See all properties

Serene & Secluded, Heart of the Sonoran Desert, 62 Acre EcoRanch on Natl Forest

Photo gallery for Serene & Secluded, Heart of the Sonoran Desert, 62 Acre EcoRanch on Natl Forest

Room with a view!
snow on Four Peaks, view from the barn
Outdoor dining
view from the trailer
Our horses have the best view!

Reviews

9.8 out of 10

Exceptional

1 bedroom1 bathroomSleeps 441 sq m

Popular amenities

  • Parking available
    Parking available
  • Breakfast available
    Breakfast available
  • Pet-friendly
    Pet-friendly
  • Washer
    Washer
  • Barbecue grill
    Barbecue grill
  • Outdoor space
    Outdoor space

Explore the area

Map
Scottsdale, AZ
  • Tom's Thumb Trail
    18 min drive
  • Golf Club Scottsdale
    22 min drive
  • Legend Trail Golf Club
    36 min drive
  • Scottsdale, AZ (SCF)
    42 min drive

Rooms & beds

1 bedroom (sleeps 4)

Bedroom 1

1 Queen Bed and 1 Double Futon

Living Room 1

1 Double Sofa Bed

1 bathroom

Bathroom 1

Toilet · Shower only

Spaces

Deck or patio
Kitchen
Garden
Dining Area

About this property

Serene & Secluded, Heart of the Sonoran Desert, 62 Acre EcoRanch on Natl Forest

Recognized by Million Mile Magazine as one of the top 10 "Most Unbelievable Places to Celebrate Airbnb's 10th Anniversary" and awarded LUX Magazine's 2020 "Most Serene Desert Accommodation & Horse Boarding Facility- Southwest USA!" Additionally, VRBO selected Rio Rancho Verde (one of 5 vacation rentals out of 3500 in Scottsdale) for a YouTube promotional video, and we've been featured on both a Hulu series special and a Western film production. Rio Rancho Verde offers an amazingly unique Arizona experience, far from the maddening crowds! This exclusive horse ranch/boarding facility is nestled in the heart of the Sonoran Desert, only 20 - 25 minutes from Scottsdale. Our property sits on the border of the Tonto National Forest, and is the perfect authentic Western adventure. Enjoy an upscale ranch experience and discover the inner operations of an exclusive horse boarding facility, just a short distance from Scottsdale. You can experience the "behind the scenes" day to day operations of ranch management and barn maintenance, help us feed the horses carrots from the garden, take a roping lesson from our on-site expert (no cows involved!), sign up for manure management or rent a trusty steed at the stables down the road. Our spacious, luxury travel trailer offers designer décor with a combination of upscale Southwestern and Western furnishings and accessories, with all the amenities. Over 500 square feet of open floor plan, complete with fireplace, separate bedroom and bathroom, huge shower, full kitchen with island, big screen TV, Barcaloungers, queen size bed, huge closet space, additional pull out sofa bed, AC and heat, dining area (seats 6) and your own private spot that faces the Four Peaks Wilderness area. Enjoy cocktails as you watch the sun set and turn the skies crimson, take your morning coffee down to the barn while the horses wait for their breakfast or enjoy the sky full of stars over dinner on your own private patio. We're the perfect destination for hiking, biking and exploring right out of our back gate - we're situated 1/2 mile from the Scottsdale McDowell Sonoran Preserve, which offers 32,000 acres and over 215 miles of trail to explore. Or, just relax and refresh while enjoying a glass of wine as you watch the spectacular sunsets on the ridge overlooking the mountain peaks and desert vistas. We're secluded and surrounded by the most amazing mountain views, saguaro cactus and Sonoran Desert scenery and offer a relaxing alternative to the fast pace of city life. The night skies are filled with stars and you're sure to hear a coyote or two howling in the distance. Take a side trip to the Verde River (9 miles) and keep an eye out for the wild horses that call this area home. There's a stable down the road where you can rent horses, and we can have mountain bikes delivered to the ranch for you. We're committed to an Eco-Ranch lifestyle and are committed to sustainability, being mindful of the ecology in which we live and embracing the environment that surrounds us. We have an organic garden on site and you're welcome to help yourselves to the vegetables we grow. Reduce, reuse, recycle and re-purpose! It's an amazing beautiful site, far enough out that you'll feel like you're in the middle of nowhere but only 25 minutes from Scottsdale and fine dining, galleries, shops and nightlife. Please note that we board horses and the owners are on site with them. We also have 2 other short term rentals, so there are other guests on property. Come join us at Rio Rancho Verde! If the travel trailer package is not available please see our other listings at VRBO 652267 or VRBO 763667. We hope to see you at Rio Rancho Verde!
Please note, the trailer has a queen size bed and a couch that pulls out. Rate is based on 2 people, there is an additional charge for an extra guest. Dogs are allowed (sorry no cats) but must be crated in their owner's absence unless other arrangements have been made in advance with the owner. Pet fee is $60 (non-refundable) and cleaning fee increases $50.

