Travel Guides
Travel Guides
RV Trip to the Center of Arizona: Wild Safari, Sedona Hikes, and Snowy Trails
Enjoy all the outdoorsy adventures that Arizona has to offer, with the open road and your RV as your guide.
Overview
Nestled in the heart of Arizona, Camp Verde is a hidden gem waiting to be discovered. This charming town of around 10,000 serves as the ultimate basecamp for your adventures. Home to one of the nation's top-rated RV Resorts and an exhilarating wild African safari, Camp Verde offers an unforgettable experience. With great hiking trails nearby and a mild climate, outdoor enthusiasts will find plenty to explore. Plus, the world-famous Sedona, AZ, is just 30 miles away with hiking, restaurants, and unique shopping experiences. It's a must-add to your RV travel list. Get ready to explore and create lasting memories in Camp Verde!
Where To Stay
Verde Ranch RV Resort blends comfort and adventure. This top-rated resort is easy to navigate and offers big rig-friendly full hookup sites, luxury glamping tents, and deluxe cabin rentals, too.
The resort features all the amenities, like a heated pool and hot tub, a well-equipped fitness center, and a clubhouse with a game room and lounge area. For outdoor fun, there are pickleball courts, a playground, and a dog park for your furry friends. The resort also offers direct trail and fishing access to the Verde River. With easy access to nearby hiking trails, there are ample opportunities for outdoor exploration.
The Verde Ranch RV Resort's playground is a hit with kids, providing a safe and enjoyable play area. The game room and lounge area in the clubhouse offer entertainment options for both kids and adults, with an arcade, pool, shuffleboard, and even dedicated workspaces for remote workers.
They even have a designated food truck lot with a rotating schedule of different fares from breakfast burritos to slushies. With so many activities and amenities designed with guests in mind, it’s a great place to unwind after exploring.
Where to Stay:
Verde Ranch RV Resort
Address: 1105 N Dreamcatcher Dr, Camp Verde, AZ 86322
Phone Number: (928) 567-7126
Day 1
Sedona Hiking & Sightseeing
Sedona, AZ
Only a scenic 40-minute drive from Camp Verde is Sedona, AZ. Known for its stunning red rock formations and easy access to hiking. The mild climate makes it an ideal year-round destination. Sedona offers breathtaking landscapes and views of the natural beauty without even leaving town, but there are many easily accessible hiking trails. If you want to hike in Sedona, AZ, make sure to get to the trailhead early, as parking lots can fill quickly.
Courthouse Loop Trail Hike
We did the Courthouse Loop Trail hike. It was kid-friendly and offered many scenic vistas, forest trails, and even views of Bell Rock in the distance. The dry climate in Arizona means you need to stay hydrated. Be sure to bring extra water and pay attention to the forecast. Hiking in the morning or early evening is best to avoid the midday heat.
Thriving Arts Scene
Beyond its scenic wonders, Sedona is also renowned for its vibrant arts community, with numerous galleries and shops showcasing local talent. After we hiked, we checked out the downtown Sedona area, with gift shops, trading posts, and restaurants. While we were there, we even came across a street display of live reptiles that we were invited to hold and learn a little about.
Whether you're exploring the great outdoors, indulging in the local culture, or simply soaking in the serene atmosphere, Sedona is a place that leaves a lasting impression on all who visit, and you’re guaranteed to find something unique!
Day 2
Oak Creek Canyon Hike & Drive
Highway 89A
We couldn’t leave the area without taking the breathtaking drive along Hwy 89A and exploring Oak Creek Canyon. The scenic Highway 89A in Arizona offers some of the most stunning landscapes in the state and is a must-do for anyone visiting Arizona. This route stretches from Sedona to Flagstaff and is renowned for its dramatic red rock formations, lush forests, and panoramic views.
Our family took Interstate 17 from Camp Verde north to Exit 337, and then drove to the trailhead for the West Fork Trail. This is not a route you want to take towing a trailer as vehicles over 40 feet due to the narrow and curvy route, but don’t let that steer you away from this drive. Take it slow and enjoy the views.
West Fork Trail Scenic Highlights
You’ll encounter several overlooks, picnic areas, and hiking trails. We chose the West Fork trail, and it was beautiful. Once we arrived at the trailhead, there was plenty of parking with a small parking fee and easily accessible restrooms. It’s one of the most picturesque hikes we’ve done in Arizona, with several stream crossings and beautiful backdrops of red rock and forest views.
The 6.6-mile out-and-back trail is clearly marked, and we completed the whole hike with both of our kids. It’s partially shaded, so it’s great for hot Arizona days, and if you visit in the winter, like we did, make sure to bring layers, as you may encounter snowy areas.
After hiking, we jumped back on Hwy 89A for a beautiful drive through Sedona and south to Camp Verde.
Day 3
Out of Africa Wildlife Park and Sanctuary
Out of Africa Wildlife Park and Sanctuary
Out of Africa Wildlife Park in Camp Verde, AZ, transports visitors to the heart of the African savanna without ever leaving the state. They aim to create meaningful connections and foster a deep respect for wildlife. The park's mission is to promote conservation awareness and provide educational experiences for all ages. The animals in the park are rescued from unsafe circumstances that would prevent them from thriving in the wild, like a bobcat that was left motherless or a rhino that was transferred from a different zoo that could no longer house it.
We booked the VIP tour, and with over 100 acres in the park, it was an amazing way to experience it. We had a semi-private tour on an open-air, wheel-converted school bus. We were able to feed the giraffes and come face-to-face with other animals like zebras, water buffalo, and ostriches. The whole time, our keeper guided us through the park at “snack time,” teaching us about each animal that we encountered. There are also walk-thru and “super-mog” drivable tours that are a lower cost.
The Tiger Splash Show
One highlight of the Out of Africa Wildlife Park and Sanctuary that you won't want to miss is the Tiger Splash Show. Attendees can watch majestic tigers play, swim, and pounce in a large pool with the zookeepers. With its family-friendly atmosphere, stunning natural setting, and unforgettable animal encounters, Out of Africa Wildlife Park and Sanctuary is a must-visit destination.
Quick Tips
First time visiting Sedona? Check out these tips to make the most of your adventure:
1) When visiting this area, staying in Camp Verde and driving to Sedona is a much more cost-effective option for accommodations.
2) If you plan to embark on a scenic drive along Highway 89A, RVs are not recommended. However, if you travel along the parallel Highway 89, you can still see the sights from your RV.
3) If hiking in Sedona is on your agenda, try to arrive early for the best chance to snag a parking spot. Bring lots of water and dress in layers.
Final Thoughts
This area of Arizona has so much to offer. With stunning scenery in every direction, plentiful outdoor activities, and Sedona’s fun, eclectic vibe, you’ll find something for everyone.
