The Petrified Forest National Park sits 90 miles southeast of First Mesa, known for its 220 square miles of colorful desert landscapes. You can look at several paleontological exhibits or observe wildlife and plants around the park. There are two public RV campgrounds and another three private facilities nearby.
Driving 127 miles west of First Mesa puts you at the Grand Canyon National Park, one of the most popular parks in the U.S. Over 1.2 million acres of canyon and surrounding areas carved out by the Colorado River are available to explore by raft, foot, or riding. Ten campgrounds in and around the area offer a place to rest during your time here.
Mesa Verde National Park in Colorado is 227 miles northeast of First Mesa and showcases some of the nation's most well-preserved ancient Puebloan ruins. There are over 4,000 archaeological sites among the 52,000 acres of park lands. Five trails wind around the ruins, and over 15 campsites provide places to rest in or near the park.
Homolovi State Park is 68 miles south of First Mesa and offers a glimpse into Native American history. The area was home to the Hopi, and current archaeological sites reveal artifacts from the 13th and 14th centuries. Enjoy camping, hiking, and stargazing in or around the park.
Driving 192 miles north of First Mesa will bring you to Goosenecks State Park in Utah. It showcases the canyon carved by the San Juan River with its 1,000-foot-deep switchbacks. There are no trail systems for biking or hiking, but there are scenic vantage points you can access before stopping at one of the two nearby campgrounds for spectacular stargazing at night.
Riordan Mansion State Park is 113 miles southwest of First Mesa. The main attraction here is the 13,000-square-foot mansion built in 1904 that sits at 7,000 feet in elevation. Enjoy a guided tour or wander around the visitor center at your own pace. Several exhibits show artifacts or explain facts about the mansion.
The Hubbell Trading Post National Historic Site is 56 miles east of First Mesa, down highway 264. It celebrates the benefits the trading post brought for Americans and the Navajo Nation working together. There are several trails, museums, and sightseeing opportunities nearby.
A 132-mile road trip from First Mesa will get you to the Navajo National Monument. The site preserves the ruins of three Pueblo villages dating back to the 1200s. You can use the mile-long Sandal trail for the best views of the cliff dwellings.
Another Puebloan cliff dwelling site is Canyon de Chelly National Monument, located 83 miles northeast of First Mesa. There is a self-guided hiking trail and two scenic drives, but you can also go on guided tours with a park ranger or Navajo guide. There are nearby amenities in the town of Chinle.
The nearby Holbrook/Petrified Forest KOA has several full RV hookup sites with 30 and 50-amp power, firewood, propane, cable TV, and WiFi. Another RV-friendly campground in the area is the Homolovi State Park Campground near Winslow, offering 30 and 50-amp power in the pull-through sites, potable water, and a dump station. Black Bart’s RV Park in Flagstaff has 175 sites with full hookups for a $55 daily rate. There's an on-site steakhouse right in camp.
How do I properly navigate and park a Class C motorhome rental in urban areas or tight spaces in First Mesa, AZ?
When navigating and parking a Class C motorhome rental in urban areas or tight spaces, it's important to take your time and plan your route beforehand. Familiarize yourself with the dimensions of the motorhome and the height and width restrictions of the roads you'll be traveling on. When it comes to parking, look for designated spots or parking garages that can accommodate the size of your RV. Always pay attention to signage and be aware of any towing restrictions in the area.
Do I need to know any weight or height restrictions when driving a Class C motorhome rental in First Mesa, AZ?
Yes, it's important to be aware of weight and height restrictions when driving a Class C motorhome rental in First Mesa, AZ. Many bridges and overpasses have low clearance levels that may not accommodate the height of your RV. Additionally, be mindful of the weight of your vehicle and ensure that you're not exceeding any weight limits on the roads you're traveling.
How do I properly level and stabilize a Class C RV rental at my campsite or RV park, and what equipment or tools do I need for this?
Discuss your specific campsite with the RV owner to determine if any leveling equipment is necessary. If so, they will walk you through how to set it up safely.
What kind of maintenance or upkeep do I need to perform on a Class C motorhome rental during my rental period?
During your rental period you are not responsible for maintenance. Treat the RV with care and maintain cleanliness during your trip.
Can I bring my bicycles or other outdoor equipment to use with the Class C motorhome rental, and what storage options are available for these items?
Yes, you can bring your bicycles or other outdoor equipment to use with the Class C motorhome rental. Many RVs have storage compartments or racks that can be used to store bikes, kayaks, or other outdoor gear. Check with the RV owner to see what storage options are available and how much weight they can accommodate.
What fuel efficiency considerations do I need to consider when driving a Class C motorhome rental, and how can I minimize the impact on my fuel costs?
Class C motorhome rentals are generally less fuel-efficient than smaller vehicles, so it's important to be mindful of your fuel usage. To minimize fuel costs, try to stick to slower speeds and avoid idling or rapid acceleration. Planning out your route ahead of time can also help you save fuel by avoiding unnecessary detours or backtracking.
Can I bring my entertainment equipment or appliances for the Class C motorhome rental, such as a portable grill or music player?
Yes, you can bring your own entertainment equipment or appliances to use with the Class C motorhome rental. However, be sure to check with the RV owner beforehand to ensure that the RV is equipped with the necessary outlets or connections to use your equipment. Additionally, be aware of any safety hazards, such as using portable grills near the RV, and take appropriate precautions.
Are any particular features or amenities available in Class C motorhome rentals that may not be found in other RVs in First Mesa, AZ?
The features and amenities available in Class C motorhome rentals can vary depending on the make and model of the RV. Some common features that may be available in Class C motorhome rentals include kitchenettes, bathrooms with showers, and additional sleeping areas. Check with the RV owner to see what features and amenities are included in their particular rental.
How do I correctly set up and use the kitchen and bathroom facilities in a Class C motorhome rental, and do I need to know any specific maintenance or cleaning considerations?
The RV owner will familiarize you with how to use the facilities. Take note of where the water and electrical hookups are located, and make sure to follow any instructions or guidelines provided by the RV owner. When it comes to cleaning and maintenance, be sure to follow proper procedures for disposing of waste and using cleaning products that won't damage the RV's plumbing or fixtures.
