RV-Friendly Campgrounds Acadia National Park: Best Big Rig Sites, 2025

by | Travel & Destinations

This image showcases a peaceful waterfront campsite at sunset, with a silver Airstream trailer parked on the left. The golden sun dips below the horizon, casting a warm glow over the calm waters, while a group of people relaxes in Adirondack chairs near a fire pit on the grassy shore.

RV-Friendly Campgrounds
Acadia National Park:
Best Big Rig Sites, 2025

 Thestromads. Com contains affiliate links and is a member of the amazon services llc associates program. If you click and use these links we may receive compensation at no extra cost to you!

Updated: 2/3/2025

Finding the best campgrounds Acadia National Park offers can make or break your RV adventure—especially if you’re in a big rig.

The first time we rolled our Renegade Verona into Acadia, we were in for a surprise. Tight turns, heavy traffic, and limited options for big rigs turned what should have been a relaxing trip into a stressful start. But after staying in multiple campgrounds, scouting sites firsthand, and learning the hard way, we figured out exactly what works—and what doesn’t—for RV travelers like you.

With over 20 years of RV experience and thousands of miles logged across the country, we know that not all campgrounds are created equal. That’s why we put together this guide—to help you skip the guesswork, avoid common pitfalls, and find the best places to park your home on wheels.

In this guide, we’re breaking down the best RV-friendly campgrounds near Acadia National Park, sharing insider tips, and helping you plan a smooth, stress-free trip.

 

Table of Contents
2
3

Best Campgrounds
Acadia National Park for Big Rigs

Acadia National Park is one of the most breathtaking places in the U.S., but finding the right place to park your RV—especially for rigs over 35 feet—can be challenging.

Not sure which part of the park to stay in? Our Acadia Vacation Guide walks you through Acadia’s layout, top activities, and the best spots to explore—so you can camp in the perfect location for your adventure.

From spacious sites to easy access and must-know tips, here’s where to stay for a stress-free adventure.

So fuel up the rig, and let’s go camping in Acadia National Park.

 

Mt. Desert Narrows Camping Resort (Best for Waterfront Views)Lakeside campsite at campground acadia national park with picnic tables, trees, and a calm water view.

📍  1219 State Highway 3, Bar Harbor, ME 04609

Distance to Cadillac Summit Road: 12.6 miles (22 minutes)
Distance to Bar Harbor: 10 miles (15 minutes)

Why We Love It:

    • Breathtaking waterfront views across the narrows
    • Variety of sites: full hookups, shaded spots, and waterfront options
    • Quiet atmosphere—no golf cart parade or loud parties
    • Seasonal amenities, including a swimming pool and social hall
    • Two dump stations, reducing wait times at checkout

Big Rig Tip: The full-hookup sites sit on a steep incline, so bring extra leveling blocks if your RV isn’t equipped with automatic leveling.

Our Experience: We stayed here for seven nights in October 2023 and loved the peaceful setting. The sites were tight, but the stunning waterfront views made up for it.

Check-in was easy, the hosts were friendly, and the atmosphere was quiet—perfect for relaxing after exploring Acadia.

 

Bar Harbor/Oceanside KOA (Best Ocean Views)People relax in adirondack chairs at a campground acadia national park, watching a sunset over the water.

📍  136 County Road, Bar Harbor, ME 04609

Distance to Cadillac Summit Road: 13 miles, 23 minutes
Distance to Bar Harbor: 10 miles, 15 minutes

Why We Love It:

    • The only oceanfront campground on Mount Desert Island
    • Full hookups with pull-thru sites are available
    • Epic sunset views over the bay
    • Close proximity to park entrances
    • Onsite café for last-minute munchies like soup, dessert, and LOBSTER!

Big Rig Tip: For the best experience, request a site near the water, but book early—it fills up fast!

Our Experience: We stayed here for seven nights in October 2024 and loved every moment. The sunset views over the bay were absolutely breathtaking, and being right on the water made for an unforgettable stay.

