Road Trip with RVshare Palm Springs to Sedona

This scenic road trip from Palm Springs to Sedona takes you from the low desert of the Coachella Valley to the high desert of North Central Arizona. Along the main route of this trip, you'll have the opportunity to make several side excursions to some national parks, state parks, and national monuments. An RV is the best way to see everything you want on this trip.

Road Trip Planner: Stops Along Your Route

This main route incorporates Interstate 10 and Interstate 17. Your journey east along I-10 will take you through the low-lying desert. Once you reach Phoenix, get on I-17, which will begin climbing in elevation as you drive through national forestlands like Tonto and Coconino, culminating in Sedona at over 4,300 feet.

Anza-Borrego Desert State Park

Head south from Palm Springs to the Anza-Borrego Desert State Park, the largest state park in California. This park comprises a dozen wilderness areas, miles and miles of hiking trails, and opportunities for biking and horseback riding. You'll also have the chance to encounter wildlife like kit foxes, mule deer, bighorn sheep, and golden eagles.

RV Info & Tips:

• Campgrounds: Available campgrounds in Anza-Borrego include Borrego Palm Canyon Campground and Tamarisk Grove Campground.

• Roads: CA-78 traverses the middle of the park, but note that most roads within Anza-Borrego consist of dirt; some roads may require all-wheel drive or four-wheel drive.

• Seasonality: As this state park gets quite hot in the summer, the best time to visit is fall through spring.

Sonoran Desert National Monument

South of Phoenix along AZ-85 is the Sonoran Desert National Monument. This park preserves a forest of the state's iconic saguaro cacti. While visiting the monument, you can take a hike along a wilderness trail, hop on a horse for a leisurely ride, and tackle the terrain on your mountain bike. This monument also protects a number of archaeological and historic sites.

RV Info & Tips:

• Campgrounds: The Table Top and Margies Cove West campgrounds offer first-come, first-served sites, but with no water or hookups.

• Seasonality: Although some parts of this national monument reach over 4,000 feet in elevation, it still gets hot during the summer, so plan your visit from the fall through the spring.

• Gear & Prep: As pertains to all desert hikes, make sure to have at least one gallon of water with you, apply lots of sunscreen before going out, and wear comfortable, sturdy hiking shoes.

Prescott, Arizona

Before reaching Sedona, take a side trip on AZ-69 to Prescott. This town celebrates its Old West history via its Whiskey Row saloons. Prescott also offers endless opportunities for outdoor adventures, like mountain biking, kayaking, rock climbing, hiking, and fishing. This town also features microbreweries, art galleries, and live music.

RV Info & Tips:

• Campgrounds: Some campgrounds in and near Prescott include Point of Rocks RV Campground, Rio Verde RV Park, and Fairgrounds RV Park.

• Seasonality: Prescott sits at 5,200 feet in elevation, making it a great escape from the intense summer heat of Phoenix. 

• How Long to Stay: Stay for at least a couple of nights so you have time to fully explore Prescott.

Pro Tips to Make the Most of Your Trip

While the I-10-/I-17 itinerary is the standard, most typical route from Palm Springs to Sedona, there are alternative options. No matter the roads you take, make sure your RV is well-prepared for the rigors of highway and off-highway travel. 

Alternate Route Options

Instead of driving east along Interstate 10, head west from Palm Springs on I-10 to the Inland Empire. Connect with Interstate 15 and take this up to Barstow. In Barstow, get on Interstate 40 and take this east. With this route, you can take day trips to smaller towns like Laughlin in Nevada and Lake Havasu City in Arizona. When you get to Williams, AZ, take AZ-64 north to the Grand Canyon. Another much longer side trip involves continuing in a northeast direction on I-15 from Barstow into Nevada and eventually Las Vegas.

