Camping on Route 66

Doing Route 66 on a budget? Camping is the move. As a route 66 RVer myself, here are some of my favorite camping options along the route.

Starting from Chicago:

• Indiana Dunes State Park: Yes, it can feel a little tight. Sites are fairly close together and there are a lot of them. But it’s a fantastic basecamp for exploring Chicago, whether you’re tent camping or in an RV. The rail service right from the park entrance into downtown Chicago is a big win. Being able to hop on the train and skip city parking (especially with a big tow vehicle) was awesome.
• If you’re rolling in a bigger rig and just need a practical city-access option, McCormick Place Lot B is another solid choice. It’s not camping (so not tents)… think more overnight RV parking. But the access to downtown is unbeatable. You’re basically stepping out of your fiberglass door and into the city.

Through Missouri:

• The Casino Queen RV Park: It’s easy, secure, and RV-accessible. While it’s not a traditional camping experience, it’s a super convenient place to park for a night or two while you explore local gems like the City Museum, or to unhook and cruise over to Ted Drewes for some frozen custard.
• St. Louis West-Historic Route 66 KOA – Right ON Route 66. Heated pool, playground, and accommodates tents. Their cabins are another cost effective option – a classic KOA experience.

Related Cheap Eats On Route 66

Through Oklahoma:

• A few minutes off route, but it’s free and natural, so consider Robert E. Talbot Conservation Area an option! Both tenters and smaller RVs should find a restful night or two here.
• Stroud Lake Campground is a peaceful reprieve after a long day of driving. Bonus that most sites have water views. Plus you can fuel up with a stop at Rock Cafe – which provided inspiration for the movie Cars – before or after your restful night.
• Both Central State Park Campground and Scissortail Campground are city managed campgrounds that accommodate both tents and RVs in a natural setting. Bonus that they are on or just off route, and very close to Pop’s Soda Ranch, where you can find nearly ever soda flavor you could dream up, okay burgers, and a giant light up pop bottle that beckons for a photo. Pop’s Soda Ranch also reportedly allows overnight RV parking (but not camping).

Through Texas:

• Big Texan RV Ranch is right next to the Big Texan Steak Ranch. Indoor heated pool. Wake up, eat a 72-oz steak, continue driving.

Through New Mexico:

• Blaze-in-Saddle RV Park in Tucumcari is beloved for its convenience, cleanliness, and family run style. It provides the perfect rest location after spending some time exploring Tucumcari’s Route 66 gems (neon signs, TeePee Curios, Del’s or La Cita).
• Rocky Point Campground / Santa Rosa Lake State Park is just off route, but offers a beautiful lake and year-round camping for both tents and RVs.
• If you really want to get your kicks – with a chance from a big win – Route 66 RV Resort might be for you. It’s connected to a casino, is clean, and is super convenient on route.

Related The Ultimate Guide to Route 66

Through Arizona:

• Homolovi State Park Campground is a ‘happens to be nearly on Route 66’ treasure for tenters or RVers. It’s quiet, beautiful, and somehow feels desolate even though you’re just a mile or so off I-40. You can follow Route 66 into town from the park, making sure to set your speed for 35mph to make the road into town sing, grab a bite to eat at the Brown Mug, and snap a photo at the Corner of Winslow Arizona.
• Flagstaff Dispersed camping – whether you venture off deep into the national forest, or plop down just off route for convenience, the area west of Flagstaff provides some convenient and free camping options for both tents and RVs if you’re willing to leave no trace and pack in, pack out! Try Forest Road 171 Dispersed Camping, Raymond Tank, or Walker Hill Dispersed Camping!
• While RVs larger than a van should approach Oatman from the south (The northern approach includes tight switchbacks and steep grades that can be challenging for bigger rigs), Oatman really is a must visit on route – and there are tons of dispersed camping options for tents and RV directly along 66 from the south too! Check out Oatman Mines Dispersed Camping Area or if you’re just looking for a quick overnight, Donkey Lot Overnight Parking.

Through California:

• If you’re digging the dispersed (free) vibes, Kelbaker Boulders is another great stop on route once you hit California.
• If you’re looking for some amenities (bathrooms, hook-ups, laundry) Newberry Mountain RV Park is on route and ready to provide.
• Malibu Beach State Park is an awesome ‘grand finale’ camping option after you’ve touched the ‘end of the route sign’!