Road Trip with RVshare Phoenix to Little Rock

This road trip from Phoenix to Little Rock will take you through a large section of the American West and Midwest as it winds through five states. You will find a wide variety of landscapes on your trip that encompass rivers, lakes, mountains, prairies, and deserts. Your trip begins very near the Grand Canyon and ends in Arkansas, which is home to many beautiful lakes and rivers. The trip is a long one and will take at least two days, and if you can take more time and see some of the sights along the way, you will be able to see both natural and historical features of these states.

Road Trip Planner: Stops Along Your Route

Albuquerque, New Mexico

Albuquerque is New Mexico’s largest city, and it is located in the high desert. This large urban center is a unique combination of historic adobe buildings in Old Town Albuquerque that date from its Spanish colonial beginnings and the more modern venues and centers in the newer parts of the city. There are numerous museums, shops, and restaurants, and the Indian Pueblo Center offers a comprehensive perspective of native history. Balloon View RV Park is conveniently located near downtown Albuquerque and has a pool and a covered pavilion. You can find various opportunities to use a dump station in the area before you travel very far on your Phoenix to Little Rock RV road trip. 

Oklahoma City, Oklahoma

A long-time oil boomtown, Oklahoma City is the capital of Oklahoma. It has a prolific livestock market and is the 11th largest city in the Southern U.S. There is a large cowboy influence here, but there are also many other cultural and recreational venues, including the Myriad Botanical Gardens and the Oklahoma Zoo. Tinker Air Force Base is located in Oklahoma City, and there are multiple parks and nature trails in and around the city and the Oklahoma River. If you have time, be sure to visit the state capital in downtown Oklahoma City. Roadrunner RV Park is close to downtown Oklahoma City and has many comfortable and convenient features. You can also find nearby dump stations for your use.

Fort Smith, Arkansas

Fort Smith is on the Arkansas River and was formerly a frontier military post. Fort Smith has many interesting historical sites, including the Trolley Museum, the Fort Smith National Historic Site, the Italianate mansion the Clayton House, and the Fort Smith Museum of History. William O. Darby RV Community is close to Fort Smith and offers a quiet and peaceful stay. There are also many available dump stations in the nearby areas so that you can keep your rig clean on your Phoenix to Little Rock road trip.

National Parks

Grand Canyon National Park

The Grand Canyon National Park is so much more than its parts. The Grand Canyon National Park is a mile deep, 18 miles wide at points, and 277 miles long. The park contains most of the canyon. Visitors can hike into the canyon interiors, hike along the rim, ride a mule into the interior, ride a helicopter over and into the canyon, and raft on part of the Colorado River at the bottom. The access points of the park are the South Rim, the North Rim, the Grand Canyon West Rim (managed by the Hualapai), and Havasupai Falls (managed by the Havasupai). Visitors can stay at campgrounds, a hostel, and various lodges while at the park. Good planning is essential, and many of the hiking trails require advance permits, but it is all worthwhile in order to successfully add this ultimate adventure to your Phoenix to Little Rock itinerary.

Hot Springs National Park

Hot Springs National Park has the distinction of being the oldest national park in the U.S. It was set aside as a natural preserve in 1832 before the National Park System came into existence, and it became a national park in 1921. The park is centered around the historic city of Hot Springs, Arkansas, and contains Bathhouse Row, which is a National Historic Landmark of bathhouses built in the Gilded Age architectural style. The park also is home to part of downtown Hot Springs and has walking trails, mountain vistas, and the spring water for which it is named. Two of the original bathhouses are still in use.

Nearby State Parks

Homolovi State Park

Homolovi State Park is both a natural preserve and a research facility that seeks to preserve and inform on the history of the Hopi peoples. The primary period focuses on the migration period of the Hopi from the 1200s through the 1300s. The park contains current archeological digs, hiking trails, a museum, and a visitor center and has elevations that reach upwards of 4,900 feet in places. While in the park, you can stop at various pullouts and watch for the abundant wildlife that roams free throughout this 4,000-acre park. 

Lake Thunderbird State Park

Lake Thunderbird State Park is the home of Lake Thunderbird in Oklahoma and is almost 2,000 acres. There are two marinas, two swimming beaches, and nine boat ramps for convenient access to the lake. You can also practice archery at the archery range, picnic around the park, and play on several playgrounds. The Discovery Cove Nature Center offers natural interpretive exhibits, and you can hike and bike on various multi-use trails and ride horses on special equestrian obstacle trails. Bowhunting for deer and waterfowl hunting in the appropriate seasons are allowed in designated areas of the park.

Petit Jean State Park

Home to Petit Jean Mountain, Cedar Creek Canyon, and Lake Bailey, Petit Jean State Park is the oldest park in the Arkansas state park system. The park has a multitude of buildings and trails that were constructed by the Civilian Conservation Corps of the 1930s and is especially noted for Mather Lodge, which has 24 rooms, a lobby, meeting rooms, and a restaurant. Many of the available existing cabins were also built by the CCC and retain their original rustic charms. Visitors can view many beautiful natural sites of interest, including Natural Bridge, Bear Cave, and the Grotto. You can also swim in the two swimming pools, boat on the lake, and play on the tennis and basketball courts during your visit.

Along the Way

Sandia Peak Tramway

The Sandia Peak Tramway is located near Albuquerque and is the longest aerial tram in the U.S. It also possesses the third-longest single span in the world. The beginning of the tram ride ascends from the city and reaches the 10,378-foot peak of the Sandia Mountains, where visitors will explore the park and surrounding areas. The views of the city below and the mountainsides and forests alongside are breathtaking in scope and impact. 

Myriad Botanical Gardens

Crystal Bridge Tropical Conservatory is part of the Myriad Botanical Gardens of Oklahoma City and is the rightly named centerpiece of the complex. The conservatory contains two distinct habitats of tropical wet and desert biomes and has a total of more than 750 species of plants. While inside this uniquely designed building of translucent acrylic, visitors can walk along a sky bridge and beside the cascading waterfalls.

Palo Duro Canyon

Palo Duro Canyon State Park is named for the second-largest canyon in the U.S., Palo Duro Canyon, which is the focal point of the park. You can hike down into the interior of the canyon via the trail, which descends 800 feet to the bottom. Besides this canyon interior trail, there are a total of 30 miles of nature trails and 16 miles of paved roads. The park is also known for the red sandstone rock formations throughout the park, and many of the original buildings that were constructed by the Civilian Conservation Corps of the 1930s are still standing. The Canyon Gallery was built by the CCC of natural stone and today houses displays, video productions, and local crafts. From the gallery, visitors can see beautiful views of the canyon.

When you follow this road trip itinerary from Phoenix to Little Rock, you will enjoy historic locations and beautiful scenery along the way. If you want to travel in comfort and style, consider an RV rental from RVshare. From large motorhomes to compact campervans, there is a rig that will meet your travel and budget needs. Once you hit the road, you are protected by our renter guarantee and 24/7 roadside assistance. Find the perfect vehicle for your travel needs in Phoenix or Little Rock.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

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