Road Trip with RVshare Colorado Springs to Napa

Before you leave on your Colorado Springs to Napa road trip, make sure you check out the Manitou Cliff Dwellings. This is a structure that is carved into the cliffside that dates back to 1200, so you can learn a lot about the Native Americans who lived there. Head north on I-25 to reach Denver, and then start going west. Along the way, you will pass several national parks, national monuments, and national forests. Once you get to Napa, take the Napa Valley Wine Train to explore the wineries in the area.

Road Trip Planner: Stops Along Your Route

Denver, Colorado

The first major city you will visit on this road trip itinerary from Colorado Springs to Napa is Denver. It is 5,280 feet above sea level, making it one of the country's highest cities. While in the city, make sure to visit sites like the Denver Art Museum, the Denver Botanical Gardens, the Molly Brown House Museum, and the Denver Museum of Nature and Science. Find a Denver campground where you can stay for a night or two in the area so that you have more time to explore. Some campgrounds in the area even have dump stations that are free for guests to use, like Golden Clear Creek RV Park and Dakota Ridge RV Park.

Reno, Nevada

While traveling through this part of the country, make sure you stop in "the biggest little city in the world," Reno. Gambling and alcohol laws are less stringent than in many other cities, so adults can have some time to let loose. While in the area, take some time to explore Lake Tahoe, walk Reno's River Walk, and visit some museums. Find a campground in the area to stay at like River Rest Resort and Shamrock RV Park. Places such as Rivers Edge RV Park and Desert Rose RV Park have dump stations where you can empty your wastewater.

Sacramento, California

Sacramento is considered a gateway city into the Sierra Nevada Mountains, and it has a lot of art and culture that you can enjoy during your visit. Some highlights in the area include the Old Sacramento Historic Park, the California Railroad Museum, the Sacramento Zoo, the California Automobile Museum, and the State Indian Museum. If you need a campground in the area, consider staying at Cal Expo RV Park, Stillman RV Park, or Vineyard RV Park. Also, take the time to find a dump station in the area so that you can offload your gray and black water before reaching your destination.

National Parks

Rocky Mountain National Park

On this Colorado Springs to Napa RV road trip, you will want to make a slight detour once you hit Denver to stop at Rocky Mountain National Park. This park is perfect for hiking because there are more than 350 miles of trails to explore. Make a point to hike up Longs Peak, which is over 14,000 feet tall. If you don't feel like walking, there are scenic drives you can enjoy. There are more than 30 waterfalls in the park, which helps create the beauty you find in the mountains. There is also quite a bit of wildlife that can be found in the area.

Arches National Park

Arches National Park is a unique place that has over 2,000 natural sandstone arches that make remarkable photos. Some of the highlights of the park include Balanced Rock, the Windows, Devil's Garden, Double Arch, Fiery Furnace, and Courthouse Towers Viewpoint. If you don't want to hike, take one of the scenic drives that the park offers. Arches National Park is pretty remote, so it creates the perfect atmosphere for stargazers to enjoy the night sky without light pollution.

Canyonlands National Park

Canyonlands National Park is over 520 square miles, which makes it the largest national park in Utah. The park's mesas are called Islands in the Sky, and the pointy rocks are called the Needles. There is a maze of canyons and crevasses, and there are rivers that intersect the park's higher points. Because of this water, activities such as kayaking and rafting are popular in this park. You can also enjoy hiking the vast wilderness and stargazing at night. 

Capitol Reef National Park

Capitol Reef National Park is a unique place with cliffs, canyons, domes, and other rock formations. It is located near the Waterpocket Fold, which helps create a unique landscape like you would find under the water on a reef. While visiting, make sure to check out some of the highlights in the park, like Panorama Point, Sunset Point, and Capitol Gorge Road. There are about 15 different trails that you can explore in the area, and they range in difficulty from easy to strenuous. If you like fruit, there are more than 2,700 fruit-bearing trees in the park that you can get fruit from. 

Great Basin National Park

Great Basin National Park is more than 77,000 acres. In the park, there are ancient bristlecone pines that look beautiful situated with the mountains as a backdrop. The southernmost glacier in the country, Wheeler Peak Glacier, can be found here. There is also a collection of caves where you can go spelunking during your visit. You can take tours of the Lehman Caves or hike one of the numerous trails in the park. Stargazing is also amazing in this park because you can see up to five planets on a clear night with the naked eye.

Nearby State Parks

Chatfield State Park

On this road trip from Colorado Springs to Napa, the first state park that you will want to stop at is Chatfield State Park. It is 3,895 acres, and it is a great place to go hiking and biking. In the park, there are 26 miles of trails to explore. There is a swimming beach where you can get in the water. Fishing and boating are other popular activities to enjoy in the park. Boat rentals are also available.

