Road Trip with RVshare San Francisco to Phoenix

California is blessed with nine national parks, which is the most of all the states in the U.S., and you will pass by several of them on your San Francisco to Phoenix road trip as you drive your RV through the states of California and Arizona. San Francisco is located in the coastal area of Northern California between the deserts and grasslands to the south and the mixed forests and temperate rainforest regions in the north. Your RV journey will consist of about two days of driving, and you will pass by numerous large urban areas and wild natural preserves where you can stay overnight.

Road Trip Planner: Stops Along Your Route

Your road trip from San Francisco to Phoenix provides plenty of opportunity for exploring coastal towns, visiting desert landmarks, and stopping at scenic overlooks. RV travelers will especially appreciate the many spacious campgrounds and easy-to-access amenities found on the route.

Big Basin Redwoods State Park – Boulder Creek, California

The oldest state park in California is the ideal place to stop for a short break due to its serene creekside setting, towering redwoods, and shaded pathways. Spacious campsites surrounded by old trees provide RV travelers with a great area to ease into the journey before driving into the desert.

RV Info & Tips:

• Campgrounds: Huckleberry Campground offers RV-friendly sites for camping overnight or extended stays.

• How long to stay: Spending one or two days here will give you ample time to explore different trails and old-growth redwoods.

• Gear & prep: Since coastal forests tend to stay damp, especially at night, be sure to bring plenty of warm layers.

Mojave National Preserve – Kelso, California

Midway through your journey, you'll come upon this enormous desert preserve with its untamed lava fields, sand dunes, and old mining regions. Rest, stroll, and take in the breathtaking Mojave scenery at one of the RV-friendly campsites with expansive desert vistas.

RV Info & Tips:

• Campgrounds: You'll find RV sites at Mid Hills Campground and Hole-in-the-Wall, but hookup options may be limited.

• How long to stay: A one- to two-day stay here gives you time to check out the lava tubes and historic sites, like the old Kelso Depot and the Rock Springs trail cabins.

• Gear & prep: Bring plenty of water and fuel since many of the park’s remote areas are far away from the nearest services.

Lake Havasu State Park – Lake Havasu City, Arizona

Sandy beaches, nature walks, and access to the world-famous London Bridge region are all features of this picturesque park situated along the Colorado River. The RV sites on the water's edge provide panoramic views of the lake and desert, making it a great rest stop before reaching Phoenix.

RV Info & Tips:

• Campgrounds: The park has a waterfront campground with RV hookups.

• How long to stay: One to two nights gives you time to hike, boat, and visit the historic London Bridge.

• Gear & prep: Bring extra drinking water and sunscreen. You'll be in desert heat and bright sunlight throughout the daytime.

Pro Tips to Make the Most of Your Trip

Your San Francisco to Phoenix road trip will be much more enjoyable when you follow some simple tips. There are a lot of ways to get to your destination, so it's helpful to travel smarter with a clear plan. This makes it much easier to squeeze all the best stops into your schedule.

Alternate Route Options

From San Francisco, the quickest route to Phoenix is to travel Interstate 580 to Interstate 5, then take CA-58 east via Bakersfield, and finally, take I-40 over the desert. However, you can take your RV on a relaxing journey along another route. Travel south on US-101 via Monterey and Paso Robles, then take a left onto CA-46 heading inland toward Bakersfield if you'd rather start along the coast. Going south on CA-99 from Stockton through the Central Valley is another beautiful alternative; this route brings you closer to Sequoia National Forest, where you can include short hikes or scenic overlooks in your trip.

Loop Back a Different Way

For a change of scenery on the way back, take I-10 west via Palm Springs, enter Los Angeles, and then drive US-101 up the Pacific Coast to return to San Francisco. With this route option, you'll enjoy ocean vistas, well-known beach towns, and an abundance of RV parks that provide full hookups. If you want to spend more time in the desert, you can remain inland and circle back via Joshua Tree National Park by taking CA-62 to CA-247. This road will take you back to the Barstow region and then link you to either I-15 or CA-58.

Fuel & Supplies Along the Way

Major communities such as Bakersfield, Barstow, and Kingman have plenty of gas stations and food stores, but as you go into eastern California and western Arizona, you'll need to plan ahead since the highways are lengthy and relatively deserted. You may want to stop at Barstow, which is a dependable RV stop for fuel, propane, and last-minute supplies. Needles and Lake Havasu City also provide more refueling possibilities. There is an abundance of big-box retailers, gas stations, and RV-friendly rest places in Phoenix to provide a comfortable finale to your adventure.

Route Logistics

• Ideal duration: 4–6 days will give you time to stay overnight at multiple parks or campgrounds during your San Francisco to Phoenix road trip. You'll have lots of flexibility and convenience to visit sites like Yosemite or Joshua Tree National Park.

• Best time to go: Fall through spring gives you ideal weather and cooler temperatures for comfortable driving as you make your way from the Bay Area, through the desert corridor, and into Phoenix.

• RV-friendly campsites along the route: Barstow/Calico KOA in Barstow, Needles KOA Journey near the California–Arizona border, and Leaf Verde RV Resort just west of Phoenix.

• Seasonal driving conditions: The hot summer heat from the Central Valley, Mojave Desert, and western Arizona can make it challenging during long stretches without shade. Winter traveling provides the best conditions for mild temperatures and clearer roadways.

Using our itinerary for your San Francisco to Phoenix road trip is a smart way to plan ahead, explore must-see stops, and take in the scenery at your own pace. You'll find plenty of campgrounds and RV amenities along your route. To make sure you travel in comfort, style, and safety, be sure to check out the many RV rentals on RVshare. You can select from compact campervans, spacious motorhomes, and more to find an RV that matches your travel plans.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I plan an RV road trip from San Francisco to Phoenix?

To plan an RV road trip from San Francisco to Phoenix, 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 Francisco to Phoenix 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 Francisco to Phoenix. 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!