RVing in Arizona in 2024 offers a unique and diverse experience, from the stunning landscapes of the Grand Canyon to the desert beauty of Saguaro National Park. Here are some key considerations and tips for RVing in Arizona:

Popular RV Destinations in Arizona

1. Grand Canyon National Park:
   • RV Parks: Trailer Village RV Park (offers full hookups), Mather Campground (no hookups).
   • Highlights: Iconic viewpoints like Mather Point, hiking trails, and scenic drives.
2. Sedona:
   • RV Parks: Rancho Sedona RV Park, Distant Drums RV Resort.
   • Highlights: Red rock formations, hiking, and vortex sites.
3. Saguaro National Park:
   • RV Parks: Gilbert Ray Campground (West Tucson), Desert Trails RV Park.
   • Highlights: Giant saguaro cacti, desert flora and fauna, scenic drives.
4. Lake Havasu:
   • RV Parks: Lake Havasu State Park, Havasu Falls RV Resort.
   • Highlights: Water sports, London Bridge, fishing, and boating.
5. Petrified Forest National Park:
   • RV Parks: Holbrook/Petrified Forest KOA, OK RV Park.
   • Highlights: Petrified wood, Painted Desert, hiking trails.
6. Flagstaff:
   • RV Parks: Flagstaff KOA, J & H RV Park.
   • Highlights: Proximity to Grand Canyon, Lowell Observatory, historic Route 66.

RV Parks and Campgrounds

• Public vs. Private: Arizona offers a mix of public campgrounds (state parks, national parks) and private RV parks. Public campgrounds are often more affordable but may have limited amenities. Private RV parks usually offer full hookups, Wi-Fi, and other amenities.
• Reservations: Popular destinations can fill up quickly, especially during peak seasons (spring and fall). It’s advisable to make reservations well in advance.
• Boondocking: Arizona has ample opportunities for boondocking (dispersed camping on public land), particularly in national forests and BLM lands. Sites like FreeCampsites.net can help locate boondocking spots.

Climate and Weather Considerations

• Summer Heat: Southern Arizona, including areas like Phoenix and Tucson, can experience extreme heat in summer. Ensure your RV is equipped with good air conditioning and consider staying at higher elevations (e.g., Flagstaff) during the hottest months.
• Winter Temperatures: Northern Arizona can get quite cold and snowy in winter, especially around Flagstaff and the Grand Canyon. Southern Arizona, on the other hand, has mild winters, making it a popular destination for snowbirds.
• Monsoon Season: From June to September, Arizona experiences monsoon rains, which can cause flash flooding. Be mindful of weather forecasts and avoid camping in dry riverbeds.

Activities and Attractions

• Hiking: Arizona is a hiker’s paradise with trails ranging from easy walks to challenging backcountry routes. Popular hikes include Bright Angel Trail in the Grand Canyon, Cathedral Rock in Sedona, and trails in Saguaro National Park.
• Water Activities: In addition to Lake Havasu, consider visiting Lake Powell, Lake Mead, and the Salt River for boating, fishing, and kayaking.
• Cultural Sites: Explore Arizona’s rich Native American history at sites like Montezuma Castle, Canyon de Chelly, and the Heard Museum in Phoenix.
• Scenic Drives: Enjoy scenic byways like Route 66, the Apache Trail, and the Coronado Trail Scenic Byway.

Practical Tips

• Vehicle Preparation: Ensure your RV is in good working order, with a focus on the cooling system, tires, and brakes. Carry extra water, especially if traveling in remote areas.
• Permits and Regulations: Some areas require permits for camping or boondocking. Check regulations for the specific areas you plan to visit.
• Safety: Be mindful of wildlife, particularly in remote areas. Practice Leave No Trace principles to preserve the natural beauty of Arizona.

Conclusion

RVing in Arizona in 2024 promises a memorable adventure with its diverse landscapes and abundant outdoor activities. By planning ahead and preparing for the state’s varied climate, you can ensure a safe and enjoyable trip. Whether you’re exploring national parks, enjoying water sports, or simply soaking in the desert beauty, Arizona offers something for every RV enthusiast.

When most Americans think of Arizona they think of sun, sand, heat, and cacti. Arizona residents know that in part that is true, but there is so much beauty to be found.  From the roughed low deserts to the high mountain passes in Arizona you will find varied and scenic routes, campgrounds, and wonderful hiking and biking opportunities.

Northern Arizona RV Destinations

Northern Arizona is home to higher elevations, mountains, cooler temperatures, and is rich in history. There are great RV accommodations near each of these areas in northern Arizona which make them the perfect destinations for fun in your RV.

Prescott

Prescott offers more than a cooler climate and higher elevation but has been listed in the top 10 public spaces in the United States. This is in part due to having been the regional capital of Arizona that is enriched with a courthouse sitting proudly in the charming town square.

Sedona

Sedona is synonymous with the famous beauty of Arizona. The mountains near by contrasted by the wonderful red rock formations creates an unique visual environment which is celebrated as one of America’s most beautiful places time and time again. The area features many activities and countless photo ops, hiking trails and scenic drives which makes every RV trip more memorable and special.

Meteor Crater

Most meteor impacts are relatively small and leave minor craters which usually go unnoticed. The crater near Winslow Arizona is a bit harder to miss as it is nearly a mile across and 550 feet deep!  In fact Meteor Crater is the best preserved meteorite impact location on the planet. With air conditioned indoor viewing, outdoor observation trails, interactive discovery center, and theater it has become an international tourist destination.

Also on the site is an Apollo Test Capsule as part of the Apollo Astronaut Memorial Park that memorializes the efforts of the astronauts who trained in the area during the 1960’s.  A viewing window in the capsule makes it possible for visitors to get a clear look at what it might have been like to be an early space explorer.

Southern Arizona RV Destinations

Tombstone

For history buffs and lovers of western movies Tombstone is a mecca of rich history and adventure. Having been the site for the gunfight in the OK Corral Tombstone earned the title as “The Town too Tough to die”.  You will be able to walk the same streets as legends of the West such as Wyatt Earp and Doc Holliday.

Kartchner Caverns

If cave exploration or spelunking is more your style Kartchner Caverns offers a view of one of the world’s longest stalactite formations. There are guided tours of the expansive cavern’s Big Room and Throne Room and a Discovery Center that spans 23,000 square feet!  These limestone caves were discovered in 1974 and have been amazing visitors ever since it was opened to the public.

Saguaro National Park

As an icon of Arizona the giant Saguaro cactus filled national park has two sections. It is divided into east and west with Tucson nestled in the center.  While most of us have seen these magnificent cactus in landscaping or in westerns having a whole forest of these giants is a sight to behold. The area has great scenic drives, hiking trails, and areas where visitors can enjoy the full beauty of one of Arizona’s proudest icons.

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