal streams are nearby; no major water bodies explicitly mentioned.
Common complaintsRodent infestations, lack of cleaning supplies, non-functional fireplaces, and water pressure issues. Reports of general neglect in facility maintenance.
HostHost information not explicitly stated.
Campground Map
West Ironwood Road, Pearce, AZ, 85625, USA
Driving directionsFrom Tucson, take I-10 east to Exit #318 (Dragoon Road). Turn right onto Dragoon Road and travel for approximately 10 miles to the Cochise Stronghold Road. Turn right on Cochise Stronghold Road and travel for approximately 6 miles to Ironwood Road. The paved road dead ends at Ironwood Road. Turn right on Ironwood Road and travel for approximately 4 miles. The Shaw House is the large rock house located off to the left of Ironwood Road behind a locked gate.
Access road is passable by passenger car, but high clearance vehicles are recommended. Seasonal weather conditions may affect accessibility.Nearby places
Sunsites, AZ (10 miles west)
Nearby supplies
Sunsites, AZ approximately 10 miles west for supplies including groceries, camping equipment, and fuel.
Camper Reviews
3.8
21 reviews
Shaw House has mixed reviews, placing it in the bottom 85% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews of Shaw House provide a mix of positive perspectives on its scenic location and historical charm, and negative feedback regarding maintenance and cleanliness. Issues such as rodent infestation, poor water pressure, and outdated facilities were frequently noted.
Review Summaries
Based on 21 reviews
What Campers Love
Users commend the cabin's unique historical charm, spaciousness, scenic surroundings, and opportunities for recreation like hiking and wildlife viewing. Quotes include, 'Lovely, rambling stone cabin...
Based on 21 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Key complaints include rodent infestations, poor maintenance, inadequate cleaning by previous users, and issues with heating and water supply. Quotes include, 'Unfortunately, it is infested with...
Based on 21 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Users suggest bringing cleaning supplies, cooking utensils, and candles for emergencies. High-clearance vehicles are recommended for the access road. Direct quotes: 'Bring your own cleaning materials...
Based on 21 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Winter stays are less favorable due to minimal heating options and issues with water supply. Summer conditions are challenging due to rodents and cleaning concerns. Spring and fall are best for...
Based on 21 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
1. 'The setting is gorgeous, and a good renovation could make it special.' 2. 'It is a beautiful location with lots of good hikes.' 3. 'The landscape is stunning. We will definitely go back.'
Based on 21 reviewsSite-Specific Reviews
Specific reviews noted issues in particular bedrooms, such as rodent nests in the closet and drawers. Users also highlighted broken windows and limited water supply in bathrooms. For example,...
Based on 21 reviewsShow more
Accessibility Features
Accessibility issues such as the need for high-clearance vehicles and challenges with broken windows were noted. No wheelchair-specific accessibility features are mentioned.
Based on 21 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are explicitly prohibited, as noted in the official guidelines and reinforced by user reviews.
Based on 21 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025