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RVing Grand Canyon

The Grand Canyon is likely the most famous National Park in the United States and is visited by more than 6 million people a year. The park is located in Northern Arizona near Utah and Nevada. The Parks main feature is a 277 mile (446 km) long canyon that separates the park into South and North Rims which has been carved out by the Colorado River flowing through the bottom of it. The canyons layered bands of red sedimentary rock and awe-inspiring size tells the story of millions of years of geological history. Let’s see everything that this famous park has to offer as we look at RVing the Grand Canyon.

RVing Grand Canyon South Rim

The South Rim of the Grand Canyon is located on the Arizona side. This side receives the majority of the park’s visitors and therefore has the best tourism infrastructure such as a visitors center, family activities, hotels, museums, restaurants, and bike rentals. Park entrance fee is $35 for the South and North Rims and is valid for 7 days. 

Stop by the South Rim’s twelve main viewpoints to look-out over the canyon. Visit the Yavapai Museum of Geology to view exhibits about the geological history of the area. Bike along Hermit Road for 7 miles (11 km)  stopping at viewpoints along the way. Hike below the rim on Bright Angel Trail or the South Kaibab Trail. Walk the South Rim Trail, a 13 miles (21 km) long trail that is mostly flat and paved and follows the edge of the rim. Take a helicopter flight over the canyon. Explore the canyon by guided horseback tour.

Where to Stay/Getting Around South Rim

I recommend that you make all lodging reservations well in advance.

There are three campgrounds in the South Rim. Mather Point Campground is open year-round and has no hook-ups, Trailer Village is an RV Park with full hook-ups, and Desert View Campground is closed for the winter months and has no hook-ups. 

There are many lodges ranging from rustic to contemporary including Kachina LodgeYavapai Lodge, Red Feather Lodge, Maswik Lodge, Bright Angel Lodge & Cabins, Thunderbird Lodge, and Phantom Ranch. Some popular hotels include El Tovar Hotel, Best Western Premier Grand Canyon Squire, and Holiday Inn Express Grand Canyon

Free shuttles make regular stops around the park at the visitors center, Market Plaza, the train depot, lodges, restaurants, trailheads, and viewpoints. It is a 5-hour drive between South Rim Village and North Rim Village. The Trans Canyon Shuttle runs between the Rims one time each direction each day.

Getting to Grand Canyon National Park South Rim

Phoenix AZ- Driving from Phoenix to the South Rim visitors center is 229.1 miles (368 km) and takes 3 hours 27 minutes via the I-17 N. 

Las Vegas NV- Driving from Las Vegas to the South Rim visitors center is 280miles (450 km) and takes 4.5 hours via the US-93 S and I-40 E.

RVing Grand Canyon North Rim

The North Rim is located on the Utah side and is a little more difficult to get to, making it more remote. The North rim is about 10 degrees cooler, due to the rise in elevation, allowing it to support more abundant plant and animal life. The north side is ideal for those looking for more of a rugged wilderness adventure and to escape the crowds of the more popular South Rim. 

The main activities on the north side are hiking, sightseeing, and participating in ranger-led activities. There are three main viewpoints to visit, Cape Royal, Point Imperial, and Bright Angel Point. Cape Royal offers the most panoramic views and is very popular at sunset, Point Imperial is the highest and northernmost view of the canyon. Bright Angel Point is the most popular of the northern viewpoints and offers views of the south rim.

Where to Stay/Getting Around North Rim

The closest place to stay in the canyon is The Grand Canyon Lodge. Around the lodge, there are a variety of large and small rustic, western cabins and motel rooms. The Lodge itself houses a saloon, restaurant, gift shop, and store. 

Kaibab Lodge is located 18 miles from the North Rim on the AZ-67 in the North Kaibab National Forest. The main lodge has a restaurant and is surrounded by a variety of cabins. This is the ultimate place to disconnect because there is no cell phone service or and no phones or TVs in the rooms. Jacob Lake Inn is 44 miles from the North Rim and surrounded by the towering pines of the National Forest. It has been family-owned and operated since 1923. Cozy cabins, hotel rooms, or motel rooms are available. 

