Top snowbirding hot spots in Arizona

This sunny snowbirding state invites RVers to relax and forget their worries

Arizona is #1 on the list of many snowbirds seeking a balmy U.S. destination for their winter home. Next time you're headed that way, plan to spend some time in these traveller-friendly communities.

- Adam Rodriguez photo

Be entertained in Phoenix

Phoenix is one of Arizona's most vibrant communities, with all sorts of night life, outdoor recreation, live music and events. Take a hot air balloon ride, an ATV tour, or relax and watch a theatrical performance - it's all here.

Another highlight is the Desert Botanical Garden, which allows you to get up close and personal with some of Arizona's intriguing plant life.

- Photo courtesy Max Richard/Flickr Creative Commons

Take in natural sights and culinary attractions in Tucson 

Tucson is popular among RVers for good reason. It offers a selection of outdoor and indoor entertainment, and opportunities to taste some of the best Mexican food in the state. There are microbreweries and pubs, wineries open for touring, and the Arizona-Sonora Museum, which is a must-see. 

If you'd rather be outside, there are incredible parks near by, so you will not run out of terrain to explore. Be sure to visit Catalina State Park while you're there.

- Photo courtesy Fort McDowell Adventures

Have adventures in Fort McDowelll

Fort McDowell offers a regional park, casino and Fort McDowell Adventures—a premium tour company that can show you all the delights of the area. They provide tours by horseback, segway outings, biking, hiking and kayaking tours, or you can go off-roading at the Fort McDowell Yavapai Reservation.

- Photo courtesy Visit Mesa

Embrace the magic of Mesa

Mesa is a multifaceted destination that has something to suit every taste. From dinner theatre to amusement parks and museums, you and your family are sure to be entertained. 

While in Mesa, take the time to go on their agritourism self-guided tour. The Visit Mesa website lists all the farms to add to your checklist, so you don't miss any chance to try fresh, locally grown food.

- Photo courtesy the Desert Gardens Rock, Gem and Mineral Show

Attend epic gem shows in quaint Quartzsite

Quartzsite may be a small community, but it draws in over a million visitors every winter. The main attraction is the line-up of gem and mineral shows that take place here every year.

The shows begin in October, and carry on well into February, so snowbirds are in luck. Check out the gem and mineral show schedule to help plan your trip.

- Photo courtesy Arizona State Parks

Take a stroll in Camp Verde

Camp Verde is a history-rich, RV-friendly community in central Arizona. A great way to start your adventure  here, is by taking the self-guided walking tour offered by the Camp Verde Historical Society. It's called "Walk Camp Verde's History," and it will take you to see buildings dating back to the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Observe fascinating architecture, with structures made from adobe brick, hand-milled limestone and other traditional building materials and methods.

Printed tour brochures can be obtained at the Camp Verde Visitor Center.

In addition to the walking tour, there are many other things to see and do in Camp Verde, including horseback riding, vineyard and farm tours, zipline adventures and casinos. You'll also want to stop by Fort Verde State Historical Park if you're interested in local history.

- Photo courtesy Meteor Crater & Barringer Space Museum

See the Meteor Crater Natural Landmark

Bring your camera to Arizona's Meteor Crater Natural Landmark, and take in the world's best preserved meteorite impact site. There is an RV park there, as well as a the Meteor Crater Visitor Center, which is located on the rim of the crater.  The building is fully air conditioned, with an 80-seat wide-screen theatre, indoor viewing area, trail access, artifacts, exhibits, a gift shop, bistro and, of course, the Collision! 4D Experience Room.