Road Trip with RVshare San Diego to Portland

Over rivers, through woods, and into incredible cities, a road trip from San Diego to Portland can be the adventure of a lifetime. Escape the heat in San Diego for a cool, Portland summer, and follow I-5 all the way. Live your best life with ancient wonders, modern marvels, and tasty treats from the comfort of your RV.

Road Trip Planner: Stops Along Your Route

California and Oregon are full of scenic coastlines, natural wonders, and cultural gems. Check out National Parks, major cities, and quirky corners of the country.

Los Angeles, California

Los Angeles pops with historic, pop culture attractions like the Walk of Fame and the TCL Chinese Theatres, but it’s a terrific stop for foodies and fans of the weird and wonderful. Don’t overlook niche attractions like The Last Bookstore, The Echo Park Time Travel Mart, and local food tours. Griffith Observatory, the Bradbury Building, and the Getty Villa offer architectural, scientific, and artistic escapes for those looking for well-blazed trails that aren’t as packed as Hollywood Boulevard.

RV Info & Tips:

• Campgrounds: Walnut RV Park, Pacific RV Park, Golden Shore RV Resort, Dockweiler RV Park (full hookups, laundry, pet-friendly)

• Roads: Main roads are RV-accessible, but downtown traffic and parking are challenging. Many small roads into surrounding neighborhoods are twisty and narrow, so drive with caution.

• How Long to Stay: Stay 2-3 nights to enjoy a variety of attractions or visit one of the big amusement parks.

Channel Islands National Park

The Channel Islands National Park features a collection of unique, picturesque islands only accessible by boat. It’s a dream for hikers, kayakers, birdwatchers, and whale watchers. Public transportation to the islands is available year-round or April-November, depending on the island. You can also hire private charters to and from the island at any time of year. 

RV Info & Tips:

• Campgrounds: Sun Outdoors Santa Barbara, Mountain View RV Park, Santa Barbara Sunrise RV Park (full hookups, laundry, pet-friendly).

• Seasonality: Late spring, summer, and early fall offer the best greenery and accessibility. To see seal pups, June is your best bet.

• How Long to Stay: Stay 2-4 nights for a day trip to a single island, multiple day trips, or an overnight camping experience in the park. You’ll need an early start and will likely return fairly late in the day.

Redwood National and State Parks

Redwood National and State Parks preserve some of America’s oldest residents: giant sequoia trees. The parks feature extensive hiking opportunities with scenic vistas, old forest preserves, and even a beach with vibrant tide pools. Ranger-led kayak tours and horseback riding are also available seasonally. 

RV Info & Tips:

• Campgrounds: Elk Prairie Campground, Jedediah Smith Campground, Elk Country RV Resort and Campground (dump station, no hookups); Camp Trinidad (full hookups)

• Roads: Many roads in the park are not RV-friendly. Avoid the Avenue of Giants. If you have a tow, consider parking your RV in Redding and taking 299 West to follow 101 North to the park. 

• How Long to Stay: Stay 2-5 nights to snap a picture of the giants or hit the trails to discover more of what Redwood has to offer.

Eugene, Oregon

The second-largest city in Oregon, Eugene is a charming blend of natural adventure, delicious escapes, and cultural surprises. Consider whitewater rafting on the McKenzie River, scheduling a brewery tour, or visiting the Jordan Schnitzer Museum of Art. The Market District is full of pretty architecture and enticing shops, and the city’s parks offer miles of wooded trails.

RV Info & Tips:

• Campgrounds: Meadowlark RV Park, Dexter Park RV Park, Premier RV Resorts of Eugene (full hook-ups, laundry, pet-friendly)

• Seasonality: In the summer, Eugene hosts the Blackberry Jam Festival and other events; the area is famous for fall colors

• How Long to Stay Stay 1-2 nights to take advantage of seasonal festivals, shopping, and outdoor fun.

Mt. Hood National Forest

Mt. Hood National Forest is an outdoor wonderland. You’ll find plentiful opportunities to hike, bike, fish, hunt, kayak, boat, climb, go caving, or go horseback riding. There are just as many winter sports to enjoy. Mt. Hood is capped by a glacier that feeds into some of the many lakes, rivers, and streams below, nursing a lush forest begging to be explored.

RV Info & Tips:

• Campgrounds: Bear Springs Campground, Lost Lake Campground, North Arm Campground (no hook-ups)

• Seasonality: Fall colors are exceptional in October and early November; 

• Gear & Prep: Bring warm clothes for mountain nights, hats, and bug spray. Bring a physical back-up map with marked routes in case of GPS service failure.

Pro Tips to Make the Most of Your Trip

Take these pro tips to find more fun on your way home. Get where you’re going with fewer problems with our recommended considerations.

Loop Back a Different Way

The I-101 is one of the most beautiful drives in America, but not all stretches are suited for large RVs and trailers. Consider taking the Three Capes Scenic Route on your way back. It hits some of Oregon’s best oceanside parks, and you can get back to the I-5 via State Routes 22 or 18. 

Fuel & Supplies Along the Way

Major cities like Las Angeles off plenty of resources, and I-5 has a good supply of small towns and truck stops. It’s a good idea to fuel and gear up in towns like Redding or Eugene before diverting to large State and National Parks.

RV Logistics

• Snow north of Eugene: The Cascades can have sudden, heavy snows in late autumn, so arrive prepared for winter driving if you come to see the fall colors.

• RV-friendly campground and rest point: Redding, California, is roughly halfway between San Diego and Portland, and it’s a good place to stop and recover. Green Acres RV Park features full hookups and is just off I-5.

This road trip will take you on an adventure, and an RV rental from RVshare can make it even better. Explore every nook of Redwood National park with a compact camper van or relax like a star in a luxury motorhome after hitting Los Angeles. Whether you start from San Diego or Portland, your ideal RV is waiting.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

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