Palisades Ranger Residence Cabin

Star3.98
63 reviews
5700 N Sabino Canyon Road, Tucson, AZ 85750, USA

Quick Facts

8,000 ft

Price

$125/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

1 campsites

Season

Open from late March...

Cell

No Service

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

ShowersWiFi

Opens Santa Catalina Ranger District site

Official Website
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Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

January 2026

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

January 2026
Palisades Ranger Residence Cabin
$125.00 - $125.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Cabin rental rate is $125 per night, applicable for all seasons. Reservation service fees apply: $8 for online/app reservations, $9 for call center...
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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

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Provider
520-749-8700
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What Campers Say

3.98

Mixed Reviews

Based on 63 reviews

Most mentioned

peacefulhiking

"The reviews are a mix of positive and critical experiences, with guests appreciating the scenic location, peacefulness, and amenities. Common complaints include maintenance issues, cleanliness, and accessibility during winter."

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Campground Map

5700 N Sabino Canyon Road, Tucson, AZ 85750, USA

Palisades Ranger Residence Cabin

5700 N Sabino Canyon Road, Tucson, AZ 85750, USA

Driving directionsFrom northeast Tucson, take East Tanque Verde Road to East Catalina Highway. Turn left (north) on East Catalina Highway, which becomes the General Hitchcock Highway, for approximately 23 miles to Organization Ridge Road and turn left (just before Palisades Visitor Center). The cabin is located approximately 100 yards in on the right.
Access via East Catalina Highway is straightforward, although inclement weather, particularly in winter months, may limit or prohibit access, requiring temporary parking at Palisades Visitor Center parking lot.
Nearby places
Tucson - 20 miles
Summerhaven - approximately 5 miles
Nearby supplies
Nearby Summerhaven offers a general store, and additional supplies can be found in Tucson, 20 miles away.

Best Time to Camp at Palisades Ranger Residence Cabin

Experience four distinct seasons in this mountain paradise, where each brings its own magic to your doorstep. Winter transforms the landscape into a snow-dusted wonderland, though adventurous spirits should note that roads remain unplowed during heavy snowfall. Spring awakens the forest with mild temperatures and blooming wildflowers, while fall paints the mountains in golden hues. Summer offers warm, sun-drenched days perfect for exploration, with temperatures refreshingly cooler than the desert below. Pack layers and prepare for nature's ever-changing moods at this elevation.

Best
Summer(Jun-Aug)
4.0 / 5

Summer offers cool mountain air and outdoor activities; reviews highlight pleasant summers.

Fall(Sep-Nov)
4.0 / 5

Four distinct seasons noted; fall is scenic in this mountain forest setting.

Spring(Mar-May)
3.5 / 5

Open in spring; reviews note late-March snow and pleasant temps compared to Tucson heat.

Winter(Dec-Feb)
Not recommended

Cabin is open late March to early November; closed during core winter months.

Planning Tips
  • Peak Season: January 1 to December 31, 2025 (same rate year-round).. Book 2-3 months ahead.
  • Operating Season: Open from late March to early November, depending on weather conditions.
  • Current Alerts: No active alerts mentioned.

About Palisades Ranger Residence Cabin

Escape to the Palisades Ranger Residence Cabin, where mountain serenity meets modern comfort in the stunning Santa Catalina Mountains. Just 20 miles from Tucson's desert floor, this thoughtfully restored ranger's cabin invites you to experience life at 8,000 feet, complete with all the amenities you need for a memorable mountain retreat. Wake up to crisp mountain air, prepare meals in your fully equipped kitchen, and unwind in the enclosed yard as evening shadows dance through towering pines. With indoor plumbing, electricity, and comfortable furnishings throughout, you'll find the perfect balance between rustic charm and contemporary convenience.
The Palisades Ranger Residence Cabin provides a single cabin accommodation with no additional campsites. It is suitable for small groups or families.
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Reserving a campsite

Check-in
2:00 PM
Check-out
12:00 PM
Stay Limit
14 consecutive nights maximum.

Amenities available

Showers
Potable water
WiFi
Flush toilets
Fire rings
Picnic tables

Activities you can enjoy

A wide range of activities are available, including hiking, birding, mountain biking, rock climbing, and fishing. Winter sports like skiing at Mt. Lemmon Ski Valley are available depending on snowfall.
HikingThe cabin is located near multiple trailheads. The Bigelow Trailhead across the road is particularly noted as scenic.
ClimbingClimbing 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.
FishingFishing is available at nearby Rose Canyon Lake.
BikingMountain biking opportunities are available in the surrounding areas.
Wildlife viewingGuests have reported seeing wildlife such as deer and even a fox. The cabin is surrounded by diverse wildlife in the Santa Catalina Mountains.
Winter Activities
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Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsPotential threats include wildlife such as bears, squirrels, mice, skunks, and snakes, as well as inclement weather, which may limit access.
Active AlertsNo active alerts mentioned.
No Cell ServiceCell phone service is not available at this campground. Plan accordingly for emergencies and download offline maps before arriving.

Weather at Palisades Ranger Residence Cabin

Reviews

4.0
63 reviews
Mixed Reviews
Mixed Reviews
Palisades Ranger Residence Cabin has mixed reviews, placing it in the bottom 85% of campgrounds based on reviews
The reviews are a mix of positive and critical experiences, with guests appreciating the scenic location, peacefulness, and amenities. Common complaints include maintenance issues, cleanliness, and accessibility during winter.
Review Summaries
Based on 63 reviews

What Campers Love

The cabin is described as cozy, well-equipped, and located in a beautiful and peaceful environment. Highlights include the fenced yard for pets, access to hiking trails, and wildlife sightings. One...
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Based on 63 reviews

Common Concerns

Several guests reported maintenance and cleanliness issues such as non-functioning wood stoves, mice presence, dirty utensils, and plumbing problems. Winter accessibility problems, including unplowed...
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Based on 63 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Guests recommend bringing extra cleaning supplies, a snow shovel in winter, and personal items like bedding and cooking utensils. One user suggested, 'Bring your own soap, paper towels, and dish...
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Based on 63 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Winter reviews often highlight challenges with snow and cold temperatures, while summer reviews focus on the cool air and opportunities for outdoor activities.
Based on 63 reviews

Camper Quotes

1. 'What a great little cabin! We enjoyed our stay with access to so much great hiking!' 2. 'Loved our peaceful time at the cabin. The lack of cell phone or Wi-Fi made it even more relaxing.' 3. 'The...
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Based on 63 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

The cabin itself has received varied reviews. Some highlight its charm and location, while others point out issues like non-functional facilities and cleanliness lapses.
Based on 63 reviews

Accessibility Features

Accessibility is limited, especially during winter due to unplowed snow and slippery paths. One review mentioned, 'If you are not able-bodied, do not come here in the winter.'
Based on 63 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

The cabin is highly rated for pet friendliness, with many guests appreciating the fenced yard. One user noted, 'The dogs love the yard. In fact, they got me up at 4:am to get me up to play.'
Based on 63 reviews

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Last updated January 13, 2026
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