Many full-time and part-time RVers flock to Arizona, especially from October to June, drawn by its perfect weather and a respite from northern snow. While many may visit the southern half of Arizona and attend the FMCA International Conventions near Tucson, Northern Arizona offers a wealth of activities.
If golf isn’t your game — Arizona boasts over 370 courses, including championship ones — don’t worry! Northern Arizona’s elevation, typically above 5,000 feet, provides a refreshing coolness. For example, Flagstaff, sitting at over 7,000 feet, rarely sees temperatures rise above 90 degrees.
Camping and Exploring Page, AZ
We recently camped in Page, AZ, near Lake Powell, where Antelope Point RV Park provided a great base. Nestled within the state park, having an America the Beautiful pass proved beneficial. Numerous RV parks are available within 20 miles of Page, ranging from basic to resort-level facilities.
Page itself is a lovely town with various dining options and conveniences of a larger city. It’s an excellent place to take a break, catch a movie, or restock your RV supplies. And let’s not forget the main attraction, Lake Powell! From tours, boat, houseboat, and jet ski rentals to swim areas, the opportunities for water fun are abundant.
When the water level at Lake Powell is low, valet services are available for boat launches if you choose to bring your own boat.
Upon arrival, we made a quick trip to the Horseshoe Bend Overlook. The park entry is free, but you must pay for parking. The easy 1.5-mile round-trip hike is mostly flat with a slight elevation change. Just remember to bring water, especially if hiking during the heat of the day. The stunning view of the Colorado River at sunset makes the trek worth it!
Antelope Canyon Tours
The following morning, we embarked on a guided tour of Upper Antelope Canyon with a Navajo guide, who was informative and an exceptional photographer. Tours must be booked in advance, as they often sell out. We used Adventurous Antelope Canyon Tours. During the tour, you can only bring water and your camera — no walking sticks or tripods allowed. Currently, the tour costs approximately $50 per person, including transportation.
The tour began with a short ride at 9:30 a.m., providing perfect lighting conditions. Our guide enhanced some of our photos with a flashlight to ensure we captured the stunning colors, shapes, and views. The hike back involves climbing about 75 stairs, but it’s manageable for most visitors, with options for those with ADA needs.
Just before lunch, we ventured to Lower Antelope Canyon. This tour doesn’t require bus transport; a parking lot is conveniently located nearby. The hike here is slightly more challenging, involving ladders and natural stairs, so it’s best suited for those comfortable with a bit more adventure. Overall, the views make every effort worthwhile.
After our canyon explorations, we indulged in delicious Navajo tacos at a nearby shop — definitely a must-try!
While in the area, consider visiting Rainbow Bridge National Monument, Vermilion Cliffs National Monument, and the Glen Canyon Dam. If you’re up for a bit of travel, Bryce Canyon and Zion National Parks are within 2.5 hours and are spectacular destinations worth the visit.
The Grand Canyon and Beyond
If you haven’t visited the Grand Canyon, Page serves as an excellent launching point, just 90 minutes away. The Grand Canyon is a breathtaking site, offering hiking, rafting, and numerous ways to immerse yourself in its grandeur. Various trip options are available — from day trips to multi-day rafting excursions.
South of I-40, you can explore the Meteor Crater National Natural Landmark and the scenic beauty of Sedona. The region is a haven for ATV, UTV, and jeep trails, with endless opportunities for exploration. The Arizona Peace Trail offers a five-day loop perfect for off-road enthusiasts.
Most tourist areas offer UTV rentals and jeep tours, which offer different ways to view the beautiful scenery of the high desert. There are also many options for hot air balloon rides, helicopter and airplane rides for the more adventurous tourists.
If you’re looking for a busy itinerary, you can easily see a lot of the attractions in three to four days. However, many RVers choose to linger for a month or more, savoring the beauty and serenity of the desert. The clear skies offer breathtaking night views, allowing you to enjoy a stargazing experience free from light pollution.
Take your time to explore and appreciate all that Northern Arizona has to offer. Safe travels, and see you out there soon!
Related reading
- 5 Bucket List Places to Visit in Western Canada
- Adventures in Northwest Arizona
- Fall Fun in the San Juan Mountains
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JD is a retired officer and F-16 pilot, and served in the USAF for more than 33 years. His final assignment was Deputy Chief of Staff, Plans and Programs, Pentagon. As a family he has been RVing for decades, in bumper tow trailers, Class C and most recently, Class A motorhomes. JD has been married to Heather for more than 35 years.
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