Camper Van & RV Rental in California

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)

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

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.

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.

• 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.

• Yosemite National Park: Towering granite cliffs, waterfalls, and wide-open meadows make Yosemite one of California’s most visually striking landscapes. Landmarks like El Capitan and Half Dome are instantly recognizable and easy to appreciate even without long hikes.
• Big Sur: A dramatic stretch of coastline where steep cliffs drop straight into the Pacific. Short pullouts, ocean views, and redwood groves make it rewarding even on a slower-paced visit.
• Sequoia National Park: Famous for its massive sequoia trees, including the General Sherman Tree. The scale alone makes this park memorable, especially for travelers seeing California’s mountain forests for the first time.
• Joshua Tree National Park: A stark desert landscape defined by twisted Joshua trees, boulder fields, and wide skies. It feels completely different from California’s coastal and mountain regions.
• Lake Tahoe: Known for its clear alpine water and surrounding peaks, Lake Tahoe blends mountain scenery with easy access to beaches, viewpoints, and low-effort outdoor stops.

If you’re traveling with kids and trying to figure out which California attractions are actually worth your time, this guide to family-friendly places to visit in California focuses on specific spots and activities that work well for different ages, energy levels, and budgets.