The North Rim Campground is located on Arizona State Route 67, 1 mile north of The Grand Canyon Lodge. The campsites are shaded by trees and have some distance between them. There are hookups and a water refill station but no dump station is available. 

The Grand Canyon Lodge offers a free shuttle for hikers from the lodge to the North Kaibab Trailhead twice a day.

Bicycles are a great way to get around at the North Rim due to the parks 35mph speed limit but are only allowed on blacktop roads. 

Getting to Grand Canyon National Park North Rim

Phoenix AZ- The drive from Phoenix to the North Rim visitors center is 5 hours 56 minutes 353.9 miles (570 km) via the I-17 N and US-89 N.

Las Vegas Nevada- Driving from Las Vegas to the North Rim Visitors Center is 266 miles (428 km) and takes 4 hours 38 minutes via the I-15 N.

RVing Grand Canyon West Rim

The Hualapai Indian Tribe manages Grand Canyon West and is located 241 miles west of the South Rim, approximately a 4.5-hour drive. The National Parks Service Pass is not valid here and the general admissions fee for an adult, including shuttle service and access to all three viewpoints (Eagle Point, Guano Point, Hualapai Ranch), is $56.00. Extras can be added to your ticket such as the Skywalk, meal tickets, and ziplining for an additional fee.

The main attraction at the West Rim is the Skywalk, a horseshoe-shaped glass bridge that takes you 70 ft out over the grand canyon with nothing else under your feet until the Colorado River. Take the time to look at the Hualapai history exhibit on the walls inside the Skywalk building for a better understanding of Hualapai culture and connection to the land. 

Hualapai Ranch is the hub of West Rim activities. There is a food hall, gift shop, and rustic cabins to spend the night in. At the ranch, you will also find wagon rides, horseback rides, gunfight shows, and other activities. Havasu Falls hike is famous for its aqua-blue waters spilling over the red-orange cliffs into pools below. This is an oasis in the middle of the vast desert is a 10-mile hike and requires proper permits. 

Where to Stay/Getting Around West Rim

There are two places to stay while visiting the West Rim, Hualapai Ranch and Hualapai Lodge. 

Hualapai Ranch offers the closest accommodations to the canyon. Spend the night in a rustic cabin allowing you to wake up and watch the sunrise over the canyon in the morning. 

The second option is staying at the Hualapai Lodge which is approximately 130 miles (209 km) from the West Rim located in Peach Springs. 

Your entrance fee includes a hop on-hop off shuttle service within Grand Canyon West. 

RVing Grand Canyon

Getting to Grand Canyon National Park West Rim

Phoenix AZ- The drive from Phoenix is 259.5 mies (418 km) which takes 4 hours 11 minutes via the US-93 N.

Las Vegas NV- It is a 125.6 mile (202 km) drive from Las Vegas to the West Rim which takes 2 hours 4 minutes via the US-93 S.

Best time to visit the Grand Canyon

The best time to visit the Grand Canyon depends on the kinds of activities you want to do and what you want to see.

Spring

The Springtime allows for thinner crowds, cooler weather, and a chance to see the wildflowers bloom. Daytime temperatures range from 50°F-60°F (10°C-15°C) and may even reach into the ’80s (26°C) on the West Rim. Some disadvantages are that nighttime temperatures can drop below freezing. There may be unpredictable weather such as rain or snowstorms. The North Rim is closed for the winter from October 15 until May 15. During the winter months backpackers, snowshoers, and cross-country skiers are allowed to use the North Rim Campground with a backcountry use permit.

