Can I do Route 66 with a caravan?

If you are travelling across the US, the historic Routee66 is a must-see. This 2,448 miles long road between Los Angeles and Chicago is a quintessential item on any traveller’s itinerary, and doing the trip with your caravan may be one of the greatest adventures you can have.

More than the journey, the route is important for its historic significance. While much may have changed, Route 66 still holds many historic landmarks. On your way, you will come across various tourist attractions, natural wonders, old diners, and campgrounds.

So, if you are ready for the journey of a lifetime and experience a little westward travel during the early days of the US, this article offers a helpful guide on how to do an epic road trip on Route 66 in your caravan.

Route 66 with a caravan- What to expect

Route 66 with a caravan- What to expect

In the early 1900s, Route 66 served as the primary route for individuals migrating west, particularly during the 1930s Dust Bowl. Local communities through this route benefited greatly from it and thrived economically.

In 1985, it was removed from the national highways system, and the interstate system was introduced in its place. Some portions of the road that passed through Arizona, New Mexico, Missouri, and Illinois have been named Historic Route 66 as a national scenic byway.

During the past two decades, many small towns have attempted to restore as much of the historic route as possible. The route stops, starts, and roves in many places, but you can drive most of it.

However, do bear in mind that the route comprises many stop signs and lights, road improvements, photo ops, or small towns along the way, and you will need to be patient to cruise through and explore.

It’s also better to do some research beforehand and plan what to see and where you can stay on the way.

We have offered a few recommendations for some campgrounds you will find along the way. Travelling in your caravan gives you the leverage to explore with freedom.

You do not have to do the entire route at once. You can do certain areas or segments and spend time wherever you want.

Route 66 -where to stay and what to explore

Route 66 -where to stay and what to explore

As suggested earlier, Route 66 has many caravan parks along the way. We have mentioned a few here and the nearby attractions you may want to consider for layover and exploration during your trip.

You can start your trip from Chicago in the east or from Santa Monica in the west.

If you begin your journey from Chicago, you can visit Grant Park and discover many relics from the route’s earlier days near the park, including the Clarence Buckingham Memorial Fountain and the Route 66 signage.

Before starting your journey, make sure you have a working GPS to find notable destinations and campsites.

St. Louis West KOA-Eureka Missouri

The St. Louis West is within thirty miles of downtown and is open all year round.

There are spacious sites with hookups. The area offers plenty of shade, and you will find various activities, including basketball or ping pong. There is also a playground and hot spring spas.

The park is close to many attractions, including the Gateway Arch, Missouri Botanical Garden, Anheuser-Busch Brewery, and the City Museum, among others. Also, do not forget to check out the Chain of Rocks Bridge.

Elk City KOA- Oklahoma

The park is midway between Clinton and Elk City. The Route 66 Museum in Elk City is one of the most elaborate setups containing a lot of memorabilia.

There is also a drive-in theatre at the end of the museum, and a casino and golf courses are nearby. The park has ample facilities, a camping kitchen, playground, pool, etc.

Texas Route 66 Park- Shamrock Texas

The Texas Route 66 Park is slightly off the historic Route 66 in Texas Panhandle. The park has various prominent attractions and historic sites in the vicinity.

The park features various amenities, including showers, laundry, restrooms, and a play area.

Route 66 RV Resort- New Mexico

Located outside Albuquerque, this park is only a short distance from the Route 66 Casino Hotel. The hotel features a Vegas-styled casino, themed memorabilia, a nightclub, and various entertainment venues, including a Cyber Quest arcade.

The park features a comprehensive amenity centre with a volleyball court, a swimming pool, an open-air kitchen, and a large picnic space.

Grand Canyon Railways Park-Arizona

The Grand Canyon Railway Park is spread over a vast space with numerous amenities. The Grand Canyon Railway station is nearby, and you can go to the national park via train.

The Grand Canyon Brewery and Goldie’s Route 66 Restaurant are also nearby.

Los Angeles KOA- California

For the last leg of your journey, we recommend the Los Angeles/Fairplex KOA. Hollywood, Universal Studios, Disneyland, and Knott’s Berry Farm are all nearby. You can relax in the sauna, hot tub, or pool at the park.

While Los Angeles was the original end terminal of the route, in 1935, it was extended to Santa Monica.

At the end of the route, you will find many restaurants, bars, arcades, a Ferris wheel, and many street performers. You will also find the original McDonald’s restaurant near the route’s end.

Is Route 66 RV-friendly?

A tour across Route 66 can make for a very adventurous experience if you travel with a caravan. There are many caravan parks, bars, and restaurants, and you can have a very comfortable and enjoyable journey.

How long does it take to drive Route 66 in an RV?

Route 66 is over 2400 miles, taking you from the east to the west. The route crosses eight states featuring three different time zones.

A trip across the route in your caravan may take around three weeks.



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