The full hookups were essential since we were traveling with friends, and we appreciated how well-maintained the sites were.

One of our favorite surprises was the onsite café, perfect for grabbing a warm bowl of soup or a sweet treat after a long day of exploring.

While some spots were a little tight, the incredible scenery, peaceful atmosphere, and great amenities more than made up for it. This campground is an excellent home base for exploring Acadia!

 

Wild Acadia Camping Resort (Best for Families)

A wooded campsite at campground near acadia national park, featuring a travel trailer, a white pickup truck, and tall pine trees lining a gravel road at dusk.

📍  233 Bar Harbor Road, Trenton, ME 04605

Distance to Cadillac Summit Road: 19 miles, 30 minutes
Distance to Bar Harbor: 16 miles, 21 minutes

Why We Love It:

    • Full hookups with space for large RVs
    • On-site water park, mini-golf, and hiking trails
    • Ideal for families traveling with kids

Big Rig Tip: Stay here if you want more than just a campsite—it’s a full-on adventure!

 

Narrows Too Camping Resort (Best for Amenities)A gravel campsite overlooking a calm body of water at sunset, with picnic tables and utility hookups nearby.

📍  1150 Bar Harbor Road, Trenton, ME 04605

Distance to Cadillac Summit Road:14.2 miles, 25 minutes
Distance to Bar Harbor: 12 miles, 16 minutes

Why We Love It:

    • Big-rig-friendly pull-thru sites
    • Full hookups, Wi-Fi, and a heated pool
    • Conveniently located near Acadia without the in-park restrictions
    • Large sites perfect for Class A motorhomes and fifth wheels

Big Rig Tip: This is a great alternative if the KOA is full.

 

Bar Harbor Campground (Closest Private Campground to Acadia)

<A gravel campsite with a picnic table, surrounded by grass, trees, and parked rvs under a clear sky.
📍  409 ME-3, Bar Harbor, ME 04609
Distance to Cadillac Summit Road: 8.8 miles, 18 minutes
Distance to Bar Harbor: 5.1 miles, 8 minutes

Why We Love It:

    • One of the closest private campgrounds to Acadia
    • Offers large pull-thru sites with full hookups
    • Shuttle service to Bar Harbor and Acadia
    • They have recently changed from
      First-come-First-Serve to a Reservation System

Big Rig Tip:  Get there mid-morning for the best shot at a pull-thru site

 

 Smuggler’s Den Campground (Best for Quiet Retreats)

Campsite 80 with a

📍  20 Main Street, Southwest Harbor, ME 04679

Distance to Cadillac Summit Road: 13.8 miles, 24 minutes
Distance to Bar Harbor: 13 miles, 18 minutes

Why We Love It:

    • Located on the quieter side of Mount Desert Island
    • Spacious sites that accommodate larger rigs
    • Direct access to hiking trails
    • Family-owned and operated, with a friendly, welcoming atmosphere

Big Rig Tip: If you prefer a peaceful setting away from the Bar Harbor crowds, this is your spot.

 

Lamoine State Park Campground (Best for a Quiet, Scenic Stay)Tall trees with sparse foliage stand before a calm lake, partially obscuring the water and distant shoreline.

📍  23 State Park Road, Lamoine, ME 04605

Distance to Cadillac Summit Road: 25 miles, 47 minutes
Distance to Bar Harbor:  22 miles, 38 minutes

Why We Love It:

    • Located on the Schoodic Peninsula with stunning ocean views
    • A quiet and inviting atmosphere, perfect for a break from commercial campgrounds
    • Primitive, wooded campsites offering a peaceful retreat
    • Bathhouses, walking trails, and a dump station are available

Big Rig Tip: Only a few sites accommodate big rigs, and there are no hookups—so be prepared for dry camping with a view.

 

The Magic of Camping in Acadia

A lakeside campsite with a picnic table, fire pit, and calm water reflecting tree-covered islands.