Summer

Summer is the most popular time to visit the park due to the long summer days. Access to all of the tourism services allows you to participate in many of the different activities. Temperatures at the South Rim range from around 70°F-85°F (20°C-30°C). The North Rim will be open at this time and its higher elevation offers an escape from the heat. Heavy but short rainstorms are common from July to September. It may be difficult to book lodging at this time of year due to the crowds. 

Autumn

The Autumn invites in milder weather and smaller crowds. Day time temperatures range between 50°F-60°F (10°C-15°C) and night may get cool. The fall colors of the foliage are beautiful and the shorter days make it more likely for you to catch the sun setting over the canyon. The weather can be unpredictable with warmer than usual temperatures or early rain and snow so be prepared and pack accordingly.

Winter

The colder months come with a lot of advantages. The crowds will be at their thinnest at this time making it easy to book your preferred accommodations and activities. You may also find discounted lodging due to the lack of guests. The South Rim trails stay open during the winter. You may get to see the breathtaking sight of the canyon dusted by snow. The North Rim will be closed and the weather may obstruct some views or challenge your hike into the canyon. Daytime temperatures at the South Rim average around the low 40°F (5°C) and below 20°F (-6 ) during the night. Check out the West Rim for slightly higher temperatures averaging between 60°F-70°F (15°C-20°C) during the day. 

RVing Grand Canyon Winter

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Top RV Camping Destinations Arizona

Arizona is easily one of the top RV camping destinations in North America. Consistent warm temperatures, incredible sightseeing, and beautiful scenery. What more could you ask for? The landscape is perfect for outdoor adventures, offering a little bit of everything. The area is home to lakes, mountains, deserts, canyons, and even a volcano! From natural wonders and culinary treats, Arizona will give you everything you’re looking for in an RV adventure. Here we’ll give you some of the best RV parks to check out to make your trip around Arizona as memorable as possible.

Desert Shadows RV Resort

Photo Credit: Good Sam

Desert Shadows is the king of RV parks, which is why the term ‘resort’ is more fitting, you’ll understand why when you see the size of the site. This RV resort is in an ideal location to explore all that Phoenix has to offer, such as shopping malls, golfing, entertainment, restaurants, and beautiful views. However, when you’re staying at the first-class Shadows RV resort, you may never want to leave! 

This 55+ resort includes a wide array of amenities to ensure you are well taken care of for a short-term or long-term stay. They even have a full-time social activities director coordinating fun events! If you’re into music festivals, potlucks, arts and crafts, or aerobics classes, this is a destination for you. Even if you just want to sit back and relax, you can hang out in their lobby which offers all you can drink complimentary coffee and tea. In the evening consider catching a fun game of bingo or billiards and connect with other travelers. Shadows Resort has it all. This is definitely one of the top camping destinations in Arizona.

On The Beach RV Park

Photo: onthebeachrvpark.com

On The Beach RV Park, the name says it all. Wake up to the sound of the ocean while you’re relaxing in a full hookup site that includes cable TV and free high-speed wireless internet, all while being surrounded by award-winning landscaping. Can life get any better than this? You bet it can. During the winter season the park offers dinners, movie nights, and mixers for evening entertainment. One of the best activities to do at this park is to go boating, and it’s not your average boating experience. Port Aransas is among the best locations for dolphin watching. However boating isn’t the only way to experience the Texas coast, you can also enjoy kayaking, parasailing, surfing, and kiteboarding. If you don’t have your own gear, no problem, you can rent out any equipment you need. You won’t find any other RV park closer to the beach than this one. 

Desert’s Edge RV Park 

Photo: Yelp, Jazzy, M.

For another top camping destinations in Arizona watch for the flashy Desert’s Edge neon sign off the 1-17 and check out this retro-inspired RV park. The site is located in close proximity to downtown Phoenix for easy accessibility to major league events, classic car auctions, desert botanical gardens, the OdySea Aquarium Foundation, the Butterfly Wonderland and so much more! The park hosts many parties and special events directly on the property in their expansive recreation room and recreation hall. Desert’s Edge is very pet friendly, equipped with two dog parks and a dog run as well as a dog grooming station. They also have family parks, a newly installed covered barbeque area, and a heated family swimming pool for all year family fun! 

