Your Trip At a Glance
- Trip Length: About 18 hours, 30 minutes
- Mileage: About 1,135 miles
-
Fun fact: Los Angeles has more museums than any other city in the United States, offering more than 800 institutions across art, history, film, and science.
The RV route from Seattle to Los Angeles is one of the West Coast’s most rewarding long-distance drives. It blends coastal views, forested highways, and landmark cities with plenty of RV-friendly campgrounds and attractions along the way. Whether you stick to the faster I-5 corridor or add some family-friendly coastal detours, RV travelers experience a comfortable drive with dependable fuel access, large pull-through sites, and scenic rest stops from Washington through Oregon and into California.
Road Trip Planner: Stops Along Your Route
Making the trip from Seattle to Los Angeles gives you a scenic mix of evergreen forests, river valleys, coastal viewpoints, and major cities with RV-ready services. These stops are practical, enjoyable, and located directly along or very close to the fastest I-5 corridor.
Portland, Oregon
Portland is a natural first major stop after crossing into Oregon. Visitors can stroll through Washington Park, explore the Portland Japanese Garden, or enjoy food carts and small local eateries. You can also take a short walk along the Willamette River or browse the city’s famous independent shops.
RV Info & Tips:
Campgrounds: Try Jantzen Beach RV Park or Rose City RV Park, both offering full hookups.
Seasonality: Rain is common year-round, so bring waterproof layers.
Roads: I-5 through Portland experiences traffic during rush hours, but it remains fully RV-accessible.
How Long to Stay: One night is enough for a comfortable rest and quick sightseeing.
Gear & Prep: Keep leveling blocks handy since many urban campgrounds have mixed terrain.
Eugene, Oregon
Eugene provides a quieter and more relaxed stop. Visit the University of Oregon campus, walk the trails along the Willamette River, or grab fresh local produce at the Lane County Farmers Market. It's a calm midpoint between Seattle and Northern California.
RV Info & Tips:
Campgrounds: Armitage Park Campground offers spacious sites with hookups.
Seasonality: Summers are warm and dry while winters are cool and rainy.
Roads: I-5 south of Eugene is smooth and well-maintained.
How Long to Stay: A short afternoon visit works well for this leg.
Gear & Prep: Bring comfortable walking shoes for riverside trails.
Redding, California
Once you reach Northern California, Redding becomes an ideal stop for fuel, groceries, and outdoor exploration. Walk across the iconic Sundial Bridge, check out Turtle Bay Exploration Park, or enjoy a shaded riverside trail.
RV Info & Tips:
Campgrounds: Redding RV Park and KOA Redding both have full hookups and pull-through sites.
Seasonality: Summers can get very hot, so run your AC early.
Roads: I-5 South from Shasta Lake to Redding is mountainous but RV-friendly.
How Long to Stay: One night is perfect for rest and resupply.
Gear & Prep: Keep extra water in the RV during hot days.
Sacramento, California
California’s capital offers museums, Gold Rush history, and riverfront attractions. Old Sacramento provides wooden sidewalks, historic buildings, and plenty of dining options. It's also a convenient place to stretch your legs or take a break from long-distance driving.
RV Info & Tips:
Campgrounds: Sacramento River RV Park and Sacramento West KOA offer RV-friendly sites.
Seasonality: Winters are mild, and summers are dry and hot.
Roads: Expect heavier traffic near downtown Sacramento.
How Long to Stay: Spend a few hours or stay overnight.
Gear & Prep: Bring sun protection during the hot months.
Bakersfield, California
Bakersfield is a classic stopping point before reaching Los Angeles. The city offers cultural attractions, like the Kern County Museum and California Living Museum. It's also a practical place to fuel up and rest before the final stretch.
RV Info & Tips:
Campgrounds: Orange Grove RV Park is popular with RV travelers.
Seasonality: Expect warm to hot weather most of the year.
Roads: The drive from Bakersfield to Los Angeles involves some elevation changes along CA-99 and I-5.
How Long to Stay: A brief stop or overnight stay works well.
Gear & Prep: Check your coolant before driving the Grapevine region.
Top RV Rentals Near Seattle, Washington
One-Way Rentals
Explore More with One-Way RV Rentals Across the U.S.
Discover our one‑way RV rentals across the country. Pick‑up in one city, drop‑off in another. Explore freely, no return drive. Check availability now
Pro Tips to Make the Most of Your Trip
This route is flexible and easy to adapt based on your travel preferences. Here are a few ways to get more out of your Seattle to Los Angeles RV adventure.
Alternate Route Options
If you prefer scenic views over speed, add a stretch of Highway 101 along the Oregon or Northern California coast. This adds time but rewards you with ocean views, coastal parks, and cool sea breezes. Just note that some coastal curves are tighter, so drive slowly and enjoy the scenery.
Timing & Logistics
Leaving Seattle early helps you avoid morning traffic. Plan your fuel stops in Oregon, where gas prices are typically lower than in California. Summer and early fall offer the driest and most predictable driving conditions across all states on this route.
Route Logistics
Steep grades: Expect a significant incline through the Grapevine on I-5 north of Los Angeles.
Seasonal conditions: Northern California mountains near Shasta can see winter snow.
Fuel availability: Fuel is widely available along I-5, but longer gaps appear in rural stretches of Oregon.
RV access: All major stops listed are RV-friendly with full-hookup campgrounds available.
Road conditions: I-5 is well-maintained from Seattle to Los Angeles with consistent signage.
This Seattle to Los Angeles RV itinerary mixes natural beauty, major cities, and easy highway driving. If you want to enjoy the journey in comfort, you can find the right rig by browsing RV rentals in Seattle and RV rentals in Los Angeles. An RV offers flexibility, comfort, and the freedom to explore all the highlights along this scenic West Coast route.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I plan an RV road trip from Seattle to Los Angeles?
To plan an RV road trip from Seattle to Los Angeles, 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 Seattle to Los Angeles 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 Seattle to Los Angeles. 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!