RVing isn’t just a way to travel—it’s a way of life. There’s something special about waking up surrounded by nature, with the comforts of home just steps away.

For us, RVing is more than just an adventure; it’s a chance to slow down, soak in the beauty around us, and create unforgettable experiences.

And if one place truly captures this magic, it’s Acadia National Park.

Picture This

Rocky shoreline with scattered stones, blue ocean, and a distant island under a partly cloudy sky.

You wake to the sound of gentle waves in the distance and the scent of fresh-brewed coffee filling your RV.

Stepping outside, the cool morning mist drifts in from the Atlantic as you sip your coffee. You watch the first light dance across the rugged coastline.

Your day is filled with adventure—winding along Acadia’s scenic drives, hiking through lush forests, and soaking in breathtaking ocean views.

Fresh from the Ocean

Freshly cooked lobsters with butter and red wine set on a table by the water, creating a scenic meal.

As the sun dips low, you return to your site for a true Maine experience—steaming lobster fresh from the pot, butter dripping as you crack open the shell.

Campfires and S’mores

People roasting marshmallows over a crackling campfire at night, enjoying a cozy outdoor gathering.

Then, as night settles over the pines, the crackling campfire becomes the heart of the evening. Laughter, stories, and the warmth of s’mores create moments that linger long after the embers fade.

There’s More!

And if spending time by the water is your idea of relaxation, you won’t want to miss The Best Beaches in Acadia National Park—perfect for exploring tide pools, strolling along the shore, or simply unwinding with the sound of the waves.

Because in the end, camping in Acadia isn’t just a trip—it’s an experience. It’s about the connections you make, the memories you create, and the feeling of being present in a place where nature meets adventure.

What to Know About Camping in Acadia National Park

A calm pond with rocks along the edge, surrounded by a forest with green and autumn-colored trees.

Acadia is unique because camping within the park is minimal, and RV restrictions apply on certain roads. Here’s what you need to know before you go:

Limited amenities in the National Park – The campgrounds inside the park are scenic, but they may not offer full hookups. If you’re traveling in a big rig, you’ll want to plan accordingly.

Road Restrictions: Many roads in Acadia, including sections of Park Loop Road, have length restrictions (usually 27 feet for motorhomes and 35 feet for trailers).

Peak Season Crowds: From June to October, sites book up quickly. Early reservations or flexibility in arrival dates can improve your chances of securing a spot.

Best Time to Visit:  If you want to avoid the busiest months, consider visiting in May or late September, when the weather is still pleasant and the crowds are lighter.

For a detailed itinerary, check out our Acadia National Park Itinerary to help plan your visit.

 

Essential Big Rig Tips

for Acadia National Park

The image captures a peaceful pond reflecting the surrounding forest, with scattered rocks lining the water’s edge. The trees in the background display a mix of deep green evergreens and deciduous trees transitioning into warm autumn hues. The shoreline consists of sandy soil and grassy marsh, adding texture to the serene, nature-filled setting. A small white bird floats on the water, enhancing the tranquil atmosphere.

Measure Your RV! – Before booking, double-check length restrictions for any roads you plan to travel.

Arrive early for First-Come, First-Served Sites. Many campgrounds fill up quickly, so if possible, get there before noon.

Use an RV-safe GPS. Acadia’s roads have low bridges and narrow turns, so don’t rely on Google Maps alone.

Plan for Limited Cell Service.   Some areas within Acadia have spotty reception. Consider bringing a cell signal booster if you need connectivity.

 

Rent a Camper

for Your Acadia Adventure

Rv campground with picnic tables, folding chairs, and a man walking near parked campers by the water.

Don’t own an RV? No problem! Rental options allow you to experience the best campgrounds Acadia National Park offers without the long-term commitment.

Why Rent an RV for Acadia?

