Roadtrip with RVshare Riverside to Spokane

Traveling from Riverside, California, to Spokane, Washington, can be an exciting trip to make. You can travel basically straight north through the Nevada desert and make a stop in Las Vegas, or you can head northwest through California to hit up more great sites on your drive. Along the way, you will pass several national parks, state parks, national forests, and national monuments. You will pass through cities like Bakersfield, Fresno, and others as you follow I-5 for the majority of the trip.

Nearby National Parks

Sequoia National Park

The first national park that you will pass on this Riverside to Spokane road trip is Sequoia National Park. This park is home to the largest trees in the world, so if you want to see giant sequoias close-up, this is a place that you will want to visit. There are over 800 miles of trails that wind through the sequoia groves. In addition to the trees, you will see a variety of wildlife as well as some very picturesque waterfalls in the park. Rock climbing, horseback riding, biking, and skiing are also popular activities here. While in the park, make sure to visit the General Sherman Tree, which stands 275 feet tall and has a diameter of 36 feet, making it the world’s largest tree. Other highlights to hit up before you leave the park include Moro Rock, the Crystal Cave, and the Tunnel Log, all of which provide stunning photo ops and breathtaking views of the park.

Kings Canyon National Park

Kings Canyon National Park is located right next to Sequoia National Park, so you might as well hit up both parks while you are in the area. Kings Canyon is also filled with giant sequoia trees, but one of the main trees that you will want to see in this park is the General Grant Tree. It is considered the nation’s Christmas tree, and it is one of the largest trees in the world. Trails in the park range from less than a mile to 16 miles, so there is something for everyone to enjoy. Some trails go through meadows and groves that are easy to maneuver while others have rivers, waterfalls, canyons, and more to traverse. Some highlights that you won’t want to miss include Zumwalt Meadows, Grizzly falls, and the Kings Canyon Scenic Byway.

Lassen Volcano National Park

Lassen Volcano National Park is located in Northern California, and it is a place where you can see volcanoes, geysers, and fumaroles. Boating, fishing, hiking, and horseback riding are popular activities to enjoy in the park, but it’s also a great place to do some birdwatching, enjoy nature, or gaze at the stars. Lassen Peak is over 3,000 meters high, and once you get to the top, the panoramic views of the area are stunning. To see some of the active volcanic areas of Lassen Volcano National Park, hike the Bumpass Hell Trail, which is about three miles long. Also, take time to see the Boiling Springs Lake Trail.

Crater Lake National Park

Crater Lake National Park is the only national park in Oregon, and it is home to the deepest lake in the United States. There are more than 90 miles of hiking trails, and bicycles, horses, and skis can be used on many miles of these trails. There are several water activities that you can enjoy as well. Boating and swimming are common, but those with scuba diving experience are welcome to explore the depths of the lake. Things you will want to see during your visit include Wizard Island, a volcano inside a volcano, Garfield Peak, and Plaikni Falls.

Nearby State Parks

LaPine State Park

LaPine State Park is a tranquil place to include on your Riverside to Spokane RV road trip. You can breathe in the fresh mountain air, and the fishing is spectacular. There are 16 miles of trails that you can explore on foot or on bike, and if you have a tube, you can enjoy floating down the river. Eagles and red-tail hawks can also be spotted in the park.

White River Falls State Park

White River Falls State Park is an Oregon state park that you will also want to stop and visit during your RV trip. The falls in this park plunge over 90 feet down and are quite a sight to see. In addition to exploring the picturesque falls, you can hike deeper into the canyon. You can also explore the tranquil pools and the sandy beaches below the falls, which offer great fishing opportunities for anglers.

Potholes State Park

Potholes State Park is a park where water has carved quite a few geological features into the area. It is located directly west of Spokane, and the reservoirs in the park are great for fishing, kayaking, and other water activities. This area is superb for bird-watching, and there are about three miles of trail that you can explore on foot.

Along the Way

Fort Tejon State Historic Park

If you are interested in the history of the area, make sure to make a stop at Fort Tejon State Historic Park. There is a self-guided half-mile tour that you can take part in, or if you visit the park when a special event is taking place, you will get details about the buildings, the history, and natural surroundings. There are even areas where you can enjoy a picnic lunch.

Lava Beds National Monument

Lava Beds National Monument is also a location where you can see some volcanic features that have changed the land over time. This area has well over 800 caves, but there are only about 20 that you can explore. There are things to see above the ground too. You can easily explore the trails on your own or join in on one of the hosted events to have a guide walk you through the area.

Sun Pass State Forest

Sun Pass State Forest is one of the six state forests located in the state of Oregon. It is the largest block of forested land in the state, which adds up to 33,739 acres. If you like to see wildlife in its natural environment, you could see rare creatures that you may not see in a less protected area while hiking in this forest.

Main Cities You Will Pass Through

Los Angeles, California

During a road trip from Riverside to Spokane, you will want to stop in Los Angeles. You can take a Warner Bros Studio Tour, explore the La Brea Tar Pits, and check out the Hollywood Walk of Fame. Disneyland is located in nearby Anaheim, so if you are traveling with kids, make sure that you secure a Los Angeles campground before you begin your trip. There are also plenty of dump stations in the LA and Orange County area.

Sacramento, California

Sacramento is another major city that you will want to visit during your RV trip. It is a great place to explore museums, visit the zoo, or learn about the Gold Rush. If you need a Sacramento campground to stay at for a few days, there are plenty in the area. Cal Expo RV Park is located right in the city. Since this city is a good way into the trip, finding a dump station near Sacramento may be a good choice. Sherwood Harbor Marina and RV Park in West Sacramento has free dumping for guests. 

Bend, Oregon

The last city that you will want to stop at is Bend. While you are here, you can make time to explore the Newberry National Volcanic Monument, hike Tumalo Falls, and enjoy some kayaking in the Deschutes River. This is a great area to enjoy nature, so if you have the option to spend a few days in Bend, don’t pass up on the opportunity. There are several campgrounds in the area to check out. Crown Villa RV Resort and Scandia Village are cozy campgrounds that families will love, and because travelers love Oregon, dump stations are readily accessible. 

Find Adventure from Riverside to Spokane

Find your One-Way Rental

When you follow this road trip itinerary from Riverside to Spokane, 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 Riverside or Spokane.