Our 22-day USA road trip from Billings to Las Vegas became a family journey through history, culture, and some of the most breathtaking natural wonders in the West. Traveling by RV gave us the freedom to move at our own pace, stop when something caught our eye, and enjoy nights under the stars. For families, couples, or groups of friends, taking a motorhome or campervan along this route is not just convenient—it’s part of the adventure itself.
We began in Billings, Montana, where the mysterious Pictograph Cave State Park set the tone for the journey—ancient rock art reminding us that people have been traveling these lands long before highways existed. Soon after, we climbed the spectacular Beartooth Highway, one of the most scenic drives in the United States, with snow-dusted peaks and alpine lakes that look like paintings. This is where a camper route planner really comes in handy, since weather can shift quickly in the mountains.
Wyoming greeted us with frontier charm. The Buffalo Bill Center of the West and Old Trail Town in Cody were like stepping into the Wild West—saloons, wagons, and stories of cowboys that made the kids’ imaginations run wild. Yellowstone, of course, was unforgettable. We marveled at the steaming Norris Geyser Basin, the rainbow colors of the Grand Prismatic Spring, and the reliability of Old Faithful erupting against a deep blue sky. A tip for families: pack picnic supplies in your motorhome fridge so you can enjoy meals near the geysers without rushing back to towns.
Jackson Hole gave us a taste of mountain nightlife at the legendary Million Dollar Cowboy Bar (parents only, while kids enjoyed hot cocoa back at the RV). From there, we mixed in adventure with family fun—soaring through the air at Lava Zipline Adventure, crawling through the cool passages of Minnetonka Cave, and discovering history at the National Oregon/California Trail Center, which brings the pioneer spirit alive in a way kids can truly grasp.
Crossing into Utah, culture and learning became part of our route. The Natural History Museum of Utah was a favorite stop for dinosaur lovers, while the fragrant Young Living Lavender Farm gave us a gentler pause. Big Rock Adventure balanced it all with adrenaline-filled river fun. And then came the canyons.
Standing at the rim of Bryce Canyon National Park, with its glowing hoodoos rising like a forest of stone, we were reminded why we chose the RV lifestyle. Nothing beats arriving early, cooking breakfast in your campervan, and watching the sunrise paint the landscape. Just when we thought it couldn’t get more beautiful, we drove on to Zion National Park, where red cliffs tower above emerald rivers. Families should allow time for easy hikes—the Riverside Walk and Lower Emerald Pools trail are perfect for kids.
Southern Utah and Northern Arizona introduced us to the magic of Native American history. At Little Hollywood Land, we stepped into the world of old Western film sets. Then, standing by the Navajo Moenave Dinosaur Tracks, we touched footprints left millions of years ago—an unforgettable experience that sparked endless family conversations. The Explore Navajo Interactive Museum provided cultural context and helped us understand the deep ties between the land and its people.
Of course, no road trip planner would be complete without the Grand Canyon. We walked part of the Bright Angel Trailhead, not too far with the kids, just enough to soak in the sheer scale of this wonder. Later, cruising along Arizona Route 66, we felt the nostalgia of classic Americana at the Arizona Route 66 Museum.
The final stretch brought us into Nevada. We stood in awe at the engineering marvel of the Hoover Dam, exploring the visitors’ center before rolling into the bright lights of Las Vegas. Our last cultural stop, the Mob Museum, gave us a fascinating look at the city’s past before we swapped canyon silence for neon nightlife.
Tips for Families and Travelers
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RV flexibility: Having a motorhome means you can balance nature, culture, and fun at your own rhythm.
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Food on the go: Stock up at local markets—Montana beef, Utah peaches, and Navajo fry bread became part of our travel menu.
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Route planning: Use a camper route planner to schedule scenic byways like Beartooth Highway and Route 66, and always check park regulations for RV parking.
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How to plan a motorhome trip in USA: Start by mapping must-see national parks, mix in cultural sites, and allow downtime for family relaxation. Whether it’s a USA road trip from Chicago to Philadelphia or Billings to Las Vegas, the key is flexibility.