Renting an RV offers flexibility, comfort, and a hassle-free way to experience Acadia National Park. Here’s why it might be the perfect option for your trip:

Try Before You Buy: Thinking about getting an RV? Renting lets you test the lifestyle without the commitment.

Choose the Perfect Size & Style:  Choose an RV that fits your needs, whether you prefer a cozy camper van or a spacious Class A motorhome.

No Long-Term Maintenance or Storage:  Enjoy the perks of RV travel without worrying about upkeep, insurance, or parking when you’re not using it.

Ideal for Occasional Travelers: If you’re not ready for full-time RVing, renting is a cost-effective way to enjoy the experience.

Experiment with Different Models: Renting allows you to try various layouts and features to determine what will work best for your future camping adventures.

Whether you’re a first-time RVer or a seasoned traveler looking for a temporary setup, renting an RV allows you to explore Acadia comfortably and conveniently.

 

Best Places to Rent an RV Near Acadia

Outdoorsy – These peer-to-peer rental platforms offer a wide range of RVs, from small campervans to luxury motorhomes.

Local RV Rentals – Some rental companies in Maine provide well-maintained, fully equipped RVs tailored for Acadia travelers.

Escape Camper Van Rentals – If you prefer a more compact and nimble option, camper vans provide flexibility while offering essential amenities.

 

Planning to Rent an RV? Ask These Key Questions First!

Old camper van parked in grassy clearing with colorful fall trees and forested mountains under a bright blue sky.

Renting an RV is an exciting way to explore Acadia National Park, but before you hit the road, it’s important to know what to expect.

Here are some key questions to ask your rental provider to avoid surprises and make your trip as smooth as possible.

Costs & Fees

    • Are there extra fees for mileage, generator use, or cleaning?
    • Does the rental price include insurance, or do I need to purchase additional coverage?
    • What is the security deposit, and how do I get it back?

Emergency & Roadside Assistance

    • What happens if I break down or need roadside assistance?
    • Who do I contact if there’s an issue with the RV during my trip?

Amenities & Comfort

    • Is the RV equipped with essentials like cookware, linens, and camping chairs, or do I need to bring my own?
    • Does the RV have a bathroom and shower, or will I need to rely on campground facilities?

Taking the time to ask these questions upfront will help you choose the right RV and travel with confidence!

 

Boondocking Near Acadia National Park: Off-Grid Camping Options

A picnic table on a grassy coastal cliff overlooking the ocean under a partly cloudy sky

Looking for a more off-grid experience? While Acadia National Park doesn’t offer true dispersed camping, there are still ways to enjoy a secluded stay.

Boondocking—camping without hookups—allows you to save money, escape the crowds, and fully immerse yourself in nature. However, because much of the land around Acadia is privately owned or protected, finding suitable spots can be tricky.

That said, if you’re willing to venture a little farther, there are still options for RV travelers who want to experience Maine’s rugged beauty away from the hustle of traditional campgrounds.

Where Can You Boondock Near Acadia National Park?

A renegade verona rv parked in a lot near a shopping center, with trees and cars in the background.

Walmart Parking Lots (Overnight Option)
Locations: Ellsworth, ME (Closest to Acadia)

Why It Works: Many Walmart stores allow RVers to park overnight for free, making them a good one-night stop before entering the park.

Always check with the store manager before settling in for the night.

Harvest Hosts & Boondockers Welcome
Various Locations Near Bar Harbor & Trenton

Why It Works: These membership-based programs offer unique overnight stays at farms, wineries, breweries, and private properties. Some spots have amenities like water or electricity, while others are completely off-grid.

You’ll need to purchase a membership to book these stays, but they offer a great way to boondock while supporting local businesses.

Public Lands in Maine (Beyond Acadia)
📍 North Maine Woods & Maine Public Reserved Lands

Why It Works: While Acadia doesn’t offer true dispersed camping, other parts of Maine do!

The North Maine Woods area and some Maine Public Reserved Lands allow free or low-cost primitive camping with minimal restrictions.

