California RV Trips

The Top 5 Destinations in California for Scenic Views and Adventure

California, with its vast and varied landscapes, offers some of the most spectacular RV destinations in the country. From the serene beaches of the Pacific Coast to the majestic Sierra Nevada mountains, there’s an adventure for every type of traveler. Here’s a guide to the top five RV destinations in California, complete with must-see places, activities, and tips for the best stay.

Yosemite National Park

An RV trip to Yosemite National Park is the quintessential outdoor vacation for those seeking both adventure and tranquility amidst some of the most awe-inspiring natural landscapes in the world. Known for its towering granite cliffs, ancient giant sequoias, and the dynamic beauty of its waterfalls, Yosemite offers an unparalleled setting for an RV vacation that combines comfort with a deep connection to nature.

One of the greatest advantages of exploring Yosemite by RV is the flexibility and freedom it provides. You have the convenience of your accommodations and amenities on wheels, which means you can experience the majestic sights of Yosemite at your own pace. Whether you wish to spend a day trekking to the top of Half Dome, photographing the iconic vistas of Tunnel View, or simply enjoying a quiet afternoon by the Merced River, an RV allows you to create a home base right in the heart of nature.

RV travel also caters excellently to families and groups who are looking for an accessible way to enjoy the park. Campgrounds like Yosemite Pines or Indian Flat offer family-friendly amenities and easy access to park highlights, ensuring that everyone from toddlers to grandparents can enjoy the trip comfortably. These campgrounds provide essential services such as hook-ups, laundry facilities, and proximity to general stores, making the logistics of an RV trip smooth and hassle-free.

Moreover, an RV trip to Yosemite is a fantastic way to truly disconnect from the hustle and bustle of daily life and immerse yourself in the tranquility of the wilderness. The park’s vast expanse encourages visitors to unplug from digital distractions and reconnect with nature and each other. Whether it’s sharing stories around a campfire, stargazing away from city lights, or watching the sunrise over El Capitan, the experiences had in Yosemite are both grounding and rejuvenating.

In essence, an RV vacation to Yosemite National Park offers a perfect blend of adventure, comfort, and the beauty of the natural world. It’s an opportunity to explore one of the planet’s most extraordinary landscapes while enjoying all the comforts of home, making it an ideal choice for a memorable and fulfilling getaway.

Places to See: Yosemite Valley, Glacier Point, and Mariposa Grove. These iconic spots showcase stunning vistas of granite cliffs, ancient giant sequoias, and panoramic views.

Things to Do: Hiking, rock climbing, and photography. The Mist Trail and Half Dome are popular among adventurous visitors looking for a challenging hike.

Things to Watch Out For: Traffic congestion and wildlife. Plan to visit during the week or in the off-season to avoid crowds, and always keep your food secure from bears.

Where to Camp:

Yosemite Pines RV Resort: Offers full hook-ups and is just a short drive from the Yosemite National Park entrance. The resort also has a pool and petting farm.

Indian Flat RV Park: Located less than 30 minutes from the park, providing basic amenities and a more budget-friendly option.

Big Sur

An RV trip to Big Sur, California, epitomizes the ideal getaway for those seeking solitude, natural beauty, and an escape from the fast pace of urban life. Big Sur, with its rugged coastline and towering redwoods, provides a breathtaking backdrop for an unforgettable road trip experience.

The journey along California’s Highway 1, which snakes through Big Sur, is renowned for its stunning vistas of the Pacific Ocean and the dramatic cliffs that drop off into the sea. This route offers numerous pullouts where travelers can stop, savor the views, and capture photographs. For RV travelers, this means having the luxury to pause wherever and whenever they choose, taking in the scenery at their own pace.

Big Sur’s natural environment is rich with opportunities for exploration and recreation. Hiking trails like those at Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park lead adventurers through enchanting forests to hidden waterfalls and spectacular overlooks. Meanwhile, the more accessible trails at Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park offer shorter walks to views of the iconic McWay Falls, which plunges directly into the ocean—a sight not to be missed.

Camping in an RV in Big Sur also means being able to stay amidst these natural wonders. Campgrounds such as Big Sur Campground and Cabins and Riverside Campground & Cabins provide amenities that allow for comfortable camping with the added benefit of waking up surrounded by the serene beauty of the redwood forests. Here, the sound of the rushing Big Sur River or the distant crash of ocean waves can lull travelers to sleep.

Moreover, an RV trip through Big Sur invites a slower pace of life, encouraging travelers to disconnect and reconnect with nature and their travel companions. Without the distractions of modern city life, days can be spent simply enjoying the environment, from watching sea otters play in the kelp beds along the coast to stargazing under the clear night sky, free from light pollution.

In summary, an RV trip to Big Sur is the perfect vacation for those looking to combine the freedom of the open road with the awe-inspiring beauty of one of California’s most cherished landscapes. It’s an opportunity to experience raw nature, from the comfort of a mobile home, making every moment of the journey as free and expansive as the views it offers.

