Very Private Horse Friendly Dog Friendly Cabin in the Pines
Guest rating: 5.0 / 5
Overview
This is a secluded, horse- and dog-friendly log cabin set in the rural pine forest near Payson, Arizona, backing directly onto Tonto National Forest. Fully renovated in 2011, the cabin retains a strong old-west character built around a large stone fireplace and propane heat. A four-adult occupancy limit and gated back access to the forest reinforce its emphasis on privacy and quiet.
Rooms & Sleeping Arrangements
The spacious upstairs loft holds a queen and a full-size bed, with a single rollaway available downstairs for extra sleeping. A separate bunk house out back gives kids their own space to stay. The bathroom pairs a shower with a vintage claw-foot tub, and a washer and dryer are on site along with all towels, linens, and paper products.
Kitchen & Outdoor Living
The kitchen is fitted with modern conveniences including an oven/stove, microwave, and a dining table with bar seating. Outside, a covered wraparound porch overlooks Myrtle Point and surrounding pine, juniper, and oak trees, with an outdoor grill and plenty of table space for meals in the open air.
Horses, Wildlife & Recreation
Guests are encouraged to bring their own horses to ride the trails of Tonto National Forest, accessible right through the property's back gate; two clean 12x12 horse pens with water are provided, though renters supply feed and vet care. A year-round spring on the property draws elk and turkey, and nearby activities include game walks, birdwatching, and trout fishing at Rancho Tonto Catch-A-Trout and Tonto Creek Fish Hatchery. ATVs are not permitted on the property except during hunting seasons.
Location
The cabin sits in a rural pocket outside Payson, roughly 3 to 33 kilometers from a cluster of casual dining spots such as Double D Bar & Grill, Zane Grey Country BBQ, Creekside Tavern, and Rim Country BBQ and Wood-Fired Pizza. Cultural stops in the area include the Rim Country Museum and Myra's Art Gallery, and Flagstaff Pulliam Airport is about 100 kilometers away for those flying in.
Best for
This cabin best suits horse owners, hunters, and outdoor-focused travelers seeking direct forest access, given its on-site horse pens, gated Tonto National Forest trail access, and hunting-season ATV allowance. It also appeals to pet owners and small groups or families wanting a quiet, private retreat, thanks to its pet-friendly policy, separate bunk house for kids, and secluded rural setting away from crowds.
Travel tips
Bring a vehicle, as the cabin is in a rural area well outside Payson with the nearest dining options several kilometers away and the closest airport about 100 kilometers off. If bringing horses, plan for their feed and veterinary supplies yourself since only pens and water are provided, and check the seasonal ATV restriction before packing recreational vehicles. Evenings are worth watching for wildlife near the property's year-round spring, and clear night skies make stargazing from the wraparound porch a highlight.
What guests say
Guests consistently praise the host, Gino, for friendliness and helpful local tips, including guidance on the best times and places to spot elk and other Arizona destinations worth visiting. Cleanliness and thoughtful touches like provided firewood are frequently highlighted as adding to a comfortable stay. Reviewers also repeatedly mention the scenic, peaceful natural surroundings, including notably clear night skies. No recurring negative themes appear in the available excerpts.
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