Rent an RV in California

California’s allure cannot be overstated. Its diverse landscapes range from the majestic Sierra Nevada to the sun-drenched beaches of the Pacific Coast make it a perfect place to explore with an RV rental. It’s also a cultural melting pot with a rich tapestry of traditions, cuisines and even languages. With roadsurfer locations in cosmopolitan San Francisco and the celebrity-studded Los Angeles, a road trip is an excellent way to experience all it has to offer. Book an RV rental in California and embark on a memorable journey across the Golden State today!


RV parked between palmtrees

Save big on your next long road trip!

Go coast to coast to explore the great outdoors and sunny beaches – save on long-term RV rentals across the USA and Canada:

  • Travel 14+ nights — enjoy an additional 5% off*
  • Travel 21+ nights — enjoy an additional 10% off*
  • Travel 28+ nights — enjoy an additional 15% off*

Extra savings: With our Early Bird code EARLY20 you can save 20% on your next trip! Hurry – this is a limited-time offer!

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Explore California RV Rentals

Class C RV | Cabover

Family Freedom

Thor Four Winds 22E

  • Seats 5
  • Sleeps 5
  • Combined kitchen/living room
  • Wet bath with shower & toilet
  • Hot water

Class B RV | Sprinter-Style

Couple Condo

Various Manufacturers

  • Seats 4
  • Sleeps 2+1
  • Spacious kitchen area
  • Wet bath with shower & toilet
  • Hot water

Class B RV | Sprinter-Style

Liberty Lodge

Various Manufacturers

  • Seats 4
  • Sleeps 4
  • Spacious kitchen area
  • Wet bath with shower & toilet
  • Hot water
  • Manual pop-up roof

Class B RV | Sprinter-Style

Horizon Hopper

Winnebago Revel 44E

  • Seats 4
  • Sleeps 2
  • Spacious kitchen area
  • Wet bath with shower & toilet
  • Hot water

One-Way RV Rentals from California

In the US, our one-way camper van rental option enhances the flexibility of your journey. You won’t need to drive the entire way back, allowing you to travel without the constraint of time and explore more during your vacation. With unlimited miles, your freedom knows no bounds when you embark on a one-way road trip from California.


How to book your one-way rental with roadsurfer

During the booking process, you have the flexibility to select your desired return location. If you rent your RV or camper van from Los Angeles or San Francisco, you have the option to return it to one of the following stations in USA:

  • Las Vegas (Nevada)
  • San Francisco (California)
  • Los Angeles (California)
  • Phoenix (Arizona)
  • Salt Lake City (Utah)
  • Seattle (Washington)
  • Denver (Colorado)

How much is the one-way rental fee?

A one-time fee starting at $349 will be applied during the booking process.


Your California Road Trip

Rent your RV or camper van in California and enjoy unlimited mileage, from the waves of Malibu and Santa Cruz to Yosemite’s granite cliffs, the Golden Gate Bridge, or a 9-day road trip through Big Sur and Sequoia. A free second driver makes it easy to share the ride along Highway 1 or on long stretches toward Lake Tahoe and Disneyland. 24/7 roadside assistance gives peace of mind whether you’re navigating Death Valley’s desert roads, driving through the Avenue of the Giants, or heading to Joshua Tree. Flexible cancellation keeps things simple if your plans shift around San Diego, San Francisco, or the Central Coast. And with camping equipment included, you can settle in beneath the Redwoods, wake up beside alpine lakes in Sequoia, explore California’s national parks, or chase sunsets by the ocean at famous surf beaches.

Driving rules in California

Driving in California offers you a chance to traverse stunning landscapes and see iconic landmarks. However, it’s crucial to familiarize yourself with a few important tips when renting an RV in California:

  • Understanding road rules: California’s driving laws may differ from other states. For instance, it’s illegal to use a cell phone while driving unless it’s set up for hands-free use. See the California Vehicle Code — Rules of the Road.
  • Speed limits: On most highways the maximum speed is 65 mph, but it drops to 55 mph for vehicles towing trailers.
  • Lane splitting: Lane splitting (motorcycles riding between lanes) is legal in California, so always check mirrors and blind spots.
  • Carpool lanes: High Occupancy Vehicle (HOV) lanes are common on California highways. Enter only if you meet the posted occupancy requirement.
  • Rest stops: California has numerous rest areas on interstates and highways—handy for RV travelers needing a break.
  • Varied terrain: From steep mountain passes to desert highways, ensure your RV is equipped for changing conditions.

