Road Trip with RVshare San Jose to Sacramento

If you are ready to travel through the Golden State, then follow this San Jose to Sacramento road trip itinerary. San Jose is the home of Silicon Valley, and the city is filled with museums dedicated to science and technology. As you head north, you will not want to miss out on a visit to San Francisco. This iconic city features some interesting landmarks, such as the Golden Gate Bridge and Alcatraz Island. Finally, Sacramento is California's capital, and there are plenty of places to learn about the history of this great state. On this road trip from San Jose to Sacramento, you will have a memorable adventure through California. 

Road Trip Planner: Stops Along Your Route

You don't have to worry about finding accommodations for your rig on this San Jose to Sacramento RV road trip. There are a variety of campgrounds and dump stations throughout the area that can help keep you safe and healthy on the road.

Santa Clara

Santa Clara is another city in California's Silicon Valley. While you are there, you can learn about the silicon chip at the Intel Museum. If you want to enjoy some thrilling roller coasters, this city is also home to the Great America theme park. For those art fans, you should not miss an opportunity to visit the Triton Museum of Art, a gallery that features works from local artists. As you get ready to settle down for the evening, there are a few campgrounds that cater to the RV crowd.

Oakland

Oakland is just east of San Francisco Bay, and Old Oakland is a great place to start by checking out the area's local history. This neighborhood is the location of the Cathedral Building. This structure was the first skyscraper built west of the Mississippi River. For some excellent restaurants and boutiques, you will want to visit the Uptown area. You can always find a relaxing campground and clean dump station throughout the Oakland area.

Modesto

Modesto is a fun city near Sacramento. You can enjoy the local recreational areas and parks near this location, including the San Joaquin National Wildlife Refuge and Turlock State Recreational Area. When you are ready to park your RV, there are a couple of camping options near Modesto.

National Parks

California is home to some of the best national parks in the country. You will definitely want to stop and visit these beautiful natural treasures.

Redwood National Park

If you want to see some of the tallest trees in the world, then you should visit Redwood National Park. With over 193,000 acres of land, you will see various landscapes, including giant sequoias, rugged coastlines and oak forests. This national park is home to 45% of the world's coastal redwoods. If you are a nature lover, this park is the place for you to visit. You might get a glimpse of some endangered animals at Redwood National Park, such as Steller's sea lions or northern spotted owls. Kayaking, hiking and tidepool exploration are great recreational activities to enjoy in the park.

Sequoia National Park

Redwood isn't the only park that is home to giant trees. Sequoia National Park is the perfect spot to get a fantastic look at the snow-capped Sierra Nevadas, and it also contains one of the world's largest groves of giant sequoias. This is a great location to hit the trails and get a closer look at all the natural wonders. There are even ranger-led talks and hikes throughout the park. If you want to travel by horseback, the trails are open to equestrians as well. During the winter, the park continues to offer plenty of recreational activities, including skiing and snowshoeing.

Kings Canyon National Park

Since you are visiting Sequoia National Park, you can cross the road and stop by Kings Canyon National Park as these two parks are right next to each other. Kings Canyon is another spot to see those famous sequoia trees. However, this national park also contains the General Grant Tree, the second-largest tree in the world. Along with the trees, Kings Canyon is another great place to view the spectacular Sierra Nevadas. If you want to enjoy some recreational opportunities on your vacation, Kings Canyon is the best place for backpacking, hiking or horseback riding.

Yosemite National Park

Yosemite National Park contains several types of natural wonders, including ancient sequoias, cascading waterfalls and stunning high cliffs. Many of Yosemite's sequoias are over 1,000 years old. You will want to see some of the famous landmarks in the park, such as Yosemite Falls and Half Dome. This national park even has its own transit system that takes you to those locations. Yosemite National Park is a popular spot for tourists as it welcomes over 1 million people per year. Some of the most popular activities include horseback riding, backcountry camping and hiking. If you travel to this location in the winter, you can enjoy ice skating, snowboarding or cross-country skiing.

Nearby State Parks

Along with the national parks, California has some great state parks that you should set aside some time to visit.

Big Basin Redwoods State Park

You will find Big Basin Redwoods State Park in Northern California, and it is the perfect spot to check out some ancient redwoods. Some of these trees are as tall as the Statue of Liberty. If you want to explore the local area, there are over 80 miles of trails to hike or bike.

Colusa-Sacramento River State Park

When you are in the Sacramento area, Colusa-Sacramento River State Park is an excellent place to rest and unwind. You can check out the 63 acres of land. Many of the park's visitors head to this spot to fish or boat in the lake. Besides the water-based fun, there are other recreational activities to enjoy, such as wildlife viewing and hiking.

Portola Redwoods State Park

If you are near Big Basin State Park, you should take some time to stop by Portola Redwoods State Park. This state park covers over 2,800 acres, and it is a great spot to enjoy the solitude of nature. Portola Redwoods State Park slopes down from the top of a ridge into a shaded redwood forest. There are even 18 miles of trails that wind through the beautiful forest area.

Along the Way

On this San Jose to Sacramento road trip, there are several points of interest along your route. You will want to check out these interesting locations.

Winchester Mystery House

While you are in San Jose, you should visit the Winchester Mystery House. This Victorian mansion is known for its quirky architecture. The location is a California historical landmark, and it is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. This home is also rumored to be haunted by ghosts, and there are nighttime ghost tours offered throughout the year.

The Golden Gate Bridge

The Golden Gate Bridge is one of the most iconic spots in San Francisco. When it was built, the bridge was declared one of the Wonders of the Modern World. In the 1930s, it was the tallest and longest suspension bridge in the world. You will definitely want to grab a picture of this bridge when you are in town.

Alcatraz Island

Alcatraz Island is another historic spot in San Francisco, but you will have to take a ferry in order to see it up close. This small island was originally used as a military fortification and prison. Today, you can learn about the island's notorious past on one of the tours. Since this spot is popular with tourists, you should purchase tickets in advance.

California State Capitol

The California State Capitol is located in Sacramento. This building was constructed between 1861 and 1874, and it is home to the governor's office and the state legislature. You can learn about the state's history when you sign up for the guided tours of the building on your road trip adventure.

When you follow this road trip itinerary from San Jose 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 Jose or Sacramento.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

To plan an RV road trip from San Jose 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 Jose 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 Jose 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!