by Joan Mccord

Created on: July 02, 2010   Last Updated: July 06, 2010

Camping on Historic Route 66 brings a different mystique and prospective to American’s love of life on the road. Camping facilities are no longer reminiscent of the migrant camps of the Dust Bowl era, but are as natural or comfortable as you choose.

Everybody seems to travel America’s Main Street, on motorcycles, in RV’s, and in air-conditioned automobiles. Motor courts and tiny two-story hotels dot the roadside, but nothing reflects the nostalgia and culture of Historic Route 66 like sharing life in one of the many excellent camp grounds along the route.

Welcome to the Historic West

Claremore, Oklahoma

When you cross the Kansas-Oklahoma border, everything changes and you realize, almost immediately, you have arrived; you are out West.

Make a stop in Claremore, about 70 miles from the state line, and prepare for the splendors and wonders ahead. This is the home town of Will Rogers and time spent hearing the Will Rogers story and tales of the era will enrich your experience in the western United States. In addition to the Will Rogers Museum, the J. M. Davis Gun Museum and Historic Main Street are star attractions that help tell the tale.

The campground at the Claremore Expo is a well-equipped RV park, owned by the city with full RV and electrical hook-ups. Also, there are BBQ grills, picnic tables, showers, laundry service, a handicap-accessible playground, and indoor swimming pool.

The city of Claremore has mechanics, general merchandise stores, and markets so that restocking your stores and preparing for the trek ahead is easily accomplished.

Camping in New Mexico

Santa Rosa Lake State Park in the high desert of New Mexico is one of the most beautiful camping facilities in the world. It is located on Historic Route 66, just west of Tucumcari.

Camping at Santa Rosa Lake is rustic high desert camping at its best. If you enjoy adventure be prepared for hot days, cold nights, beautiful sunsets, and breathtaking scenery as you experience New Mexico, the "Land of Enchantment".

Lake Havasu State Park

This man-made oasis in the middle of the desert can come as a pleasant surprise. Beautiful sand beaches and nature trails are highlights of this water recreation mecca located within Lake Havasu City and not far from their famous London Bridge.

Non-electric camp sites add to the comfort and enjoyment of a day at the beach or overnight camping for the more rugged.

In conclusion

This listing of only a few campsites along Historic Route 66 in the West, is hardly a sample of facilities available to satisfy your personal tastes.

Individual states have Historic Route 66 Association websites crammed with information, details, and answers to questions.

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