Hotels near Saint Johns, Arizona

A little about Saint Johns...

Originally name El Vadito, or "little river crossing" by the original Spanish explorers, St. Johns was a thriving agricultural community in 1873. The community was renamed to San Juan (Spanish for St. John) when it was established in 1880.

Since its incorporation in 1946, St. Johns has seen significant changes. Two fossil-fueled electric generating plants, a data communications earth center, and a thriving tourist industry make up a significant portion of the town’s economy. As the Southern Apache County seat, St. Johns is also the center of government activities in this northeastern county that lies along the border of New Mexico.

The City of St. Johns has a population of 3,865, and is located in the northeastern portion of Arizona, approximately 18 miles west of the Arizona-New Mexico border, at an elevation of 5,730 feet. St. Johns is accessed from the north via Interstate 40 (approximately 50 miles) or from the south through our neighbor Springerville (approximately 29 miles). St. Johns is approximately 4 hours from Phœnix through the tall pines and majestic view of the Mogollon Rim, or 2.5 hours from Flagstaff through the scenic southwestern scenery of the Painted Desert and Navajo Nation. Click here for driving directions to St. Johns.

The benefits are endless when it comes to recreational opportunities. Four seasons of outdoor adventure highlight the quality of life that is experienced in Southern Apache County. From skiing, ice fishing, and snowmobile rides, to camping, hunting, hiking, fishing, horseback riding and mountain biking—nowhere can you experience cleaner air and cool summer breezes. Fall brings the sound of elk bugling and the crisp sound of wind swept golden aspen leaves—an outdoor paradise.

Throughout the year, each of our communities "put on their best" for traditional celebrations of the seasons, along with uniquely southwestern events that honor the proud heritage and the pioneer spirit that still lives on in our towns. Combined with museums, libraries, sports fields, swimming pools, equestrian facilities and State Parks, you are never far away from activities. Residents and visitors can golf at three different elevations in Southern Apache County: Alpine, Eagar, and Concho Valley.

An integral part of the communities is the Apache-Sitgreaves National Forests, home to one of the largest Ponderosa Pine stands in the world. The 2-million acre forest is home to more than 410 species of wildlife. Each year, the 35 lakes, 680 miles of streams, 36 campgrounds, and over 950 miles of trails are visited over 5 million times. The world famous Petrified Forest, northwest of St. Johns brings visitors from around the world.

The St. Johns Industrial airpark, adjacent to a lighted, 5,600 foot paved airport, offers 80 acres of industrial sites suitable for commercial and light industrial purposes. St. Johns Airpark, at an elevation of 5,730, has two lighted, hard-surfaced runways, the longest of which is 5,600, with UNICOM approaches. A new 3,000 square foot terminal along with additional hangar facilities encourages private and commercial trade in the region. General aviation and jet fuels are available.

St. Johns is a growing community, where inexpensive housing, one of the lowest property tax rates in the state, a low crime rate, mild winters and summers, and neighbors that care about each other make this an excellent location to raise a family. State incentive programs and a local government with a "can do" attitude make St. Johns a welcome spot for businesses wishing to take advantage of its excellent climate and location.