Arizona, the Grand Canyon State, is a paradise for RV enthusiasts seeking adventure, natural beauty, and rich cultural experiences. With its diverse landscapes ranging from towering saguaro cacti to snow-capped mountains, Arizona offers a treasure trove of destinations for road trippers. In 2023, the state welcomed over 6 million visitors to its national parks alone, with RV campers accounting for a significant portion of overnight stays.
Whether you’re a snowbird escaping the winter chill or a summer explorer chasing the desert sun, Arizona’s RV-friendly spots promise unforgettable experiences. From ancient Native American ruins to otherworldly geological formations, this listicle will guide you through 15 must-visit RV destinations that showcase the best of Arizona’s natural wonders and cultural heritage.
1. Grand Canyon National Park
No Arizona RV trip is complete without a visit to the iconic Grand Canyon. This natural wonder attracts millions of visitors annually, with 682,140 overnight stays by car and RV campers in recent years. The park offers several RV-friendly campgrounds, allowing you to wake up to breathtaking views of the canyon’s colorful layers. Take advantage of the park’s shuttle system to explore various viewpoints and hiking trails along the rim.
2. Petrified Forest National Park
Step back in time at Petrified Forest National Park, where ancient fossilized trees create a surreal landscape. The park’s 28-mile scenic drive is perfect for RVs, offering numerous pullouts to admire the Painted Desert’s vibrant hues. Don’t miss the opportunity to hike among 225-million-year-old petrified logs and discover prehistoric petroglyphs.
3. Kartchner Caverns State Park
Explore the underground wonders of Kartchner Caverns, a living cave system discovered in 1974. The park’s campground accommodates RVs up to 60 feet long, providing a comfortable base for your subterranean adventures. Take guided tours to marvel at the cave’s intricate formations and learn about its delicate ecosystem.
4. Sedona
Immerse yourself in the red rock beauty of Sedona, a destination known for its stunning landscapes and spiritual vortexes. The area offers several RV parks and campgrounds nestled among the crimson cliffs. Enjoy world-class hiking, mountain biking, and stargazing in this picturesque desert oasis.
5. Monument Valley Navajo Tribal Park
Experience the majestic beauty of Monument Valley, an iconic symbol of the American Southwest. While RV camping options are limited within the park, nearby campgrounds provide easy access to this breathtaking landscape. Take a guided tour to learn about Navajo culture and history while marveling at the towering sandstone buttes.
6. Saguaro National Park
Witness the majesty of the Sonoran Desert’s giant saguaro cacti at Saguaro National Park. Split into two districts flanking Tucson, the park offers scenic drives and hiking trails suitable for day trips from nearby RV parks. Visit during the cooler months to enjoy comfortable temperatures for outdoor exploration.
7. Lake Havasu State Park
Park your RV along the shores of Lake Havasu, home to the famous London Bridge. This oasis in the desert offers excellent opportunities for water activities, including boating, fishing, and swimming. The state park’s campground provides stunning views of the lake and easy access to the vibrant Lake Havasu City.
8. Tombstone
Step back into the Wild West in the historic town of Tombstone. Known as “The Town Too Tough to Die,” Tombstone offers RV parking near its main attractions. Explore the infamous O.K. Corral, take a ghost tour, and experience reenactments of gunfights that made this town legendary.
9. Canyon de Chelly National Monument
Discover the rich history and stunning beauty of Canyon de Chelly National Monument. While there’s no RV camping within the monument, nearby campgrounds provide easy access. Take a guided tour to see ancient cliff dwellings and learn about the Navajo people who still call this sacred place home.
10. Organ Pipe Cactus National Monument
Experience the unique beauty of the Sonoran Desert at Organ Pipe Cactus National Monument. This UNESCO biosphere reserve is home to diverse plant and animal species, including its namesake organ pipe cactus. The monument’s campground accommodates RVs and serves as an excellent base for exploring the park’s scenic drives and hiking trails.
11. Flagstaff
Escape the desert heat in the mountain town of Flagstaff. Surrounded by the world’s largest ponderosa pine forest, Flagstaff offers a cool retreat for RV travelers. Use it as a base to explore nearby attractions like the Lowell Observatory or take a scenic drive through the San Francisco Peaks.
12. Chiricahua National Monument
Marvel at the “Wonderland of Rocks” in Chiricahua National Monument. This hidden gem features unique rock formations created by volcanic activity millions of years ago. The monument’s campground accommodates RVs, allowing you to spend multiple days exploring its extensive trail system and diverse ecosystems.
13. Antelope Canyon
Witness the ethereal beauty of Antelope Canyon, a slot canyon carved by water and wind. While RV camping isn’t available at the canyon itself, nearby Page offers several RV parks. Book a guided tour to capture stunning photographs of the canyon’s swirling sandstone walls.
14. Montezuma Castle National Monument
Step into ancient history at Montezuma Castle National Monument, home to well-preserved cliff dwellings built by the Sinagua people. Although there’s no camping within the monument, nearby RV parks provide easy access. Explore the visitor center to learn about the ingenuity of these early inhabitants of the Verde Valley.
15. Catalina State Park
Conclude your Arizona RV adventure at Catalina State Park, nestled at the base of the Santa Catalina Mountains. The park’s campground offers spacious RV sites with stunning mountain views. Enjoy hiking trails that wind through diverse habitats, from riparian areas to cactus-studded hillsides, and keep an eye out for the abundant wildlife that calls this park home.
