Mesa, located in the greater Phoenix area, is surrounded by a rugged wilderness of mountains, deserts, and iconic cacti that beckon to be explored. 

Mesa, Arizona is the gateway to a world of outdoor activities, cultural hotspots, and panoramic desert landscapes. For camper van aficionados, the journey to this city is as delightful as the destination itself. Upon arrival, one of the first sites to greet you is the imposing Superstition Mountains, a perfect backdrop for your camper van adventure.

In this land steeped in legends, a visit to the Lost Dutchman State Park is a must. Camper van travelers can easily set up camp in the park’s designated RV spots and enjoy trails that suit both the casual walker and the experienced hiker. Venturing through the park, the treasure supposedly hidden by the park's namesake miner almost seems within reach.

Mesa's proximity to the Salt River allows for an array of water activities. Kayaking, tubing, and paddleboarding are popular ways to cool off, especially under the Arizona sun. For fishing enthusiasts, the river is teeming with largemouth bass and rainbow trout, making for an excellent leisurely angling session.

For the culturally curious, the Mesa Grande Cultural Park presents an awe-inspiring glimpse into the ancient Hohokam civilization. The park is home to a large, centuries-old ceremonial mound, and visitors can wander the interpretive trails to learn about the area’s original inhabitants.

Another not-to-be-missed spot is the Mesa Market Place Swap Meet, a bustling market perfect for an afternoon of browsing and shopping. Here, one can find unique Southwestern gifts, local artisan crafts, and tasty homemade treats.

No visit to the area is complete without a drive along the Historic Apache Trail. This scenic byway offers breathtaking views of canyons, desert landscapes, and the sparkling waters of Canyon Lake. Intrepid camper van travelers can park at the lake's marina and enjoy a boat tour for a different view of the imposing cliffs and abundant wildlife.

And for those looking for a relaxed day trip, the nearby town of Gilbert provides a change of pace with its charming downtown area, farm-to-table restaurants, and the Riparian Preserve at Water Ranch, a serene spot for wildlife watching and photography.

Ending the day back at your camper van, under the wide, starry skies of Arizona, you can reflect on the vibrant history, culture, and natural beauty that Mesa and its surroundings offer—an experience that truly embodies the spirit of the American Southwest.

In 2018, Meridian celebrated 125 years since its founding. August 18th marked the day when a village became what is now known as the city of Meridian in Idaho.

Celebrating everything dairy, this year will mark the 90th annual Meridian Dairy Days parade. The first celebration was held on June 18, 1929, to celebrate the opening of a creamery in town.

The first settlers in Meridian lived near Five Mile Creek, where they had access to a source of running water all year. As the town got its own school and postal service center, people started moving closer to the railroad, which became their new trading area.