Sycamore Cabin
4.2025 reviewsPRESCOTT NATIONAL FOREST, VERDE RANGER DISTRICT, 300 EAST HIGHWAY 260, CAMP VERDE, AZ 86322, USA
Sycamore Cabin
$125.00 - $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
The nightly rate for Sycamore Cabin ranges from $125 for up to 6 guests to $150 for 7-8 guests (including RV accommodation). An extra vehicle fee of $25 is charged for RVs.
About this campground
Nestled in the heart of Prescott National Forest, Sycamore Cabin stands as a testament to American craftsmanship and outdoor heritage. This lovingly restored 1938 Civilian Conservation Corps masterpiece seamlessly blends rustic charm with modern comfort, welcoming up to 8 guests into its historic walls. While the original builders could never have imagined air conditioning and running water gracing their creation, today's visitors enjoy the best of both worlds—authentic period architecture enhanced with electricity, climate control, and a traditional wood stove that crackles with the same warmth that has comforted travelers for over eight decades.
Sycamore Cabin offers cabin lodging, and RV camping is permitted for additional guests. Tent camping and group camping options are not available.
Historical SignificanceStep through the doorway of Sycamore Cabin and enter a living piece of American history. Built by the hands of young Civilian Conservation Corps workers during the Great Depression, these walls first sheltered district rangers who watched over the forest, then later housed brave fire crews protecting the wilderness. The surrounding landscape tells even older stories—of Native American peoples who first called these lands home and the determined miners who sought their fortunes in these hills. Every timber and stone connects you to the generations who found solace and purpose in this remarkable place.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the gentle rhythms of Arizona's moderate desert climate, where each season brings its own rewards for outdoor enthusiasts. Spring wildflowers give way to warm summer days perfect for creek exploration, while autumn paints the landscape in golden hues. Winter occasionally dusts the cabin with a whisper of snow, creating magical mornings that melt into crisp, sunny afternoons. The unpredictable nature of cell service here isn't a bug—it's a feature, encouraging genuine connection with nature and your companions rather than your devices.
ElevationPerched at an ideal 4,000 feet, Sycamore Cabin occupies a sweet spot where desert meets highland, creating a microclimate of comfort and beauty. This perfect elevation gifts visitors with refreshingly mild temperatures year-round and serves up sweeping vistas of the desert landscape below. Morning coffee on the porch becomes a meditation as you watch the sun paint the distant mountains, while evening brings cool breezes that carry the scent of sage and pine.
Natural Features and SceneryWake to the gentle murmur of Sycamore Creek just beyond your doorstep, where this historic cabin keeps watch over one of Arizona's most vibrant riparian corridors. The surrounding wilderness pulses with life—mule deer browse in the early morning mist, javelinas rustle through the underbrush, and if you're lucky (and observant), you might glimpse the silent padding of a mountain lion or bobcat. Black bears, coyotes, foxes, and cottontail rabbits complete the cast of wildlife neighbors, while overhead, a symphony of bird species fills the air with song. This 4,000-foot perch offers front-row seats to nature's daily drama.
Geological RegionSycamore Cabin claims one of Prescott National Forest's most enviable locations, where the life-giving waters of Sycamore Creek have carved out a lush ribbon of green through the surrounding desert landscape. This rare riparian oasis creates a magical confluence of ecosystems—towering cottonwoods and sycamores shade the creek banks, while hardy desert plants climb the surrounding slopes. The moderate desert climate has sculpted a geological wonderland where water, wind, and time have collaborated to create a landscape that supports an astonishing diversity of life, making every hike an adventure and every vista a postcard.
Campsite details
AccessibilityAccessibility features are limited; user reviews do not mention specific accommodations for campers with disabilities.
Sites SizeThe cabin accommodates up to six people in beds, with room for two more if using an RV.
Sites PrivacyThe fenced yard provides privacy, but proximity to roads and lack of vegetation may reduce overall seclusion.
Total Campsites1 campsites
Recommended CampsitesGuests recommend bringing firewood, cleaning supplies, and extra lighting. Avoid areas with standing water to reduce mosquito presence.
Best CampsitesSite 001 in Sycamore Loop is the only available site.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
2PM
Check-out
10 AM
Stay Limit
Maximum 3 consecutive nights.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Maximum of 8 guests allowed per reservation.
Tents
Tents are not allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutSingle cabin within a fenced area, with room for up to four horses.
Open and Closed SeasonThe cabin is available year-round.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made via Recreation.gov or by calling 1-877-444-6777.
Walk-in AvailabilityNo walk-up availability is mentioned; reservations are required in advance.
Cancellation PolicyCancellations can be made any time before the arrival date with a $10 cancellation fee. Late cancellations within 14 days of arrival will forfeit the first night's fee. Changes to reservations carry a $10 fee if the new dates are completely outside the original reservation period.
