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Renting an RV or Campervan for a California Road Trip
How to rent an RV or campervan in California: rental companies, the real costs, vehicle length limits on park roads, where to camp and first-timer tips.
By Alex Khachigian · Updated September 2026 · 2 min read
RV rentals cost more than expected, big rigs struggle on Highway 1 and the Generals Highway, and you still need campsites.
This guide covers rental types, companies, costs, roads to avoid, campsites and first-timer tips.
In This Guide
RV vs. Campervan: Which to Rent
Campervans are converted Ford Transits, Ram ProMasters or Mercedes Sprinters. Motorhomes add bathrooms but burn more fuel and hit park road length limits.
- Campervan: easiest to drive, usually no shower
- Small Class C (under 25 feet): bathroom, still manageable; best first choice with a campervan
- Large Class C or Class A: most space, hard on narrow roads
- Truck camper or rooftop tent: good for dirt roads
Where to Rent an RV in California
Rental companies have locations near SFO, LAX and San Diego.
- Cruise America: Class C, one-way options
- El Monte RV: Class C and Class A
- Escape Campervans: San Francisco and Los Angeles
- Lost Campers: compact campervans
- Outdoorsy and RVshare: peer-to-peer
What an RV Rental Really Costs
Large motorhomes often get under 10 mpg. The total can match a hotel plus rental car; compare with my road trip cost guide.
- Mileage fees
- Kitchen and bedding kits
- Insurance
- Generator and cleaning fees
- Deposit and one-way drop fees
- Fuel and campgrounds
RV Length Limits and Roads to Avoid
Sequoia recommends vehicles over 22 feet avoid the Generals Highway between Potwisha and Giant Forest. Mineral King Road is unsuitable for RVs.
Highway 1 through Big Sur is narrow with few turnouts.
Where to Camp With an RV
Most park campgrounds allow RVs but have length limits and few hookups.
- Private RV parks and KOAs: hookups, laundry, showers
- BLM and national forest land: free, self-contained only
- Hipcamp: some RV sites
Tips for First-Time RV Drivers
Practice in an empty lot and know your height and length. Wind pushes tall vehicles on desert highways and bridges; keep driving days to four or five hours.
RV Etiquette and Bear Country Rules
Dump tanks only at designated stations and respect generator hours. Yosemite and Sequoia may require food lockers even with an RV; see my bear safety guide.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost to rent an RV in California?
It varies. Add mileage, insurance, kits, fuel and campgrounds to the nightly rate.
Can you drive an RV on Highway 1?
Yes, but Big Sur is narrow with few turnouts.
Can I take an RV into Sequoia National Park?
Yes, but vehicles over 22 feet should enter on Highway 180 and avoid the Generals Highway between Potwisha and Giant Forest.
Do I need a special license to drive a rental RV in California?
No, a standard license covers RVs under 40 feet.
Is a campervan or RV better for a first California trip?
A campervan or Class C under 25 feet is easier on coastal and park roads.
