USA Road Trip from Billings to Phoenix – 22 Days of Culture, Canyons & Family Fun
Planning a motorhome road trip in the USA often starts with one question: where can we combine incredible scenery, rich history, and family-friendly fun all in one route? A perfect answer lies in this 22-day journey from Billings, Montana to Phoenix, Arizona, weaving through Montana, Wyoming, Utah, and Arizona. With the right route planner and some thoughtful road trip planning, this adventure unfolds as a story of breathtaking landscapes, cultural discoveries, and plenty of fun stops for the kids (and the grown-ups too).
We began in Billings, where the Pictograph Cave State Park offered a first glimpse into ancient Native American culture. It’s a reminder that traveling by RV, campervan, or motorhome is not just about the road itself, but also about connecting with the stories and people who shaped these lands. From here, the drive along the Beartooth Highway set the tone – winding roads, high peaks, and the kind of scenery that makes you pull over again and again just to take it all in.
In Cody, Wyoming, we explored the Buffalo Bill Center of the West and the charming Old Trail Town, both offering the perfect mix of history and Wild West adventure. Families traveling with kids will especially appreciate how these attractions bring history to life, and it’s also a good chance to stretch your legs before heading deeper into Yellowstone. Of course, no trip here would be complete without a stop at Old Faithful – a natural wonder that never fails to amaze, no matter how many times you’ve seen it.
Crossing into Idaho brought us both fun and relaxation. The kids loved the East Idaho Aquarium, and after some playtime, the grown-ups were grateful for the Lava Hot Springs Foundation World Famous Hot Pools – a perfect balance of adventure and recovery. Along the way, the National Oregon/California Trail Center and Minnetonka Cave added an educational twist, reminding us of the pioneering spirit and hidden natural wonders beneath the surface.
Utah offered both thrills and serenity. The whole family enjoyed a day at Lagoon Amusement Park, followed by rafting with Big Rock Adventure – two completely different but equally fun ways to experience the state. For a quieter moment, the Bullion Falls Trailhead gave us a chance to hike, picnic, and simply enjoy being outdoors together. Then came the showstoppers: Bryce Canyon National Park and Zion National Park. With their otherworldly rock formations and vast desert views, they left everyone speechless. We made time to stop at both visitor centers – always a great idea when traveling with kids, since they offer Junior Ranger programs, maps, and tips for family-friendly trails.
Southern Utah also surprised us with a taste of cowboy culture at Little Hollywood Land, where movies, trading posts, and even chuckwagon cookouts gave the kids a chance to imagine life in the Wild West. From there, Lake Powell Boat Tours provided an exciting change of pace – water, sunshine, and those massive red rock cliffs reflecting in the waves.
Arizona brought culture and nature together beautifully. At the Explore Navajo Interactive Museum, we learned about Navajo heritage in a way that was both engaging and eye-opening for the whole family. And then came the grand finale: the Grand Canyon Trail of Time. Walking along its rim, the kids were fascinated by how the canyon tells the story of millions of years in rock layers. It’s not just scenery – it’s science, history, and wonder rolled into one.
As we neared Phoenix, we slowed the pace with some relaxing stops. Tlaquepaque Arts & Shopping Village in Sedona offered arts, crafts, and food (don’t miss the chance to try local flavors while here). Finally, the Desert Botanical Garden in Phoenix was a fitting last stop – a celebration of the desert environment we had been traveling through all along.
Tips for Families on the Billings to Phoenix Route
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RV, Campervan, or Motorhome? – For this kind of long-distance adventure, a motorhome is often the best choice, offering space for the whole family, comfort for long drives, and the convenience of a kitchen on wheels.
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How to Plan a Motorhome Trip in the USA? – Use a route planner to balance long driving days with fun family activities. Mix culture, nature, and pure fun (like amusement parks and hot springs) so there’s something for everyone.
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Food Along the Way – The route offers plenty of chances to sample local flavors, from chuckwagon cookouts in Utah to Southwestern cuisine in Arizona. Stock your campervan with basics but plan meals out as part of the fun.
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Timing – Around 21–22 days is just right for this trip, allowing you to see the highlights without rushing.
This USA road trip from Billings to Phoenix is more than a line on the map – it’s a living adventure, full of stories, canyons, history, and flavors. Whether you call it an RV holiday, campervan trip, or motorhome journey, the memories it creates will stay with your family for a lifetime.
