Route 66, once the “Main Street of America,” now offers a unique twist for modern travelers: the opportunity to trade crowded motels for open skies and quiet campsites. While many drivers stick to the highways, the original road is ripe for dispersed and remote camping, often reservable on short notice. From riverbanks to canyons, deserts to forests, the landscapes along Route 66 provide a diverse range of natural settings. This guide highlights ten of the best places to pitch a tent, from fully-equipped campgrounds to rugged, off-the-grid escapes.
Missouri’s River & Caves: Meramec State Park
Just two miles off Route 66 in Sullivan, Missouri, Meramec State Park offers a blend of natural beauty and convenience. The park’s 6,896 acres feature caves – more than any other Missouri state park – carved by the Meramec River. Campsites range from basic tent spots to RV hookups and cabins, with waterfront options available. Guided tours reveal ancient bear claw marks in Fisher Cave, a testament to the region’s history. Nightly rates start at $12, and reservations can be made online.
Arizona’s Mountain Retreat: Flagstaff KOA Holiday
For a change of pace in the Arizona desert, the Flagstaff KOA Holiday provides a cool escape among towering pines. Situated at 7,000 feet, this campground offers a forested setting uncommon in the state. While popular and sometimes crowded, it boasts amenities like hot showers, bike rentals, and nearby hiking trails. Tent and RV sites, along with cabins, are available from around $55 per night, reservable online. The KOA offers a comfortable base for exploring the Grand Canyon and other nearby attractions.
Ozark Charm: Bennett Spring State Park
Fifteen miles off Route 66 in Lebanon, Missouri, Bennett Spring State Park showcases the best of Ozark camping. With 12 miles of trails, including a route through a natural tunnel formed by a cave collapse, it blends natural wonders with rustic charm. A Civilian Conservation Corps-built dining lodge adds historical flair. Campsites start at $15 per night, and cabins are available for rent. Swimming, canoeing, and fishing opportunities abound in the impossibly blue spring waters.
Arizona’s Ghostly Past: Two Guns Ghost Town
For a truly unconventional experience, Two Guns Ghost Town offers free dispersed camping amidst crumbling ruins. Once a bizarre roadside attraction run by a con man claiming Apache heritage, the site now stands as a relic of a darker past. Expect no amenities, rattlesnakes, and proximity to I-40, but the eerie atmosphere and historical intrigue make it a unique stop. Campers must bring their own supplies and respect BLM land regulations.
New Mexico’s Hidden Oasis: Santa Rosa Lake State Park
Seven miles off Route 66 in Santa Rosa, New Mexico, Santa Rosa Lake State Park presents a surprising oasis in the arid desert. The lake, fed by natural sinkholes, appears almost out of place, with its Caribbean-like blue waters. Wildlife viewing blinds provide opportunities to spot coyotes and other creatures. Primitive Los Tanos sites offer quiet views, while campsites start at $10 per night, reservable online.
Arizona’s Western Fun: Williams/Circle Pines KOA Holiday
Staying on Route 66, the Williams/Circle Pines KOA Holiday in Arizona provides a fun-packed experience. Amenities include indoor pools, go-karts, gem mining, and even teepees and Conestoga wagons for rent (from $100–$200 per night). The campground offers tent and RV sites alongside its unique lodging options. A pizzeria on-site adds convenience to this amenity-rich destination.
Texas Canyonlands: Palo Duro Canyon State Park
Twenty-five miles south of Amarillo, Texas, Palo Duro Canyon State Park is the second-largest canyon in the U.S., yet remains surprisingly under-visited. Its 800-foot-deep, 120-mile-long walls display vibrant reds, oranges, and purples that change with the light. Campsites in Juniper, Mesquite, and Sagebrush campgrounds are easier to secure than those at the Grand Canyon. Nightly rates start at $16, and reservations are available online.
New Mexico’s Lava Fields: El Malpais National Conservation Area
Ten to fifteen miles off Route 66, El Malpais National Conservation Area offers otherworldly camping among ancient lava flows. Free dispersed camping is allowed on BLM land, though the landscape is harsh and shaded spots are rare. The dark skies and unique terrain make it a memorable experience for those seeking solitude.
Arizona’s Underground Wonder: Grand Canyon Caverns
At Grand Canyon Caverns, tent and RV sites are available near the Hualapai reservation, with minimal light pollution ideal for stargazing. The caverns themselves, among the largest dry caves in the U.S., offer guided tours. Though cave sleeping is no longer permitted, the underground restaurant provides a unique dining experience. Campsites start at $22 per night, and reservations are recommended.
Arizona’s Petrified Past: Petrified Forest National Park Backcountry
For a truly remote experience, Petrified Forest National Park allows backcountry camping among fossilized trees and painted desert landscapes. Hike-in permits are free but must be obtained before 4:30 PM on the day of camping. Expect no facilities and a need for self-sufficiency, but the solitude and surreal beauty make it worthwhile.
Conclusion: Route 66 offers a compelling blend of historical charm and natural beauty for campers. From luxurious KOAs to rugged backcountry sites, the road provides options for every traveler. Whether seeking comfort or solitude, the original “Main Street of America” delivers a memorable camping experience.
