Road Trip with RVshare Las Vegas to Portland

On this road trip from Las Vegas to Portland, you can make your way through Death Valley's desert landscapes and head north into California's national park country. Las Vegas, your starting point, is an excellent place to catch a show, play a casino game, enjoy world-class dining and maybe even make a little bit of money. As you head north, you can explore the routes that take you toward Yosemite, the forested areas near Redding and the volcanic terrain around Lassen. Your last stop is in Portland. This Oregon city is shadowed by Mount Hood, and it makes it a great place to participate in some recreational activities. 

With this road trip itinerary, you can make memories that will last a lifetime. Lakeside Casino & RV Park in Pahrump, NV; Vineyard RV Park in California's Wine Country in the city of Vacaville; and JGW RV Park in Redding, CA are some of the top campgrounds to check out on your route that offer RV hookups.

Road Trip Planner: Stops Along Your Route

On this Las Vegas to Portland road trip, you might want to take a few days to explore the beautiful national parks. There are several spectacular parks that you will not want to miss.

Death Valley National Park, California/Nevada

The breathtaking mountain ranges, salt flats and strange vistas make this enormous desert park famous. At night, you can witness some of the darkest skies in the nation as you stroll through colorful canyons and visit picturesque overlooks. After a long day of hiking, stopping by the ice cream parlor at The Ranch at Death Valley hotel is a great way to satisfy your sweet tooth.

RV Info & Tips:

• Campgrounds: RV spots are available at several campgrounds, including Furnace Creek Campground and Texas Springs Campground.

• Roads: Most of the major roads, like CA-190 and Badwater Road, are very RV-friendly, but you may come across steep grades when going to Dante's View or heading toward Towne Pass.

• How Long to Stay: A one- to two-day stay here will give you plenty of time to check out Zabriskie Point, the Artist's Palette drive and Badwater Basin.

Yosemite National Park, California

Renowned for its waterfalls, enormous sequoia trees and soaring granite cliffs, Yosemite National Park is one of the most renowned parks in the United States. Indulge in leisurely drives through stunning landscapes, trek to awe-inspiring vantage points or unwind in a tranquil meadow in the valley.

RV Info & Tips:

• Campgrounds: You have multiple RV-friendly campsites to choose from, including Pines Campgrounds, which contains Upper, Lower and North Pines Campgrounds. Each offers paved pads and easy access to Yosemite Valley but may fill up quickly during peak season (typically late spring through early fall).

• Roads: The roads in the park are well-maintained and clearly marked, but you may need to take extra caution when you head toward Glacier Point or Tioga Pass due to steep grades and narrow sections. The main roads, like Wawona Road (Highway 41) and Big Oak Flat Road (Highway 120), have tight curves but are fine for RVs.

• How Long to Stay: You might want to give yourself up to three days when visiting this park since there are so many trails, overlooks and natural landmarks to check out.

Lassen Volcanic National Park, California

The landscape of Lassen is a mosaic of eruptive volcanoes, fumaroles and serene alpine lakes. Enjoy a picnic, go hiking and discover how the geothermal forces molded the terrain of Northern California at this beautiful park.

RV Info & Tips: 

• Campgrounds: If you want paved pads and lake access, you'll want to stay at Manzanita Lake Campground. Over at Summit Lake North and South, there are RV-friendly spots to park but no hookups.

• Roads: The main road running through this park is Highway 89, which is RV-friendly and doesn't include height-restricted tunnels. However, if you go toward Bumpass Hell on the Bumpass Hell Trailhead or up to Lassen Peak on the Lassen Peak Parking spur, you might find tight curves, steep grades and narrow shoulders.

• How Long to Stay: Up to two days here is plenty of time to explore Manzanita Lake, visit Bumpass Hell and stop by nearby hot spots like Sulphur Works or Kings Creek Falls.

Pro Tips to Make the Most of Your Trip

On your Las Vegas to Portland road trip, worrying about campgrounds and dump stations should be the last thing on your mind. As you travel along this route, you will find plenty of places that can accommodate your vehicle. Here are some insights you can use to make sure your trip goes smoothly.

Loop Back a Different Way

If you loop back through Bend and Klamath Falls, you can take advantage of RV-friendly highways with wide shoulders and scenic pullouts as you return. Plus, this detour lets you escape the scorching desert heat and see pine woods and volcanic landscapes instead of the desert scenery. Along the way, you can stop by Crater Lake National Park in Crater Lake, OR and Lava Beds National Monument in Tulelake, CA, which will provide variation to your journey without increasing the length too much.

Timing & Logistics

Be advised that portions around Death Valley and Central California may reach temperatures above 110 degrees F, which might put a strain on RV engines and air conditioning systems. The ideal time to travel is from late spring until early autumn. When possible, plan to traverse mountain passes near Shasta or Lassen during the daytime, when visibility on the road and access to the shoulders are at their best. Weekend campsites in Redding and Portland tend to fill up quickly, so it's a good idea to book in advance if you want to stay there.

Fuel & Supplies Along the Way

There are lots of cities along your route that have multiple gas stations and grocery stores. For example, when heading to Death Valley at the start of your trip, you'll come across Pahrump and Beatty, both of which offer major fuel stations like Chevron and Shell. Just make sure to top off your tank before you head toward the more remote stretches near Bishop or the Lava Beds region since these areas tend to have long gaps without services.

Route Logistics

• Ideal duration: You'll want to give yourself at least five to 10 days to explore all the attractions and parks along your Las Vegas to Portland road trip. Popular places that work well for RV travel include Death Valley and Crater Lake.

• Seasonal driving conditions: Remember to carefully plan your water and fuel needs in Death Valley since the summer temperatures may reach 110 degrees F and put a strain on RV engines. If you choose to detour through Yosemite's Tioga Pass or Lassen Park Road, keep in mind that both high-elevation routes are often closed in winter and early spring due to snow. Some routes may have chain requirements.

• RVing along this route: When routes are open, RVs can happily travel on a combination of desert highways (NV-160 and CA-190) and mountain corridors (Highway 120 and I-5). To be safe on the steep hills around Towne Pass in Death Valley and on mountain climbs surrounding Lassen, it's best to drive in a lower gear and with slower speeds. In addition to gas stations, Bakersfield, Redding and Pahrump also include RV parks and dump stations.

Using our itinerary for your Las Vegas to Portland road trip can help you avoid unnecessary detours, so you have more time to explore the parks and towns along your route. We know how important comfort is to the overall experience of your trip, and that's why we encourage renting the perfect RV through RVshare. You can select from compact campervans, spacious motorhomes and more. With the right RV, you'll find it easy to travel at your own pace and create memories that last a lifetime.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I plan an RV road trip from Las Vegas to Portland?

To plan an RV road trip from Las Vegas to Portland, 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 Las Vegas to Portland 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 Las Vegas to Portland. 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!