Property manager

Carmela Lizzo

Languages

English

Add dates for prices

Amenities

Kitchen
Washer
Dryer
Pet-friendly
Free WiFi
Air conditioning

Similar properties

Interior detail
Secluded Cowboy Casita, 10 minutes from Cave Creek/Carefree & North Scottsdale
Kitchen
Pet-friendly
Free WiFi
Air conditioning
10.0 out of 10, (4 reviews)
Secluded Cowboy Casita, 10 minutes from Cave Creek/Carefree & North Scottsdale

House Rules

Check in after 4:00 PM
Minimum age to rent: 21
Check out before noon

Children

Adults only

Events

No events allowed

Pets

Pets allowed

Smoking

Smoking is not permitted
No smoking except outside. Dogs are welcome and if they get along with others, no leashes are required. The trailer is brand new, so no dogs on the bed please and if possible, we would prefer them to be crated in your absence. Late check-ins after 9 p.m. are an additional $25.00. We have basic Wi-Fi, if you want to stream movies, download large files or conduct business, we can offer high speed internet for a $10 fee (total per stay or per month) If you cancel your reservation within 60 days of your arrival date you will forfeit your deposit and be charged for all remaining fees. We're big on sustainability, so reduce, reuse and recycle!

Important information

You need to know

Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy
Government-issued photo identification and a credit card, debit card or cash deposit may be required at check-in for incidental charges
Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed
Cashless transactions are available
On-site parties or group events are strictly prohibited
Host has not indicated whether there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property; consider bringing a portable detector with you on the trip
Host has indicated that there is a smoke detector on the property
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher, a first aid kit and a deadlock

We should mention

A car is required for transport to and from this property

About the area

Scottsdale

Located in Rio Verde Foothills, a neighbourhood in Scottsdale, this mobile home is in a rural area and in the mountains. Tonto National Forest and McDowell Sonoran Preserve reflect the area's natural beauty and area attractions include George "Doc" Cavalliere Park and Arizona Powerchutes. Make sure you get close to the area's animals with activities such as game walks and birdwatching.
Map
Scottsdale, AZ

What's nearby

  • Golf Club Scottsdale - 22 min drive
  • Troon North Golf Club - 25 min drive
  • Boulders Golf Club - 37 min drive
  • Westworld of Scottsdale - 39 min drive
  • Mayo Clinic Hospital - 41 min drive

Getting around

  • Scottsdale, AZ (SCF) - 42 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪Raven’s View Wine Bar - ‬40 min drive
  • ‪Rosati’S Pizza - ‬23 min drive
  • ‪Pony Express Cafe - ‬23 min drive
  • ‪Apache Clubhouse - ‬43 min drive
  • ‪Cochise Geronimo Clubhouse - ‬47 min drive

Frequently asked questions

Is Serene & Secluded, Heart of the Sonoran Desert, 62 Acre EcoRanch on Natl Forest pet-friendly?

Yes, pets are allowed at this property.

What time is check-in at Serene & Secluded, Heart of the Sonoran Desert, 62 Acre EcoRanch on Natl Forest?

