Best Campgrounds Along Route 66 Revealed

Best campgrounds along Route 66 revealed video by KOAT.

Summary:

Best campgrounds along Route 66 revealed

The video features my favorite Albuquerque RV park, the Route 66 RV Resort. 

KOA Invites RVers To Experience Route 66’s 100-Year Legacy

Above, Elk City, Oklahoma KOA. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

As 2026 is the centennial of Historic Route 66, Kampgrounds of America is focusing their marketing to those KOA Kampgrounds along the historic route for the celebration.

According to RV Business:

BILLINGS, Mont. — As Route 66 marks its 100th anniversary, the historic “Mother Road” is once again at the center of American travel. New data from Kampgrounds of America (KOA) shows the centennial is helping fuel a resurgence in road trips driven by a desire for slower, more intentional exploration.

In a special preview of research soon-to-be released as part of KOA’s annual Camping and Outdoor Hospitality Report, 43% of campers say they plan to take a heritage or Americana-focused road trip, with growing interest in longer, multi-stop journeys that prioritize small towns, historic landmarks and roadside attractions.

“The Route 66 centennial is the perfect moment to finally take that iconic road trip you’ve been dreaming about,” said Diane Eichler, senior vice president of marketing at KOA. “This year, we’re seeing a real shift toward slower, more intentional road trips. People aren’t just driving Route 66, they’re stopping, exploring and spending time in the small towns along the way. Camping makes that kind of immersive travel easy.”

Also, according to the article:

Nearly 30 KOA campgrounds are located within an hour of Historic Route 66, stretching from Illinois to California.

The nearest KOA along the route is in Grants, New Mexico.

To read more, go here. 

"Ultimate Time" For RVs On Route 66

Above, burros strolling on Route 66 in Oatman, Arizona. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

Since 2026 is the centennial year of Historic Route 66, celebrations will be held along its route. This provide a great opportunity for travelers, especially RVers, to explore "The Mother Road".

RV Lifestyle posted an article that this is the "ultimate time" for an RV adventure on Route 66.

It begins with:

In 2026, America’s most legendary highway turns 100 years old, and Route 66 is preparing for a celebration unlike anything travelers have seen before. Stretching more than 2,400 miles from Chicago, Illinois, to Santa Monica, California, this historic roadway, known as America’s Mother Road, has captured the spirit of freedom, exploration, and adventure for generations.

For RV travelers especially, the Route 66 Centennial is more than a milestone. It is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to experience the road at its most vibrant, restored, and alive.

To read more, go here. 

Route 66: What To Avoid and How To Plan

Where I live in New Mexico, there are several segments of Route 66 with easy access nearby. If there is a traffic jam on Interstate 40, I'll drive on Route 66. If I have to bring my 1952 Jeep to Gallup, I take Route 66.

Much of Route 66 was obliterated by Interstate 40, but there are some segments still drivable. 

For the average automobile, Route 66 is safe to drive. But it is a different story for big rigs. 

RV Life posted an article on what to avoid and how to plan a drive on Route 66 during the 2026 Centennial Celebration.

They begin with:

America’s most famous highway turns 100 in 2026, and towns from Chicago, Illinois, to Santa Monica, California, are planning cruises, parades, rallies, museum events, and neon-lit celebrations.

For travelers in larger motorhomes, fifth-wheels, or travel trailers, exploring Route 66 is both a bucket-list dream and a logistical challenge. Much of the “Mother Road” is a two-lane patchwork of state highways, city streets, preserved alignments, and sections that have been absorbed by interstates. Most of it is manageable in a modern RV if you approach it as you would a a big-rig trip, not as a “follow every Historic 66 sign” scavenger hunt.

The safest way to do it: use interstates for the long hauls, drop onto Route 66 only for wide, easy segments, and treat tight towns as park-and-play stops, which means drop the RV elsewhere and explore in your tow vehicle or dinghy.

Above, the gateway to the former Fort Wingate Army Depot is 100 yards from Route 66. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

To read more, go here.