Tip: Boondocking spots can be remote and require careful planning for fuel, water, and supplies.

Boondocking Tips for Acadia National Park Travelers

A marshy landscape with a reflective stream, autumn trees, and a mountain covered in colorful foliage.

Check for Local Regulations – Many towns in the Bar Harbor area prohibit overnight parking outside designated campgrounds. Always verify if overnight stays are allowed.

Bring Enough Water & Supplies – Since boondocking means no hookups, ensure you have enough fresh water, food, and power sources (solar panels or generators).

Plan for Waste Disposal – Know where the nearest dump stations are. Many private campgrounds offer dump services for a small fee.

Expect Limited Cell Service—Some areas around Acadia have weak or no cell signal. A cell signal booster can help, but it’s best to have an offline map and a backup communication plan.

Follow the Leave–No–Trace Principles. Respect nature and private landowners. Pack out all trash, avoid making new fire rings, and leave your campsite cleaner than you found it.

Is Boondocking Right for Your Acadia Adventure?

If you’re comfortable with off-grid camping and self-sufficiency, boondocking near Acadia National Park can be a rewarding experience.

However, options are more limited compared to western states where BLM land is abundant.

For the best of both worlds, consider a combination of boondocking nights and stays at RV-friendly campgrounds with full hookups to recharge before returning to the grid.

 

Final Thoughts: Campgrounds Acadia National Park

Smiling couple in black jackets posing on a scenic overlook with islands and blue water in the background.

Choosing the right campgrounds Acadia National Park has to offer can make or break your trip. Whether you’re looking for an oceanfront view, a peaceful wooded retreat, or a family-friendly resort, there’s a spot for you.

As experienced full-time travelers, we’ve tested the best big-rig-friendly campgrounds so you can confidently plan your stay.

Pack your sense of adventure, secure your reservations early, and get ready for an unforgettable experience in Acadia National Park!

Want more insider tips?

Check out our Acadia National Park itinerary to plan your adventure! Don’t forget to subscribe to our newsletter for exclusive camping insights and RV travel tips.

Travel Safe and Adventure Often!

 

Maureen Wright and Robb Strobridge

The Stromads

Robb strobridge and maureen wright smiling on a sandy beach with waves and rocky cliffs behind them.

Entrepreneurs, Wanderlusters, Constant travelers, and Full-time RV Nomads since 2016.  We are fueled by life, love, and the pursuit of all things good.  Thanks for joining our journey and we hope to see you down the road!

Cadillac Ranch
Art, Iron, and a Spray-Painted Revolution

Ten Cadillacs, tailfins and all, buried nose-first in a field just off I-40. From a distance, it looks like a surreal junkyard. Up close, it’s a rainbow of spray paint, rust, and road trip energy.

Back in 1974, an art group called Ant Farm proposed the idea as a critique of American consumerism. Stanley Marsh 3 loved it. He gave them the land and the funding, and Cadillac Ranch was born.

Visitors are encouraged to leave their mark. And Marsh? He loved the chaos.

Graffiti-covered Cadillacs half-buried in the ground at Cadillac Ranch, one of the most iconic things to see in Amarillo.

Floating Mesa
An Optical Illusion in the Middle of Nowhere

The top of the mesa looks like it’s levitating. Stanley Marsh 3 painted a strip of white metal sheeting around its rim to match the sky—an unfinished illusion meant to fool the eye and unsettle the mind.

On clear afternoons, it works. The mesa floats. And Marsh, in typical fashion, never explained it.

Ozymandias on the Plains – Giant Legs
and a Not-So-Subtle Jab at Lubbock

Two giant stone legs in the middle of a field. No torso, just socks. It’s a nod to Shelley’s famous poem, but also a rumored jab at rival city Lubbock—legend says the statue faces south, mooning them.

Stanley Marsh 3 funded this, too. Satire, prank, or both? Probably both.

Graffiti-covered giant pair of legs in a field—an unusual roadside attraction among things to see in Amarillo.