Grand Canyon/Williams KOA

Photo: Trip Advisor, Management

If you’re planning a trip to the Grand Canyon, the Grand Canyon/Williams KOA is the perfect base camp for RVers. The landscape surrounding the area encompasses everything that Arizona has to offer, from the Indian ruins and Sedona red rocks to the Sunset Crater and historic towns. Only two blocks from Route 66, very close to downtown Williams and undoubtedly convenient for Grand Canyon access makes the Grand Canyon/Williams KOA a must hit RV park! 

Being adequately distanced from the hustle and noise of trains and interstates allows you to relax at night around a campfire and gaze at the sky’s constellations. Enjoy scenic nature hikes, hunting trips, or a tour of the Grand Canyon via train, bus, or helicopter during the day. In the evening, book a family dinner on route 66 or a romantic night at El Tovar Hotel. The team at Grand Canyon/Williams KOA will ensure you have a trip to remember. 

Meteor Crater RV Park

Known for its stunning night skies, Meteor Crater RV Park is located 20 miles West of Winslow allowing for an undisturbed, unpolluted star gazing experience. Here, it’s easy to capture those dazzling starry night shots. To further your space adventures, as the name indicates, this park is just a 5-mile drive to the best-preserved meteor impact site in the world, the Meteor Crater visitor center. This world-famous attraction is open for exploration, and there is a lot to explore, the crater is over 1 mile wide and 500 feet deep! Truly a magical experience. 

Photo Credit: Good Sam

Rancho Sedona RV Park

This RV parks let you do the unthinkable in Arizona…escape the sun! Rancho Sedona Park is fully shaded for a much-needed breath of cool air. Breathtaking cottonwood and grand sycamore trees shade the park creating a tranquil setting that is unique to Arizona. Your dogs will thoroughly enjoy this break from the sun while they run free in the fenced dog park. The park is situated adjacent to Oak Creek creating a soothing sound of running water while you sit back and relax in the spacious sites provided by the park. More than relaxation, Rancho Sedona RV park is also great for biking, hiking, and trout fishing all year long! These are some of the many things that make this park one of the top camping destinations in Arizona.

Top RV Camping Destinations Arizona
Photo: Trip Advisor

Eagle View RV Resort

For a luxurious home base less than 25 miles from Phoenix, check out Eagle View RV Resort. This location is fantastic for exploring the surrounding area of Fort McDowell and provides exceptional scenery. Views of Verde River, Four Peaks, and majestic surrounding mountains will leave you breathless as you take in the peaceful fresh air that Fort McDowell offers. A quick drive to Scottsdale and other attractions such as the We-Ko-Pa Golf Club and the Fort McDowell Casino. If you want to stay in, you can relax in the resort’s swimming pool or hot tub and enjoy family-friendly games with free coffee and pastries!

Photo: eagleviewrvresort.com

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Travel Local Explore the United States

 

Travel local explore the United States
                                                 Windy mountain roads make for fun RV adventures

Travel local and explore the United States spectacular RV camping destinations this summer. As time goes on some States are still under strict travel restrictions and renting an RV this summer is the safest, affordable way to have a holiday, escape the city and have some adventure in your life.

Perks to RV Travel:

RV travel makes camping incredibly comfortable and convenient while fully allowing you to escape into nature. Breathe in the fresh air, take in the spectacular sceneries, spend quality time with friends and family, and have time to relax by the campfire.

travel local explore the United States

Explore the United States Safely

The experts agree that camping is the safest way to travel this year. Traveling the United States in a self-contained RV is a low-risk activity. An RV allows you to keep your distance, avoid shared facilities, and poorly ventilated restrooms. Rent an RV to have the freedom to travel, escape the city, and do so in a fashion that adheres to the social distancing guidelines. For more inspiration check out this article on Social Distancing in an RV.