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
Lodging and accommodations
Flush toilets
Electricity hookups
Water hookups
Sewer hookups
Activities you can enjoy
Sycamore Cabin offers a variety of activities suitable for families and outdoor enthusiasts. Fishing, hiking, and wildlife viewing are among the most popular options. Additionally, horseback riding and biking are possible on nearby trails.
Hiking
Hikers have access to trails near Sycamore Cabin, including a section of The Great Western Trail. The trails are suitable for both casual walkers and serious hikers, providing scenic views and historical significance.Fishing
Seasonal fishing options are available in nearby streams and rivers with species such as rainbow trout, channel catfish, and bullhead. User reviews mention the creek behind the cabin as an excellent spot for fishing.Biking
Biking trails near the cabin offer a chance for outdoor exercise and exploration, although details on terrain and difficulty are not provided.Wildlife viewing
Dense populations of mule deer and javelina inhabit the area along with mountain lions, bobcats, black bears, coyotes, rabbits, and various bird species, providing ample opportunities for wildlife observation.Winter Activities
Hiking and wildlife viewing remain popular in winter, but extreme cold or snow may restrict access.Water Sports
Kayaking and canoeing are possible during seasons when water levels are sufficient in nearby streams and rivers.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Seasonal fire restrictions apply. Guests must provide their own firewood despite the description claiming it is stocked.
- Quiet hours are not explicitly mentioned.
Hazards
General hazardsGuests should be cautious of wildlife such as scorpions, spiders, snakes, and large ants near barbecue areas. Wet weather may make roads impassable.
Active alertsNo current alerts provided.
Weather forecast
86
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 35%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 8.9 mph
Strong wind, exercise caution
Clear sky
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 are located in Camp Verde, which includes police, medical facilities, and ranger stations.
Good to know
Peak season datesJanuary 1, 2025 - December 31, 2025.
Trash and recyclingTrash must be packed out by guests. The site features a large tin garbage can outside, which has occasionally been reported as having unemptied trash.
Proximity to water featuresSituated near Sycamore Creek, providing fishing opportunities but not suitable for swimming.
Common complaintsUser reviews frequently mention upkeep issues such as cobwebs, broken window locks, ants in the kitchen, lack of stocked firewood, and uncut grass.
HostRangers occasionally visit the site; janitorial services occur weekly.
Campground Map
PRESCOTT NATIONAL FOREST, VERDE RANGER DISTRICT, 300 EAST HIGHWAY 260, CAMP VERDE, AZ 86322, USA
Driving directionsFrom Phoenix, take I-17 north about 80 miles to Exit 268, the Dugas/Orme Road exit. Go east toward Dugas. You will be on Forest Service Road 68. Travel east 8 miles continuing past Dugas for half a mile and then turn right (south) at the 'Sycamore A.S.' (Forest Service Road 68F) road sign. Continue 1 mile to the cabin.
The road leading to Sycamore Cabin is Forest Service Road 68F. Guests are advised to be cautious during wet weather, as the road may become impassable.Nearby places
Camp Verde: approximately 15 miles away.
Nearby supplies
Camp Verde offers locations for groceries, camping supplies, and fuel approximately 15 miles away.
Camper Reviews
4.2
25 reviews
Sycamore Cabin is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews
Mixed reviews highlight both the charm and challenges of Sycamore Cabin. Positive aspects include tranquility, scenic views, and modern amenities like air-conditioning and central heating. Issues such as poor property maintenance, insect infestations, and inconsistent cleaning standards have been raised by users.
Review Summaries
Based on 25 reviews
What Campers Love
User reviews frequently praise the cabin's tranquility, scenic location, and modern amenities like air-conditioning and heating. "The perfect place to get away, relax, and unplug from everything...
Based on 25 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Major complaints include poor property maintenance, insect infestations, and inconsistent cleaning. "Paperwork even said it was cleaned once a week. THIS CABIN HAD NOT BEEN CLEANED IN A YEAR OR...
Based on 25 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Guests often recommend bringing firewood, cookware, and cleaning supplies. "Remember to bring firewood! (and leave some for the next people)," notes one camper.
Based on 25 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Winter reviews often emphasize the cabin's heating capabilities and snow-covered scenic beauty. Summer reviews highlight the creek and wildlife activities, although high temperatures may deter some...
Based on 25 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
"Sycamore Cabin is awesome - almost seemed like we were in a Fairy Tale." "Quiet, but so beautiful. If you want quiet this is for you." "The cabin was clean, but there are ants in the kitchen. Don’t...
Based on 25 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site-specific reviews (all for campsite 001, loop SYCAMORE) emphasize its historical charm but also note inconsistent maintenance and cleaning standards.
Based on 25 reviewsAccessibility Features
Accessibility reviews are minimal, with no specific mentions of features accommodating disabilities.
Based on 25 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are not permitted inside the cabin, which some users find restrictive. "Lastly, this cabin is listed as no pet cabin, which is strange, because there is absolutely nothing different about this...
Based on 25 reviewsShow more
Last updated August 10, 2025