New Mexico Marks Route 66 Centennial With Passport Program

Celebrating the centennial of Route 66 this year will spur people to head out in their vehicles to explore (what's left of) the fabled road.

New Mexico has come up with an incentive for doing so: a passport sticker program.

MSN reported:

New Mexico is celebrating the 100th anniversary of Route 66 with a new passport program that allows travelers to collect stickers from participating businesses along the iconic route. Known as the "Mother Road," Route 66 has a long and varied history, and New Mexico is the only state in the country that hosts one of the original crossroads.

Many road warriors take photos or buy gifts to remember their scenic drive, and now, for the centennial year, the state and main districts of iconic Route 66 communities in New Mexico are teaming up. Travelers can pick up a passport at a business in one of the participating districts throughout the state and collect stickers from each location.

To read more, go here. 

National Route 66 Centennial Kickoff Event Schedule Announced

Back in 2016, I took a cross-country trip to Metropolis, Illinois to attend Noel Neill's memorial service.

Along the way, I stayed at several RV parks and campgrounds, one of which was the KOA Kampground in Springfield, Missouri.

Little did I know at the time was that Springfield is considered to be the birthplace of Route 66. RV Travel has posted an article on the city's kick-off Route 66 centennial event schedule.

Above, the Springfield, MO KOA Kampground in 2016. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

They begin it with:

SPRINGFIELD, Mo. — The Missouri Route 66 Centennial Commission, in partnership with The Road Ahead Partnership, has announced the full schedule for the National Route 66 Centennial Kickoff Celebration, presented by Vital Farms. Springfield is internationally recognized as the Birthplace of Route 66 and will host the three-day national event April 30–May 2, 2026.

Created by the Missouri General Assembly, the Missouri Route 66 Centennial Commission leads the state’s planning, coordination, and preservation efforts for the upcoming 100th anniversary of historic U.S. Route 66.

To read more, go here. 

2026: Route 66 Centennial Year

Did you know that 2026 is the centennial year for the "Mother Road", Route 66?

Celebrations are going to take place along the historic route. It was established on November 11, 1926 and decommissioned on June 26, 1985. 

Route 66 is about two miles away from home to the west. One can drive it from Iyanbito to Gallup. It is now just a frontage road running parallel to Interstate 40.

Above, a Jeep drive on Route 66 in September. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

I drive it on occasion whenever there are traffie tie-ups on Interstate 40. Resurfacing and widening is taking place near Fire Rock Navajo Casino in Gallup. 

For more information on the Route 66 centennial, go here.

Stopped At Jack Rabbit Trading Post

Above, the big Jack Rabbit was decorated with Christmas decorations. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

Yesterday, I drove home from Lake Havasu City, Arizona after spending Christmas with Holly & Mitch Geriminsky.

Along the way on Interstate 40, I made a few stops. One of which was at Jack Rabbit Trading Post. While there I chatted for a bit with the proprietors Tony and Cindy Jacquez. I has been a while since I last visited. I mentioned that we lost Russell Azbill in October as he enjoyed stopping at their trading post. He liked their t-shirts.  I mentioned that I finally was able to see the inside of the dome of Meteor City Trading Post. 

I picked up a miniature replica sign of their iconic sign that sits out on Historic Route 66. They said that it is one of their biggest sellers.

Above, my new Jack Rabbit Trading Post sign in the den. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

After visiting for a while, I then headed off towards home, with a stop at the Tee Pee Trading Post in Lupton, Arizona for cigars. 

A Stop At The Meteor City Trading Post

Yesterday, I drove home from Lake Havasu City, Arizona.

Along the way, I made a stop at the newly-reopened Meteor City Trading Post. I stopped a few weeks ago, but they weren't open until 10:00. So I made it a point to stop there on the way home.

I bought a t-shirt from the trading post and before leaving, I took some photos.

