Kent Springs Cabin

For Arizonans in the southern part of the state, especially those near Tucson and Green Valley, a quick escape to the mountains is a highly sought-after relief from the desert heat. Kent Springs Cabin offers a unique and exceptional solution. Unlike a traditional campground with individual campsites, this destination is a historic, single-unit rental property managed by the U.S. Forest Service. This means that when you book it, the entire cabin and its immediate surroundings are yours to enjoy. It provides a perfect blend of rustic charm and essential modern comforts, making it an ideal base camp for exploring the rich biodiversity and extensive trail system of Madera Canyon. The cabin itself is a destination, not just a place to sleep.

Located in the heart of the Madera Canyon Recreation Area, the cabin is a part of the vast and diverse Coronado National Forest. Madera Canyon is renowned as a "sky island," a mountain range that rises from the surrounding desert, creating unique and biologically rich ecosystems. The cabin sits at an elevation of around 6,700 feet, which provides a significant climate difference from the desert floor. This makes it an ideal spot for a summer retreat, offering cooler temperatures and fresh mountain air. The cabin is nestled in a beautiful setting, surrounded by tall trees and a small creek, providing a private and peaceful environment. The area is a haven for wildlife, from the elusive coati and black bears to an astonishing variety of birds, making it a world-class destination for birding and wildlife viewing.

Kent Springs Cabin is located at Madera Canyon Rd, Madera Canyon, AZ 85614, USA. Its address places it about 15 miles southeast of Green Valley and less than an hour's drive from Tucson. The accessibility to the cabin is excellent, with a paved road leading almost all the way to the site. From the intersection of I-19 and Continental Road in Green Valley, you travel east on Continental Road, which becomes Madera Canyon Road, and continue approximately 14 miles into the canyon. The signed access road to the cabin is a short, paved drive off the main road, making it easily accessible for most vehicles.

It is important to understand that this is not a walk-in or first-come, first-served site. The cabin is available for rent through the Recreation.gov website, and reservations are required. Due to its popularity, especially on weekends and during the spring and fall seasons when the weather is ideal for hiking and birding, booking well in advance is highly recommended. The ease of access combined with its seclusion makes it a highly desirable location for a memorable getaway.

The services and amenities at Kent Springs Cabin are what truly set it apart from a traditional camping experience.

• Restroom: The cabin has a full bathroom with flush toilets and a shower, providing a level of comfort not found in most forest campgrounds.

• Furnished Kitchen: The cabin features a full kitchen that is well-stocked with pots, pans, dishes, and silverware, making it easy to prepare meals. Guests are responsible for bringing their own food, but the equipped kitchen greatly simplifies meal prep.

• Accommodations: The 1,500-square-foot cabin can accommodate up to eight people comfortably, with two bedrooms and two living rooms. It is a perfect size for a family or a small group of friends.

• Utilities: The cabin has running water, electricity, a fireplace, and even a propane BBQ grill, providing all the essential comforts of home in a rugged, natural setting.

• On-Site Parking: Convenient on-site parking is available right at the cabin, making it easy to unload and access your vehicle.

The features and highlights of Kent Springs Cabin are focused on its unique status and the unparalleled access it provides to the surrounding environment.

• Good for Kids and Kid-Friendly Hikes: The cabin's comfortable amenities and the presence of kid-friendly hiking trails in Madera Canyon make it an excellent choice for families. The ability to return to a warm cabin with a real bed after a day of exploring is a major plus for parents with young children.

• Historic Significance: The cabin has a fascinating history, with its origins tracing back to the early 20th century. It was renovated in the 1990s and is now maintained by the Forest Service, adding a layer of historical interest to the stay.

• Access to Premier Hiking Trails: The cabin is situated directly on the Kent Springs Trail, which connects to a vast network of trails within Madera Canyon. Hikers can choose from a variety of trails, from gentle, accessible paths to steep, challenging climbs that lead to the summit of Mt. Wrightson.

• World-Class Birding: Madera Canyon is one of the most famous birding destinations in North America, with over 256 documented bird species. The cabin's location puts you right in the middle of this birding paradise, with many species easily visible from the large back deck.

• Solitude and Privacy: Unlike a traditional campground where you have neighbors in close proximity, renting the cabin offers a high degree of privacy and seclusion. It’s a true escape from the crowds.

As a special, single-rental property, contact for Kent Springs Cabin is primarily handled through the Forest Service office that manages the area.

Address: Madera Canyon Rd, Madera Canyon, AZ 85614, USA

Phone: (520) 281-2296

For reservations and to view a detailed calendar of available dates, you must use the official Recreation.gov website. This is the only method to book the cabin and is where you can find the most current information regarding pricing, rules, and what to bring. It is important to note that you must also purchase a Coronado National Forest or Interagency Pass for each day you are in Madera Canyon.

Choosing Kent Springs Cabin is a decision to invest in a unique and memorable Arizona experience. It is worth choosing for several reasons.

The comfort and convenience it offers are unparalleled for a camping-style trip. The presence of a full kitchen, hot shower, and real beds makes it an excellent choice for those who are not interested in roughing it. For families, this is a significant advantage, as it makes the trip much more manageable and enjoyable. The cabin's location is its greatest asset. Situated at a high elevation, it provides a perfect escape from the Arizona heat. It is a prime launching point for some of the best hiking and birding in the state, allowing you to explore the stunning scenery and unique wildlife of the Santa Rita Mountains. The fact that you have the entire cabin to yourself ensures a private and intimate experience, a rare find in many popular outdoor destinations. It provides an authentic taste of living in the wilderness, without sacrificing the comforts of home. While the cost is higher than a typical campsite, the value is in the privacy, amenities, and unparalleled location. Kent Springs Cabin is a special and highly recommended destination for any Arizonan looking for a peaceful, secluded, and comfortable retreat in one of the state's most beautiful canyons.

Kent Springs Cabin

Madera Canyon Rd, Madera Canyon, AZ 85614, USA