The Dynamite Museum
Street Signs That Ask the Wrong Questions

No dynamite. No museum. Just hundreds of bizarre street signs placed across town in the ’90s by Marsh 3 and a band of local artists.

Signs read things like “Road Does Not End” and “Hope is a Naked Dance.” Many are gone now, but some still pop up—tiny time bombs of confusion in Amarillo’s neighborhoods.

Slug Bug Ranch – A Beetle Graveyard Gets a Second Life at the Big Texan

Originally planted outside of town as a twist on Cadillac Ranch, five VW Beetles were buried nose-down and left to rot in colorful glory. The owners of the nearby convenience store had hoped this quirky installation would steer curious drivers off the highway and into their shop.

But over time, the Longhorn Trading Post saw fewer visitors and eventually shut down. The corner became a graffiti-covered ghost town and a garden of Volkswagen skeletons.

The Conway land was later sold, and Slug Bug Ranch found a new home in the parking lot of the Big Texan Steak Ranch. There aren’t any ghosts in this version (that we know of), but it’s still one of the weirder sights to stumble across in Amarillo.

 

Helium Monument
A Time Capsule with a $10 Bet on the Future

A monument to helium, featuring time capsules sealed to be opened in 1993, 2018, 2068, and one in 2968. That last one includes a bank passbook with a $10 deposit from 1968. Some say it could be worth a quadrillion dollars by the time it’s opened—assuming we still use money.

It’s nerdy, wild, and perfectly Amarillo.

Close-up of the Helium Monument's atomic model sculpture—an iconic and educational thing to see in Amarillo.

Jack Sisemore RV Museum
Chrome, Campers, and Cross-Country Dreams

A private collection of vintage RVs, including the motorhome from RV (yes, the Robin Williams movie) and the first-ever full-time RV family’s rig. Each one is set up with period furniture, maps, and decor.

More than a museum—it’s a walk through America’s road-tripping soul.

Amarillo Railroad Museum
Where Model Trains Meet Cold War Secrets

A great little museum with working model trains, but the star is outside: a Cold War-era “White Train” that once secretly transported nuclear weapons across the U.S. from the nearby Pantex Plant.

No velvet ropes. Just a piece of history standing quietly in the Panhandle sun.

Pantex Plant
The Most Dangerous Place You’ll Never Tour

Still in operation today, Pantex is the primary nuclear weapons assembly and disassembly facility in the U.S. It’s high-security, off-limits, and unnervingly close to cattle country.

It casts a long shadow over Amarillo, one most people don’t talk about—but it’s there.

Amarillo Botanical Gardens
Growing Beauty Where It Shouldn’t Exist

We probably would’ve laughed if you asked us to picture a botanical garden in Amarillo. Not because the Panhandle isn’t beautiful, but because it’s where the wind can knock over your coffee, dog, and will to live—all in the same afternoon.

And yet, just behind the medical center, the Amarillo Botanical Gardens bloom defiantly—like a full-color dream planted in the middle of the Dust Bowl.

The story starts in the 1920s, when a group of gardening enthusiasts—yes, in Amarillo—formed a club focused on landscaping and beautification. It wasn’t easy. The ground was dry, the climate harsh, and the odds were long. But after weathering the Great Depression, the Dust Bowl, and decades of development, that club grew into something permanent: a full-fledged public garden.

We haven’t made it inside yet, but what we’ve seen from the outside is enough to spark curiosity. Locals rave about the mix of native plants, seasonal beds, and the glowing tropical conservatory that lights up like a greenhouse spaceship at night.

But what makes it weird—in the best way—is that it shouldn’t exist here. This isn’t a garden built for Instagram. It’s a slow, determined response to a harsh climate by people who looked around at bare dirt and said, “Let’s grow something anyway.”

Even just standing near the gates, it feels like a quiet rebellion. And on our next trip through town, it’s at the top of our list.

