The All-American RV Road Trip – Tucson, Arizona

“The Arizona desert takes hold of a man’s mind and shakes it” — David W. Toll

The star-spangled road trip is a cultural rite of passage, an open-road off-the-grid experience that makes us uniquely American.

And nothing screams U-S-A more than Arizona, which embraces all the trademarks of Americana — the scenery, the spectacle, and the sparkle.

Riding an RV down Route 66, which uncoils through Arizona dry country like a snake, isn’t as romantic as Tom Cruise in his Buick Roadmaster in “Rain Man.”

But it’s every bit as thrilling.

So is cruising west on Highway 64 from teeny-tiny Cameron to the Grand Canyon National Park. Some would call it a religious experience.

7 Things to See, Do, and Experience in Tremendous Tucson

The Sonoran Desert is Arizona’s lifeblood, but Tucson is its beating heart, with world-class museums, shopping districts, and restaurants. (Burritos, ranch fries, and Navajo Tacos? You’re welcome.)  

So why not rent an RV and explore this picturesque patch of the Copper State?

We’ve compiled the greatest places to see and stay around Tucson, Arizona’s second city.

Ready to embark on your Tucson road trip? Check out our impressive selection of recreational vehicles for all budgets and lifestyles. Renting an RV has never been this easy, and that’s a promise. Start here. 

Read about these fantastic locations around Tucson below.

San Xavier del Bac Mission

This awe-inspiring Catholic mission boasts the best Spanish Colonial architecture anywhere in the U.S. — a homecoming for history buffs. A National Historic Landmark that dates back to the 1700s, San Xavier del Bac Mission lies 10 miles south of downtown Tucson. Drive here in your RV and marvel at the artwork.

Pima Air & Space Museum

Over 400 historic aircraft span an 80-acre airfield, forming one of the world’s largest aviation museums. Home to the Arizona Aviation Hall of Fame since 1991, Pima Air & Space Museum chronicles the Southwest’s military clout, with over 125,000 artifacts on display. Want to pull up in your RV? No problem. The parking lot has loads of room.

Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum

A world-beating zoo and botanical garden that sprawls 100 acres, located just west of Tucson. Meet a mountain lion, mule deer, and Mexican gray wolves. Plus, there’s plenty of parking space for RVs, so pull up and enjoy the great Arizona outdoors.

Downtown Tucson

Downtown Tucson brims with trendy eateries and quirky stores, with a contemporary vibe that beats big brother Phoenix. While downtown bustles in the sunshine, it comes alive at night when cocktail bars serve colorful concoctions and live music clubs thrash with heavy metal.

Saguaro National Park

There are more cacti than people in this sprawling national park — perfect for socially distancing RVers. Hike one of the twisty-turvy trails that slice through the crackly desert landscape or experience mountain life from the comfort of your RV. Bring your selfie stick.

Did you know Saguaro National Park is home to the largest cacti in the U.S.?

Old Tucson Movie Company

An old movie studio turned modern amusement park, with all the cultural hallmarks of the Wild West. Travel the train that chugs through the mountain landscape or visit the adrenaline-raising haunted tunnel. Getting here’s not a problem: There’s extensive RV parking.

Gates Pass

A marvelous mountain pass that traverses the Tucson Mountains — home to cacti and tumbleweed. Drive your RV down one of the most stunning roads in the Southwest. Bonus points if you come here at sunset.

Want to rent an RV without the stress? RVnGo makes RV rentals as easy as 1-2-3. Register an account. Find a vehicle. Book. Pack your bags. It’s that simple. Click here to search for the ultimate RV. Tucson is waiting for you.

3 of the Best Places to Park Your RV in Triumphant Tucson

After all that sightseeing, you need a place to lay your head. Thankfully, Tucson (and the surrounding areas) offers a broad range of RV parks, resorts, and campgrounds to suit every taste and budget. Arizona’s warm climes make heating your RV less of a hassle. (You can even sleep outdoors!)

Crazy Horse RV Park

Serving sun-loving tourists for over 20 years. This family-friend RV campground, located just outside the city, boasts a clubhouse, heated swimming pool, and recently remodeled showers and restrooms. What more do you need? Mountain views, minutes from downtown, and open 365 days a year.

Lazy Days KOA Resort

Members-only, but worth it. More of a desert oasis than an RV campground, KOA Resort blooms with fruit trees, making it a perennially popular choice for travelers of all types. Deposits from only $25, brand spanking new two-bed cabins, and 30 (yes, 30!) covered RV sites. Book now for summer 2021. Open all year.

Diamond J RV Park

Within breathing distance of Saguaro National Park and San Xavier Mission, this RV park suits adult travelers who want to escape the hustle and bustle of downtown Tucson. One of the newer parks in the area, Diamond J offers 2,000-square-foot lots, panoramic mountain vistas, and hiking and biking facilities. Open November through April.

Before You Pack Your Bags

Tucson is a city of contrasts, juxtaposing old and new and blending culture and the contemporary. From its modern downtown skyscrapers that soar into the desert sky to centuries-old missions and cacti-lined national parks, the “Old Pueblo” caters to all tastes. Experience terrific Tucson for yourself when you hire a recreational vehicle.

Are you looking to hire an RV for your next Tucson trip? RVnGO has you covered, with a fabulous selection of recreational vehicles for life’s next adventure. Find your RV right here. 

All the above destinations provide the ultimate camping experience. With the right RV, you can enjoy the wild trails, scenic views, and breathtaking adventures.

At RVnGO, you can rent out some of the best RVs for a wild outdoor adventure. Check out our selection of RVs and contact us if you have any questions.