Fuel & Supplies Along the Way

You shouldn't have any issues stocking up on supplies and filling up your RV's fuel tank when you're in the Coachella Valley and the Phoenix metro area. Note, however, that there are long stretches of I-10 in California that don't have many services. Blythe, right near the CA/AZ state line, makes for a good pit stop. If you're taking the I-40 route, stop in Needles, California, or Kingman, Arizona, for your needs.

Trip Logistics

• Seasonal driving conditions: You can make this trip any time of the year. Just keep in mind that summer temperatures in Palm Springs and the desert areas of both states can exceed 100 degrees just about every day. Plus, snow is common at the higher elevations in Arizona, in and around Flagstaff.

• Road grades or steep passes: If you take the alternate route of I-15 through the Inland Empire to Barstow, you need to know about the Cajon Summit. This summit sits at nearly 4,300 feet in elevation. During the winter, the Cajon Summit can be treacherous and may close temporarily due to snowstorms or icy conditions. 

• Bonus tip: If you use the I-40 alternate itinerary, take a quick side trip to Oatman in Arizona. This small town is well-known for the wild burros that freely roam its streets.

Whether you prefer the glitz and sophistication of Palm Springs or the cooler, more outdoorsy vibe of Sedona, renting your vehicle on RVshare is the best way to explore both regions as well as everything in between.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I plan an RV road trip from Palm Springs to Sedona?

To plan an RV road trip from Palm Springs to Sedona, start by mapping your route using Google Maps or a trip planner that supports RV navigation. Consider road types, fuel stops, campgrounds, and attractions along the way. Our RV rental specialists can help you choose the best vehicle and route based on your travel dates and preferences.

What type of RV should I rent for my trip?

The ideal RV depends on your travel style, group size, and destination. For couples, a camper van or Class B RV offers flexibility and easy driving. Families often prefer Class C motorhomes for more space and amenities. If you’re staying longer or need extra comfort, a Class A RV might be your best choice. Learn more about the different RV classes.

How much does it cost to rent an RV for a road trip?

RV rental prices vary based on vehicle size, rental duration, season, and mileage. On average, RV rentals range from $100–$300 per night, with discounts for weekly or monthly bookings. We also offer one-way rentals if you’re traveling from Palm Springs to Sedona without returning to the starting point.

Can I pick up my RV in one city and drop it off in another?

Yes! Many travelers love our one-way RV rental option. If the inventory is available for your route, you can pick up your RV in one location and drop it off in another, which is perfect for cross-country adventures or long-distance road trips.

What should I pack for an RV trip?

Pack essentials like bedding, toiletries, cooking supplies, and outdoor gear. Most of our RVs come equipped with kitchenware and basic amenities. Don’t forget to bring a first-aid kit, maps, and camping chairs for your outdoor setup. Keep this packing list handy to ensure you don’t leave anything behind!

Do I need a special license to drive an RV?

A standard driver’s license is all you need to rent and drive an RV. Keep in mind that you must be 25 to rent an RV.

Where can I park or stay overnight during my road trip?

You can stay at RV parks, national park campgrounds, or designated boondocking areas. Our team can recommend safe and scenic stops along your route from Palm Springs to Sedona. Be sure to reserve campgrounds in advance during peak travel seasons.

How do I handle fuel and hookups during my trip?

Most RVshare RVs are equipped for electric, water, and sewer hookups at most campgrounds. Keep track of your fuel stops and learn how to connect utilities before you hit the road. We provide a full orientation before departure to make setup easy.

Is insurance included in my RV rental?

Yes, basic insurance coverage is included with every rental. You can also purchase additional protection plans for peace of mind during your journey. We’ll explain all coverage options when you book your RV.

Can I travel with pets in my RV rental?

Absolutely! Many of our RVs are pet-friendly, so your furry friends can enjoy the adventure too. Use the filters to search for RVs that welcome pets on board.

What are the best road trip routes for RV travelers?

Popular RV routes include scenic coastal drives, national park loops, and cross-country highways. For beginners, you may want to try a long weekend trip where you don’t have to drive quite as far. Just remember to follow the 3-3-3 rule of RVing!