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Southwest RV Itinerary

Southwest Itinerary

Overview

This 7-night itinerary takes you from the surreal desert beauty of Joshua Tree to the red rock splendor of Sedona, the awe-inspiring Grand Canyon, the dazzling lights of Las Vegas, and the otherworldly terrain of Death Valley—before looping back to LA. Whether you're chasing sunsets, stargazing under vast desert skies, or exploring vibrant towns and national parks, this RV road trip promises unforgettable memories at every turn.

Duration
7 Days
Distance
1,526 miles (2,456 km)
Start / End
Los Angeles / Los Angeles
State / Region
Southwest
Southwest Itinerary

Route - 1,526 miles (2,456 km)

DayLocationDistanceDuration
01Los Angeles to Joshua Tree National Park130 miles2.5 hours
02Joshua Tree National Park to Sedona, Arizona360 miles6 hours
03Sedona, Arizona to Grand Canyon (South Rim)120 miles2 hours
05Grand Canyon to Las Vegas275 miles4.5 hours
06Las Vegas to Death Valley National Park140 miles2.5 hours
07Death Valley National Park to Los Angeles240 miles4.5 hours

Trip Details

As you approach the desert, Palm Springs is a great place to refuel, grab a meal, or stretch your legs. Thousand Trails Palm Springs offers shaded RV sites, a pool, and amenities like a dog park and activity hall. 

Once you're in Joshua Tree National Park, you’ll be in awe of its surreal desert beauty. The park spans nearly 800,000 acres where two distinct desert ecosystems—the Mojave and the Colorado—meet. You’ll find forests of twisted Joshua trees, massive granite boulders perfect for climbing, and quiet trails that wind through cactus gardens and rugged terrain.

Popular hikes include Hidden Valley, Barker Dam, and Ryan Mountain. For RV travelers, campgrounds like Black Rock and Jumbo Rocks offer scenic overnight stays with easy access to trails. The park is also an International Dark Sky Park, so be sure to stay after sunset for incredible stargazing.

Along the way, pause at Montezuma Castle National Monument to marvel at ancient cliff dwellings carved into limestone walls

For RV travelers arriving in Sedona, Rancho Sedona RV Park is a top pick—nestled along Oak Creek with full hookups and walking access to town. For a more rustic vibe, Cave Springs and Pine Flat Campgrounds offer forested serenity in Oak Creek Canyon, perfect for smaller rigs. Once settled, explore Sedona’s iconic trails: hike to the saddle of Cathedral Rock for sunset views, cross the sandstone arch on Devil’s Bridge Trail, or wander the scenic loop around Bell Rock and Courthouse Butte. For something quieter, try Fay Canyon or the short climb to the Birthing Cave, both offering striking red rock vistas.

 From there, cruise north into the park’s South Entrance, where sweeping canyon vistas await. Stop at Mather Point, Grandview Point, or Hermit’s Rest for unforgettable views, and consider camping at Trailer Village RV Park—the only full-hookup campground inside the park

For RV camping, consider Las Vegas KOA at Sam’s Town or Oasis Las Vegas RV Resort, both offering full amenities and easy access to the Strip.

Explore surreal sights like Zabriskie Point, Badwater Basin (the lowest point in North America), and the technicolor hills of Artist’s Palette

Be sure to stock up on water and fuel—Death Valley’s beauty is unforgiving but unforgettable. We do not permit summer travel here. 

Cruise past the Mojave’s open roads and wind into the San Bernardino Valley before arriving in the heart of Los Angeles. For RV camping, consider Dockweiler RV Park near the beach or Hollywood RV Park for city access with character.

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