I recently had a break from school, one of those college breaks where no one else you know has the same time off, kids and hubby included. I decided I really wanted to spend some time with the kids though and a few days out of school wouldn't hurt them. I gave them a few options as to where we could go, I was thrilled when they picked camping. We decided to go to one of the state parks as they offer a lot of amenities as well as the fact that I was going alone, and would feel more safe and comfortable. We had been to Fool's Hollow and Patagonia before and loved both. We usually tent camp, but I decided that with no hubby to help set everything up, I would look into the parks that had the camping cabins.
We decided on Roper Lake in Safford, and booked a cabin right on the lake. I have to tell you it was so nice to cut back on what I had to pack. The cabins are fairly basic but without having to pack a tent, air mattresses, lanterns, and more it made life way less stressful. The cabins have power/lights, ac/heat, beds, counter space, an outdoor grill built into a counter and sink with running water, a fire pit, and an awesome swing. The cabin that we chose, had a main room when you entered with a full size bed and counters/cupboards, and then a separate room for the kids with a bunk and a single bed. It was so nice to just pack bedding, camp stove, portable bbq, some pots & pans, food, bikes, toys and clothing. This vacation was starting off on a great note, anything that makes my life easy and stress free gets two thumbs up.
When we arrived at Roper Lake, we were not disappointed to say the least. We were instantly greeted by the smiling faces of the park employees, and they came by right away to see if we needed anything. Sometimes when you book a place online, the photos show you only the best parts, and you are let down when you arrive. This was not the case at all at Roper Lake. I have to say that while they pictures online made it look awesome, real life was 100 times better.
We unloaded the truck and got set up in about 30 minutes, and once the kids' bikes were out of the truck they were off. I felt so relaxed letting them ride their bikes on all the trails alone, they were having a great time. Within an hour of getting there, I was relaxed on the porch swing with a book in hand, not a textbook either, a paperwork purely for entertainment. Life was good!
The entire 5 days we were there were nothing short of amazing. The kids rode bikes, made friends, played at the beach and swam. We made smores, roasted hotdogs, and went in the natural hot springs. We even had multiple visits a day for the cutest trio of feathered friends, they would swim by in the water and if you called out to them they would turn around, climb out, and come for a visit.
I couldn't have asked for a more relaxing vacation and the kids didn't want to leave. I have decided I am going to create a bucket list of Arizona State Parks and take the kids camping at as many as we can. I will save the ones with cabins for when mommy is taking the three of them alone.
So when you are looking for something to do this summer, somewhere to go and escape the intense Arizona heat, make sure to check out Arizona State Parks. They are all within less than a days drive of the Phoenix area, and you will not be disappointed.
When you are planning a vacation, think about stepping away from those stressful theme park style trips, and head out camping. I know some people don't like rustic bush style camping, but state park camping offers the security and amenities that you won't get when you head to the woods. And the best part is, you will make amazing memories with your kids!
