Camper Van Rental Arizona

Camper Van Rentals in Arizona: Your Ultimate Road Trip Adventure Guide

Welcome to the wild, wonderful, and sometimes weird world of Arizona road trips! Whether you're a seasoned traveler or a newbie, renting a camper van to explore the Grand Canyon State is a brilliant choice. Let’s hit the open road with our trusty campervan, armed with a sense of adventure and this handy guide.

Popular Road Trip Destinations

Grand Canyon National Park

First up, the granddaddy of all road trip destinations: Grand Canyon National Park. This colossal natural wonder needs no introduction. Picture yourself cruising along Desert View Drive, with the vast canyon sprawling beneath you. Stop by Mather Point for that iconic view and let the awe wash over you. Don't forget to check out the historic El Tovar Hotel for a bit of old-world charm.

Sedona

Next, we venture to the red rock playground of Sedona. Known for its vibrant arts scene and mystical vortexes, Sedona offers a blend of natural beauty and quirky charm. Hike the Cathedral Rock Trail for panoramic views that will leave you breathless (literally). Afterward, park your campervan and stroll through the Uptown area, where you can indulge in local art and cuisine.

Monument Valley

As you head northeast, Monument Valley beckons with its iconic sandstone buttes. This landscape, straight out of a Western movie, is Navajo Nation land, rich in history and culture. Drive the 17-mile Valley Drive for close-up views of formations like the Mittens and Merrick Butte. For an immersive experience, consider a guided tour with a Navajo guide.

Saguaro National Park

Down south, Saguaro National Park is a cacti lover’s paradise. Split into two districts flanking Tucson, this park is home to the largest cacti in the U.S., the majestic Saguaro. The Scenic Bajada Loop Drive in the west district is perfect for campervans. Stop by the Signal Hill picnic area to see ancient petroglyphs and soak in the desert vibes.

Petrified Forest National Park

Last but not least, head east to Petrified Forest National Park. This park is a treasure trove of ancient, fossilized trees and vibrant badlands. Cruise along the 28-mile park road, stopping at Blue Mesa and Crystal Forest to marvel at the prehistoric logs. Don’t miss the Painted Desert, where the colors will make you feel like you’ve stepped into a surreal painting.

Best RV Campgrounds in Arizona

After a day of exploration, you'll need a comfy spot to park your campervan. Here are some top RV park recommendations:

Grand Canyon Railway RV Park

The Grand Canyon Railway RV Park in Williams, Arizona, offers a range of amenities for RV travelers, including pull-through, buddy, and back-in sites with water and sewer hookups, HDTV, and free wireless internet. Rates vary by season, with higher prices during the peak season from April to October. The park is conveniently located near Route 66 and offers access to the Grand Canyon Railway, providing an easy way to visit Grand Canyon National Park. Additional facilities include laundry, showers, a pet resort, and access to the adjacent Grand Canyon Railway Hotel's indoor pool and hot tub.

Verde Valley RV & Camping Resort

Verde Ranch RV Resort, located near Sedona and Prescott, Arizona, has been recognized as the #1 Campground in the US by CampSpot. It offers 389 full hook-up RV sites with 50 AMP service, WiFi, cable, and no electricity charges, as well as 16 furnished vacation cabins and luxury glamping tents. The resort features high-speed WiFi, a pool, splash pad, spacious dog park, river access, and proximity to local attractions and trails. Verde Ranch RV Resort is designed for relaxation and memorable vacation experiences, redefining what it means to be a campground.

Distant Drums RV Resort

Distant Drums RV Resort, located in Camp Verde, Arizona, is the only RV resort in the Verde Valley with concrete pads and offers free escort service to your site. The resort features an enclosed dog park, daily free trash pickup, night security, full hook-up sites with 30/50 amp service, and a heated pool and spa. Guests can enjoy a free shuttle to Cliff Castle Casino and benefit from the resort's quiet environment and friendly staff, making it ideal for both short and extended stays. Highly recommended by visitors, Distant Drums RV Resort provides a range of amenities for a comfortable and enjoyable stay.

Tucson/Lazydays KOA Resort

The Tucson/Lazydays KOA Resort is a desert oasis offering luxury camping in Tucson, Arizona. The campground provides various accommodations, including RV sites with full hookups, deluxe cabins with full amenities, and tent sites for a rustic experience, all of which are pet-friendly. Guests can enjoy two resort-style pools, a hot tub, a mini-golf course, themed weekends, and PowerParasols® for shaded relaxation, with Lazydays RV dealership nearby for RV needs. Located just a 10-minute drive from downtown Tucson, the resort is ideal for exploring local attractions like Saguaro National Park, Biosphere 2, and the Verde Canyon Railroad. This resort offers a range of amenities, including a pool, spa, and restaurant, perfect for relaxing after exploring Saguaro National Park.

Flagstaff KOA Holiday

Flagstaff KOA Holiday offers a premium camping experience in Flagstaff, Arizona, with RV sites, deluxe cabins, and tent sites surrounded by breathtaking mountain and pine forest views. The campground features amenities such as a dog park, playground, jumping pillow, banana bike rentals, and the Pine Tree Café, as well as convenient access to local attractions like downtown Flagstaff, the Grand Canyon, and the Petrified Forest National Park. Visitors can enjoy guided tours to Sedona and the Grand Canyon, and benefit from on-site facilities, including a well-stocked store and various recreational options. Ideal for both short and long stays, Flagstaff KOA Holiday provides a memorable and comfortable camping experience for families and outdoor enthusiasts.

