Road Trip with RVshare San Diego to Denver

The Pacific Coast is one of the most scenic parts of the U.S. It’s easy to see why travelers fall for its beaches and ocean breezes. Head inland, though, and the Rocky Mountains give the coastline a run for its money with their rugged peaks and cool alpine air. Traveling from San Diego to Denver makes for a classic American RV journey. The most popular route offers plenty of places to top off your tank, and there are lots of RV campgrounds just off I-15 and I-70 where you can park for the night.

You'll also get to see an impressive variety of landscapes along the way, including coastal foothills, vast deserts, and ski slopes. There are several notable RV-friendly stops as well, including Las Vegas, shining like a neon oasis in the desert.

Road Trip Planner: Stops Along Your Route

Few trips within the continental U.S. offer such a wide array of landmarks and biomes to experience. If you take the most popular route, you'll pass through several well-known tourist destinations. If you have time, you can make a few detours off the direct route to visit several national parks along the way.

Los Angeles, CA

Los Angeles is a perfect first stop on your trip from San Diego to Denver. While there, you can visit the famed Hollywood sign, the Walk of Fame, and the Griffith Observatory. If you're interested in an extended stay, check out this handy two-day itinerary.

RV Info & Tips

• Campgrounds: Hollywood RV Park features full hookups, with water, sewer, and electric. There are many other well-regarded Los Angeles RV campgrounds where you can stay.

• Seasonality: March to May has the ideal weather for exploring Los Angeles, neither too hot nor too cold.

• How Long to Stay: Two to three nights provides enough time to see the major local sights.

Las Vegas, NV

After leaving the Los Angeles area, you'll head northeast on I-15 until you arrive in Las Vegas, NV. There, you can enjoy all that Sin City has to offer from luxurious resorts, family attractions, and of course, casinos. You'll also find plenty of opportunities for hiking, climbing, and other outdoor adventures. Popular outdoor spots include Red Rock Canyon and the Clark Canyon Wetlands Park.

RV Info & Tips

• Campgrounds: Duck Creek RV Park & Resort (Electricity, Wi-Fi, laundry, Hot Tub), Canyon Trail RV Park (Full hookups: water, sewer, and electric)

• Seasonality: March through May is the best time to visit Las Vegas, but there are plenty of indoor, climate-controlled spaces that make any time of year comfortable when you visit.

• How Long to Stay: If you're interested in spending time at the casinos, a three-day stop is ideal. Otherwise, you can see the most popular tourist attractions in a single day.

Valley of Fire State Park

Just after passing through the town of Crystal, NV along I-15, you can make a stop at the Valley of Fire State Park. Inside the park, be sure to check out the Fire Wave, a stunning and colorful natural landscape with no equal. It's a family-friendly hike to get there, provided you don't visit during peak summer heat.

RV Info & Tips

• Campgrounds: Valley of Fire State Park features RV camping sites with water and electrical hookups. There are also 72 campsites, with reservations available.

• Seasonality: October through March is ideal for visiting Valley of Fire State Park. During those months, expect comfortable temperatures between 60 and 75 degrees Fahrenheit.

• How Long to Stay: To ensure you have enough time to see the Fire Wave, plan to stay for one or two nights. The hike can be exhausting, so you probably won't want to resume driving afterward.

Grand Junction, CO

If you're a wine enthusiast, be sure to add a stop in Grand Junction, CO on your route between San Diego and Denver. The Grand Junction area has over 30 wineries nearby, offering the finest vintages from the region. There are even tours available to take you to the most popular locations.

RV Info & Tips:

• Campgrounds: Junction West RV Park and Mobile City RV Park have full hookups.

• Seasonality: May through September offers perfect conditions for visiting Grand Junction, with average temperatures ranging from 60 to 78 degrees Fahrenheit.

• How Long to Stay: You can see most of Grand Junction's popular sights within a day. However, you'll need at least a six-day stay if you want to sample wine from all the nearby vineyards.

Pro Tips to Make the Most of Your Trip

Your trip from San Diego to Denver offers a rare opportunity to visit places you may not see again within your lifetime. By following some of these pro tips, you can get the most out of your trip and return home with no regrets.

Take the Scenic Route Out

The suggested stops detailed above can ensure you have an enjoyable trip on your way to Denver. However, there's even more you can do if you take an alternate route home. For example, you can take a southern route through Arizona. While passing through, be sure to detour from I-17 onto U.S. 89A as you approach Flagstaff Pulliam Airport. 

Beyond that, you'll pass through the Oak Creek Canyon Scenic Drive. It's a roughly 24-mile winding drive through sandstone canyons. You'll descend 4,500 feet from the top of the Mogollon Rim. Beware, however, that it isn't a route for large RVs. If you're driving anything larger than a midsized Class C RV, you should remain on I-17 and see the sights from afar.

Fuel & Supplies Along the Way

The primary route between San Diego and Denver passes through multiple cities and towns. You'll have no trouble finding gas stations, convenience stores, and supermarkets in places like Los Angeles and Las Vegas. However, even smaller stops along the route, such as Mesquite, NV, offer plenty of gas stations and convenience stores. And if you don't feel like stopping for long, I-70 has plenty of roadside gas stations to choose from.

Trip Logistics

• Seasonal Weather Alerts: Beware that road conditions become more challenging as you approach Colorado between mid-October and early May. However, keep in mind that snow is possible outside those times; it's not unusual between September and late May.

• Ideal Trip Duration: Even if you're not planning sightseeing stops along your route, you should plan for at least one overnight stay near the midpoint of your route. Unless you have multiple drivers along for the ride, the drive is too long for a single driver to navigate safely without rest.

• Avoid driving on the Las Vegas Strip: If you're planning on a stop in Las Vegas with your RV, secure a place in an RV campsite or lot. It's not a good idea to use your RV as your primary means of transportation in the city, particularly along Las Vegas Boulevard. The driving is challenging with large vehicles, and pedestrians tend to wander across streets, increasing your risk of an accident.

Taking an RV trip between San Diego and Denver lets you experience parts of the country you may otherwise never see. It's one of the few drives that takes you from the blue waters of the Pacific through one of the hottest places on Earth and then into one of the longest mountain ranges in the world. So, be sure to make the most of it!

Frequently Asked Questions

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

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