Road Trip with RVshare Phoenix to San Francisco

Located in the Valley of the Sun, Phoenix, the capital of Arizona, welcomes visitors from all over the country with world-class golf courses, vibrant nightlife, and relaxing spas. While you are there, you will not want to miss out on a visit to the Desert Botanical Garden or the Phoenix Art Museum. Once you head out of Arizona, you will travel past Los Angeles, which is filled with plenty of exciting attractions that cater to everyone's tastes. At the end of your Phoenix to San Francisco road trip, you will want to spend a few days exploring San Francisco. From interesting history to fine cuisine, you can find it all in this Californian city. With this road trip itinerary from Phoenix to San Francisco, you will not miss a moment of fun from Arizona to California. 

Road Trip Planner: Stops Along Your Route

As you take your RV on this road trip from Phoenix to San Francisco, there are several fascinating cities to explore along the way. You can choose to stay at one of the local campgrounds or clean your vehicle with a visit to RV dump stations in Arizona and California.

Los Angeles

Known as the "City of Angels," Los Angeles is one of the most iconic cities in the world. It is home to several television and film production studios. You can find plenty of attractions to explore as you pass through this city, including exciting museums, beloved theme parks, and thrilling sporting events. When you are ready to settle down for the evening, there are several Los Angeles campgrounds that can accommodate your rig. 

Palm Springs

Palm Springs is a popular tourist town with many visitors heading there to enjoy the warm weather during the winter. The city is close to the San Jacinto Mountains National Monument and the Coachella Valley Preserve. During your visit to Palm Springs, you might want to relax at a day spa or improve your golf game at one of the local courses. Throughout the city, you can find many Palm Springs campgrounds to meet your needs. 

Bakersfield

Bakersfield is located about two hours from Los Angeles. Like Palm Springs, visitors head to this city for its pleasant year-round temperatures. There are several museums in Bakersfield, including the California Living Museum and the Buena Vista Museum of Natural History. If you want to take a walk, some trails wind through the mountains of the Kern River Ranger District Park. This city is a popular spot for RVers, and you are bound to find a campground in Bakersfield at which to park your vehicle for the night. 

National Parks

When you are ready to plan your road trip from Phoenix to San Francisco, you should set aside a few days to explore the country's best national parks.

Grand Canyon National Park

Each year, over 6 million people head to Grand Canyon National Park. Consisting of over 1.2 million acres, the park is massive and offers plenty of recreational activities. Some of the most popular activities include rafting, hiking, and backpacking. While you are there, you should sign up for a guided hike to learn more about this unique canyon. 

Yosemite National Park

At Yosemite National Park, you can see ancient sequoias, vast wilderness, and cascading waterfalls. Many of the sequoias date back over 1,000 years. There are several landmarks in this park, including Half Dome and Yosemite Falls. Yosemite is the perfect spot for horseback riding, hiking or backcountry camping. 

Redwood National Park

Redwood National Park contains some of the tallest trees in the world. However, the park offers more than just ancient trees. You can also view its coastlines, riverways, oak forests, and prairies. Redwood National Park contains about 45% of the world's coastal redwoods within its 193,000 acres of land. In addition to the trees, the park is the home of a few endangered animals, such as the northern spotted owl and the Steller sea lion. For those who want to enjoy a few outdoor recreational activities, you can explore the tide pools or hike throughout this massive park.

Sequoia National Park

Sequoia National Park is home to California’s giant sequoias. With its proximity to the Sierra Nevadas, you can get a great view of the snowcapped mountains. At this park, you will want to hit the trails for an up-close look at the natural landscape. You can also climb the rocky cliffs or go exploring by horseback. Throughout the year, the rangers lead hikes in the park. If you head to Sequoia National Park in the winter, snowshoeing and skiing are popular activities on the trails. 

Nearby State Parks

On your Phoenix to San Francisco road trip, you will want to take a break to see some of the best state parks in Arizona and California. From partaking in fun water activities to viewing some truly awe-inspiring trees, there is no shortage of things to do along this route.

Lake Havasu State Park

If you want to enjoy recreational water activities in Arizona, you should plan a visit to Lake Havasu State Park. This state park is a wonderful place to relax on the beaches or explore the nature trails. If you want to stay overnight in the park, you can reserve one of the RV-accessible campsites. While you are there, make a stop by the Arroyo-Camino Interpretive Garden to check out the local flora.

Big Basin Redwoods State Park

Those who want to see some more ancient trees in California should plan a visit to Big Basin Redwoods State Park. Many of these trees found here are taller than the Statue of Liberty, and they date back over thousands of years. There are over 80 miles of trails in the park for hikers, bikers, and horseback riders to explore. 

Colusa-Sacramento River State Park

Colusa-Sacramento River State Park is located near Sacramento, and it is a short drive from San Francisco. This park is great for getting out and relaxing for the day. Due to its lakes, many people come to this park to fish or boat. In addition to the water activities, you might want to hike the trails or get a glimpse of the local wildlife. 

Along the Way

During your Phoenix to San Francisco RV road trip, you should plan a few days to get out and experience the many fun adventures that can be had in this region of the country. 

Desert Botanical Garden

This 140-acre garden in Phoenix dates back to 1937, and it houses over 50,000 plants, including agave and cacti species. The garden features extensive collections of plants from Australia, South America, and California. While you are there, you can learn about the different local ecosystems, such as the mesquite bosque, upland chaparral, and semidesert grassland. 

Disneyland

Just outside of Los Angeles, you will find one of the best-known theme parks in the world. Disneyland was built under the supervision of Walt Disney, and it has been welcoming guests since 1955. You can explore several themed lands at this park in Anaheim as you enjoy the attractions based on beloved Disney characters and movies. 

Griffith Observatory

This Los Angeles landmark sits on the south-facing hill near Mount Hollywood. At the park, visitors can explore the exhibits or look through the telescopes. As you stroll through the grounds, you can see some spectacular views of the Hollywood sign and Los Angeles. During special events, the Samuel Oschin Planetarium presents live shows. 

The Golden Gate Bridge

The Golden Gate Bridge is a San Francisco icon. This bridge crosses over a mile-long strait in the Pacific Ocean as it connects San Francisco to Marin County. In 1937, this bridge was named one of the "Wonders of the Modern World." When it was finished, the Golden Gate Bridge was the longest and tallest suspension bridge in the world. 

On this Phoenix to San Francisco road trip itinerary, there are many exciting attractions and historical landmarks to visit on the route. If you are looking for a unique experience, you might want to rent an RV from RVshare. You can choose a rental in Phoenix or San Francisco. As you travel from Arizona to California on this Phoenix to San Francisco road trip, you will go on a journey that will enable you to make lifelong memories.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

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