Road Trip with RVshare San Diego to Sacramento

Traveling in an RV can be a joyous journey for you and your family. If you travel from San Diego up to Sacramento in California, you will begin the trip on I-5. To follow the most scenic path, you will need to travel west during this San Diego to Sacramento road trip to ensure that you hit some state and national parks along the way. In fact, when you are north of Los Angeles, you can make a detour to the coast to visit Channel Islands National Park as well. This national park is a must-see location if you enjoy scuba diving.

Road Trip Planner: Stops Along Your Route

Del Mar, CA

The city of Del Mar, CA, is a place that is irrevocably tied to the early years of Hollywood and the movie industry; it once served as a retreat for producers and stars of the golden age of cinema. Del Mar means "by the sea," and this name couldn't be more apt considering that it is definitively a seaside town. You'll be treated to ocean-side vistas and a rich culture that is a point of pride for Del Mar residents in the city. While in town, consider a trip to Torrey Pines State Beach or the Del Mar Race Track.

Local RV parks and campgrounds can easily be found nearby, and Vista-area campgrounds include locations like Del Mar Beach Resort in Oceanside and Guajome Regional Park, which both have multiple sites and multiple options for RV hookups.

Anaheim, CA

Anaheim is often called California's "Gateway to Theme Parks" because the city is home to Adventure City, Disney's California Adventure Park, Disneyland, and Paradise Gardens Park. During your San Diego to Sacramento RV road trip, you'll also find that Anaheim has a beautiful farmer's market as well as a rich culture and history to explore. If you're looking for fine dining, consider places like The Ranch, Ruth's Chris, and Steakhouse 55, which are all in the city.

Anaheim campgrounds are numerous. Some great examples include Anaheim RV Park, Anaheim Harbor RV Park, and Canyon RV Park. The largest in the area, which is East Shore RV Park in San Dimas, has over 500 sites that include both back-in and pull-through options. Most have full hookups, and a few have usable dump stations for your wastewater.

Los Angeles, CA

There are few cities throughout the nation that are more famous than sunny Los Angeles. This is also the second-most populous city in the United States, behind only New York City. Here is also where you'll find iconic places like the Hollywood Walk of Fame as well as sports teams like the Dodgers. L.A. is also home to the film industry, so if you want to see a celebrity or two, you may spot one here. The average temperature in Los Angeles is typically pleasant with weather bottoming out in the high 40s in January and rising only to about an average of 85 degrees in August.

National Parks

Pinnacles National Park

The only national park that is directly along this road trip itinerary from San Diego to Sacramento is Pinnacles National Park. Pinnacles did not gain its status as a national park until 2013. It sits on the San Andreas Fault, which is the reason for the unique terrain of the park. The park was also formed by the Neenach volcano, which is now extinct.

Since the fault lines underneath the park cause erosion, there is a maze of caves and canyons to explore. The park is home to 14 of the 23 species of bats that can be found in California. In addition, there are over 400 species of bees living in the park. Because the park is in a remote location, the stars really look amazing at night. Hiking, bird watching, biking, and rock climbing are also popular activities that you can enjoy in the park.

Nearby State Parks

Crystal Cove State Park

Crystal Cove State Park became a state park in 1979. Before that, it was known as a recreational spot where locals would come and enjoy the amenities. Many sites in California have been used as movie backdrops, and Treasure Island was actually one of the first films shot at this location. The park includes a marine conservation area, a historic district, bluffs and canyons, and an underwater park. This is a great area to explore if you want to participate in water sports and activities like swimming, surfing, diving, and more. You can also hike through the 18 miles of trails in the park or relax on the beach.

Chino Hills State Park

Chino Hills State Park is about 14,000 acres of land that is located between Orange, San Bernardino, and Riverside counties. It is only about 27 miles from Anaheim, but it has a unique feel that is not common in this area of California. In the spring, this park is full of wildflowers. It is the ideal place to hike, to ride a bike, or to ride a horse as you enjoy the park's meadows and canyons. Bird watchers will also love the number of birds that can be seen in the park.

Henry W. Coe State Park

Henry W. Coe State Park is another state park to visit during this road trip from San Diego to Sacramento. The grounds cover more than 87,000 acres, and they include rugged terrain, steep canyons, and beautiful vistas. Many people enjoy hiking, biking, and horseback riding here, and if you would like to take a boat out or play in the water, Lake Anderson is located in the park as well as several creeks.

Along the Way

SeaWorld San Diego

If you love animals, this is a great place to visit. The park was founded in 1964 and is located along 22 acres of Mission Bay. It's actually the first SeaWorld location, and there are rides and several aquatic and non-aquatic shows that you can enjoy. You can check out dolphins, sea lions, orca whales, and much more. This was the home of the dolphin from "Flipper" and the famous killer whale Shamu. In total, there are five coasters and six other rides throughout the park that make for some exciting experiences.

Disneyland Park

Opened in 1955, Disneyland has a rich history and serves as one of the first mega theme parks in the nation. It is home to the first daily monorail in the west and housed Walt Disney's private quarters that he used until his death in 1966. Rides like Splash Mountain, the Mark Twain Riverboat, and Pirates of the Caribbean are all here at the park, and there are multiple lands within the par, like Tomorrowland, that you can spend the day visiting. If you are traveling with kids, this is a location that you will want to visit.

Mount Diablo

Located in its namesake state park, Mount Diablo is a mountain formed 165 to 190 million years ago. Despite its fiery name and appearance, this is not an active volcano, and it's actually a great place to visit with the entire family. The name of the mountain comes from the thicket of willows growing in the area; Spanish explorers named it "Monte del Diablo," which actually means thicket of the devil in English. When here, be ready to walk; there are hundreds of miles of hiking trails, and along the way, you'll see some of the 400 species of wildlife that call the area home.

When you follow this road trip itinerary from San Diego to Sacramento, 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 Sacramento.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

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