Best Weekend RV Trips from Phoenix, AZ

When you live in—or rent from—Phoenix, weekend RV trips are your secret weapon. Within just a few hours' drive, Arizona transforms from sprawling desert to pine forest, red rock canyon, or quiet lakefront. Whether you’re chasing cooler weather, star-filled skies, or your next great hike, there’s no shortage of RV trips from Phoenix, AZ worth taking.

To help you plan your next escape, here are 5 easy, renter-friendly RV destinations, all perfect for a quick weekend getaway.

1. Sedona – Red Rocks, Vortexes & Desert Magic

Drive time from Phoenix: ~2 hours north

Sedona is one of the most iconic destinations for RV trips from Phoenix, AZ, and it’s easy to see why. Famous for its vibrant red sandstone formations, Sedona offers a breathtaking backdrop for outdoor lovers and spiritual seekers alike. The drive itself is scenic, winding through the desert before you reach the lush, rugged landscapes.

Things to do:

• Hiking: Trails like Cathedral Rock and Devil’s Bridge offer stunning views that are well worth the effort.
  
  
• Cultural Experiences: Explore local art galleries, shops, and the Chapel of the Holy Cross, a striking architectural marvel built into the rocks.
  
  
• Spiritual Exploration: Many visit Sedona for its famed energy vortexes. Whether or not you believe in their power, the peaceful atmosphere is undeniable.
  
  
• Dining: Enjoy farm-to-table restaurants featuring southwestern cuisine.
  
  

Where to camp:
Rancho Sedona RV Park provides full hookups and shaded sites close to town. The creek running alongside the park adds a calming ambiance to your stay, perfect after a day exploring.

2. Prescott – Pines, Lakes & Cooler Temps

Drive time from Phoenix: ~2 hours northwest

For those looking to escape the summer heat of Phoenix, Prescott offers a refreshing change with its pine-covered hills and alpine lakes. It’s a laid-back town with charming western heritage that’s perfect for a relaxed weekend RV trip.

Things to do:

• Watson Lake: Rent a kayak or paddleboard, or simply stroll the lakeshore trails surrounded by massive granite boulders.
  
  
• Historic Whiskey Row: A block of old saloons and shops where you can soak up local history and sample some good eats.
  
  
• Outdoor Adventures: Explore Thumb Butte or Peavine Trail for moderate hikes with rewarding views.
  
  
• Events: Check the calendar for the seasonal festivals like the Prescott Frontier Days or the Whiskey Off-Road bike race.
  
  

Where to camp:
Point of Rocks RV Campground sits near Watson Lake with full hookups and access to nearby trails, offering a cozy yet convenient base.

3. Lake Pleasant – Quick Water Escape

Drive time from Phoenix: ~45 minutes northwest

Lake Pleasant is an ideal destination for those short on time but craving water-based fun. Just under an hour from Phoenix, this desert lake offers boating, fishing, hiking, and camping with scenic desert views.

Things to do:

• Boating & Fishing: Rent a pontoon, jet ski, or fish for bass and catfish. The marina provides easy access for watercraft.
  
  
• Hiking: Pipeline Canyon Trail offers moderate hiking with beautiful wildflowers in spring and great wildlife watching year-round.
  
  
• Relaxing: Sunset Ridge is a great spot for an easy stroll and capturing stunning sunsets over the water.
  
  
• Stargazing: With little light pollution, evenings here offer some of the clearest night skies near Phoenix.
  
  

Where to camp:
Pleasant Harbor RV Resort offers full hookups and amenities like hot showers, a convenience store, and a restaurant on-site, making it perfect for families or couples wanting comfort close to the lake.

4. Tonto Natural Bridge & Payson – Waterfalls & Woodlands

Drive time from Phoenix: ~1.5–2 hours northeast

A less-traveled but incredibly rewarding destination, Tonto Natural Bridge is a fascinating geological wonder surrounded by forested trails and cool waters. Paired with the nearby town of Payson, this trip combines adventure with tranquility.

Things to do:

• Explore the Bridge: Walk the trails beneath and around the natural travertine bridge, the largest of its kind in the world.
  
  
• Waterfalls & Swimming: Nearby Water Wheel Falls and Fossil Creek provide refreshing spots to cool off during warmer months.
  
  
• Nature & History: Enjoy peaceful picnics by the East Verde River or visit the Zane Grey Cabin and Rim Country Museum for a taste of Arizona history.
  
  
• Hiking: Several easy to moderate trails wind through the Tonto National Forest and Payson area.
  
  

Where to camp:
Houston Mesa Campground offers a mix of developed and primitive RV sites. It’s an excellent choice for those who want to disconnect, enjoy dark skies, and wake up to bird songs and mountain breezes.

5. Organ Pipe Cactus National Monument – Desert Solitude

Drive time from Phoenix: ~2.5–3 hours south

For a truly unique and quiet experience, Organ Pipe Cactus National Monument offers a glimpse of the rugged Sonoran Desert and some of the rarest cactus species in the U.S. It’s a bit farther out but well worth the trip for solitude and stunning desert landscapes.

Things to do:

• Scenic Driving: The Ajo Mountain Scenic Loop provides a spectacular drive through diverse desert terrain with several short, accessible hikes.
  
  
• Desert Flora: Visit the visitor center to learn about the unique plants and animals adapted to this harsh environment.
  
  
• Photography & Wildlife: Capture amazing photos of wildflowers in bloom and watch for desert bighorn sheep and other wildlife.
  
  
• Sunset Viewing: The sunsets here paint the desert in magical hues of pink, orange, and purple.
  
  

Where to camp:
Twin Peaks Campground offers dispersed camping with no hookups but has clean restrooms and plenty of space for larger rigs. It’s perfect for RV renters looking to disconnect and enjoy nature.

Ready to Go? Book Your RV Getaway Today

All of these RV trips from Phoenix, AZ are just a short drive away—yet they offer vastly different landscapes and experiences. Whether you want to hike red rocks, paddle on a lake, or sleep under desert stars, your perfect weekend trip awaits.

Book your weekend RV getaway now through your local territory manager’s website to find the perfect RV and receive support tailored for first-time renters and seasoned travelers alike.

‍