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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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Luxury Las Vegas RV Road Trip

Las Vegas is one of the most fun and glamorous trips to take in the United States. The Vegas Strip, Fremont Street, the night time entertainment, the daytime adventures, not to mention the Grand Canyon and other day trips can easily be made. Luxury and glamour go hand in hand so why not travel in luxury with an RV and hit all of the best stops along the way. Viva Las Vegas!

Welcome to Las Vegas Sign

Our favorite spots:

Circus Circus RV Park

If you’re looking to park your RV right on the Las Vegas strip, the iconic Circus Circus is must stop for at least a night or two. You’ll be able to experience all that the strip has to offer without having to drive 20 minutes to see the sights.

Johnny Cash Memorial Wall

After you’ve walked the strip, went to a show or two, dined like a king, and tried out a roller coaster, it might be time to escape to the road and check out a few of the National Parks and monuments that surround Las Vegas.

Zion National Park

the Grotto, Weeping Rock, Big Bend, and massive cliffs of pink and red that will be sure to enchant. Zion National Park has it all.

Cedar Banks National Monument

At 10,000 feet in elevation, Cedars Breaks National Monument is a hidden gem. The wildflowers are wondrous and you can find trees estimated at over 1500 years old.

Cedar Breaks National Monument

Bryce Canyon

Bryce Canyon isn’t as grand as the Grand Canyon, however, the forest of stone is a unique sight all on its own. After a day of exploring it’s been put to a vote that a burger never tasted so good.

Bryce Canyon National Park, Utah

Grand Canyon

And of course, the Grand Canyon. 277 river miles (446km) long, up to 18 miles (29km) wide, and a mile (1.6km) deep the Grand Canyon overwhelms with its unique combinations of color and sheer size.

Ariel view of Grand Canyon National Park

Where to stay:
Check out the app The Dyrt. They have the most campgrounds in a camping app and make it easy for you to find what you’re looking for.

For walkability to the strip: The Circus Circus RV Park
If you’re looking to stay right on the strip during your road trip, look no further than the Circus Circus RV Park located right on Las Vegas Blvd. Amenities include grass, patios, free wifi, and more.

For a luxury full-service experience: The Oasis Las Vegas RV Resort
For something a little bit of luxury the Oasis offers a concierge service to help you book tickets, tours, reservations, and more. Sites can come with decorative fencing, BBQ pits, and grassy spaces.

For on-site entertainment: Las Vegas KOA at Sam’s Town
With bowling lanes, big screen theatre, restaurants, buffets and so much more. After you’ve had your fill of Sam’s Town catch a free shuttle down to the strip.

For something simple and affordable: Arizona Charlie’s Casino East RV Park
Just 7 miles from the Las Vegas Strip. The park was recently renovated and is just walking distance from a casino, restaurants, gambling, and swimming pools to cool off.

One Way Options

There are so many one way options available when you start in Las Vegas. For a short weekend getaway, you could pick up in Las Vegas and drop off in Los Angeles. If you have more time you could pick up your one way RV rental in Las Vegas and follow the coast up and drop off in San Francisco, Seattle, or Point Roberts. A one way RV rental from Las Vegas to Phoenix would be a nice weekend getaway. For longer trips, you could pick up your one way RV rental in Las Vegas and drop off in Denver Colorado, Newark New Jersey, New York City, Orlando, or Miami Florida.

So grab a map and start planning your one way RV rental from Las Vegas.

Things to do Around Las Vegas

Neon Boneyard

Las Vegas Nevada is known for its bright lights and its neon signs. What happens to those signs when they are no longer being used? Well, they go to the Neon Boneyard of course. This 3-acre lot contains over 150 decommissioned signs from Las Vegas’ past, including the original Aladdin’s lamp from Aladdin’s Casino and the original sign from the Golden Nugget. Tours are available daily and try to go at night so that you can see some of the old signs lit up.

Fly Geyser

Atlas Obscura says it best the Fly Geyser is a collision of human error and natural geothermic pressure resulted in the rainbow-colored geologic wonder. Off of State Route 34 outside of Gerlach Nevada nearly 100 years ago a well was drilled looking to provide water for farming. The water that appeared from this well was nearly 200 degrees, obviously not suitable for farming this well was just left. What formed was a 12-foot cone of calcium carbonate. The red and green coloring of the geyser is caused by thermophilic algae making these mineral structures breathtaking. With a Nevada RV rental, you can drive out to the geyser.

Area 51

Area 51 is located in Lincoln County Nevada. This famous top-secret military testing facility is rumored to be home to aliens and their spaceships. You will not get into Area 51, the closest you will get is to a no trespassing sign. It would make a great story though if you and your Nevada RV rental had to be escorted from the area by armed guards. (USA RV Rentals in no way endorses this behaviour:)

Rhyolite Ghost Town

Rhyolite Ghost Town is located 6 miles west of Beatty Nevada. In 1905 in the middle of a gold rush, this town grew to 1500 people. The town boasted a 3 story building, a school for 250 children, hotels, stores, and even an ice plant. 11 years later the lights were turned out and now the only things left were the ruins of a few old buildings.

Forest of the Last Church

Visit the International Forest of the Last Church. Over 40 automobiles, including cars, trucks, and vans are scattered around stacked on one another and balanced on their ends. These vehicles have been painted by two artists whose vision was to create a place for people to get out and explore while speaking out against organized religion. You can drive out to Goldfield Nevada in your RV and take your time looking at this exhibit.

Bristlecone Pines

How about a stop at the Bristlecone Pines of the Great Basin. These trees are the oldest in the world. One tree named Methuselah is almost 5000 years old.

There is so much to see and do in Nevada. So rent an RV and let your next Nevada road trip begin.

If you’re wondering how to get to and from Las Vegas in your RV, check this out!

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Class A RV Rental Las Vegas Nevada

A Class A RV Rental from Las Vegas Nevada may just be the next family vacation that you are looking for. Class A RV rentals are a great choice as the RVs provide large open interiors with lots of storage. Class A RV rentals also have large windows so that you are able to see all the amazing scenery while you are driving down the open road or just parked at that perfect RV campsite. Check out the 37′ Class A RV rental from Las Vegas. It has 3 slide outs, a backup camera, air conditioning throughout, and two flat-screen TVs. What a great Class A RV rental from Las Vegas for your next RV rental holiday.

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