As a dad of two energetic kids and husband to an amazing wife, finding the perfect RV resort for our family getaways is always a top priority. Our recent stay at Verde Ranch RV Resort in Camp Verde, Arizona, was nothing short of spectacular. Let m, take you through our experience at this award-winning destination that’s redefining luxury camping.

Located at 1105 N Dreamcatcher Dr, Camp Verde, AZ 86322, Verde Ranch RV Resort is a gem in the heart of Arizona’s Verde Valley. You can find more information or make reservations on their website: https://verderanchrvresort.com.

From the moment we pulled our RV into the resort, I knew we were in for a treat. The first thing that struck me was how immaculately maintained everything was. The paved roads and manicured landscaping gave an immediate impression of quality and attention to detail.

Our family – myself, my wife Diana, our son Ryan, daughter Lia, and our golden retriever Bear – had been looking forward to this trip for months. Little did we know that Verde Ranch would exceed our expectations in ways we couldn’t have imagined.

Overview

Verde Ranch RV Resort is a relatively new addition to the RV park scene, having opened its doors to campers in recent years. The resort boasts 389 full hookup RV sites, each equipped with 30/50 amp service. What sets Verde Ranch apart is its commitment to providing a luxury camping experience.

As we settled into our spacious site, I couldn’t help but marvel at how well-designed everything was. The resort’s layout is thoughtful, allowing for easy navigation and a sense of privacy even when it’s busy. Diana, always the observant one, pointed out how clean everything was, from the RV sites to the common areas.

One of the standout features of Verde Ranch is its location. Situated just off Highway 260 and Interstate 17, it provides easy access to popular destinations like Sedona, Prescott, and even the Grand Canyon. As an avid explorer, I appreciated how this central location allowed us to plan exciting day trips without spending too much time on the road.

Amenities

The amenities at Verde Ranch RV Resort are where this place really shines. The centerpiece is undoubtedly the impressive pool complex. Our kids, Ryan and Lia, couldn’t wait to dive in, and I have to admit, Diana and I were just as excited. The large heated pool, splash pad, and two spacious hot tubs quickly became the center of our daily routine.

“Dad, can we go to the pool again?” became Ryan’s constant refrain throughout our stay. And honestly, who could blame him? The pool area was not only fun but also beautifully designed, with plenty of lounge seating for parents to relax while keeping an eye on the kids.

But the amenities don’t stop at the pool. The resort also features:

  • A well-equipped clubhouse with games and activities
  • Pickleball courts (which I quickly became addicted to)
  • A dog park (Bear’s favorite spot)
  • Laundry facilities
  • A convenience store
  • Hiking trails
  • River access

Diana was particularly impressed with the workout center. “I never thought I’d be able to keep up with my fitness routine on an RV trip,” she remarked after her morning workout. I have to admit, it was nice to have a place to burn off all those s’mores we’d been enjoying around the campfire.

For families like ours, the range of activities on offer is a godsend. Whether it was Ryan challenging me to a game of shuffleboard in the clubhouse, or Lia trying her hand at bocce ball, there was always something to keep everyone entertained.

Accommodations

While we stayed in our RV, Verde Ranch offers a variety of accommodation options to suit different needs. In addition to the RV sites, there are 16 furnished vacation rental cottages and even some unique glamping options like Conestoga Wagons and Luxury Safari Tents. I caught Lia eyeing those wagons with a gleam in her eye – I have a feeling we might be trying those out on our next visit!

Our RV site was spacious and level, with full hookups that made setting up a breeze. As the designated setup guy in our family, I was pleasantly surprised at how easy it was to get everything connected and leveled. “This is the easiest setup we’ve had in a long time,” I mentioned to Diana as we finished in record time.

The resort caters to big rigs too, which we appreciated even though our RV isn’t massive. It’s clear that they’ve designed the park with the needs of modern RVers in mind.

Location and Nearby Attractions

One of the biggest draws of Verde Ranch RV Resort is its prime location in the heart of Verde Valley. As a family that loves outdoor adventures, we were thrilled to be so close to a wealth of natural attractions and historic sites.

Sedona, with its iconic red rocks and numerous hiking trails, is just a 30-minute drive away. We spent a day exploring the area, hiking the Bell Rock Pathway, and marveling at the stunning vistas. Ryan declared it “the coolest place ever,” and I have to say, I agree. The way the sunlight plays on those red rocks is something you have to see to believe.

We also took a day trip to the Grand Canyon’s South Rim. It’s about a 2.5-hour drive from the resort, but absolutely worth it. Seeing the awe on our kids’ faces as they gazed into the vast canyon was a moment Diana and I will never forget. It’s experiences like these that make family trips so special.

Closer to the resort, we explored some lesser-known but equally fascinating sites:

  • Montezuma Castle National Monument: This well-preserved cliff dwelling is just a 10-minute drive from the resort. Lia was fascinated by the idea of people living in the cliffs hundreds of years ago.
  • Tuzigoot National Monument: Another nearby archaeological site that offers a glimpse into ancient Puebloan life.
  • Out of Africa Wildlife Park: A hit with the whole family, especially animal-loving Lia.
  • The historic towns of Cottonwood and Jerome: We spent an afternoon exploring these charming towns, with their unique shops and restaurants.

