Road Trip with RVshare San Diego to Bakersfield

Some people find the highlights of a San Diego to Bakersfield road trip are playing at Disneyland and Six Flags Magic Mountain. Others would argue that the natural beauty, like the Pacific Ocean and the Joshua trees, found between those two cities is the star of this road trip, especially if you go further north and visit Sequoia National Park. Neither group would be wrong. Complete this road trip in an RV, and you can experience the best of both worlds. 

Road Trip Planner: Stops Along Your Route

Huntington Beach  

If you're a surfer, you'll want to spend a day or two in Huntington Beach. Campground options include Bolsa Chica State Beach, Sunset Vista RV Park, and Huntington by the Sea RV Resort. Find Huntington Beach RV dump stations at Bolsa Chica State Beach, Huntington by the Sea, and Huntington State Beach. 

Anaheim  

Over 18 million people visit Disneyland near Anaheim annually. There are many great Anaheim campgrounds nearby, including Anaheim RV Park, Anaheim Harbor RV Park, and Canyon RV Park. You can find Anaheim RV dump stations at Doheny State Beach, San Mateo State Beach and Temecula Valley RV. 

Santa Monica  

You can find many things to do in Santa Monica, including exploring the Santa Monica Pier and Beach. Some fabulous Pacific Coast campgrounds, like Leo Carrillo State Park, Malibu Beach RV Park, and Chula Vista RV Resort, are available for you to use. Find RV dump stations in the Santa Monica area at Affordable RV Storage, Malibu Creek State Park, and Cherry and Carson RV Storage. 

National Parks

Joshua Tree National Park  

Go about two hours east from Irvine, California, to arrive at Joshua Tree National Park near Twentynine Palms, California. Many beginner climbers complete their first route at this park, but more experienced climbers will also find challenging paths to explore. This park, located where the Mojave and Colorado Deserts meet, is a fascinating place to go hiking and biking. Drive along the Geology Road to explore each of the 16 stops to get a better view of the unique landscape. If it's spring or fall, consider taking a photography course at this park with Desert Institute. Stay in one of the campgrounds or enjoy a backcountry camping experience. One of the highlights of your overnight stay may be getting to see thousands of stars in the sky. 

Sequoia National Park  

While you'll have to go about 94 miles north to include a stop at Sequoia National Park in Tulare County, California, it's a stop you'll want to include on your road trip itinerary from San Diego to Bakersfield. Stop and see the General Sherman Tree, which stands over 275 feet tall and has a diameter base of over 36 feet. There are many tree-lined paths to follow at this park. If you're looking for a backcountry adventure, follow the many hiking trails in this park as over 80% of it is designated wilderness without any road access. If you don't have the time or desire to do a backcountry experience, follow the trail through the Tokopah Canyon to see the Tokopah Waterfall.

Nearby State Parks

Crystal Cove State Park  

You can find so many things to do at Crystal Cove State Park near Laguna Beach, California. Consider starting your visit with a hike. While you can find many options, one you will want to consider is the five-mile loop Moro Canyon Trail, which offers stunning ocean views. Alternatively, you may want to take a stroll along the three-mile paved Coastal Trail running right along the ocean. Head to the Historic District to get lunch or grab a bite at the beachfront restaurant. This park is home to four different beaches. The Historic District Beach offers many types of beach equipment rentals, making it a popular spot to stop and play. Pelican Point Beach is a great place to go surfing when the conditions are right. 

Leo Carrillo State Park  

Find Leo Carrillo State Park 28 miles northwest of Santa Monica, California. The crags sticking out into the Pacific Ocean at this site make it a wonderful spot to take stunning landscape photos. Since the beaches face to the south, it's easier to capture amazing sunset photos at this site. The beaches at this park are the perfect places to go swimming, surfing, and windsurfing. You'll particularly want to visit the beach at low tide to see what treasures you can see in the tide pools. In April and May, these beaches become popular places to watch for gray whales a short distance offshore. 

