Rent a Camper Van in Tempe with Campcruisers

Your Adventure Begins: Discover Tempe

Welcome to Tempe, the vibrant heart of the Valley of the Sun and the perfect launchpad for your Arizona adventure. When you rent a camper van in Tempe, you're not just getting a vehicle; you're unlocking a world of breathtaking landscapes, from the iconic saguaro cacti of the Sonoran Desert to the cool pine forests of the north. Tempe is ideally situated within the Phoenix metropolitan area, a dynamic city that blends a rich history with modern innovation. Its name, chosen by English pioneer Darrell Duppa in 1879, was inspired by the Vale of Tempe in Greece, a testament to the area's natural beauty nestled between two buttes.

Historically, this land was home to the ancient Hohokam people, who engineered a sophisticated canal system that is still the basis for much of the region's irrigation today. Modern Tempe, with a population of over 180,000, is a bustling center for education and technology, largely thanks to being the home of Arizona State University (ASU), one of the largest public universities in the United States. The presence of the university infuses the city with youthful energy, a thriving arts scene, and a spirit of discovery that you'll feel as soon as you arrive. To truly experience this region, the best choice is to rent a camper in Tempe, giving you the flexibility to explore at your own pace. For those planning to venture off the beaten path, consider the option to rent a 4x4 camper in Tempe, which will allow you to access more remote and rugged territories.

The weather in Tempe is characteristic of the Sonoran Desert. Summers are hot, with temperatures often exceeding 100°F (38°C), while winters are exceptionally mild and sunny, making it a popular destination for 'snowbirds' from colder climates. The best time to rent a camper van in Tempe is undoubtedly from October through May. During these months, you'll enjoy pleasant daytime temperatures perfect for hiking, biking, and exploring the natural wonders that surround the city. This is the peak season for tourism, so booking your camper and campsites in advance is highly recommended. Choosing to rent a camper in Tempe during the spring allows you to witness the desert in full bloom, a spectacular sight of vibrant wildflowers. A 4x4 camper rental in Tempe offers the ultimate freedom to chase these desert blooms into less accessible areas. The city has been home to or associated with many notable figures, especially in sports and academia, further cementing its status as a significant American city. Starting your journey here means you have access to a fantastic infrastructure designed for travelers. With a reliable vehicle from your camper rental in Tempe, the entire state of Arizona is your playground.

Explore Tempe's Attractions and Surroundings

Once you pick up your vehicle from your camper rental in Tempe, you'll find a wealth of attractions right on your doorstep. Tempe and its immediate surroundings are packed with things to see and do, offering a perfect blend of urban excitement and natural beauty.

A great first stop is Tempe Town Lake, a two-mile-long oasis in the heart of the city. Here you can rent kayaks, paddleboards, or pontoon boats for a relaxing afternoon on the water. The surrounding park has miles of paths for walking, jogging, and cycling. A short hike up "A" Mountain (Hayden Butte) offers panoramic views of the city, the ASU campus, and the distant mountains – it's especially beautiful at sunrise or sunset.

For a taste of local culture and nightlife, head to the Mill Avenue District. This pedestrian-friendly downtown area is lined with unique shops, diverse restaurants, and lively bars. It's the energetic core of the city, buzzing with activity day and night. Art lovers should not miss the Tempe Center for the Arts, an architectural gem that hosts a variety of performances, or the ASU Gammage, a world-class theater designed by the legendary architect Frank Lloyd Wright.

Your decision to rent a camper van in Tempe also puts you within easy reach of one of the region's premier natural attractions: Papago Park. Straddling the border of Tempe and Phoenix, this park is famous for its massive sandstone buttes. Be sure to take the short walk to Hole-in-the-Rock, a natural geological formation that frames a perfect view of the city. Papago Park is also home to the renowned Desert Botanical Garden, where you can see an incredible collection of desert plants from around the world, and the Phoenix Zoo. For adventurers who chose to rent a 4x4 camper in Tempe, the nearby Tonto National Forest offers countless trails and primitive roads to explore. Exploring this diverse area is a key reason why so many people choose to rent a camper in Tempe for their Arizona holiday.