Cherry Creek State Park

Cherry Creek State Park is located right near Denver, so it will be fairly simple to reach. The park has over 35 miles of trails you can explore. There is a boat launch where you can put your boat into the water. This is a great area for bird watching, and if you are interested in riding horses, they have lessons at the park that you can take.

Donner Memorial State Park

Donner Memorial State Park is located in the Sierra Nevada Mountains so hiking the scenic trails offers amazing views of the area. You can also enjoy beaches where you can swim, fish, or enjoy other water activities. There is also an Emigrant Trail Museum in the park where you can learn about the Donner Party and some of the area's history.

Along the Way

Garden of the Gods Visitor and Nature Center

Garden of the Gods Visitor and Nature Center is a park that is a unique geological wonder that you will want to visit during your RV trip. At the park, you can hike, bike, or ride horses. There are 15 miles of trails to explore as well as horseback riding lessons and jeep tours that you can enjoy. Rock climbing is also an option in the park, but many people visit just to walk around and enjoy the otherworldly rock features.

Colorado National Monument

Colorado National Monument is an area that preserves the red rock canyons and the towering plateaus of the west. The national park site is 31 square miles, and there are scenic drives, hikes, and more that you can explore. If you prefer to explore the trails on wheels, try traversing the area on a bike or an ATV.

Folsom City Zoo Sanctuary

The Folsom City Zoo Sanctuary was the home of Smokey the Bear. He passed away in 1984, but since then, the zoo has become a safe haven for several animals that have been rescued. If you love animals, visit the zoo to see the critters that live here as they heal before they are released into the wild.

When you follow this road trip itinerary from Colorado Springs to Napa, you will enjoy historic locations and beautiful scenery along the way. If you want to travel in comfort and style, consider an RV rental from RVshare. From large motorhomes to compact campervans, there is a rig that will meet your travel and budget needs. Once you hit the road, you are protected by our renter guarantee and 24/7 roadside assistance. Find the perfect vehicle for your travel needs in Colorado Springs or Napa.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I plan an RV road trip from Colorado Springs to Napa?

To plan an RV road trip from Colorado Springs to Napa, start by mapping your route using Google Maps or a trip planner that supports RV navigation. Consider road types, fuel stops, campgrounds, and attractions along the way. Our RV rental specialists can help you choose the best vehicle and route based on your travel dates and preferences.

What type of RV should I rent for my trip?

The ideal RV depends on your travel style, group size, and destination. For couples, a camper van or Class B RV offers flexibility and easy driving. Families often prefer Class C motorhomes for more space and amenities. If you’re staying longer or need extra comfort, a Class A RV might be your best choice. Learn more about the different RV classes.

How much does it cost to rent an RV for a road trip?

RV rental prices vary based on vehicle size, rental duration, season, and mileage. On average, RV rentals range from $100–$300 per night, with discounts for weekly or monthly bookings. We also offer one-way rentals if you’re traveling from Colorado Springs to Napa without returning to the starting point.

Can I pick up my RV in one city and drop it off in another?

Yes! Many travelers love our one-way RV rental option. If the inventory is available for your route, you can pick up your RV in one location and drop it off in another, which is perfect for cross-country adventures or long-distance road trips.

What should I pack for an RV trip?

Pack essentials like bedding, toiletries, cooking supplies, and outdoor gear. Most of our RVs come equipped with kitchenware and basic amenities. Don’t forget to bring a first-aid kit, maps, and camping chairs for your outdoor setup. Keep this packing list handy to ensure you don’t leave anything behind!

Do I need a special license to drive an RV?

A standard driver’s license is all you need to rent and drive an RV. Keep in mind that you must be 25 to rent an RV.

Where can I park or stay overnight during my road trip?

You can stay at RV parks, national park campgrounds, or designated boondocking areas. Our team can recommend safe and scenic stops along your route from Colorado Springs to Napa. Be sure to reserve campgrounds in advance during peak travel seasons.

How do I handle fuel and hookups during my trip?

Most RVshare RVs are equipped for electric, water, and sewer hookups at most campgrounds. Keep track of your fuel stops and learn how to connect utilities before you hit the road. We provide a full orientation before departure to make setup easy.

Is insurance included in my RV rental?

Yes, basic insurance coverage is included with every rental. You can also purchase additional protection plans for peace of mind during your journey. We’ll explain all coverage options when you book your RV.

Can I travel with pets in my RV rental?

Absolutely! Many of our RVs are pet-friendly, so your furry friends can enjoy the adventure too. Use the filters to search for RVs that welcome pets on board.

What are the best road trip routes for RV travelers?

Popular RV routes include scenic coastal drives, national park loops, and cross-country highways. For beginners, you may want to try a long weekend trip where you don’t have to drive quite as far. Just remember to follow the 3-3-3 rule of RVing!