School’s out, the temps are up and if your kids are already bouncing off the walls, it might be time to pack up the RV and hit the road. Luckily, at Gladden Farms you’re just a short drive from some of Southern Arizona’s top summer destinations, from mountain lakes to quirky roadside stops. And with RV and oversized garage options on select floorplans, it’s never been easier for adventure-loving residents to gear up and go. Whether you’re craving cool pine forests or splashable lakes, these 4 family-friendly RV destinations are ready when you are.

1. Patagonia Lake State Park

Distance from Gladden Farms: 1 hour 45 minutes

Whether you’re into paddleboarding, kayaking, swimming or relaxing lakeside with a cold drink, Patagonia Lake is a summertime classic. Head to Boulder Beach for a roped-off swimming area, shallow waters and abundant sand perfect for kids and families — though with no lifeguards, supervision is a must. The park also offers a Junior Ranger program for children ages 6 to 12 — download an activity sheet for the kids to complete while exploring the park, and they’ll earn a badge when they finish!

The family-friendly campground accommodates RVs, and you’ll find accessible restrooms, shaded picnic spots, birding trails and — yes — plenty of splash-worthy water. You can even rent a covered pontoon boat to cruise the lake and listen to your favorite summer tunes in style.

Pro tip: Arrive at the lake early in the day to snag a waterfront site. And don’t forget fishing poles — this lake is stocked!

2. Rose Canyon Lake

Distance from Gladden Farms: 1 hour 20 minutes

Up on Mount Lemmon, Rose Canyon is your cool, pine-scented escape when the Tucson temps hit triple digits. It’s a favorite for local first-time campers and seasoned RVers alike. Campsites here feel tucked away and the scenic drive up the mountain is half the fun.

There’s no swimming allowed in the lake, but you’ll find great trout fishing, forest hikes and lots of s’more-worthy evenings under the stars. Be sure to check regulations before making the trip, as RVs over 22 feet are not permitted at the campsites.

3. Oracle State Park

Distance from Gladden Farms: 1 hour

With a peaceful vibe and stunning desert views, Oracle is a nearby hidden gem offering cooler temperatures due to its higher elevation. RV-friendly with electric hookups and great for low-key weekends, you can hike, picnic and enjoy the wildlife-rich grasslands that make this park so unique.

But fun doesn’t stop at the park gates. Families can grab a bite at the colorful Oracle Patio Café, zip through the desert at Arizona Zipline Adventures, wander through the fantastical Sculpture Park at Triangle L Ranch or explore quirky roadside spots like Sue & Jerry’s Trading Post. It’s a laid-back, off-the-beaten-path destination with just the right mix of nature and small-town charm.

4. Kartchner Caverns State Park

Distance from Gladden Farms: <1 hour

Kartchner Caverns is a family favorite for RV campers, amateur geologists and nature lovers. The park offers well-maintained RV sites with hookups, surrounded by the stunning Sonoran Desert landscape. After a day of exploring the cool (both in temperature and in interest!) cave tours and marveling at glittering stalactites and stalagmites, your family can relax under the vast Arizona stars.

The park’s visitor center also offers fun, educational exhibits that keep everyone entertained. It’s a perfect blend of outdoor fun and natural wonder, ideal for families looking to combine camping with a unique learning experience.

With so much natural beauty nearby, weekend adventures from Gladden Farms are easy to plan and hard to forget. Whether your family’s idea of the perfect summer vacation involves cool mountain air, peaceful lakes or quirky roadside stops, Southern Arizona offers plenty of RV-friendly destinations to explore.

And back home, the good times keep rolling. At Gladden Farms, residents enjoy thoughtfully designed neighborhoods immersed in lush green spaces with over 100 acres of parks and trails right outside their door. Bring the kids to cool off at the splash pad, climb and slide at the playgrounds or cruise the paved bike paths that weave through the neighborhood.

Gladden Farms isn’t just a great place to come home to — it’s where adventures begin. With affordable Tucson new build homes and quick move-ins from the $300Ks, there’s an option for every lifestyle. Find your new home at Gladden Farms today. Model homes are open daily.