Road Trip with RVshare Phoenix to Chicago

Phoenix is known for its high-end spas, exciting nightclubs, challenging golf courses, and hot weather. If you're looking to escape the Valley of the Sun during summer, consider taking a road trip to cooler pastures in Chicago. As you travel east, you will head along Interstate 40. This route is also parallel to the historic Route 66, and you could head off the interstate to explore the small towns of America. Once you hit Chicago, you will need to spend a few days enjoying all the attractions, museums, and dining establishments. On this road trip from Phoenix to Chicago, there are plenty of adventures for you to experience.

Road Trip Planner: Stops Along Your Route

During your Phoenix to Chicago road trip, you will pass several notable cities. In addition to featuring some cool attractions, these cities boast excellent campgrounds and dump stations to help keep your rig sanitary. 

Albuquerque

With a history that dates back to the early 1700s as a Spanish colony, Albuquerque is the largest town in New Mexico. The Old Town area is filled with historic buildings and Native American craft shops. You can learn about the tribal history of the area at the Indian Pueblo Cultural Center. When you are done for the day, you can find a campgroundfor the night. For a free dump station, stop at one of the many Giant service station options in the area.

Tulsa

Known for its art deco buildings, Tulsa is located in Oklahoma right on the Arkansas River. This city was once known as the "Oil Capital of the World." If you want to see evidence of the 20th-century oil boom, visit the Philtower and Philcade buildings. Tulsa is home to many campgrounds where you can relax after a busy day. Try the Estes RV Park if you want a campground in the city with a dump station

Springfield

This Missouri town features some exciting attractions, including the Fantastic Caverns and Nathanael Greene Memorial Park. If you want something to do with the kids, the Dickerson Park Zoo has a collection of animals from around the world. When traveling through the Ozark Highlands, you can find a couple of campgrounds to park your RV. 

National Parks

When planning your road trip itinerary from Phoenix to Chicago, you should make plans to stop by a few national parks. If you need help choosing the right stops along your route, RVshare has an informative national parks guide.

Grand Canyon National Park

Grand Canyon National Park is one of the most iconic destinations in the United States. Every year, over 6 million visitors head here to hike through the park or take a look over the canyon ridge. The Grand Canyon encompasses over 1.2 million acres, and it includes the massive canyon that was carved by the Colorado River. Visitors can enjoy many recreational activities, including mountain biking, hiking, backpacking, and rafting. If you're interested in some ranger-led activities, be sure to take a guided hike, participate in a geological lecture, or join a wildlife talk. 

Petrified Forest National Park

Petrified Forest National Park covers over 200 square miles of desert in eastern Arizona. Named for the fossilized wood in the region, this park is home to numerous petroglyphs and wildlife, including bobcats, coyotes, and pronghorns. Throughout the park, you can see about 200 species of birds. Since humans have inhabited the park for 8,000 years, there are over 600 archaeological sites for you to visit. With the surreal landscape, you will want to head out for some outdoor fun. Backpacking, horseback riding, and hiking are some of the most popular activities in the park. This national park also hosts ranger-led guided tours and cultural demonstrations. 

White Sands National Park

In 2019, White Sands was upgraded from a national monument to a national park. These gypsum sand dunes are located in the south-central part of New Mexico, and the park covers over 275 square miles of desert. The region is home to a variety of animal life, including bobcats, coyotes, and roadrunners. Many people head to this park to sled down the dunes or explore the area on a hike. Throughout the park, there have been discoveries of fossilized footprints from mammoths, dire wolves, and saber-toothed cats. 

Nearby State Parks

While you are heading out on your Phoenix to Chicago RV road trip, you should take a day or two to explore some state parks. If you want to find the best options near you, check out RVshare's state park guide.

Lost Dutchman State Park

Lost Dutchman State Park is only 40 miles from Phoenix, and it is located in the Superstition Mountains. According to legend, the Lost Dutchman's Gold Mine is hidden in the mountains. This park covers over 320 acres of the beautiful desert landscape. At this park, there is plenty of native wildlife, including jackrabbits and mules. Many visitors come to the park to hike, backcountry camp, or look for that elusive gold mine. 

Bottomless Lakes State Park

With over 1,440 acres of red rock cliffs and bluish-green lakes, the first state park in New Mexico offers a lot to visitors. Bottomless Lakes State Park is named after the "bottomless" lakes in the area. However, these lakes are only sinkholes that were formed when the Pecos River collapsed into underwater caverns. The local aquatic plants give the lake its unusual color that creates an illusion of depth. In fact, the lakes are only 17 to 90 feet deep. If you want to enjoy water sports on your trip, this is the perfect spot for kayaking and swimming. There are also fishing spots at Cottonwood Lake and Devil's Inkwell. For those who want to stay on land, you can hike the trails or look for wildlife. 

Robbers Cave State Park

Nestled in the San Bois Mountains, this state park is about 5 miles from Wilburton, Oklahoma. Robbers Cave State Park marks the infamous hideout of outlaws Jesse James and Belle Starr. Today, the park is a popular spot for equestrians, hunters, hikers, anglers, and nature lovers. With over 8,000 acres of land, the park is also home to Coon Creek Lake, Lake Carlton, and Lake Wayne Wallace. In addition to the lakes, there is a swimming beach, campground, and nature center. Those who want to see the local wildlife can usually spot the white-tailed deer and wild turkeys roaming the area. 

Along the Way

Desert Botanical Garden

Founded in 1937, this 140-acre garden is located in Phoenix. Today, the garden has more than 50,000 plants, which include an extensive collection of cacti and agave. The exhibits focus on plants from California, South America, and Australia. There are many ecosystems represented in the garden, including the semidesert grassland, mesquite bosque, and upland chaparral. 

Phoenix Art Museum

This is the largest museum of visual arts in the southwestern United States. In the collection, you will find over 18,000 works of art from American, Asian, European, and Latin American artists. This location has been used as a community center that hosts independent art festivals, live performances, and educational programs throughout the year. 

Old Town

The Old Town area is the original site of Albuquerque, and it includes about 10 blocks of adobe buildings. In the area, you can visit the historic San Felipe de Neri Church. This popular tourist destination has a large number of shops, galleries, and restaurants. 

Blue Whale of Catoosa

If you are looking for a quirky roadside attraction, you will not want to miss the Blue Whale. This waterfront structure is located east of Catoosa, Oklahoma. The Blue Whale is one of the most recognizable attractions on Route 66. Be sure to stop by to take a picture of this iconic landmark. 

Shedd Aquarium

Located in Chicago's Museum Campus, this is the country's most visited aquarium. When it was built, the Shedd Aquarium was the first inland aquarium with a permanent saltwater fish collection. In the collection, there are over 1,500 species of birds, marine mammals, fish, and amphibians. 

There are so many things to see and do on this trip, which could take anywhere from a few days to over a week. That's why you should think about planning your Phoenix to Chicago road trip itinerary in advance. If you are looking for a unique experience, book an RV rental from RVshare. You can find a wide selection of rentals in Phoenix and Chicago. On this exciting adventure, you will make memories that will last a lifetime.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I plan an RV road trip from Phoenix to Chicago?

To plan an RV road trip from Phoenix to Chicago, 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 Phoenix to Chicago 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 Phoenix to Chicago. 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!