Riordan Mansion State Historic Park RV & Campground Guide
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The Riordan Mansion is a feat of architecture that was built back in 1904 by the Riordan brothers, an ambitious pair of lumber barons who were instrumental in the early growth of Flagstaff, Sedona and the rest of northern Arizona. At 13,000 square feet, the duplex-style mansion was nothing less than spectacular for its day. It had indoor plumbing, which featured hot and cold water. The mansion also had central heating and electric lights, both of which were practically unheard of at that time.
The Riordan Mansion is located at 7,000 feet, so bring plenty of clothing layers to adjust to sudden changes in weather. Average seasonal high temperatures are as follows:
Spring 43-80 F
Summer 43-82 F
Fall 16-60 F
Winter 17-45 F
RV Resorts & Campsites in Riordan Mansion State Historic Park
There's no camping at Riordan Mansion; however, you'll find plenty of RV parks and campgrounds nearby. Because of the altitude, the cold temperatures, and the precipitation, visiting the area in an RV is highly recommended over tent camping; with an RV, you'll have all the protection you need from the elements and a nice warm heater.
If you need to rent an RV, then check out the local RVshare rental page. Here, you'll find all of the major types of RVs, from fifth wheels and travel trailers to Class A motorhomes. For some great RV camping options, check out the selections below.
Black Bart's RV Park
Black Bart's is a pet-friendly spot with 178 spacious RV sites. There's plenty of walking room to stroll around and a dog-walking park. Rates start at $55 per night with discounts for seniors, AAA members, military, Good Sam, and long-term stays.
Location: Flagstaff, AZ
• Water hookup: Yes (potable water is available)
• Electrical hookup: Yes
• Sewer hookup: Yes
• Wi-Fi: Yes
• Pet-friendly: Yes
• Other amenities: Restrooms, laundromat, general store, steakhouse
Kit Carson RV Park
Kit Carson RV Park is situated within a ponderosa pine forest, which provides beautifully scented air and plenty of shade. It's close to a lot of local destinations of interest, including national parks, pubs, and historic landmarks. Daily rates start at $42, and there are discounts for seniors and long-term stays.
Location: Flagstaff, AZ
• Water hookup: Yes
• Electrical hookup: Yes
• Sewer hookup: Yes
• Wi-Fi: Yes
• Pet-friendly: Yes
• Other amenities: Laundry, mailboxes, showers, picnic tables
Canyon Vista Campground
This is a campsite run by the National Forest Service. The area is peppered with gorgeous trees, including ponderosa pine, aspen, and oak. Sweeping views of the San Francisco Peaks are a feature of this campground. Camping costs $22 per night per vehicle of eight or fewer people.
Location: 8 miles southeast of Flagstaff, AZ
• Water hookup: no
• Electrical hookup: no
• Sewer hookup: no
• WiFi: no
• Pet-friendly: yes
• Other amenities: fire rings, cooking grills, drinking water, picnic tables
What to Do at
Riordan Mansion State Historic Park
Inside Riordan Mansion State Historic Park
The Riordan Mansion is a marvel of construction, and much of the elegant duplex is as it was when it was first built. While within the grounds, you can take one of the guided tours, which are given every hour and impart interesting information regarding the Riordan family and the history of the mansion and Flagstaff. You can also do a self-guided tour of the grounds or wander around the visitor center, which contains numerous exhibits that explain many facets of the house, the family, and their history. Additionally, you have the opportunity of viewing the abundant wildlife in the park, including juncos, ravens, hummingbirds, and lizards. If you get hungry, break out your picnic provisions and set up a nice lunch on one of the tables in the parking area.
How to Get to
Riordan Mansion State Historic Park
Coming from the south, east, or west, you'll want to eventually get onto I-17 and head north toward Flagstaff. I-17 becomes South Milton Road and leads you directly to the park. If coming in from the north, head to downtown Flagstaff and eventually get onto S Milton Road, which will take you to the park.
By Car
Entering Riordan Mansion State Historic Park
The Riordan Mansion has winter and summer hours of operation. For Nov. 1 - April 30, the mansion is open 10:30 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. Thursday - Monday (closed Tuesday and Wednesday). For May 1 - Oct. 31, it's open daily 9:30 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.
Riordan Mansion State Historic Park Adults : $12.0
Ages: 14+
Riordan Mansion State Historic Park Youths : $6.0
Ages: 7-13
Riordan Mansion State Historic Park Kids : $0.0
Ages: 0-6
The Riordan Mansion is a great place to visit in your RV. It's an impressive site that preserves a unique piece of Arizona history. Make sure to give yourself enough time to explore the site and the nearby attractions, and please send some of the photos you take to [email protected]. At RVshare, we've got a travel blog where we may feature some of your shots.
Frequently Asked Questions About Riordan Mansion State Historic Park
Riordan Mansion State Historic Park is open all year. There are seasonal art and cultural events scheduled during the year that complement the standard house tour. Halloween and Christmas events are always enjoyable.
Located in the city of Flagstaff, Riordan Mansion Historic Park is at an elevation of 7,000 feet. The low humidity and high altitude contribute to mild weather in all seasons, but daily temperature swings can be 30 to 40 degrees.
Because the park is located in the city of Flagstaff, wildlife viewing is fairly limited. Crows, sparrows, finches, and juncos are birds that visitors see regularly. Albert squirrels, lizards, and chipmunks also call the Riordan Mansion grounds home.
Pets are welcome at Riordan Mansion State Historic Park. They must be on a leash and stay on the grounds under constant supervision. All pets must be picked up after. Only service animals are permitted inside park buildings and the mansion.
Accessible parking is near the mansion with access to the visitor center. Inside, there is plenty of room to move a wheelchair around the exhibits. An accessible bathroom is also available. The tour of the mansion is only partially accessible.