Road Trip with RVshare Los Angeles to Reno

While some people like to visit Las Vegas, another beautiful and inviting Nevada gambling hotspot is Reno, which is about 438 miles away from Sin City. Traveling between the cities of Los Angeles and Reno in an RV will expose you to some truly beautiful and interesting hotspots. Altogether, the trip is about 472 miles between the two, and along the way, you'll be exposed to four national parks that are each very different from the others. The Los Angeles to Reno road trip is perfect in an RV; you'll have the sense of adventure that comes with driving up the coast, and you'll always have a place to lay your head.

Road Trip Planner: Stops Along Your Route

Bakersfield, California

Bakersfield is a city located on the Kern River and is home to places like the Buena Vista Museum of Natural history. Bakersfield is also home to the California Living Museum, which presents visitors with a view of some of the natural flora and fauna of the Bakersfield area. Bakersfield is a very suburban city with plenty of expansive areas that you can get to know during this wing of your road trip. It's also the country music capital of the American West, so if you love Merle Haggard or Buck Owens, you'll be pleased to know that this city was their hometown.

Bakersfield is home to several campgrounds, such as Bakersfield River Run RV Park. This RV park also features a dump station that is free for those who are staying. If you're not a guest of the park, there is a nominal fee for using this Californian dump station.

Fresno, California

This city is the 34th largest city in the country, and it's an expansive place to visit as you travel north to Reno. In addition to having friendly natives, Fresno was also considered one of the most affordable places to live in the nation by the New York Times. For those who love the arts, Fresno also has one of the most lively art scenes in the state.

Fresno has plenty of local campgrounds that you can use for rest. This includes Fresno Mobile Home and RV Park, which is located near the downtown area of Fresno, near Highway 99. 

Sacramento, California

Sacramento is the state's capital and was established in 1848 by John Sutter Sr. as a California Gold Rush town. You'll be surprised at how much of the natural splendor of the area remains in this city. Sacramento also has the largest tree canopy in the country and is home to its founder's famous Sutter Fort. 

Sacramento has a wide variety of beautiful campgrounds that accommodate just about any type of RV. There are short-term RV campgrounds as well as long-term ones like Cal Expo RV Park, which has weekly rates for those looking to spend a little time in the Sacramento area while on their road trip from Los Angeles to Reno. 

National Parks

Death Valley National Park

One of the first national parks that you'll experience during your Los Angeles to Reno RV road trip is Death Valley National Park. Despite its foreboding name, this is a park that's perfect for families looking to experience the great outdoors. You'll see a wide variety of animals and plants, and the park also has an amazingly varied landscape. This is also the home to the lowest point in the country; at its deepest point, you'll be 282 feet below sea level. Death Valley is also very arid, so make sure to bring lots of water and clothes appropriate for desert climates – this part of the world gets less than 2 inches of rainfall annually.

Sequoia National Park

Named for the towering sequoias that are often found in the area, Sequoia National Park is a park that is primarily located on forest land. While you may have experienced the lowest point in the country at Death Valley, Sequoia National Park is home to the highest. Mount Whitney, which is located here, has an elevation of 14,000 feet, and it can be hiked by experienced mountaineers. 

Kings Canyon National Park

Sharing a border with Sequoia National Park, Kings Canyon National Park is another prime location to visit as you wind your way northward to Reno. In the park, you'll find excellent hiking opportunities on trails like the world-famous Mark Twain Trail, where some of the stumps of massive logged sequoia trees still rest. One of the stumps is so large that you'll need a ladder to climb it. Another site to visit is the General Grant Tree, which is one of the largest trees in the world.

Yosemite National Park

The final national park that you’ll experience is Yosemite National Park, which is found near Mariposa, California. On a road trip with many high and low points to visit, you'll find the world's highest waterfall in Yosemite. For Star Trek fans, the mountain El Capitan, which can be found in Yosemite, is what Captain Kirk scaled during Star Trek V: The Final Frontier. El Capitan is 7,569 feet high, and you can scale it if you have the required climbing skills.

Nearby State Parks

Topanga State Park

This California state park is nestled within the cliffs and canyons of the Santa Monica region of the state. To reach this area, you'll be traveling west of Los Angeles. Topanga has miles of trails and is known for its grassland, so don't be surprised if you encounter wildlife in this area that will make you feel connected to nature's majesty.

El Capitan Beach

El Capitan Beach has a similar name to the famously scalable mountain, but it's actually about 200 miles away from the Yosemite landmark. At El Capitan Beach, you'll find tide pools and more than a few campgrounds that are RV-friendly. During your road trip from Los Angeles to Reno, this is also a great opportunity to get to know the California coastline.

Red Rock Canyon State Park

Red Rock Canyon State Park is aptly named thanks to the fact that you'll see Mars-like red rocks dotting the local landscape. This is a geologically rich area of California, so it's worth a trip to the local visitor center, where you can find out about some of the local strata that make up the mountainous areas here. There's also more than one opportunity to hike in the area, so make sure to bring your gear and some comfortable shoes. 

Washoe Lake State Park

This famous Nevada state park is the last park you'll hit during your road trip itinerary from Los Angeles to Reno. This is a fisherman's dream since you can seize the opportunity to fish in two lakes in the park. Some of the fish that you'll be able to bring back to your RV trailer or motorhome include perch, catfish, and bass. For those not looking to fish, there are hundreds of miles of trails to explore while you're here.

Along the Way

Fresno Chafee Zoo

For true biodiversity, visit the Fresno Chafee Zoo, which has almost 200 species of animals for you and your family to observe. Exhibits here attempt to replicate the natural environments of the animal species completely. Some of the exhibits include Zoorassic Park, Wilderness Falls, and Twiga Terrace, highlighting an aspect of the earth's natural history and environs.

Old Sacramento Waterfront Park

Located in the old historic district of Sacramento, the waterfront park has a public boat dock and RV parking. The Waterfront has multiple events and sites, including Dine Downtown, the Virtual Bookbinding Bonanza, and the Waterfront Wheel, to enjoy throughout the year.

Tragedy Spring

At Tragedy Spring, a group of Mormon scouts met their end in the mid-1800s, and as a result, there is a memorial here. The location itself is an alpine freshwater spring that's about two miles west of Silver Lake. When you're visiting this somber location, you'll find picnic sites as well as a plaque that commemorates the lives lost in the area.

When you follow this road trip itinerary from Los Angeles to Reno, 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 Los Angeles or Reno.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I plan an RV road trip from Los Angeles to Reno?

To plan an RV road trip from Los Angeles to Reno, 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 Los Angeles to Reno 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 Los Angeles to Reno. 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!