Check-in begins at 4:00 PM.

What time is check-out at Serene & Secluded, Heart of the Sonoran Desert, 62 Acre EcoRanch on Natl Forest?

Checkout is at noon.

Where is Serene & Secluded, Heart of the Sonoran Desert, 62 Acre EcoRanch on Natl Forest located?

Located in Rio Verde Foothills, this mobile home is steps from Tonto National Forest and within 9 mi (15 km) of Tom's Thumb Trail and Golf Club Scottsdale. George "Doc" Cavalliere Park and Troon North - Pinnacle Course are also within 12 miles (20 km).

Reviews

9.8

Exceptional

Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labelled.
Learn moreOpens in a new window
Rating 10 - Excellent. 24 out of 25 reviews" "
Rating 8 - Good. 0 out of 25 reviews" "
Rating 6 - Okay. 0 out of 25 reviews" "
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 25 reviews" "
Rating 2 - Terrible. 1 out of 25 reviews" "

9.8/10

Cleanliness

10/10

Check-in

10/10

Communication

10/10

Location

10/10

Listing accuracy

Reviews

10/10 Excellent

Jerry B.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
360• beauty
Paradise! We were in town for a short conference. Loved watching the sunrise with our coffee and sunset with a bottle of wine. Husband enjoyed hiking right from the ranch while I was away during the day.
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2024

10/10 Excellent

Linda L.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Weekend Getaway
Had a wonderful stay at this amazing, peaceful and beautiful property. Carmela and Joe could not have been more helpful and welcoming for us RV newbies. We cooked our meals, had cocktails outside admiring the view and spent time riding our bikes and running trails. We very much enjoyed our time there!!
Stayed 2 nights in Mar 2023

10/10 Excellent

Joanne T., Philadelphia

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Serene Getaway
My husband and I stayed at the Ranch for four nights and enjoyed our stay immensely. We were looking for a different adventure and this property was perfect. Waking to horses every day, sipping coffee on the swing, enjoying sunrises and sunsets, hiking/walking and so much more ... plus the others who were on the property were kind and friendly - including a few well behaved dogs! The owners are extremely friendly, kind and welcoming. We enjoyed a Friday night pizza party with everyone at the ranch's "Party Pit" - how fun!! I would stay here again in a heartbeat and if you are thinking about it - book it!
Stayed 4 nights in Feb 2023

10/10 Excellent

Karen M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Vrbo stay
We were looking for a place away from the hustle and bustle. It was a beautiful location.
Stayed 2 nights in Nov 2022

10/10 Excellent

Carrie S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Truly a charming and unique experience!
We loved our stay at Rio Rancho Verde. As a horse boarding stable with arena and camp sites it brought back wonderful childhood memories and activities. Hosts Carmela and Joe have created a very charming, fun, neighborly environment. It has stunning views of the Tonto Forrest, lots of trails to horseback ride, hike or photograph and is truly a place to make new friends. Including Gracie, their adorable camp dog, who always knew precisely when breakfast, lunch and dinner occurred in our RV. She is truly a hostess in her own right!😁 And she comes by it naturally because Carmela and Joe could not have been more accommodating, engaging and gracious. We had a wonderful stay at RRV which we will never forget and hope to come back some day soon! ❤️
Stayed 7 nights in Nov 2021

10/10 Excellent

Elizabeth D.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
A little R & R
A truly gorgeous setting, two great hosts, a giant RV and the gargantuan sky… the ultimate AZ experience. The RV is beautiful, well appointed and homey. The ranch is an amazing piece of property located at the edge of the world, or so it seems as you watch the sun rise and set on a breathtaking expanse of desert. If it wasn’t for the sounds of all the hard work it takes to keep things running, I might have thought I was on a movie set, it is that perfect! Whether you ride horses or mountain bikes, give Rio Rancho Verde a try, you won’t be disappointed. If you just want to relax and take a leisurely stroll, or contemplate all the wonderful gifts in your life, this is the perfect spot for that too. No matter which accommodations you end up in, you won’t be disappointed with Carmelita and Joe. I didn’t ever want to leave and will be back soon!
Stayed 3 nights in Oct 2021