Richard Daniel Baker Peace Park
A Monument to Peace on Route 66

Driving along Route 66, just east of Amarillo, you might spot something unexpected: a large peace sign rising from the prairie, surrounded by a circle of pedestals bearing dates and messages. This is the Richard Daniel Baker Peace Park, also known as the Stoner Patriot Peace Garden of All Faiths.

The park is a personal tribute to peace and unity created by Richard Daniel Baker, a local farmer and retired telephone repairman. Each pedestal marks a significant date in history, inviting visitors to reflect on the events that have shaped our world. The park blends symbols from various faiths and philosophies, emphasizing a message of universal harmony.

While not widely known, Peace Park offers a quiet space for contemplation amidst the vast Texas landscape. It reminds us that even in the most unassuming places, one person’s vision can create a lasting impact.

The Nat
Big Bands, Buried Pools
and a Haunted Attic That Won’t Quit

Step inside The Nat on Route 66; it feels like time forgot to move on. High ceilings. Vintage lighting. A retro stage just begging for a swing band. Today, it’s a sprawling antique mall—but behind the shelves of records and racks of rhinestone jackets is one of Amarillo’s best-kept (and strangest) secrets.

It used to be a pool.

Initially opened in 1922 as The Natatorium, it was a public indoor swimming pool—back when that was considered a glamorous, almost futuristic idea. Amarillo locals swam here in the roaring ’20s, splashing beneath stained glass windows and ornate fixtures. But by the 1930s, swimming was out, and swing was in.

Rather than tear it all down, the owners did something wonderfully weird: they drained the pool and built a dance floor right over it.

Suddenly, the Nat became one of the hottest dance halls in the Texas Panhandle. Everyone who was anyone came through—Duke Ellington, Tommy Dorsey, Louis Armstrong. On any given weekend, you could dance the jitterbug straight across a former swimming pool, the music echoing off walls that once smelled of chlorine.

But that’s not the whole story.

In the attic—closed to the public and rarely talked about—people say something lingers. Past employees whisper about footsteps when no one’s upstairs. Cold spots. Doors that open on their own. One person swears they heard a piano playing softly, even though the building was locked and empty.

No one’s quite sure who—or what—might be haunting the place. A lost dancer? A musician who never left? Or maybe just the building itself, too full of memories to sit still.

We wandered the maze of vintage booths downstairs but couldn’t help looking up. There’s something about The Nat that hums under the surface. A little glamour. A little grit. And just enough mystery to make you glance over your shoulder.

 

Amarillo Historical Museum
One Man’s Obsession, Amarillo’s Memory Box

We love a good museum. But what we love is weird; from everything we’ve heard, the Amarillo Historical Museum checks all the boxes. Tucked into a modest building just off I-40, it’s not flashy or state-run. It’s a passion project—curated by a local historian who’s spent years collecting Amarillo’s odd, overlooked, and offbeat stories.

By the time we got there, the doors were closed for the day, but just peeking through the windows and reading about it later was enough to convince us that this place is high on our list for the next time we pass through town.

From what we’ve gathered, the rooms are packed with memorabilia: signs from long-gone businesses, Civil War relics, rotary phones, cattle brand records, and—somehow—more mannequins than you’d expect in one zip code. It’s part thrift store, part time capsule, and completely Amarillo.

The museum is run by a local storyteller known for giving off-script tours filled with local lore you won’t find on plaques. If the basement’s open, it might hold anything from a bomb shelter display to outlaw memorabilia to a forgotten fire engine.

No promises—but if it’s open when you come through, it might be the weirdest attic in the Panhandle.

The Big Texan Steak Ranch
Gimmicks and Giant Steaks

You can spot it from the highway: bright yellow walls, oversized cowboy signs, and a banner that dares you to eat a 72-ounce steak—plus sides—in under an hour. Welcome to the Big Texan Steak Ranch, Amarillo’s most famous and ridiculous institution.