Travel in Comfort

Travel safely but travel in comfort. With a bed, kitchen, air conditioner, and washroom you have everything you need for ultimate convenience while you travel. If you get tired on the road, pull over at any truck stop, and take a nap. Stretch your legs in the RV while it rains and make a snack in your kitchen on wheels. Enjoy extra creature comforts with reading lights, an audio system, and somewhere to charge your phone! Exploring the United States in an RV offers next-level comfort.

Enjoy the comfort of an RV while you explore your state

Pack Everything 

One of the best things about traveling with an RV is that you can bring everything. There is no 50-pound limit with high fees if you want to bring an extra suitcase. So, pack the hammock, your favorite pillows and blankets, cast-iron skillet, your coffee grinder, all the sunscreen and skincare products, and lots of towels, you get what I am saying. Pack an entire wardrobe and bring all the creature comforts you desire.

Don’t forget all the outdoor adventure gear. And, while you are at it throw the canoe and kayaks on the top and bikes on the back. Now you are set to travel local and explore your State.

Explore the united states in RV
                                                             Strap the bikes on the back of the RV!

No Hotels

Renting an RV to explore the United States is the convenience of renting a hotel on wheels. This means there is no stress trying to find a hotel, get to a specific destination, or follow an itinerary. Don’t worry about lugging your suitcases upstairs into your hotel room, or constantly unpacking and repacking. There is no concern about keeping your distance in common areas or worrying about the cleanliness of a rented room. Just load all your items into the RV and get comfy in your epic vacation home on wheels.

Your vacation home on wheels goes where you go. When you get too hot in the midday sun take a nap right at your destination and get back to the adventure as soon as you’re ready. I mean napping is part of the vacation treat! A mobile home base means you can have a bbq lunch wherever you’re parked. At the end of a big day, lounge with friends and family where you are, cook dinner in nature, and don’t worry about hitting the highway to your overnight destination.

Affordable 

Once the RV is rented you can make your vacation as affordable as you desire. Park for free beside your new favorite lake or rent a site in a campground.

Park the RV anywhere
                                                                Find your new favorite campsite!

Having a kitchen with all the accessories can save a lot of money when you are making your own meals. Load up on your favorite camp food and treats! We all know food tastes better outdoors.

Different RV models to Travel Local and Explore the United States 

 

With a variety of models available for you to rent we guarantee to have an RV to meet your needs. Whether you are looking for an RV with lots of space for the whole family, easy drivability, or off-road adventures, we have an RV to meet your needs. Check out all the options here.

Tips and Trips for RV travel 

Find the RV to meet your needs
                                               We offer a variety of RV models to meet your needs!
  • Load up with water to be self-contained. Many of our RV water tanks would last for days while you set up in your new favorite campsite.
  • Pack more food than you think you need, so when you find a destination that steals your heart you can stay as long as you like.

This is a handy article for The Ultimate RV Camping Checklist.

Travel local and explore the United States

Staycations are a growing trend. You don’t have to go far to have a stellar vacation. Many States are still under some level of travel restrictions, but even before the pandemic campers were sticking closer to home. KOA studies show 54 percent of campers were traveling less than 100 miles to camp. You don’t need to live near the mountains to find gorgeous camping locations near you. Added bonus, less time traveling means more time relaxing or adventuring in nature.

Take the Road less Travelled

RV parked by ocean on BLM, free camping
                                                                 Find the hidden gems in your State.

Explore that gravel road you have always wondered about. There is a special sense of excitement as you turn down a road you have never explored and wonder what hidden gems are waiting for you. Find your secret paradise! Find a dream location with gorgeous views, no other campers cramping your serene nature setting, and no one charging you a nightly fee to sleep in nature. Camping on the large amounts of Bureau of Land Management (BLM) areas that allow free camping can offer the best spots for peace and quiet.