10/10 Excellent

Siri E., Colorado Springs, Colorado

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Delight in the desert
Peaceful stay across a dirt road from the Tonto. The hosts, birdlife, trails, sunsets, and horses all contributed to a wonderful vacation.
Stayed 6 nights in Apr 2021

10/10 Excellent

Mary L.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Great stay
Beautiful property and good customer service. We weren’t on the property much but the hikes we had were great on the preserve. Trailer had everything you would need. Owner was available as needed.
Stayed 4 nights in Apr 2021

10/10 Excellent

Lisa B.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Refreshing and beautiful!
What a wonderful getaway on a gorgeous, well-maintained property! Everything was absolutely perfect and the views were breath-taking. The hosts were so kind and friendly, providing everything we needed and more, and the accommodations were lovely. We enjoyed ourselves so much and wish we had been able to stay longer. We'll definitely be back!
Stayed 4 nights in Mar 2021

10/10 Excellent

Jean H., Edmonds, WA

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
A Special Place
We didn't know what we were getting, a surprising little paradise. Breathtaking beauty, charming and comfortable accommodations. We'll be back!
Stayed 3 nights in Mar 2021

10/10 Excellent

anthea W., Glendale

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Valentine’s weekend.
The property is beautiful! It was very comfortable! The hosts were friendly!
Stayed 2 nights in Feb 2021

10/10 Excellent

Isabelle W.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Beautiful
Everything was perfect! Absolutely beautiful location, backing up to Tonto National Forest. Everyone we met was so kind and helpful. Can't wait to go back again.
Stayed 2 nights in Feb 2021

10/10 Excellent

IBIS P.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Amazing Ranch
Serene & beautiful property with all the amenities & super hosts.
Stayed 3 nights in Feb 2020

10/10 Excellent

Sue R.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Wonderful experience!
Staying at Rio Verde Ranch is a memory that will stay forever. This working ranch is a gem in the desert where you quickly become a part of the “family”. From hiking, feeding the horses carrots from garden, enjoying sunrises/sunsets, listening to coyotes and simply reconnecting with your soul.....awesome experience!
Stayed 9 nights in Feb 2020

10/10 Excellent

Jeffrey S., Spokane

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Magical high desert place
Rancho Rio Verde sits at the end of the road bordering an expanse of spectacular high desert terrain that's right out your back door and easily accessed. You're in a different world from the one you came out of for as long as you're fortunate enough to stay. The grounds and accommodations are impeccable and the hosts, Joe and Carmela, are warm, gracious, and enthusiastically helpful. We didn't want to leave!
Stayed 4 nights in Dec 2019

10/10 Excellent

Cherilyn V., Long Beach, California

Our second visit to the ranch and again we had a fantastic time!
The deluxe trailer was well-appointed and suited all of our needs. Gracious hosts, beautiful property, we look forward to returning.
Stayed 3 nights in Mar 2018
This review was submitted before 2018 and has not been verified.

10/10 Excellent

Marlene D.

Wonderful pet friendly AZ experience!
Everything you need in this brand new trailer. Owners are friendly and the location has a million dollar view! Trailer well furnished with everything including wifi and big tv which we never used because looking at the view, hiking in the desert in bloom and the Milky Way at night was all we needed! We couldn't have been happier! We will try to return.
Stayed 5 nights in Mar 2017
This review was submitted before 2018 and has not been verified.

10/10 Excellent

Jess W.