Unforgettable Road Trips Starting from Tempe

With the keys to your camper, Tempe is your gateway to some of the most spectacular road trips in the American Southwest. Here are a couple of tour ideas to get you started.

⛰️ The Apache Trail & Superstition Mountains Loop (1-2 Days)

🏜️ Red Rocks, Canyons, and Stars (4-5 Days)

Returning Your Camper Clean: Washing Facilities in Tempe

Before you return your vehicle from your camper rental in Tempe, you'll need to make sure it's clean, both inside and out, as per your rental agreement. Finding a wash that can accommodate a high-roof camper van or a larger motorhome can be a challenge, as most standard automatic car washes are too small. You need to look for facilities that cater to trucks, RVs, and other large vehicles.

These specialized washes have the necessary height and width clearance, as well as the right equipment to safely and effectively clean your camper. Here are a few suitable options in and around the Tempe area:

1. Blue Beacon Truck Wash
This is a reliable chain known for handling large vehicles. They are typically open 24/7 and provide thorough washes.
Address: 8314 W Roosevelt St, Tolleson, AZ 85353 (A short drive west of Tempe, easily accessible from I-10).

2. Danny's Big Rig Resort
Another excellent option that specializes in trucks and RVs, offering various cleaning services.
Address: 3501 W Elwood St, Phoenix, AZ 85041 (Located south of downtown Phoenix, also near the I-10).

3. Self-Service RV/Truck Wash Bays
Look for local self-service car washes that have dedicated oversized bays. These allow you to wash the vehicle yourself using high-pressure wands and brushes. An example is the Squeaky Clean Car Wash, which sometimes has bays suitable for larger vehicles. Always check the clearance height before entering.
Address: Check locations throughout the Phoenix metro area for one with RV bays, such as the one at 208 W Southern Ave, Tempe, AZ 85282 (confirm clearance on site).

Always call ahead to confirm hours and that their equipment can handle your specific vehicle's dimensions. Planning this final step will ensure a smooth and easy return process after your amazing trip where you got to rent a camper van in Tempe.

Your Journey to Tempe: How to Get Here

Traveling to Tempe to begin your camper van adventure is straightforward, thanks to its proximity to a major international airport and its location within the extensive US highway system.

By Air:
The primary airport for Tempe and the entire region is Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport (PHX), located just a few miles from the city center. It's one of the busiest airports in the United States and serves as a major hub.

From the USA: You'll find direct, non-stop flights to PHX from virtually every major city across the country, served by all major US carriers like American Airlines, Southwest, Delta, and United.

From Canada: Major Canadian cities such as Toronto (YYZ), Vancouver (YVR), Calgary (YYC), and Edmonton (YEG) offer direct flights to Phoenix, especially during the peak fall-to-spring season.

From the UK & Ireland: British Airways operates a direct, year-round flight from London Heathrow (LHR) to PHX. From other UK airports and Dublin (DUB), a simple one-stop connection is typically required through major US hubs like Dallas (DFW), Chicago (ORD), or New York (JFK).

From Australia & New Zealand: There are no direct flights. The most common routes involve a single stop on the US West Coast. Travelers from Sydney (SYD), Melbourne (MEL), or Auckland (AKL) will usually connect through Los Angeles (LAX) or San Francisco (SFO) for the short final flight to Phoenix.

From South Africa: The journey from Johannesburg (JNB) or Cape Town (CPT) will require at least two stops, typically connecting through major European hubs (like Amsterdam, Frankfurt, or London) or Middle Eastern hubs (like Dubai) before flying to a major US gateway and then on to Phoenix.

By Car:
If you're traveling from within the US, Tempe is easily accessible by car. It is situated at the intersection of several major freeways, including Interstate 10 (connecting east to west from California to Florida) and the Loop 101 and Loop 202 freeways, which encircle the Phoenix metropolitan area. Driving here from Southern California, Las Vegas, or other parts of the Southwest is a popular and scenic option before you rent a camper in Tempe for the next leg of your journey.