Wooden Nickel Cabins

The cabins — which are in the small town of Christopher Creek, about 20 min-utes east of Payson — offer a relaxing getaway for couples and larger groups. Property manager Shannon Moore says guests use the cabins for everything from weekend trips to weddings and family reunions. “People come up just to enjoy nature,” she says. “Some people never leave the cabins, but others go out for hiking, fishing and other activities.”

Built in the early 2000s, the six cabins have amenities such as Wi-Fi, cable TV and air conditioning, but they maintain a rustic vibe with all-wood structures and hand-picked decor. Each rental is themed around different animals, such as wolves, bears and bobcats.

That decor, paired with a gas fireplace, provides what Moore calls a “cozy cabin feel.” She says there have been thoughts about upgrading the fireplaces to electric, but people like the gas versions for the ambience they provide.

Five of the six cabins can sleep up to six people, while the sixth can sleep four. Each rental is pet-friendly and comes with a fully stocked kitchenette, a private front porch and a back patio that looks out onto the forest. Fire pits and grills are available for guests to use. 

Moore says the property has tried to make the cabins as family friendly as possible, and there’s a game room and a playground on-site. “We want this to be a place where parents can relax and read while the kids play on the playground,” she says. “And everyone is able to have a little bit of flexibility.”

Hiking trails are within walking distance, and for those seeking water recreation, Willow Springs Lake and Woods Canyon Lake are a short drive away. 

Groups can rent out all of the cabins to host bigger events or family gatherings, but regardless of the group size, Moore says, the property provides an escape from the rush of daily life. “I just want people to get away,” she says. “Once people find us, they are just like, ‘Wow, I didn’t know this was back here.’ It’s the perfect getaway.”