Road Trip with RVshare Phoenix to Fresno

As you take this Phoenix to Fresno road trip, you will want to travel in an RV so that you can explore at your leisure. Travel east until you reach Los Angeles, and then you can start heading north. There are tons of national and state parks that you will want to stop at and other attractions like Six Flags Magic Mountain and the Pacific Coast.

Road Trip Planner: Stops Along Your Route

Los Angeles, CA

Los Angeles is the center of the nationwide film industry and is also where you’ll find iconic locations like Beverly Hills and the La Brea Tar Pits. This city is one of the most famous in the world, so don’t be surprised if you run into a celebrity or two while you’re hanging out in The City of Angels. When in L.A., catch a game at Dodger Stadium, see an exhibit at the Getty Museum, or cruise down Santa Monica Boulevard.

When it comes to RVing, Los Angeles has quite a few RV parks and campgrounds that you can use in the area. For the most part, these aren’t in the city limits, but places like Playa del Rey and Van Nuys have campgrounds like Hollywood RV Park and Dockweiler RV Park with hundreds of campsites to use. It’s also relatively easy to find a local dump station to offload your gray and black water.

Santa Clarita, CA

Located about 33 miles from Los Angeles, you’ll find the city of Santa Clarita, which has a population of 210,000. Santa Clarita has a much more suburban feel than its neighbor city, and if you love a chance to see nature, this is a great place to visit. There are several wineries in Santa Clarita, so when the kids are away, try some of the local vintages. When the kids are around, consider a trip to Six Flags Magic Mountain – they also have a Hurricane Harbor waterpark for when you want to get wet and wild.

Santa Clarita campgrounds, like Los Angeles campgrounds, are mostly located outside of the city. Nearby towns like Acton and Castaic, which are scant miles away, have locations like Valencia Travel Village and Soledad Canyon RV and Camping to settle down for the night in your RV. Each has back-in and pull-through sites so that you can park easily during your Santa Clarita trip.

Bakersfield, CA

Positioned about an hour from Los Angeles, Bakersfield is a sunny city with a rich culture and history. Bakersfield has been known for decades for its oil reserves, but these days, it’s quickly becoming a Californian hub for arts and sports. In fact, the Fox Theater has consistent exhibitions and shows that showcase the arts scene in the city. Do you like cuisine from Europe’s Basque Country? Bakersfield happens to be the area of the nation that has the highest concentration of Basque eateries.

National Parks

Joshua Tree National Park

Joshua Tree National Park spans over 1,200 miles of southern California, so it is a massive park with a lot to explore. Since it’s so vast, stargazing is amazing on a clear night. The park also has over 8,000 climbing routes, which makes it ideal for rock climbers to enjoy. Hikers will also be able to explore more than 100 miles of trails within the park. Birdwatchers will be able to see 250 species of birds in the park, and there is plenty of other wildlife that live there too. 

Sequoia National Park

Sequoia National Park is located a little east of Fresno, and it is well worth visiting so that you can feast your eyes on the giant sequoias that grow here. This area was made a national park to protect the trees. Five of the 10 largest trees on the planet can be found in this park. You will also find Mount Whitney, the tallest mountain in the contiguous U.S. with a peak that is 14,505 feet above sea level, just on the edge of the park. Another highlight of Sequoia National Park is Crystal Cave, which can be found on the park's western side. 

Kings Canyon National Park

Adjacent to Sequoia National Park, Kings Canyon National Park is another excellent place to visit during your Phoenix to Fresno road trip. Here, you can see the General Grant tree, which is located in Grant Grove. Redwood Canyon is also a sight to see, and it’s home to the largest grove of sequoias in the world. If you would like to spend the night while backpacking through the forest, the Redwood Canyon trail is a full 16 miles to explore. Rock climbing, swimming, and horseback riding are common activities that many visitors do in the park.

Nearby State Parks

Anza-Borrego Desert State Park

One of the first California state parks that you will encounter during this Phoenix to Fresno RV road trip is Anza-Borrego Desert State Park. If you can visit this park during the spring, you will find a vast, colorful spread of wildflowers. It is illegal to pick the wildflowers in the park, but they make picturesque photos that you won’t want to miss. There are plenty of trails to hike in the park, and if you like to look at the night sky, it's amazing here because there is very little light pollution.

Mount San Jacinto State Park

Mount San Jacinto State Park is a mountainous region of California, and the park is home to San Jacinto Peak, which is 10,834 feet tall and is a great hike for those who would like a view of the surrounding area. Geocaching, hiking, and horseback riding are great summer activities to enjoy in the park. When it gets cold, skiing is also available. If you want to enjoy a coastal trail, the Pacific Crest Trail, a 2,650-mile trail that runs from Mexico to Canada, winds through this park.

Chino Hills State Park

Chino Hills State Park is only about 40 miles from Los Angeles, but the rolling green hills and the sprawling meadows that can be found there open up a whole new world to explore. The park is over 12,000 acres of land, and it has over 90 miles of trail that can be explored. Some trails are for walking only while others allow you to explore on bike or horseback. This park is also great for bird watching.

 Will Rogers Beach State Park

To make sure that you visit the coast during your road trip from Phoenix to Fresno, you will want to stop and visit Will Rogers Beach State Park before you continue heading north. The shore in the park is three-quarters of a mile, and there are volleyball courts, playgrounds, and bike paths along the way. This state park beach does not get as crowded as neighboring Santa Monica Beach, which makes it ideal for sunbathing. Fishing and windsurfing are also popular activities at the beach.

Along the Way

Sycamore Canyon Wilderness Park

Sycamore Canyon Wilderness Park is a part of Coconino National Forest. It contains more than 50,000 acres of land filled with cliffs, pinnacles, canyons, and more. In all, there are 15 trails that you can hike here as well as the option to go horseback riding or biking to explore the area. Wildlife viewers will love this area because there are mountain lions, black bears, and ringtail cats. Birds are also plentiful in this park.

Six Flags Magic Mountain

If you enjoy thrill rides, make sure that you stop at Six Flags Magic Mountain. It’s one of the largest theme parks in southern California, and there are over 100 rides and attractions that the entire family can enjoy. This stop gives you a chance to let your hair down and have some fun with your family during your road trip from Phoenix to Fresno. 

Fort Tejon Historic Park

A stop at Fort Tejon Historic Park provides a fascinating look at Southwest American history. The fort was built in 1854 to protect citizens from Mojave Tribes to the southeast. There are maintained buildings in the park, which include barracks, forts, and officer quarters.

When you follow this road trip itinerary from Phoenix to Fresno, 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 Phoenix or Fresno.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I plan an RV road trip from Phoenix to Fresno?

To plan an RV road trip from Phoenix to Fresno, 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 Phoenix to Fresno 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 Phoenix to Fresno. 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!