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Discover Your Perfect RV Rental Adventure in California
California offers endless possibilities for RV travel, with its world-famous coastlines, majestic national parks, iconic cities, and sunny climate year-round. From San Diego’s beaches to the towering redwoods of the north, California is a dream destination for those exploring by RV. With hundreds of RV parks offering powered sites, the Golden State is an ideal place to begin your unforgettable journey.
At USA RV Rentals, we make finding RV rentals near me or securing the best campervan rental California has to offer simple and stress-free. Start your adventure today!
Things to Consider When Renting an RV in California
Choosing the Right Size for Your Journey
California’s scenic drives and national parks are easier to navigate with the right size RV. Larger RVs may have restrictions in some areas—be sure your vehicle suits your planned route.
Booking Powered Campsites Early
Popular RV parks near Yosemite, Big Sur, and coastal towns often fill months in advance. Early reservations guarantee you access to powered sites for a comfortable stay.
Understanding Local Road Rules
California has specific RV driving regulations, such as lane usage rules on highways. Familiarize yourself before hitting the road.
Essential Amenities for Comfort
Select an RV with must-haves like air conditioning, a kitchenette, and onboard bathroom facilities—perfect for California’s diverse climates and long stretches between towns.
Optimal Pick-Up and Drop-Off Locations
Choosing rental depots near major cities like Los Angeles, San Francisco, or San Diego can reduce travel time and additional mileage charges.
Why Book Your RV Rental with USA RV Rentals?
Since 2001, USA RV Rentals has helped thousands of travelers find the perfect RV for their journey across California and the U.S. Here's why we are the trusted choice:
- Largest Range of RVs: We offer RVs and campervans from trusted brands like Cruise America, El Monte RV, Road Bear, Britz, Escape Campervans, and Travellers Autobarn.
- Wide Variety of Vehicles: From compact campervans to luxury motorhomes.
- Total Impartiality: Our comparison service is completely unbiased and free.
- Best Price Guarantee: We search for the lowest prices so you don't have to.
- Trusted Expertise: With over two decades of experience, our advice is based on real-world knowledge of what travelers need.
Whether you're searching for a Cruise America camper rental, Cruise America motorhome rental, or a boutique brand, we bring you the best options in one place.
Top Things to Do and See in Your RV in California and the West Coast
Cruise the Pacific Coast Highway
Embark on one of the world's most scenic drives, stopping at Malibu, Santa Barbara, and Monterey. Enjoy ocean views and camp at RV parks with full amenities.
Explore Yosemite National Park
Discover towering waterfalls, granite cliffs, and giant sequoias. Book early to secure a powered site at one of Yosemite’s few RV-accessible campgrounds.
Relax at Lake Tahoe
Enjoy lakeside campsites with full hookups, hiking trails, and watersports at one of California’s favorite outdoor playgrounds.
Tour Napa and Sonoma Wine Regions
Park your RV and savor wine tastings in picturesque vineyards. Many RV-friendly sites nearby allow for safe overnight stays.
Marvel at the Redwoods
Northern California’s redwood parks offer awe-inspiring scenery and a selection of powered RV parks perfect for exploration.
Unwind on Southern California Beaches
From Huntington Beach to San Diego’s Coronado Beach, find RV parks that offer powered sites close to the sand.
Suggested Itineraries Departing from California (Round-Trip Routes)
One-Week Coastal California RV Itinerary (Round Trip from Los Angeles)
Day 1-2: Los Angeles to Santa Barbara
Distance: 95 miles | Drive Time: ~2 hours
Highlights: Santa Monica Pier, Malibu beaches, Santa Barbara’s historic downtown and beaches.
Stay: Rancho Oso RV & Camping Resort (powered sites).
Day 3-4: Santa Barbara to Pismo Beach
Distance: 80 miles | Drive Time: ~1.5 hours
Highlights: Wine tasting in Santa Ynez Valley, sand dunes at Pismo Beach, Monarch Butterfly Grove.
Stay: Pismo Coast Village RV Resort (full hookups).
Day 5: Pismo Beach to Santa Cruz
Distance: 160 miles | Drive Time: ~3.5 hours
Highlights: Scenic Highway 1 drive, Big Sur coastline, Bixby Creek Bridge, Carmel-by-the-Sea.
Stay: Santa Cruz / Monterey Bay KOA Holiday (powered sites).
Day 6: Santa Cruz to Ventura
Distance: 260 miles | Drive Time: ~5 hours
Highlights: Monterey Bay Aquarium (optional), return drive along Pacific Coast Highway.
Stay: Ventura Beach RV Resort.
Day 7: Ventura to Los Angeles
Distance: 70 miles | Drive Time: ~1.5 hours
Highlights: Relaxed morning in Ventura or visit Malibu on the return to LA.
Two-Week National Parks and Scenic Adventure (Round Trip from Los Angeles)
Day 1-2: Los Angeles to Joshua Tree National Park
Distance: 130 miles | Drive Time: ~2.5 hours
Highlights: Joshua Tree National Park’s iconic rock formations and desert scenery.
Stay: Joshua Tree Lake RV & Campground (powered sites).
Day 3-5: Joshua Tree to Grand Canyon (South Rim)
Distance: 340 miles | Drive Time: ~6 hours
Highlights: Grand Canyon viewpoints, scenic rim drives, visitor centers.
Stay: Trailer Village RV Park (full hookups inside Grand Canyon Village).
Day 6-7: Grand Canyon to Page (Lake Powell)
Distance: 140 miles | Drive Time: ~2.5 hours
Highlights: Antelope Canyon tour, Horseshoe Bend overlook.
Stay: Page Lake Powell Campground (full hookups).