Camping in California

Want to camp with your RV rental while in California? Here’s what you need to know:

  • Wild camping: California has national forests and Bureau of Land Management areas that allow “dispersed camping” or “wild camping” in certain places. You can stay at these sites for up to 14 days.
  • State parks: California has over 280 state parks and most have campgrounds that accommodate RVs. However, it’s advisable to reserve a spot in advance, especially during peak seasons.
  • Private campgrounds: There are numerous private campgrounds in California that cater to RV travelers. These range from basic sites with just water and electricity to more luxurious options with full hookups.
  • Leave no trace: Remember to always practice good camping etiquette and leave no trace of your visit to preserve the natural beauty of California for future travelers.
  • May Grey, June Gloom: California’s coastal regions can experience overcast skies and cool breezes during May and June. Be prepared for these weather conditions if planning to camp on the coast.

If you’d like more ideas on where to stay and how to make the most of your nights outdoors, take a look at this camping in California guide, which gathers some of the state’s most scenic spots for RV travelers.

Popular events & festivals in California

  • Coachella (April): Coachella is a popular music and arts festival that takes place in the Coachella Valley, attracting celebrities and music lovers from around the world.
  • BottleRock Napa Valley (May): This three-day music festival in Napa Valley showcases top musicians and culinary delights from the region–perfect for anyone renting an RV in California who wants to combine great music with wine tasting.
  • San Francisco Pride (June): A parade and celebration of the LGBTQ+ community, San Francisco Pride is a lively and colorful event that embraces diversity and inclusivity.
  • San Diego Comic-Con International (July): This is the ultimate event for comic book and pop culture enthusiasts, with movie screenings, panels and celebrity appearances.
  • Classical Tahoe Music Festival (August): Nestled among the majestic pines of Lake Tahoe, this festival is a celebration of classical music and the arts. Enjoy intimate performances by world-renowned musicians in an idyllic setting.

Beautiful places to visit in California

  • Yosemite National Park: This park’s dramatic cliffs, waterfalls and meadows have inspired artists and mesmerized visitors for centuries. The iconic El Capitan and Half Dome are must-sees.
  • Big Sur: This stretch of coastal highway offers magnificent views of the rugged Pacific coastline, with its sheer cliffs, towering redwoods and secluded beaches.
  • Sequoia National Park: Home to the world’s largest trees, Sequoia National Park is a testament to nature’s grandeur. The General Sherman Tree, the world’s largest tree by volume, is a sight to behold.
  • Joshua Tree National Park: Named after its distinctive trees, Joshua Tree National Park’s desert landscapes, speckled with boulders and punctuated by starry nights, are otherworldly.
  • Lake Tahoe: Nestled in the Sierra Nevada Mountains, Lake Tahoe’s crystal-clear waters and surrounding mountain peaks offer a plethora of spectacular vistas and outdoor activities.

Best time to visit California

If you plan on renting an RV in California, consider doing so in spring (March-May) and fall (September-November). These seasons offer moderate temperatures perfect for exploring outdoor attractions, less crowded tourist spots and scenic drives laden with blooming wildflowers or autumnal hues. Summer (June-August) can be hot and crowded, while winter (December-February) is generally mild in southern California with snowfall and colder temperatures in the northern parts of the state.

RV parked beneath towering granite cliffs in Yosemite National Park in California, a top destination for hiking and climbing.

More Tips & Inspiration for Your California Road Trip

Rent your RV in California

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*Travel 14+ days and get 5% off—or save 10% on 21+ days, and 15% on 28+ days. Discounts apply automatically at checkout on Step 2, “Select Your Extras,” and can be combined with promo codes. Offer valid only at USA and Canada locations.