Paradise found!
This was my first experience in a trailer. I was a little doubtful before booking but it turned out to be a perfect four week stay for me. The mountain views from the trailer are phenomenal Plenty of room and privacy for visits from my grandchildren. I wanted to get away from Michigan winter, the city, take long hikes and get lots of warm sun and fresh air, but I also wanted to be close to golf and tennis. Mission accomplished! Step out of the trailer and you're on the hiking trails (don't miss the hike around Granite Mountain). Golf and tennis is in Rio Verde or Scottsdale just a short drive away. Carmela and Joe are great hosts. They made me feel like I was part of their family. Carmela's organic garden is great and Joe can fix anything! I'm not a "horse person" (I opted not to shovel) but I discovered that I enjoy being around people that enjoy horses. They are hardworking, happy and very friendly people. Any opportunity and the party is on: I got invited to a birthday party for a guest's one year old dog and a champagne breakfast for the grand opening of the ranches laundromat! I'm looking forward to a return visit.
This review was submitted before 2018 and has not been verified.

2/10 Terrible

Mary Ann F., Estes Park, Colorado

Betrayal
Betrayal This generally peaceful place is marred by frequent recreational motorcycle use of the area on weekends--perhaps not a problem for those who are motorcyclists themselves. Far more regrettably--I might have returned anyway--my stay was spoiled by the owner's withholding my large damage deposit because a sink faucet became loose at the end of my two-week stay—as if the faulty faucet was my fault—and a plastic bowl that was left in the same scratched condition as I found it.
This review was submitted before 2018 and has not been verified.

10/10 Excellent

Elizabeth S.

You won't be disappointed..........
We had originally booked Arizona and the fifth wheel at Rio Verde as a vacation. Our vacation turned into our honeymoon and in our opinion we picked a perfect place! Each morning we were greeted with a beautiful sunrise from the bedroom window and each night we had wine as the sun set. Carmela and Joe's property is breathtaking as is the surrounding scenery. The trailer has all the comforts of home. If you are looking for a quiet getaway to relax, enjoy nature at its best and want to meet some great people, then this is the place for you. We keep telling others about our honeymoon in a "trailer"with accompanying pictures. Our only regret is that we did not book a longer stay. We hope to make it back to Arizona soon and stay at Rio Verde again. Thank you Carmela, Joe and Gracie for welcoming us you your place and your gracious hospitality.
Stayed 4 nights in Nov 2016
This review was submitted before 2018 and has not been verified.

10/10 Excellent

Gary V.

Great relaxing getaway
We spent 4 nights at Rio Rancho Verde and this was one of the best getaways we have had in a long time. The trailer was excellent, the owners super and the views of the desert were breathtaking! Anyone looking for a relaxing time, this is the place to go. Had a great time interacting with their horse, the other guests and the short 100 yard walk to the desert trails. Being at the very edge of town was very secluded and the night skies were beautiful. The owners make you feel like you are at home and have done an excellent job with making you as comfortable as possible. Highly recommend Rio Rancho Verde and will be back for another longer stay.
This review was submitted before 2018 and has not been verified.

10/10 Excellent

Katrin R.

Luxury in the middle of nowhere
The trailer is perfect for a couple on a romantic getaway. The hosts are very helpful and welcoming and the location is fantastic!
Stayed 5 nights in Oct 2016
This review was submitted before 2018 and has not been verified.

10/10 Excellent

Donna H.

Perfect Getaway
I flew in to spend a few days with my dad who lives in Scottsdale. I didn't want to stay in a typical hotel near busy streets and the malls, because I wanted to be able to walk out the door and explore nature. What a find! I stayed in the new 5th wheel trailer. It was perfect. Carmela and Joe came over to welcome me upon my arrival and pointed out a terrific hike and nearby restaurants. I cannot describe the beauty of the sunrise that greeted me each morning from inside the trailer. The windows are so large and the trailer is perfectly positioned to look out toward Tonto National Forest, which is literally steps away. I will be back! This is a perfect place to stay if you like to hike or bike and enjoy nature. (I don't own horses otherwise it goes without saying this working ranch is the place) I pulled carrots from the garden to feed the horses and hiked the trails Joe suggested which took me by a rare crested seguaro cactus and one affectionately called Michelin Man. It's obvious how much Carmela and Joe enjoy sharing their experiences and joy of living in Arizona. Carmela was always available if I had a question by text or email. I would run into them working on the property when I went for a hike. I felt I was at an oasis and I could be as private as I wanted or I was welcome to join. The description of my accommodation and the property were completely accurate. It's off the beaten path and worth it!
Stayed 3 nights in May 2016
This review was submitted before 2018 and has not been verified.