Day 8-9: Page to Zion National Park
Distance: 110 miles | Drive Time: ~2 hours
Highlights: Zion Canyon Scenic Drive, hiking trails.
Stay: Zion River Resort RV Park (powered sites).
Day 10-11: Zion National Park to Las Vegas
Distance: 160 miles | Drive Time: ~2.5 hours
Highlights: Fremont Street Experience, shows and entertainment in Las Vegas.
Stay: Oasis Las Vegas RV Resort.
Day 12-13: Las Vegas to Death Valley National Park
Distance: 120 miles | Drive Time: ~2.5 hours
Highlights: Badwater Basin, Furnace Creek Visitor Center, Mesquite Sand Dunes.
Stay: Furnace Creek Ranch RV Park (powered sites).
Day 14: Death Valley to Los Angeles
Distance: 270 miles | Drive Time: ~5 hours
Highlights: Relaxed return drive through Mojave Desert back to Los Angeles.
Frequently Asked Questions About RV Rentals in California
►What type of driving license do I need to hire motorhome or RV in the United States?
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What type of driving license do I need to hire motorhome or RV in the United States?
All you need is a valid unrestricted or permanent driver’s licence to hire a RV. A provisional licence or a temporary replacement licence is not accepted.
If your licence is not written in English, you will need an accredited English translation or an International Driver Permit in addition to your origin licence.
When collecting the vehicle and signing the rental agreement, all drivers must be listed, present, over the age of 21 years and provide their valid driver’s licence.
►How old do you need to be to hire a RV or motorhome in California?
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How old do you need to be to hire a RV or motorhome in California?
Drivers must be 21 years of age or older to hire a RV or motorhome in the United States. All drivers are required to hold a current, full, unrestricted driver’s licence valid for the entire period for which the vehicle is rented.
►Can l travel to the Burning Man festival in a RV?
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Can l travel to the Burning Man festival in a RV?
Yes you can. Additional fees will apply for any traveller going to Burning Man. Conditions and fees will differ between each of the RV companies.
Cruise America charge an additional US$1,000 security deposit for pickups in late August during the Burning Man travel period from Los Angeles, San Francisco, Las Vegas, Seattle, Portland, and Salt Lake City.
El Monte advises a special cleaning fee may apply for rentals attending Burning Man Festival. At pick up the Depot staff will explain the condition required for the vehicle on return. A per hour cleaning fee will be charged if El Monte determine the Rental Vehicle has not been returned in a clean condition.
►Are one-way RV rentals an option in California?
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Are one-way RV rentals an option in California?
Yes. One-way rentals are a common and popular way of hiring a RV to explore the United States. If your RV rental provider has a location in one city, you are welcome to drop-off in another city at their location.
Contact the team at RV Rentals and we can assist planning your one way road trip.
►How long does the collection process take when picking up a motorhome?
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How long does the collection process take when picking up a motorhome?
Travellers should allow between 1 to 2 hours for the check-in process at the branch, this time may vary depending on the vehicle type.
The check-in process will involve reading and signing the rental agreement and vehicle orientation. You may be required to watch the campervan introductory instructional video and then a vehicle walk-around demonstration where a staff member will show you the features, appliances, power outlets, how it works and where things are located.
It is important to call the branch location 1 to 2 days prior to your collection date to arrange a vehicle pick-up time. When collecting the vehicle and signing the rental agreement, all drivers must be listed, present, over the age of 21 years and provide their valid driver’s licence.
►Is an Insurance Pack necessary?
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Is an Insurance Pack necessary?
Yes, purchasing an Insurance Pack is strongly recommended. It provides essential coverage for accidents, theft, and third-party liability.
►Do I have unlimited miles included in my RV rental cost?
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Do I have unlimited miles included in my RV rental cost?
When travelling in the United States, most RV rentals have unlimited miles as an additional add-on item and not included in the rental cost. Mileage packages are available to add-on and can be selected when you are making your reservation online.
►Can I bring my pet on an RV trip?
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Can I bring my pet on an RV trip?
Yes. When hiring a motorhome or RV with Cruise America, El Monte or Mighty, you are welcome to travel with your furry friend, comfort pet or service animal. A pet fee will apply.
►How far in advance should I book?
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How far in advance should I book?
Where possible it is recommended that you book in advance, especially if you are considering travel during peak periods such as long weekends, Easter, Christmas and School Holidays, or popular destinations vehicles sell out well in advance.
Customers should considering booking 6 to 8 months in advance to secure the best rate and avoid the disappointment of missing out due to supply being exhausted.
Here's why;
Availability
- High demand, limited supply: Campervans are popular, especially in peak seasons (summer, holidays, long weekends, festivals, sporting events). Waiting too long could mean no availability, or being stuck with a vehicle that doesn’t suit your needs.
- Popular destinations get booked out fast.
Better Prices
- Early bookings usually cost less. Last-minute rentals tend to be significantly more expensive due to limited availability.
- Many companies offer early bird discounts.
More Choice
- Booking early gives you the best selection of campervan types, layouts, and sizes. Last-minute bookings often leave only the largest or smallest (less practical or more expensive) options.
Trip Planning
- A confirmed campervan helps lock in your travel plans. It allows you to plan campsites, routes, and activities confidently.
- Some campsites require campervan size/details in advance to reserve spots.
Peace of Mind
- Especially in high season or remote areas, not having a campervan booked can be stressful. Booking in advance means one less major thing to worry about.
Book Your RV Rental in California Today
Whether you're planning a cross-country road trip, a weekend escape, or a campervan rental adventure, USA RV Rentals makes the process simple. Compare the best RV hire in California, including motorhomes and campervans, all in one place.