Not sure you just want to start roaming down gravel roads? Spend some time on Google Earth and scope out your dream location before you start driving. But, as you settle into a quiet night under the stars, beside a crackling fire, you will be glad you decide to travel local and explore your backyard.

National and Private Campgrounds 

If setting out into the wilderness in hopes of finding your dream campsite isn’t your thing, there is a wide variety of other camping options. With Provincial and National campgrounds reopening to campers nationwide an RV is an excellent option to safely camp. Check out below for affordable RV camping inspiration.

Local Travel Inspiration to Explore your State

Passport America 

This is a great option to find affordable camping in any State. With a small membership fee, they offer 50% off to over 1600 quality campgrounds. With a downloadable app, you can find campsites on the go as you explore your state.

Harvest Hosts

Park your RV at wineries for free camping through Harvest Hosts
                                       Park at wineries across the United States through Harvest Hosts

Buy an affordable membership with Harvest Hosts and get free camping at almost 2000 different wineries, breweries, distilleries, museums, and attractions across North America. A fully self-contained RV is necessary to be eligible for these gorgeous free spots. Set up above the rolling hills of the vineyard, eat and drink to your heart’s content then walk back to your RV for a comfy free sleep! Not sure if wine tours get much better!

New Mexico 

If you live here you already know it is a hidden gem that flies under many tourist radars. But, the hidden gems of RVing in the desert means gorgeous starry nights, landscapes like nowhere else, with unique hoodoo rock formation, predictable temperatures, and few bugs. Spend the days hiking, exploring the endless trail system, and magnificent sunsets. With large amounts of BLM, there are plenty of options for free RV camping. One of our favorite local destinations to explore is the Carlsbad Caverns.

Arizona

explore local, explore arizona
                                                       Arizona has an abundance of free RV camping

A state made for outdoor enthusiasts and RV camping. With endless mountain biking, rock climbing, stunning hikes, and the Grand Canyon the entire state provides an opportunity for adventure. Free RV camping is abundant around Sedona, Flagstaff, and Southern Arizona. Free camping makes this an affordable, safe option to explore your State. For more on Arizona check out this 12 Day Self Guided Tour of Southwestern USA.

Minnesota 

Known as the state of 10, 000 lakes there is a plethora of gorgeous camping opportunities for you to explore in an RV. Load the canoe, pack the fishing rod, and escape to quiet campsites by the water. Travel late summer and in the fall to upper Minnesota and take in the northern lights.

RV road trip to camp beside lake
                                                                                Photo Credit: Pixabay

Michigan  

This State varies greatly from the lower to the upper peninsula. Pack the RV and set out to explore the surprising number of quiet pristine beaches. In the summer months enjoy fresh berry picking, lighthouse tours, and beautiful forests. Enjoy the peace and quiet of camping along the shore of Lake Superior, with lots of free camping all the way north.

Tennessee

travel local explore the United States
                                                         Enjoy the rolling hills and lakes in Tennessee

Driving through Tennessee is a special treat and doing it in an RV is the best way to explore your State. Follow the road to drive through rolling mountains, waterfalls, and twisting back roads with fun hidden gems around every corner. Explore the Great Smoky Mountains. Drive to the mountain town of Garlinburg to reach free hiking trails through vibrant forests and fire towers to get a good look at the stunning landscapes. With all the free camping options an RV adventure is an affordable way to truly experience your State.

Pennsylvania

Rent an RV and take a spectacular historical tour of the Gettysburg National Military Park. Spend a day driving around the battlefields and bring to life the important destinations we learned about in high school history classes. Continue your history tour at Valley Forge Historic Park, where Washington and 12,000 troops retreated in 1777. Explore the beautiful area and bike the 30-mile cycling path. Your state offers lots of State Parks that are easily accessible with free camping.

When you travel local and explore the United States you support local. With varied travel restrictions across the country, an RV rental is the safe and affordable option to explore the hidden gems in your state for your summer holiday. Don’t forget people come from all over the world to explore the United States.

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