Places to See: Pfeiffer Beach, McWay Falls, and Point Lobos. Each offers breathtaking coastal views and unique landscapes, such as the purple sand at Pfeiffer Beach.

Things to Do: Hiking, whale watching, and exploring state parks. Don’t miss the scenic trails in Andrew Molera State Park.

Things to Watch Out For: Narrow roads and limited cell service. Big Sur demands careful driving, especially in an RV, and prepare to disconnect as mobile signal can be spotty.

Where to Camp:

Big Sur Campground and Cabins: Provides partial hook-up sites nestled in the redwoods along the river.

Riverside Campground & Cabins: Offers sites with electric and water hook-ups, and it’s close to local trails and beaches.

Lake Tahoe

An RV trip to Lake Tahoe, straddling the border between California and Nevada, offers a mix of stunning natural beauty, outdoor activities, and the comfort of having your mobile home-away-from-home. Known for its crystal-clear waters and panoramic mountain views, Lake Tahoe is a year-round destination that caters to both relaxation and adventure enthusiasts.

In the summer months, Lake Tahoe transforms into a paradise for water sports and hiking. Travelers can park their RVs at one of the many campgrounds like Zephyr Cove Resort or Campground by the Lake, and enjoy easy access to the lake. Here, you can indulge in activities such as swimming, kayaking, paddle boarding, and fishing. The surrounding forests and state parks offer countless trails for hiking and mountain biking, providing beautiful vistas of the lake and its mountainous backdrop.

Winter brings a different kind of allure to Lake Tahoe, making it a popular destination for skiers and snowboarders. RV parks in the area are equipped to handle the colder temperatures, allowing visitors to enjoy a cozy stay in their vehicle after a day on the slopes. The numerous ski resorts around the lake, such as Squaw Valley and Heavenly Mountain, are accessible from various RV-friendly sites, making it convenient to try different slopes during your stay.

The versatility of an RV trip to Lake Tahoe lies in the ability to explore the diverse towns and attractions around the lake at your leisure. From the historic and quaint town of Truckee to the vibrant and lively South Lake Tahoe with its casinos and nightlife, there’s something for everyone. Staying in an RV means you have the flexibility to move around and experience all aspects of the lake’s surroundings without the hassle of packing and unpacking.

Moreover, RV travel to Lake Tahoe ensures a comfortable and personalized experience. You can bring along all the comforts of home, which is particularly appealing for families or those on extended trips. The self-contained nature of an RV, combined with the facilities provided at well-maintained campgrounds, ensures a stress-free vacation where you can focus on enjoying the natural beauty and abundant activities Lake Tahoe has to offer.

In essence, an RV trip to Lake Tahoe encapsulates the perfect vacation blend of adventure, nature, and comfort. Whether you’re looking for a peaceful retreat by the lake, thrilling outdoor activities, or a scenic winter getaway, Lake Tahoe offers an unforgettable experience with the freedom and flexibility that only an RV can provide.

Places to See: Emerald Bay State Park, Squaw Valley, and Sand Harbor. These spots are famous for their stunning lake views and vibrant blue waters.

Things to Do: Skiing and snowboarding in winter; hiking, kayaking, and paddleboarding in summer.

Things to Watch Out For: Weather changes and altitude sickness. The weather can shift rapidly, and the high altitude may affect those not accustomed to it.

Where to Camp:

Zephyr Cove Resort: This full-service RV park offers all amenities and is located just a short distance from the lake’s edge.

Campground by the Lake: Located in South Lake Tahoe with access to beaches and trails.

Joshua Tree National Park

An RV trip to Joshua Tree National Park in California offers an unforgettable adventure into a landscape that feels almost otherworldly with its stark beauty, unique geological features, and iconic Joshua trees. This desert sanctuary, located at the intersection of two distinct ecosystems—the Mojave and the Colorado deserts—provides a serene and inspiring getaway for nature lovers, artists, and adventurers alike.

Joshua Tree is perfect for an RV vacation because it allows travelers to immerse themselves fully in the natural environment while maintaining the comforts of home. With several campgrounds within and near the park, such as Joshua Tree Lake RV & Campground and Black Rock Campground, visitors can choose a spot that offers both convenience and stunning views. These campgrounds are equipped with necessary amenities and provide easy access to the park’s main attractions, ensuring a comfortable base camp.

The park itself is a haven for outdoor activities. Hiking, rock climbing, photography, and stargazing are just a few of the activities that can fill your days. Trails like Hidden Valley offer easy treks with incredible views of the rugged rock formations and vast open landscapes, while the more challenging Ryan Mountain provides panoramic vistas of the surrounding desert. For climbers, the park presents a variety of routes ranging from beginner to advanced, all set against the backdrop of the park’s dramatic geology.