What to Pack for a Road Trip in a Campervan

Now that you’ve planned your ultimate Arizona road trip, it’s time to pack for your adventure! Packing smart is essential to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable journey. Make sure to cross-check the comprehensive list below with what your host provides to avoid overpacking. Be advised that some of these items may not apply to you depending on your itinerary. 

Essential Documents and Navigation

• Permits and Licenses: Ensure you have all necessary permits and licenses for camping and activities.

• Identification: Driver’s license, insurance, and registration.

• Compass and Map of Area: Reliable navigation tools, especially in remote areas.

• Travel Itinerary: Including reservations and contact information.

General Safety and First Aid

• First Aid Kit: A well-stocked kit for minor injuries and emergencies.

• Emergency Contact Information: Important phone numbers and addresses.

• Bear Spray: Important for safety in bear country.

• Flashlight and Extra Batteries: Essential for nighttime visibility.

• Fire Extinguisher: Safety first for your campervan.

Comfort and Convenience

• Sleeping Bags and Blankets: Ensure a cozy night’s sleep.

• Pillows: For added comfort.

• Camping Chairs: Comfortable seating around the campfire.

• Quick-Dry Towel: Handy for drying off after water activities or showers.

• Venture Wipes: Convenient for freshening up on the go.

• Refillable Water Bottle: Stay hydrated throughout your trip.

Clothing and Personal Items

• Weather and Activity-Appropriate Clothing: Layers, wool socks, dri-fit clothes, and swimming attire for all conditions.

• Hat with a Brim: Protect yourself from the sun.

• Sunglasses: Shield your eyes from glare.

• Lip Balm: Prevent chapped lips, especially in dry or windy conditions.

• Sunscreen: Protect your skin from harmful UV rays.

• Bug Spray: Keep insects at bay.

• Personal Hygiene Items: Toothbrush, toothpaste, soap, and hand sanitizer.

Kitchen and Food Supplies

• Portable Cooler: Keep your food and drinks fresh.

• Cooking Utensils and Equipment: Pans, pots, spatula, and cutlery.

• Reusable Plates and Cups: Eco-friendly dining options.

• Camping Stove and Fuel: For cooking delicious meals outside your rig.

• Portable Grill: Perfect for BBQ nights under the stars.

• Trash Bags: Keep your campsite clean and pack out what you pack in.

• Quick and Filling Healthy Snacks: Keep energy levels up with nutritious snacks.

• Condiments and Spices: For flavoring your meals.

• Water Cleaning Method: A portable water filter or purification tablets.

• Firewood and Fire Starters: For warmth and cooking (check local regulations).

Recreational Gear

• High Quality Backpack: A sturdy pack for hiking and day trips.

• Hiking Boots: Durable and comfortable footwear for trail adventures.

• Hiking Sticks: Provide support and stability on uneven terrain.

• Binoculars: For bird watching and enjoying distant views.

• Kayak/Canoe/SUP/Surf Board: Depending on your water activity preferences.

• Rock Climbing Gear: For those looking to scale some rocks.

• Fishing Gear: Enjoy some angling in Idaho’s pristine waters.

• Motorized Toys: ATVs or dirt bikes for off-road excitement.

• Life Jackets: Necessary for water sports like kayaking or paddleboarding.

• Helmets: Essential for biking, climbing, and other adventurous activities.

• Books or Games: Entertainment for downtime.

• Camera: Capture memories of your amazing road trip.

Technology and Connectivity

• Solar Charger: Keep your devices powered up using the sun.

• Portable Power Bank: Backup power for your electronics.

• Mobile Hotspot: Stay connected in remote areas.

• GPS Device: In case your phone loses signal.

Miscellaneous

• Swiss Army Knife: A versatile tool for various tasks.

• Notebook and Pen: For journaling or note-taking.

• Repair Kit: Basic tools and supplies for minor fixes.

• Dry Bags: Keep your belongings dry during water activities.

Note: When packing your food, we highly recommend packing dry goods to save space for items that need to be chilled. Most campervan rentals will have a built-in refrigerator, but space will be limited. Great dry-good examples include cereal, oatmeal, protein bars, trail mix, bread, pasta, chips, and canned goods. For an additional fee, your host may even be willing to accept a grocery delivery order (Instacart, UberEats, AmazonFresh, etc.) in advance of your trip and pre-load your food in the vehicle!

Campervan Rentals Near Me

Ready to embark on your Arizona adventure? We've got you covered with camper van rentals available in Phoenix, Tucson, Mesa, Chandler, Scottsdale, and all major surrounding cities. Our fleet includes a variety of options to suit your needs, from pet-friendly and festival-friendly rentals to luxury campervans with unlimited mileage. Many of our hosts even offer one-way rentals and delivery services to make your trip as convenient as possible.

Whether you're planning a weekend getaway or a long-term adventure, our campervans are perfect for exploring Arizona's stunning landscapes. So pack your bags, grab your camera, and hit the road for an unforgettable journey. Happy travels!