This place is more than a restaurant. It’s an experience.  And yes, the 72-ounce steak challenge is real. You sit on a raised stage in the middle of the dining room while everyone watches you attempt to conquer four and a half pounds of beef, a baked potato, shrimp cocktail, salad, and a roll. Fail, and you pay the bill. Win, and your meal is free—plus you get bragging rights and a photo on the wall of fame (or shame).

But the weird doesn’t stop at the steak.

There’s a shooting gallery in the lobby. A full ice cream parlor and brewery on-site. Taxidermy watches you eat. And if you’re staying at the Big Texan Motel, they’ll pick you up in one of their custom-painted limos with longhorns on the hood. 

And now, the restaurant is home to the relocated Slug Bug Ranch—because nothing says Texas like spray-painted Volkswagens next to a giant fiberglass steer.

We’ve been here more than once, not because we needed another steak, but because the place is like a fever dream that somehow works. It’s weird, loud, a little unhinged—and somehow, perfectly Amarillo.

 

So… Why Is Amarillo So Weird?

Some places hide their weird. Amarillo wears it like a badge.

You don’t just visit Amarillo—you try to figure it out. It’s a city that buries Cadillacs in a field, outlines mesas to float, and honors helium with a time capsule full of Spam. It’s where dance floors are built over drained pools, and old hospitals whisper secrets when the wind shifts. It’s art and science, kitsch and chaos, sometimes unsettling, often hilarious—and always layered with stories.

And if there’s one thread that runs through it all, it might be Stanley Marsh 3—the millionaire trickster who helped turn public art into public curiosity. But Amarillo’s weirdness goes far beyond him. It’s in the antique mall mannequins, the painted Beetles, the radioactive past, and the peaceful protest planted in a park.

We’ve wandered every corner of this town, and if there’s one thing we’ve learned, it’s this:

Amarillo doesn’t care if you understand it. It just wants you to look twice.

So if you’re driving through and tempted to skip it, don’t. Pull over. Wander. Let the wind slap your face and the stories sink in.

Because in Amarillo, the weird isn’t just a sideshow.

It’s the main event.

Maureen Wright and Robb Strobridge

The Stromads

The Stromads at a speakeasy for date night.

Entrepreneurs, Wanderlusters, Constant travelers, and Full-time RV Nomads since 2016.  We are fueled by life, love, and the pursuit of all things good.  Thanks for joining our journey and we hope to see you down the road!

RV Couple with Renegade Verona LELTS

ROBB AND MAUREEN

THE STROMADS

RVing, traveling, and exploring should be fun.

Robb and I have compiled a list of resources that will help you save time and money.

Our suggestions will help eliminate decision fatigue and get you on the road to your next adventure.

Follow Us On Social

RECENT POSTS

2024 Las Vegas Itinerary 5 Days? No Problem! Start Here!

2024 Las Vegas Itinerary 5 Days? No Problem! Start Here!

2024 Las Vegas Itinerary 5 Days? No Problem! Start Here! Las Vegas Itinerary 5 Days? No problem! We've got you covered! Planning a trip to Las Vegas might seem like navigating a maze of glitzy lights and endless choices, especially if you're a first-time visitor....

What Stores Allow Overnight Parking 2024

What Stores Allow Overnight Parking 2024

 What Stores Allow Overnight Parking 2024? Sometimes travel days are long and you need to pull in somewhere for the night.  Rather than finding a campground with amenities or a hotel you just want something convenient on your route.  At this point, you are wondering...

Gate Guarding: Work Camping Jobs For Full-time RVers 2024

Gate Guarding: Work Camping Jobs For Full-time RVers 2024

Gate Guarding: Work Camping Jobs For Full-time RVers 2024 Are you familiar with Gate Guarding?  This article will provide valuable information, especially if interested in finding work camping jobs for full-time RVers. Work camping is a term describing how RVers live...

Thinking About a New RV?

Couple in Front of RV promoting How to Select Your Perfect RV