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Payson vacation rentals

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Vacation rentals for every style

Get the amount of space that is right for you

Popular amenities for Payson vacation rentals

Self check-in
Gym
BBQ grill
Laptop-friendly workspace
Wifi

Stay near Payson's top sights

Duza's Kitchen58 locals recommend
Fargo's Steakhouse54 locals recommend
Green Valley Park32 locals recommend
Buffalo Bar & Grill31 locals recommend
Mazatzal Hotel & Casino29 locals recommend
Macky's Grill24 locals recommend

Other great vacation rentals in Payson

Guest favorite

Home in Camp Verde

4.93 out of 5 average rating, 15 reviews

Casa Bella Vista

Guest favorite

Cabin in Pine

4.91 out of 5 average rating, 165 reviews

NEW! The Juniper House at Elk Rim, Pine AZ

Guest favorite

Cabin in Heber-Overgaard

5 out of 5 average rating, 16 reviews

Grandma TJ’s Mountain Getaway

Superhost

Cabin in Heber-Overgaard

4.73 out of 5 average rating, 94 reviews

Beautiful Loft cabin W/ Fireplace & Hot tub !

Superhost

Cabin in Payson

4.74 out of 5 average rating, 43 reviews

Enchanting Tonto Creekside log Cabin

Guest favorite

Cabin in Heber-Overgaard

5 out of 5 average rating, 94 reviews

HEBER GETAWAY IN THE PINES

Superhost

Home in Payson

5 out of 5 average rating, 3 reviews

Bear Lake Cabins - 2-homes-in-1 Game & movie room

Guest favorite

Guest suite in Camp Verde

4.98 out of 5 average rating, 42 reviews

Close to Sedona cozy 2 Queen beds, free WiFi Suite

Show all

Quick stats about vacation rentals in Payson

  • Total rentals

    140 properties

  • Nightly prices starting at

    $40 before taxes and fees

  • Total number of reviews

    6.3K reviews

  • Family-friendly rentals

    120 properties are a good fit for families

  • Pet-friendly rentals

    60 properties allow pets

  • Rentals with dedicated workspaces

    70 properties have a dedicated workspace

Your guide to Payson

Introduction

Founded as a rodeo town in the 1880s, Payson sits smack-dab in the heart of Arizona, in a region known by many as Rim Country, or simply, The Rim, thanks to its proximity to the Mogollon Rim. The rugged landscape along the southwestern edge of the Colorado Plateau comprises a majestic sprawl of grasslands and pine forests. The Rim rises 7,000 feet above sea level, and communities like Payson are nestled in the valleys below. Back in the day, the valleys were a natural draw for cowboys and ranchers looking to live off the land and stave off modern trappings. And for a long time, they succeeded. Because of its remote location in the Tonto Basin, Payson remained isolated for much of the early 20th century. Perhaps that’s how this unique town has managed to preserve its colorful Western heritage. It wasn’t until the late 1950s that a modern highway connected Payson to civilization, but the frontier traditions remained. Payson is still a rodeo town: Every year since 1884 it has hosted a rodeo, now known as the oldest continuous rodeo in the world.

The best time to stay in a vacation rental in Payson

Payson’s location in the American Southwest means it’s vulnerable to climate extremes year-round. Early-summer drought and late-summer rainfall are both common, and even monsoons can gather in the summer months, dumping heavy rainfall. Summer temperatures can reach as high as 100 degrees Fahrenheit, though nightfall brings relief, with temperatures dropping down into the 50s. Winter is fairly mild, with daytime temperatures reaching the 50s, but winter nights are cold, often dipping into the 20s or teens. Snow is uncommon and melts quickly under the Arizona sun. Spring and fall are beautiful seasons to stay in one of the area’s cabins, as they bring fresh growth to the vast landscape. Temperatures during spring and fall can vary drastically, so visitors should plan to dress in layers to stay comfortable.

Top things to do in Payson

Tonto Natural Bridge

Payson is surrounded by the Tonto National Forest, which offers scores of trails to choose from, but few sights rival the Tonto Natural Bridge. Known as the world’s largest natural travertine bridge, it spans 150 feet, and its apex rises 183 feet above Pine Creek.

Mazatzal Wilderness

Translating to “the place with many deer” in the dialect of the Native Americans who settled here so long ago, Mazatzal encompasses more than 252,000 acres of the Tonto and Coconino National Forests, just 20 miles southwest of Payson. Wildlife abounds — and not just deer. Bears, mountain lions, and hundreds of species of birds are all protected here.

Railroad Tunnel Trail

Though railroads never did reach Payson in the railway boom of the late 19th century, you can hike to their ruins. About one hour and 20 minutes north of Payson is Railroad Tunnel Trail (#390), which leads to a large excavation hole in the Mogollon Rim where track was meant to be laid.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • How is the weather in Payson?

    Payson enjoys a mild climate throughout the year. Summers can be warm, with temperatures reaching up to 90°F (32°C), while winters are cooler, often falling to around 30°F (-1°C) with occasional snowfall. Spring and autumn are particularly pleasant, offering crisp weather and vibrant natural beauty.

  • What are some of the best things to do in Payson?

    Payson provides an array of exciting activities. Outdoor enthusiasts can explore the Mogollon Rim, Tonto Natural Bridge, and Green Valley Park. History buffs might enjoy the Rim Country Museum and Zane Grey Cabin, while families can have fun at the Payson Aquatic Center.

  • What is the best time of year to visit Payson?

    Payson is frequently visited in the summer and early autumn, from June to October. These months coincide with popular events like the Payson Rodeo in August and the Beeline Cruise-In Car Show in September.

  • What are the best places to stay in Payson?

    Downtown Payson is often suggested for its proximity to dining and shopping options. For those seeking outdoor adventures, accommodations near the Mogollon Rim or Payson Lakes are frequently recommended. The Whispering Pines neighborhood, with its beautiful forested surroundings, is another popular choice.

  • What are the best places to visit in Payson?

    Payson has many appealing places to visit. The Tonto Natural Bridge State Park is home to the world's largest natural travertine bridge. The Mogollon Rim provides stunning panoramic views, while the Rim Country Museum and Zane Grey Cabin offer fascinating historical insight.

  • What are some hiking trails in Payson?

    Several scenic hiking trails are available in Payson, such as the Highline Trail which follows the base of the Mogollon Rim, or the Horton Creek Trail with its lovely creek and falls. For a shorter walk, the Green Valley Park Trails are a good choice.

  • What are some family activities to do in Payson?

    Families exploring Payson can enjoy activities such as hiking and picnicking at the Tonto Natural Bridge State Park, discovering local history at the Rim Country Museum, or having fun at the Payson Aquatic Center. The nearby Green Valley Park also offers fishing and playgrounds.

  • What are some of the best day trip ideas in Payson?

    Day trips from Payson might include a visit to the charming town of Strawberry, a drive along the scenic Mogollon Rim, or an exploration of the striking Tonto Natural Bridge. Other options could be a hike in the Hell's Gate Wilderness or a visit to the historic Pine-Strawberry Museum.

  • Are there vacation rentals near Payson's top attractions?

    You're in luck! Stay at the heart of it all with our vacation rentals near Payson's top attractions. We offer over 360 vacation rentals near Buffalo Bar & Grill, over 360 vacation rentals near Mazatzal Hotel & Casino, and over 360 vacation rentals near Fargo''s Steakhouse, and so much more! Experience the best of Payson right on your doorstep.

  • Are there vacation rentals with a dedicated workspace in Payson?

    Yes! Work meets play with ease at over 70 vacation rentals in Payson featuring dedicated workspaces. Stay connected and productive in your home away from home.

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