Here they are:

Quick Visit To Meteor City Trading Post

Above, Meteor City Trading Post. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

While driving across Arizona last week while heading to Orange County, California, I made a stop at the newly opened Meteor City Trading Post that sits on old Route 66. It is located not far from the Meteor Crater turn-off.

Above, the grounds of the Meteor City Trading Post. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

When we got there, it was around 9:15 in the morning. The store doesn't open until 10:00 o'clock. I didn't want to wait that long.

Before leaving, I did take a few pictures of the trading post. I donated to the previous owner who, unfortunately, died of cancer. He was planning to restore and reopen the trading post. To help fund the project, he sold t-shirts. So I bought one.

Above, there's something for dinosaur fanatics to see. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

Fortunately, his estate sold the property and the new owner proceeded to restore and reopen the trading post. Its grand opening took place on Memorial Day.

Since I will be spending Christmas in Lake Havasu, I'll try to stop in either heading to or returning from Lake Havasu. 

Storm Floods Route 66 Near Church Rock

Above, driving on History Route 66 a week ago. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

The strongest storm of this year's monsoon season hit Friday in the late afternoon and into Saturday morning dumped torrential rains along with thunder and lightning.

I was planning to bring the Jeep into Gallup this coming week to get another tire and get a lug replaced that the tire shop broke a week ago. But the storm flooded Historic Route 66 near the McGaffey exit of Interstate 40 near Church Rock. It always manages to get flooded at that spot during powerful storms. As the Jeep has limited speed (around 50 mph.), I don't drive it for very long on Interstate 40, just about two miles at most. Barricades have been erected keeping vehicle traffic out of that section of Route 66. 

Once Route 66 gets cleared out and reopens, then I can drive the Jeep into Gallup.

New Tires For The Jeep

Above, the Jeep in the tire shop in Gallup, Photo by Armand Vaquer.

When I headed into Gallup this morning to pick up the Jeep, I knew it wouldn't be cheap day.

The repairs were under $200, but there was an additional thing I had to do, get tires for it. I figured I might as well do it while the Jeep was in town, besides avoiding a blow-out on the way home

When the tow truck picked up the Jeep yesterday, the driver pointed out that the right rear tire had developed a crack in the sidewall. It was not a small crack either. I said it looks like I'll be getting tires after I pick up the Jeep.

Above, heading home on Historic Route 66, with I-40 at right. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

So, after picking up the Jeep, I headed to the tire store where I bought one tire for it in February. Luckily, they had tires in stock that I needed. Instead of buying one, I bought two. I have one more to get and that will be next month. They cost around $500.

Above, the new tires after getting home. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

After having the tires mounted, I headed on home on Historic Route 66 which, these days, is just a frontage road that goes parallel to Interstate 40.

I am pleased with the Jeep's handling on the road with the new tires. As it doesn't have power steering, the new tires in front makes turning a lot easier. 

Road Trips Every Mustang Owner Should Take

Above, the 1989 Mustang in the front yard. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

Yahoo! Life has posted a list of road trips that every Mustang owner should take.

Of the road trips listed, on can say that I took the Route 66 road trip. It is not difficult for me to do as I have often taken my 1989 Mustang on Historic Route 66 between Gallup and Grants, New Mexico. The "Mother Road" is a short two miles from home. 

I have driven other road trips listed, but in my motorhome. 

They begin with:

There's something about sliding behind the wheel of a Mustang that makes every parking lot exit feel like the start of an adventure. Maybe it's that V8 growl promising good times ahead, or maybe it's just that these cars were born to eat up miles. Either way, if you've got a pony car and an itch to travel, America's got some roads that'll scratch it perfectly.

Sure, you could take any car on these trips, but where's the fun in that? A Mustang on the open road is like bacon on a burger: technically optional, but why wouldn't you want it to be even better? Whether you have a classic Foxbody or a new model bursting with horsepower, here are some of the best trips across the United States that are just better with a Mustang.

To read more, go here. 

