Road Trip with RVshare Las Vegas to Santa Barbara

If traveling from Sin City to the California coast sounds fun to you, then a road trip from Las Vegas to Santa Barbara might be a good recommendation for you. Your net driving time will only be about five and a half hours, so you’ll have plenty of time to explore the awesome national and state parks you’ll encounter on your journey. There are numerous great attractions and cities on your route as well; you’ll even get to check out some of the Los Angeles areas on your trip from Las Vegas to Santa Barbara. 

Road Trip Planner: Stops Along Your Route

Victorville, California

In Victorville, you can learn more about the past at the California Route 66 Museum and take a horseback ride through Mojave Narrows Regional Park. You’ll be able to park your trailer at some lovely campgrounds in the area.

San Bernardino, California  

Whether you want to head into the San Bernardino National Forest or take a tour of the Original McDonald’s Site and Museum, you’ll find plenty to do in San Bernardino. Numerous dump stations and campgrounds are nearby.

Glendale, California  

Glendale is home to the Rose Bowl and its famous parade, but it also contains great attractions like The Americana at Brand and Glendale Galleria. You’ll easily be able to locate quality dump stations and campgrounds close by.

Thousand Oaks, California  

Be sure to check out the Gardens of the World and Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area when you visit Thousand Oaks. There are many nice campgrounds in the area.

Ventura, California  

When you’re exploring this gorgeous coastal town, be sure to visit the Ventura Pier and Promenade and Surfers Point Park. If you decide to spend a few days relaxing here, you won’t lack for great RV campgrounds at which to park your camper.

National Parks

Zion National Park  

Since your net driving time is relatively short, why not head northeast of Las Vegas for two and a half hours to visit Zion National Park before heading off to Santa Barbara? This gorgeous national park is well worth traveling an extra couple of hours to reach thanks to its stunning canyon vistas, iconic wading hike, and variety of environments. No trip to Zion is complete without wading through the Narrows, which is a deep canyon carved by the Colorado River. 

Death Valley National Park  

If you want to add an extreme national park to your road trip itinerary from Las Vegas to Santa Barbara, then Death Valley National Park is a must-see. The world’s hottest temperature was recorded at this national park two hours west of Vegas, and the desert environment is inhospitable. The barren beauty you’ll find here, however, makes bearing the scorching heat worthwhile. After all, if the hearty desert flora and fauna can survive here, how can you do any less? If you spend the night, you’ll be treated to a spectacularly dark sky perfect for stargazing.

Joshua Tree National Park  

An hour and a half from Barstow, California, you’ll find Joshua Tree National Park. This national park is also a desert environment, but it’s not as extreme and inhospitable as Death Valley. At this fascinating desert park, you’ll be able to see plenty of Joshua Trees, cacti, and rock formations. The rugged terrain here provides a perfect place to go mountain biking, backcountry camping, rock climbing, hiking, and more. 

Sequoia National Park  

If you’re ready to get out of the desert and into the forest, then you should travel three hours and 40 minutes from Barstow to Sequoia National Park. The 1,000-year-old sequoias are the main attraction, but there are many other sources of beauty in this portion of the lovely Sierra Nevada Mountains. Hiking, biking, and horseback riding are popular here; in the winter, you can ski and snowshoe. With more than 800 miles of trails, you won’t lack for adventure at Sequoia National Park. 

Channel Islands National Park  

In order to reach Channel Islands National Park you’ll have to take a boat or a plane to the islands from Ventura. Depending on which island you’re visiting and how you’re getting there, travel time can take anywhere from 40 minutes to four hours. Once you’re there, however, you’ll be able to explore these fascinating islands and the waters around them. Diving, snorkeling, kayaking, and canoeing are popular here; if you’d prefer to stay on dry land, you can go hiking and backcountry camping.

Nearby State Parks

Saddleback Butte State Park  

If you drive 45 minutes west of Victorville, you’ll reach Saddleback Butte State Park. This is another great place to see Joshua Trees; you may also get to view flora and fauna that aren’t found in other desert parks. Hiking trails are often long and flat, so it’s a wonderful place to stretch your legs. Horseback riding and stargazing are also popular. 

Silverwood Lake State Recreation Area  

Silverwood Lake State Recreation Area is only 15 minutes east of Alray, California, so you should be sure to stop by on your Las Vegas to Santa Barbara RV road trip. This gorgeous state park is centered around Silverwood Lake, so there are obviously plenty of opportunities for you to go fishing, swimming, and boating. Hiking and biking are also popular thanks to the 13 miles of trails in the park.

Chino Hills State Park  

Chino Hills State Park is only 20 miles south of San Dimas, California, but you’ll have to travel about 45 minutes to reach it thanks to SoCal traffic. You won’t be disappointed, however, by the lovely green rolling hills, canyons, and high ridges that await you. There are 90 miles of trails in the park that you can explore on foot, bike, or horseback; some trails are even pet-friendly.

Malibu Creek State Park  

You can reach the entrance to Malibu Creek State Park after only 11 minutes of travel from Agoura Hills, California. If some of the terrain looks familiar, it's because you may have seen it on the hit TV show "M*A*S*H," which was filmed here. You can also go rock climbing on the Planet of the Apes wall, which you may also recognize from the iconic movie. Reagan Ranch is also here as are many great trails for hiking, biking, and horseback riding.

Point Mugu State Park  

If you want to add a coastal state park to your road trip itinerary from Las Vegas to Santa Barbara, then Point Mugu State Park should definitely make your list. Rocky cliffs rise up behind a sandy beach that’s perfect for bodysurfing and fishing. More than 70 miles of trails take you along the coast, through canyons, and into the wilderness.

Along the Way

Sloan Canyon National Conservation Area  

Just 20 minutes outside of Las Vegas is Sloan Canyon National Conservation Area. Over 48,000 rugged acres of the Mojave Desert is full of lava flows, petroglyphs, and desert plants and animals. If you want to see art from days gone by, be sure to check out Petroglyph Trail and Petroglyph Canyon.

Claremont Hills Wilderness Park  

Claremont Hills Wilderness Park is only 10 minutes north of Claremont, California. The most popular trail in this excellent park north of Los Angeles is the five-mile Claremont Hills Loop, which is a moderate trail that takes you through the rolling hills of this park. Other great trails here include Johnson’s Pasture Trail and Thompson Creek Trail.

The Rose Bowl  

The Rose Bowl Stadium is only seven minutes from Pasadena, California, so it’s a logical addition to your road trip from Las Vegas to Santa Barbara. Watching a football game in this stadium is a bucket-list item for many, so catch a game here if you can. Even if no game is scheduled during your road trip, you can still tour the stadium and participate in special events.

Universal Studios Hollywood  

Another great attraction that’s close to your route is Universal Studios Hollywood. You only have to travel 10 minutes from North Hollywood to reach this excellent park in the Universal Studios franchise. Fun rides like Jurassic World – The Ride and Transformers: The Ride 3-D await you.

San Buenaventura State Beach  

Seven minutes from Ventura and right off your route is beautiful San Buenaventura State Beach. There’s no such thing as spending too much time on the California coast, so adding this lovely two-mile stretch of beach to your road trip itinerary from Las Vegas to Santa Barbara is a no-brainer. Go for a swim, show off your surfing skills, and play some beach volleyball or frisbee at San Buenaventura State Beach.

When you follow this road trip itinerary from Las Vegas to Santa Barbara, 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 Las Vegas or Santa Barbara.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

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