Stargazing is another highlight of Joshua Tree, thanks to its dark skies far from the light pollution of major cities. The clear desert air provides spectacular views of the Milky Way, making it a popular destination for astronomers and photographers. Staying in an RV allows you to enjoy these night-time spectacles from the comfort of your campsite, perhaps beside a warm fire with family and friends.

Moreover, Joshua Tree’s unique flora and fauna add to its allure. The park is named for the Joshua trees that dot the landscape, their twisted, bristled forms giving an almost Dr. Seuss-like appearance to the scenery. Springtime visitors are treated to a display of wildflowers that burst into vibrant colors, providing a striking contrast to the subtle hues of the desert.

In essence, an RV trip to Joshua Tree National Park is the perfect vacation for those seeking both solitude and adventure in a place of profound natural beauty. It combines the freedom to explore diverse landscapes with the ability to retreat to a comfortable, familiar space each night, making it a truly flexible and fulfilling way to experience one of America’s most unique national parks.

Places to See: Hidden Valley, Barker Dam, and the Cholla Cactus Garden. Explore the stunning desert landscapes and the park’s namesake Joshua trees.

Things to Do: Rock climbing, stargazing, and hiking. The park is a renowned destination for climbers and offers some of the best stargazing opportunities due to its clear skies.

Things to Watch Out For: Extreme temperature changes. The desert can be scorching during the day and chilly at night, so pack accordingly.

Where to Camp:

Joshua Tree Lake RV & Campground: Offers full hook-ups and is known for its dark skies, perfect for stargazing.

Black Rock Campground: Provides sites with water and dump stations and is close to some of the park’s best hiking trails.

San Diego

An RV trip to San Diego, California, offers an idyllic blend of city conveniences and natural beauty, making it an excellent vacation choice for families, couples, and solo adventurers alike. Known for its mild, year-round climate and diverse attractions, San Diego provides a seamless mix of outdoor activities and urban entertainment that can cater to any traveler’s desires.

San Diego’s geography is as varied as its activities, featuring beautiful beaches, lush parks, and vibrant neighborhoods. RV travelers will find numerous well-equipped campgrounds such as Campland on the Bay and Silver Strand State Beach, which offer easy access both to the shore and to major tourist spots. These locations provide the flexibility to enjoy a morning swim or a beachside sunset right outside your door, coupled with the amenities and security of established RV parks.

For those looking to explore beyond the beach, San Diego’s famous attractions like the San Diego Zoo, SeaWorld, and Balboa Park offer fun-filled days for all ages. Balboa Park alone houses numerous museums, gardens, and the renowned San Diego Zoo, all within a lush, walkable precinct. RVing around San Diego means you can store your finds and refreshments conveniently in your vehicle as you hop from one attraction to another, maximizing your day out.

Moreover, San Diego is a food lover’s paradise. The city’s culinary scene is a vibrant mix of international cuisines, innovative chefs, and quintessential Southern California bites like fish tacos and fresh, farm-to-table produce. Many RV parks are just a short drive from bustling downtown areas and vibrant waterfronts where dining and shopping options are plentiful.

Driving an RV along the coast, you can also discover less frequented beaches and hidden gems of the city at your own pace. Whether you’re visiting the laid-back surf towns of Ocean Beach and Pacific Beach or the historic sights of Old Town, having an RV gives you the freedom to explore these communities thoroughly, parking and setting up your base wherever you choose.

In essence, an RV trip to San Diego combines the best of both worlds: the comfort and mobility of your home on wheels with the exciting backdrop of one of America’s most dynamic coastal cities. Whether you’re soaking up the sun on the sandy beaches, enjoying the bustling city life, or relaxing at your campsite with the Pacific breeze, San Diego ensures every moment of your vacation is as relaxing or as thrilling as you wish it to be.

Places to See: San Diego Zoo, Balboa Park, and the USS Midway Museum. This city is packed with attractions suitable for all ages.

Things to Do: Beach activities, exploring cultural sites, and enjoying local cuisine. Visit the historic Gaslamp Quarter or relax on the iconic beaches like La Jolla Shores.

Things to Watch Out For: Traffic and parking. The city can get very busy, especially during summer or events, so plan your travel times accordingly.

Where to Camp:

Campland on the Bay: Located right on Mission Bay with its own marina and bike rentals.

Silver Strand State Beach: Offers beachfront RV camping with basic amenities, perfect for those who love waking up to ocean views.

Each of these destinations offers a unique slice of California’s beauty and provides ample opportunities for adventure, relaxation, and creating lasting memories. Whether you’re ascending the granite peaks of Yosemite, soaking up the coastal splendor of Big Sur, or enjoying the urban delights of San Diego, California’s RV-friendly spots are sure to enrich your travel experience. Pack your RV and set off on a journey through the Golden State — an adventure of a lifetime!