Take An RV Mini Trip To Seligman, Arizona

Above, the Roadkill Cafe in Seligman, Arizona. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

The first time I had been in Seligman, Arizona was in 1984 when two friends and I took a trip into the Southwest. The day before, we visited Grand Canyon Caverns.

In 2017, my roommate Jessica and I stopped at the famous Roadkill Cafe in Seligman for breakfast while on the way home from Grand Canyon National Park. Don't let the cafe's name scare you. They actually have good food.

Above, we parked the RV next to the Roadkill Cafe at this western town mock-up. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

Then, I stayed at the KOA Kampground in Seligman in 2018 when I moved to New Mexico from California. It was an overnight stop after driving from Victorville, California (where I stayed overnight after moving out of Tarzana).

RV Travel has posted an article on things to see and do in Seligman.

They begin it with:

A couple of weeks ago we took an RV mini vacation to Seligman, Arizona, on the longest remaining stretch of Route 66. Although it is sometimes heralded as the “birthplace of historic Route 66”, it is really one of the longest intact stretches of the original Route 66. It stretches from Seligman, AZ, to Kingman, AZ, about 74 miles.

Springfield, Missouri, is actually the birthplace of Route 66. In 1920, the federal government began construction of a national highway system there. About 85 percent of Route 66 is intact, but in bits and pieces across the country.

Nonetheless, Seligman’s claim to fame is Route 66, and the main street reflects that with old-time cafes, motels, and an abundance of gift shops. Tour buses frequently stop there on their way to the Grand Canyon, and we heard several different languages being spoken around town.

To read more (and see lots of photos), go here. 

Meteor City Trading Post To Open Memorial Day

Above, Meteor City Trading Post in July 2020. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

The new owners of Meteor City Trading Post have been hard at work in restoring the old trading post on Route 66 outside of Winslow, Arizona.

The previous owner was only getting started on the restoration when cancer cut him down. The new owner picked up the torch and is proceeding with the restoration. The area is called Meteor City due to its close proximity to the famous Meteor Crater.

The best news is that they are planning a grand opening on Memorial Day. I am seriously considering attending. If I do, I'll have to wear my Meteor City Trading Post t-shirt.

To see their Facebook page, go here. To go to their website, go here.

5 Scenic Routes For RVers In Spring

Above, Indian Market on Route 66 in Continental Divide, New Mexico. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

Now that spring is here, it is time to get the RV out of mothballs and hit the road.

RV Life has posted an article on 5 scenic routes for RVers in springtime. I've driven on two of the five, one of which is just down the hill from home.

They begin with:

Along with spring comes RVing season, and seemingly never soon enough. The spring season has plenty to enjoy, from the rising temperatures to the blooming wildflowers. New life is beginning everywhere. Scenic routes are a fantastic way to enjoy springtime, and there are countless options to try.

You might be hesitant to go camping in the early months of the year, but that’s what makes scenic road trips so appealing. This method allows you to enjoy new sights from the comfort of your RV. So even if the temperature outside remains a bit chilly and damp, you can still have a wonderful experience and return to a warm (and dry) bed at the end of the day.

With all that in mind, we’ve compiled a list of five fantastic scenic routes for RVers in the spring. Some are coastal getaways while others showcase the beauty of the changing seasons. Each route has something unique to offer, so read on and get ready for another year of RVing fun! 

To read more, go here. 

Two Buildings Catch Fire In Oatman, Arizona

Above, the Olive Oatman Restaurant & Saloon was reportedly
one of the buildings involved in the fire. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

Two buildings caught fire last night in historic Oatman, Arizona.

The Mojave Valley Daily News reported:

OATMAN — A fire broke out in Oatman late Thursday night according to initial scanner traffic and on-scene personnel. As of 8:15 a.m. Friday morning, firefighting units were still on scene to handle flare-ups.

The fire was initially reported at 9:52 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 27, at the historic Oatman Hotel, but later reports indicated the fire is actually located at the Olive Oatman Restaurant & Saloon. Another building is also reportedly involved, but it was unclear which building as of 11:30 p.m. on Thursday night. 