Diana, always the history buff, was in her element. “It’s amazing how much history is packed into this area,” she remarked as we drove back to the resort after a day of sightseeing. I couldn’t agree more – it felt like every turn revealed another fascinating piece of Arizona’s rich past.

Pros and Cons

No review would be complete without an honest look at the pros and cons. Here’s what we and other guests have observed:

Pros:

  1. Excellent amenities: The pool complex, clubhouse, and other facilities are top-notch.
  2. Clean and well-maintained: The entire resort is impeccably kept.
  3. Spacious sites: Most reviewers, including us, found the RV sites to be comfortably sized.
  4. Family-friendly: There are plenty of activities to keep kids entertained.
  5. Great location: Easy access to many attractions in the Verde Valley and beyond.
  6. Pet-friendly: Bear appreciated the dog park and the pet-friendly atmosphere.
  7. Friendly staff: Many reviews mention the helpful and courteous staff.

Cons:

  1. Highway noise: Some guests have mentioned noise from the nearby highway. We noticed it occasionally, but it wasn’t a major issue for us.
  2. Can be busy during peak seasons: Like many popular resorts, it can get crowded during high season.
  3. Arizona heat: During summer months, the heat can be intense. We visited in the fall and found the weather perfect.
  4. Limited shade: Some guests have noted that there isn’t much shade at the RV sites.

Our Family’s Experience

Throughout our stay, we found ourselves constantly impressed by Verde Ranch RV Resort. The kids were never bored, thanks to the pool, playground, and organized activities. Diana and I appreciated the balance of relaxation and adventure that the resort and its surroundings offered.

One evening, as we sat around our campfire (yes, fire pits are available!), Ryan summed it up perfectly: “This is the best camping trip ever!” Lia nodded in agreement, marshmallow smeared across her face. It was one of those perfect family moments that make all the planning and packing worthwhile.

For us, Verde Ranch struck the perfect balance between the outdoor experience we love about RVing and the comforts that make a family vacation truly enjoyable. The convenience of full hookups, the luxury of a heated pool, and the beauty of the surrounding landscape all combined to create a memorable experience.

Bear, our four-legged family member, seemed to enjoy the trip as much as we did. The dog park gave him plenty of space to run around, and the pet-friendly atmosphere meant he was welcome throughout the resort. It’s always a relief to find a place that truly welcomes pets, not just tolerates them.

Final Thoughts

As we packed up to leave Verde Ranch RV Resort, there was a unanimous feeling that we’d be back. “Next time, we should stay for two weeks instead of one,” I suggested, and Diana couldn’t argue with that. The kids were already planning what activities they wanted to do on our next visit.

For families looking for a comfortable base to explore the wonders of central Arizona, Verde Ranch RV Resort is hard to beat. Its combination of modern amenities, spacious sites, and prime location make it a standout option in the world of RV resorts.

Whether you’re a full-time RVer or a family looking for a unique vacation experience, Verde Ranch has something to offer. Just be sure to book in advance, especially during peak seasons, as this popular resort can fill up quickly.

As we pulled out of our site, waving goodbye to the friends we’d made during our stay, we were already planning our next visit. Verde Ranch RV Resort had not just met our expectations – it had set a new standard for our family camping adventures.

Frequently Asked Questions

To help you plan your own stay at Verde Ranch RV Resort, here are some of the most common questions we’ve encountered:

  1. Q: Is Verde Ranch RV Resort open year-round?
    A: Yes, the resort is open 365 days a year.
  2. Q: Are pets allowed?
    A: Yes, Verde Ranch is pet-friendly. They have a dog park and pet relief areas throughout the resort.
  3. Q: What is the maximum RV length allowed?
    A: The resort can accommodate RVs up to 75 feet in length.
  4. Q: Is Wi-Fi available?
    A: Yes, the resort offers high-speed Wi-Fi throughout the property.
  5. Q: Are there age restrictions for RVs?
    A: Yes, RVs must be 20 years or newer for nightly or weekly reservations. Older RVs in excellent condition may be approved with photo submission.
  6. Q: Can I make a reservation for a long-term stay?
    A: Yes, the resort offers weekly and monthly rates. Contact them directly for long-term stay information.
  7. Q: Are there any discounts available?
    A: Yes, Good Sam members can save 10% on their stay. The resort also offers a 25% discount for weekly stays.
  8. Q: What types of accommodations are available besides RV sites?
    A: Verde Ranch offers furnished vacation rental cottages, Conestoga Wagons, and Luxury Safari Tents for a glamping experience.
  9. Q: Is there a minimum stay requirement?
    A: This can vary depending on the season and type of accommodation. It’s best to check with the resort directly when making a reservation.
  10. Q: Are campfires allowed?
    A: Yes, fire pits are available at the resort. Always check current fire restrictions, especially during dry seasons.

Remember, policies and amenities can change over time, so it’s always a good idea to confirm details directly with Verde Ranch RV Resort when making your reservation. Happy camping!