Canyon Country & Route 66: A 15-Day RV Round Road Trip from Los Angeles to Las Vegas
There’s something unforgettable about the American Southwest—those vast desert skies, red rock canyons, and the dusty charm of Route 66. For families ready to trade palm trees for plateaus and studio tours for stargazing, this 15-day round road trip from Los Angeles to Las Vegas is the perfect introduction to the rugged beauty of Canyon Country. With our motorhome packed, a playlist of classics ready, and a flexible camper route planner guiding us, we set off for an adventure that blends Hollywood glitz with natural grandeur.
From the Big Screen to the Big Skies
We began in Los Angeles, and what better way to kick off the trip than with a visit to Paramount Pictures Studio Tour? It’s a great spot for older kids or teens who love movies and want a glimpse behind the scenes of Hollywood magic. Afterward, we made a mandatory food stop at Langer’s Delicatessen-Restaurant, where the famous pastrami sandwiches are every bit worth the hype.
Heading east, the city fades into desert, and our road trip planning began to shine. One of the best parts of traveling by campervan is the freedom to stop whenever something catches your eye—and trust me, between LA and Las Vegas, the land is full of surprises.
Joshua Trees, Sand Dunes, and Hidden Caves
In the Mojave Desert, we spent time exploring Cottonwood Visitor Center and the Arch Rock Nature Trail, part of Joshua Tree National Park. These were fantastic, family-friendly hikes with manageable terrain and otherworldly rock formations that kids loved to scramble over.
For something more off the beaten path, Kelso Dunes Trail offered breathtaking views and a sense of being truly out there in nature. The hike up the sand dunes is a workout, but sliding back down is a thrill—especially for kids! Not far from there, Mitchell Caverns were a hidden gem—cool in temperature and rich in natural history. We recommend booking a tour in advance as spots fill up quickly.
These desert stops had well-marked parking areas suitable for RVs, though some roads may be rough. If you're using a motorhome or larger camper, a USA camper route planner is essential to avoid tight turns or unpaved routes.
Canoes, Canyons & Classic Route 66
One of our more surprising highlights was with Jerkwater Canoe Co in Arizona. A peaceful paddle through the desert landscape offered a unique change of pace—and a welcome splash of cool water in the heat.
Next, it was time to cruise the historic Route 66, with a must-stop at the Arizona Route 66 Museum. This stop was not only educational but also fun for kids with its vintage cars and neon lights. It added a layer of nostalgia to the trip—and a lot of cool photo ops!
We couldn’t resist the call of wildlife at Bearizona Wildlife Park, where we drove through open habitats teeming with bison, wolves, and bears. In a motorhome, this experience feels even more immersive, like you're part of the terrain.
The Grand Canyon and Beyond
Reaching the Grand Canyon Visitor Center was one of those pinch-me moments. No matter how many photos you’ve seen, nothing compares to the view in person. There are trails for all ability levels, but families should consider sticking to the Rim Trail or taking a shuttle for viewpoints. Kids can earn Junior Ranger badges here, which became a trip-long favorite.
From there, we drove north to Lake Powell and took one of the Lake Powell Boat Tours—a peaceful and scenic cruise that gave us a different perspective of the canyons. Parking for RVs is available at the marina, though arriving early helps during busy seasons.
For those seeking adventure, Wire Pass Trailhead (gateway to The Wave) is a remote and awe-inspiring area of striped rock and hidden canyons. Keep in mind, The Wave requires a permit and is not suited for small children, but the area surrounding it is equally stunning and more accessible.
Nearby, Moqui Cave offered a quirky and educational pit stop—a mix of natural history, local artifacts, and a welcome break from the sun.
Hoodoos, History, and Red Rock Wonders
Next up was the Queens Garden Trail in Bryce Canyon National Park, one of the most kid-friendly hikes in the area, winding through whimsical red rock spires (called hoodoos). The trail is scenic and relatively short, perfect for curious explorers.
Traveling along US Route 89, we arrived at Fremont Indian State Park and Museum, a lesser-known but rewarding stop with petroglyphs and hands-on exhibits. It was a reminder of how rich the region is in Indigenous history.
Then came a family favorite: Zion National Park Visitor Center. We spent the day walking along the Pa’rus Trail, accessible for strollers and bikes, and took the shuttle to awe-inspiring canyon views. Tip: RV parking is available at the visitor center, but it fills early. Start your day here to beat the crowds.
Lights, Museums & Las Vegas Energy
Crossing into Las Vegas, we swapped hiking boots for neon lights. The Mob Museum is surprisingly kid-friendly, with interactive exhibits that explore law enforcement history in a fun, approachable way. SeaQuest Las Vegas brought back that wildlife wonder with hands-on aquatic experiences.
We wrapped up our trip strolling the Las Vegas Strip (by day—less intense for little ones) and enjoying quirky fun at Madame Tussauds Las Vegas. The Las Vegas North Premium Outlets were perfect for a few souvenirs and back-to-school shopping, with plenty of RV parking available nearby.
Tips for Family-Friendly RV Road Trip Planning
-
Use a Camper Route Planner: Especially in desert terrain, planning your stops and ensuring fuel availability is essential. A digital USA camper route planner can help you avoid detours and locate RV-friendly stops.
-
Know the Terrain: Some national park roads aren’t ideal for larger motorhomes. Look ahead at road conditions and use shuttles when available.
-
Hydrate & Stay Cool: Desert adventures can get hot fast. Bring plenty of water and keep electrolyte-rich snacks on hand.
-
Balance Adventure & Rest: Mix active days (like hiking and boating) with slower stops (like museums or scenic drives) to avoid burnout, especially with kids on board.
-
Plan Ahead for Permits: Sites like The Wave require advanced lottery permits. Plan those well in advance or opt for equally beautiful nearby hikes if permits aren’t secured.
Whether you're in a cozy campervan or a full-sized motorhome, this loop through Canyon Country and back to Las Vegas is proof that family travel and natural wonder go hand in hand. With a bit of planning, a reliable route planner, and a taste for open spaces, you’ll discover that the desert isn't empty—it's full of stories waiting to be told.