Point Mugu State Park  

While you'll have to go about 50 miles west from Los Angeles to reach Point Mugu State Park at Point Mugu, California, you won't want to miss this 14,000-acre park. The hikes through La Jolla Canyon and Sycamore Canyon are particularly stunning in the spring when the wildflowers are in bloom. Later in the year, consider climbing Boney Mountain and Mugu Peak for stunning ocean views. Since this park borders a nature preserve, it's an awesome place to go bird-watching. Head to Mugu Beach, where you can often see sea lions sunning themselves. 

Malibu Creek State Park  

Malibu Creek State Park covers more than 8,000 acres near Calabasas, California. This park was formerly owned by 20th Century Fox Studios. The studio used it as the filming site for "MASH" from 1972 to 1983, along with other television shows. Elvis Presley’s first movie, “Love Me Tender,” along with the first “Planet of the Apes” film was shot here as well. You can climb on the Planet of the Apes Wall, as well as many other locations in this park. Go hiking under the towering oak canopies, through vast grasslands, and along streams. A unique program at this park allows disabled veterans to explore the park on their own using an electric-powered three-wheel bike. Century Lake is a fabulous place for a canoe or kayak adventure. Originally, this part of the park was part of President Ronald Reagan’s ranch, and it's a beautiful place for a horseback ride. 

Red Rock Canyon State Park  

The Sierra Nevada Range converges with the El Paso Range at Red Rock Canyon State Park. This location, about 80 miles east of Bakersfield, is stunning because of the red rocks that were formed due to iron-bearing minerals' oxidation in the sandstone. You can venture out on your own to hike the paths at this park or join the local hiking club for regularly organized adventures. Since there's minimal light pollution, this park is a fantastic place to go stargazing on your San Diego to Bakersfield RV road trip.

Along the Way

Cleveland National Forest  

Cleveland National Forest covers more than 460,000 acres near San Diego, Corona, Ramona, and Alpine, California. There are many areas in this forest where you can go mountain biking and ride off-road vehicles. Numerous hiking and horseback riding trails ranging from 0.5 to 6.8 miles are available. You may want to consider the Observatory Trail because of its stunning views of the Mendenhall Valley and the fact that large pine, fir, and cedar trees keep it shaded throughout much of the day. Another terrific option is the Inja Trail, which runs under Jeffery pines, manzanitas, and oak trees to the memorial created for the firefighters who lost their lives in the Inja fire. Quail, turkey, mourning dove, and deer hunting are popular at this site seasonally. 

Disneyland  

It's incredibly easy to visit Disneyland on your road trip from San Diego to Bakersfield. While you'll want to ride the attractions in this park, there are also many other things to do. Watch the First 50 Magical Years to learn the park's history and see Donald Duck try to steal the show. As you walk through the park, watch for the hidden Mickey Mouses in many locations. Take the Walk in Walt’s Disneyland Footsteps to see the apartment where Walt Disney lived during the park's construction. Head down the Secret Path in the Critter County Area to get a unique photo op with Splash Mountain in the background. You can make it a very full day (or several!) by getting a park hopper pass and visiting the Disney California Adventure Park as well.

William S. Hart Regional Park  

On your road trip from San Diego to Bakersfield, stop at the William S. Hart Regional Park in Santa Clarita, California. Look to your right as you enter the park to see the herd of buffalo. Walt Disney gave the ancestors of these buffalo to William Hart, who appeared in more than 70 silent movies and wrote several short stories and screenplays. Children will love visiting the farm, where they can feed the animals. You can stroll through the Hart Museum to learn more about his work, and there are many hiking trails at this location where Hart operated his farm. 

Six Flags Magic Mountain  

If you love theme parks, be sure to visit Six Flags Magic Mountain in Santa Clarita, California. This park holds the record for the largest number of roller coasters at one location.

When you follow this road trip itinerary from San Diego to Bakersfield 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 San Diego or Bakersfield.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I plan an RV road trip from San Diego to Bakersfield?

To plan an RV road trip from San Diego to Bakersfield, 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 San Diego to Bakersfield 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 San Diego to Bakersfield. 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!