10/10 Excellent

Lauren B.

Beautiful - Beautiful - Beautiful
This property was stunning! Secluded...quiet...gorgeous. If you're looking for a truly different experience, you must stay in this RV. It's brand new and comes complete with a full kitchen, fireplace, comfortable reclining loveseat and even an outdoor grill. At night enjoy the stars and the singing of the coyotes. Carmela was a wonderful hostess and gave us ideas on places to visit. The most incredible of all - walking in the Tonto National Forest (mere feet from the camper) and coming upon six wild horses. Looking forward to returning again!
This review was submitted before 2018 and has not been verified.

10/10 Excellent

Cindy L.

Spectacular!
My husband and I stayed at the Rio Rancho Verde for 4 nights in March 2016 and we truly feel we found a piece of heaven on earth. The 62 acre ranch is spectacular. The views of the Sonoran desert and the mountains are breathtaking. The saguaro cactus (my favorite) and many other desert plants adorn this lovely ranch and surrounding areas. We were truly in awe of the beauty we found here. The horses on the ranch were a joy to watch and I loved to feed them apples every morning. Very gentle and friendly. Carmela and her husband Joe, the owners of the ranch, are a wonderful couple, both so down to earth and friendly and they make you feel right at home. We stayed in the new fully equipped travel trailer and it was perfect for the 2 of us. We will definitely return as a piece of our hearts remain there and always will. Such natural beauty, everywhere you look, one can never forget. Thanks Carmela and Joe for sharing your ranch and your piece of paradise with us. We'll be back! Dan and Cindy Leary from Minnesota
Stayed 2 nights in Mar 2016

About the host

Hosted by Carmela Lizzo

Host profile image
My husband and I love living in the desert and enjoy sharing this incredible space with our guests. We've made some amazing friends who return year after year and who love to ride their horses with us to discover new trails and places. We're both avid horseback riders, Joe's a roper, and we also like mountain biking and hiking on the trails outside our gates. We have an organic garden on site, we compost and are big on reduce, reuse, recycle and re-purpose! We like being sustainable, we're on a well so we're always mindful of water consumption, and the veggies in our garden could feed an army!

Why they chose this property

Why do we own this property? We wanted to live as far out in the desert as we possibly could, but still have the conveniences of town. We specifically looked in the Rio Verde Foothills area because we wanted to live on the National Forest and have neighbors who were close enough to become friends but far enough away to give us our space. (we have awesome neighbors!!). I was born and raised in Chicago and on every vacation we ever took, I would be the little girl in the car looking out the window at the wide open spaces and the cowboy riding the range and wish that was me. Rio Rancho Verde is our dream come true.
Why should you select Rio Rancho Verde for your next trip? There's truly nothing else like it! When you see how beautiful our land is you'll know immediately that it's a very special place. We're incredibly blessed and grateful to call this home and we love to share it with guests who love the outdoors and appreciate the beauty that surrounds us. It's an amazing place with 360 degree views that feature mountain vistas, spectacular sunrises and sunsets, skies full of stars and a peaceful serenity that gets right down in your soul. It's the perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of city/corporate/daily life - we have a annual visitor who told us "I may reside in MO, but I LIVE here on the ranch".

What makes this property unique

Enjoy country living 20 minutes from the city of Scottsdale. You'll feel like you're in the middle of nowhere (and you kind of are!) but fine dining, shopping, nightlife and Western adventures are a short drive away. Rio Rancho Verde offers the best of both worlds. It's serene and peaceful, the views are incredible, we get visited by the local wildlife, the scenery is spectacular - it's amazing! My daughter, when she comes to visit, says: "this is what quiet sounds like", and it's so true.

Languages:

English
Tell us how we can improve our siteShare feedback