El Pais Motel & Campgrounds — Hotel in Tucson

Situated in the Urban Jungle/Desert of Tucson in Arizona is a lovely little abstract of reality. Art lovers, retro philosophy, and psychedelia trippers, alike will rave over this retro refit of an old 70's motel geared towards the camper and RV crowd. The first thing you notice when you approach the property is the gated decor framing the gated entrance. But as you enter, the unusuality of this place begins to soak in. Several classic and rare vehicles parked outside the first few rooms to your right include an early electric car that would be right at home in 80's sci-fi films. And, the Wedge, a concept 2 seater that looks like it landed here from outer space. To your left, the once office now serves as the community clubhouse and hides the hotel's history and many retro surprises. The clubhouse opens to a seating area right out of a 60's or so night club. This leads into the facility's pool and poolside furniture resting beneath a projector screen wall straight from the drive ins of old. Every room is themed, and wild to see. And, we'll maintained to boot. Hand painted reliefs surround you straight through to the retro campers that the owners restore and rent. A few lots are kept waiting for your RV to hook up to, should that be the arrangement you make. Best suited for a party crowd that is rock and retro, a romantic getaway for two, or a New Year's Champagne toast by disco ball, not the best place for kids. But, pet friendly for well behaved companions. Definitely,...

I travel full-time in my camper van with my two dogs, and I've stayed in a lot of places. This is my favorite so far! I felt at home there. Toni is so welcoming, and she makes sure you're comfortable and told of all the awesome amenities.

The entire property is beautiful, clean, well-maintained. There are free chicken eggs available that you can cook in a kitchen that makes you feel like you've gone back in time.

Everything works in there. Everything is so clean and shiny. I decided to cook a meal on the really neat stove. And I found myself having fun as I cooked.

The entire clubhouse is like that. Things from a different time that still work, reminding you we may not be actually making things more convenient as the years go by.

There's a covered fire pit that Toni starts a fire in at night. They have outdoor movies. Clean bathrooms and showers. Even little grass pads next to your parking spot which Toni moved to just the right spot for me and my dogs. You have your own trash can. Free coffee in the morning. Really good coffee.

I can keep going, but you probably get it by now. Come stay at El Pais. You will be happy you did. Thanks for everything Toni. I'll probably come back to...

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 5/5 I’ve been traveling full-time in my RV for years and have stayed at over 100 RV parks around the country — and I can honestly say El Pais Motel & Campgrounds is one of the most unique and special places I’ve ever experienced.

The owners and staff are incredibly friendly and helpful, but what really sets this place apart is its atmosphere — it’s beautifully ornate and feels like nowhere else. Every corner has character, from the vintage design to the cozy, creative details that make it feel more like a community than a campground.

They do awesome movie nights — this weekend they’re showing Young Frankenstein by the pool, where you can literally float with a cocktail while watching a film. It’s such a cool vibe. The whole place just feels alive, welcoming, and perfectly thought out.

Whether you have an RV or not, the themed motel rooms are equally awesome and affordable. If you’re passing through Tucson or looking for a long-term spot, do yourself a favor and stay here — it’s...