According to Mohave Valley Fire Department Chief Ted Martin, the fire was through the roof of one of the buildings as of 11:36 p.m., and crews are trying to contain it to that building.

As of 12:53 a.m. personnel on scene reported via the scanner that they believed the fire was under control and contained to the building of origin, but the fire was still considered to be active, with all crews remaining on scene.

To read more, go here. 

UPDATE:

The Oatman General Store was reported as the second building involved in the fire.

Martin Link, R.I.P.

Above, yours truly with Martin Link two years ago. Photo by Russell Azbill.

Only moments ago, I received sad news that local Gallup historian, author, activist, instructor Martin Link passed away last Thursday (December 5). 

I believe he was 90. 

According to the Gallup Sun Facebook page:

Unofficial local historian Martin Link reportedly passed away last night. He was an anthropology professor at the University of New Mexico-Gallup. Read this 2016 story about his book "New Mexico Kicks on Route 66." More information about his life and what he did for Gallup will run in next week's paper.

https://www.gallupsun.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=9431:local-historian-gets-his-kicks-on-route-66&catid=173:features&Itemid=622 

Above, Martin Link's book on Route 66 in New Mexico.

From the Gallup Veterans Helping Veterans Facebook group:

We are saddened to tell you of the passing of Martin Link. Please pray for his soul as he ascends to Heaven to sit at the side of the Lord. Gone with Martin is a plethora of knowledge and memories about Gallup and its people. His stories will be greatly missed. *Rest in Peace, Martin.

We had our monthly supper group dinners at his home in Gallup. We will try to hold a gathering before the end of the month.

A memorial service will be held on or about January 4. 

He was very knowledgeable on the history of New Mexico. He worked to get Fort Wingate a national monument status. He published a book, "New Mexico Kicks On Route 66". He autographed my copy at one of our dinners.

He will be missed.

Best Route 66 Campgrounds By State

Above, Route 66 Casino Hotel and RV Park in Albuquerque, New Mexico. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

The fabled Route 66, which was decommissioned back in 1985, still beckons travelers and history buffs.

I've driven it many times, most recently two days ago, since it is now an alternate route of Interstate 40 from Gallup, New Mexico to Iyanbito of the Navajo Nation. 

Along the way, there are RV parks and campgrounds for RVers and RV Life has listed the best ones by state. I've stayed at three of them.

They begin with:

Traveling to a specific destination is fun, but sometimes you can find more joy in the journey. This is one of the main reasons why Route 66 is still so popular among RVers. Whether you’ve traveled it dozens of times or are preparing for your first voyage this fall, you’ll want to know about some of the best Route 66 campgrounds in each state.

Route 66, also known as “The Mother Road” or “The Main Street of America,” begins in Illinois and terminates in California, crossing five additional states along the way. The path has been broken and altered in places, but the majority of the route is still open for business. Along the way, you’ll find lot of unique attractions, museums, and restaurants.

But at the end of each day, you’ll need a place to set up camp. That’s why we’ve compiled the best RV parks in each state you’ll travel through. It’s always good to have a plan mapped out ahead of time, but don’t be afraid to take unexpected stops and have fun along the way! Now let’s get into it: Route 66 is waiting for you!

To read more, go here. 

Omni Arms In Albuquerque

Yesterday was spent in Albuquerque to drop off Larry Lucier's bus to the shop to have the wheelchair lift system fixed and to take his brother Greg to the doctor's office to have his foot checked.

While waiting for Greg to be done, Larry and I went to check out a gun store that we haven't been to (or heard of) before. It was Omni Arms on Central Ave. (a part of Route 66 in the day).

It was a nice store with plenty of firearms, new and used, and ammunition.

I bought some .357 Magnum and .30-30 Winchester ammo. Their prices were a little high, but they had what I had been looking for and they were cheaper than mail ordering (counting the cost of shipping).

Here's the store' s business card: