javaman
Greenville, SC USA
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Joined: 05/11/2008
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WE are new to the rv world and are renting one in phoenix and driving to the grand canyon. My first question is does anyone have advice for a beginner in a rented rv and my second is we need a place to spend the night between the north rim at the grand canyon and the hoover dam. I understand that rvs must park on the arizona side of the dam so we don't want to keep crossong over the dam if we don't need to. I also have read that traffic can be a problem. So I guess there are lots of things I could use help with from experienced campers.
Thanks!
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Gale Hawkins
Murray, KY
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Joined: 07/22/2007
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If you are new to this site then use the search function if you do not get all your answers quickly. This forum has a ton if info that will help you. We are planning to go this fall and are reading posts every week about the area. There are several threads about the Grand Canyon area issues.
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kknowlton
Wisconsin Border Country, IL
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Joined: 05/27/2005
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Driving one can feel like driving a bus, though of course most Class C motorhomes will be smaller than a bus. (I'm assuming that's what you're renting.) My best advice: pay VERY close attention to any introduction the rental place gives you, and if they don't cover it, be sure to ask about dumping, hookups, running the fridge while driving, etc.
Make sure the camper is as level as possible in any campsite you stay in. (Rule of thumb - if you're comfortable with how level it is, being in it, the fridge probably will be too.) Otherwise the fridge may not work properly.
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D&E Johnson
Ontario Canada/Brenda Arizona
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up in that area, when they say no trucks over a certain footage-believe them..some of the mountain roads are real SCARY. Leaving Phoenix on I-17 heading north is all up-hill, really up hill. Make sure that rv has enough coolant and good brakes, cause going back to Phoenix is all down hill on i-17..Have a great time and enjoy..the views are fabulous! Dona
Dona and Elvin
2004 6.0l F350 turbo-diesel/4x4/crew cab/shortbed-wedgewood blue)
2007 Open Road 359RL3S
2004 Yamaha Kodiak 400 ATV
Retired early and ready to see North America!
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Get'n R Kicks
IN(The State of Confusion)
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Joined: 11/03/2007
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Well fairly new myself. We are heading to the Canyon in JUne, a 1800 mile trip. I only made one reservation, at Trailer Villiage. The rest we are going on a wing and a prayer. I would say make sure you can use your mirrors. Make sure you have a back up camera. All ways have a ground guide.( From my Army days, ground guide, someone to help you, that stays in sight of you in the mirrors.)It may be tense at first, but after a few miles I bet you get used to it. Just watch your speed. And check your mirrors often. Prctice a few turns in an empty lot somewhere to get used to the distance you need for a left and right turn. Do not want to run over any toes on a curb.
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nwrandski
Washington State
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Joined: 07/27/2006
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You might check this video for a good "walk through" on the basic functions of a Class C.
Tim & Cindy
2008 Holiday Ramber Admiral 35SFD
Enjoy our travels and meeting new people
Still working FT as a professional (both of us)
Former Army (7 Years) and Persian Gulf Veteran
See you out there!
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UltimaRV
USA & Europe
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Joined: 04/13/2006
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You should have lots of fun! Just make sure you pay attention when they show how to put the awning out, connect the electrical, take on water and dump sewage. Slow them down if need be or ask them to show you again!!
Then keep it level when camped, not only for the refigerators sake, but also to keep things put. And don't forget to completely walk around the motorhome to see if things are latched up and unplugged before driving off. I have seen all these things (some personally) 
Use www.rvparkreviews.com to find sites in advance. Happy trails!
Dian, Robert & Precious - Presently RV'ing in Europe!
2000 45' Featherlite Vogue 5000, tag, slide, Detroit Series 60
2006 19' Towcorp enclosed trailer w/60" tongue
2004 13' Ultima GTR (9.9 seconds standing quarter mile)
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Hornet28BHDS
Parker, PA
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Joined: 01/29/2007
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Be sure to take a sense of humor on your trip!
2006 Hornet 28BHDS-Bunk House, Dual Slides
2006 Dodge Ram 2500 HD
5.7L Hemi, Factory Towing Package
Reese Brake Controller, WD Hitch and Sway Bar
Life is short, why not spend it in an RV!
SPRING HAS SPRUNG!
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PattieAM
Maryland
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If you are not familiar with backing in a rig such as that you are renting, you might want to practice with your spotter in an empty school parking lot on a Sunday - might make it easier for both of you.
You might check out Trailer Village - south rim as it has hookups whereas north rim to the best of my knowledge does not. Once you are camped, how do you plan to get around to see the canyon? South rim has a shuttle.
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matt7591
So. CA
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North Rim to Vegas isn't very far. To be honest, if you want to go to Hoover, I'd consider staying at an rv resort in Vegas and taking a tour to Hoover from a Vegas hotel. Last time we went to Hoover was pure traffic insanity. May not be that bad often but it was barely worth the trouble (I had been there before).
What time of year are you going? Family or couple? As much as Vegas wants to be like Disneyland, I don't like it for my family. If you feel the same way, there are probably great places in Utah to go out of North Rim. BTW, if you haven't been, please seriously consider Zion and Bryce National Parks since you'll be at the North Rim!
BTW, I'm seeing a lot more ads for private parties renting their RVs on craigslist. Might be worth a shot compared to the usual rental places.
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