Road Trip with RVshare Seattle to Los Angeles

The road trip itinerary from Seattle to Los Angeles is one that will take a couple of days, which makes it an ideal trip to make in an RV. There are a number of national and state parks along the way as well as some amusement parks that will be well worth visiting. Don’t forget to stop and get a picture in front of the Hollywood sign and stop by the beach since you will be so close to the shore. For the most scenic Seattle to Los Angeles road trip, you are going to want to take I-5 from Seattle straight down to Los Angeles.

Road Trip Planner: Stops Along Your Route

Tacoma, WA

The city of Tacoma is alive with culture, and it is known for its glass art and classic cars. Its museum district is full of culture and history to enjoy, and there is a stunning waterfront that you can enjoy from one of the many restaurants located on the Puget Sound. There are also plenty of parks and gardens to enjoy in the city, and if you stay and camp for a few days, Tacoma dump stations are plentiful and convenient for you to use before continuing on your trip.

Portland, OR

Portland has a nightlife that you will want to enjoy, even just for one night. The city was built above the Willamette River, so you will get quite a stunning view of the surrounding area. It is the largest city in the state, and the city is pretty close to wine country, so kick your feet up and stay for a few days. 

Portland campgrounds are plentiful, and there is something for everyone to enjoy. Roamer’s Rest RV Park and Jantzen Beach RV Park are options in the area that will offer wineries and fishing opportunities, and there are also many dump stations nearby.

Sacramento, CA

Sacramento is a town that’s virtually buzzing with culture and things to do. There are various farmers' markets throughout the city as well as breweries and wineries that dot the area. The city is also a hub of arts and culture; events like the Wide Open Walls Mural Festival happen throughout the year, and there are numerous museums like the Crocker Art Museum to visit. 

National Parks

Mount Rainier National Park

Mount Rainier National Park is named after a glaciated peak that is also an active volcano. There is always snow at the top of the peak, which makes for some great photos of your trip. In the park, you can ski during the winter or take a hike on one of the eight trails in the summer.

Crater Lake National Park

Crater Lake National Park is the only national park in Oregon. The lake is a collapsed volcano that formed over 7,700 years ago as is known for its crystal blue hue. In addition to the lake, there are peaks to climb and caves to explore in the park.

Yosemite National Park

Another national park along the way that you must stop and explore is Yosemite National Park. It has three groves of sequoia trees, Yosemite Falls, and more than 1,200 miles of wilderness to explore. During the winter, you can go skiing, snowboarding, ice skating, and more. When it’s warmer, there are plenty of trails to explore in the park, and Yosemite is a world-famous destination for rock climbers.

Kings Canyon National Park

Kings Canyon National Park offers impressive sequoia tree groves and spectacular views of the Sierra Nevada mountains. Inside the park, there are several trails that you can explore on foot or horseback, and there are areas where you can try out rock climbing if you would like. If the weather is warm enough, swimming in the mountain lakes here is also a favorite pastime.

Sequoia National Park

One of the national parks that many people would like to visit in their lifetime is Sequoia National Park. This is because of all of the giant sequoias in the park that make it unique. This park is located directly south of Kings Canyon National Park, so visiting both should be simple during your Seattle to Los Angeles RV road trip. In total, the park has over 800 miles of trails to explore, so you could spend days in the area.

Nearby State Parks

Saltwater State Park

When you start out your trip in Washington, Saltwater State Park is a must-see location. It is located about 2 miles from I-5, which you will be traveling on, and you can enjoy many water activities here during your trip. This is the only state park with an artificial reef where you can enjoy scuba diving.

Seaquest State Park

Seaquest State Park is another park that is located just a few minutes off of Interstate 5. From the hiking trails in the park, you will be able to see amazing views of Mount St. Helen. You can also learn about the history of the 505-acre park or enjoy some water activities on Silver Lake.

Silver Falls State Park

When you get to Oregon, you can look forward to visiting Silver Falls State Park. In the park, there are 10 waterfalls and 35 miles of trails that you can explore. Horseback riding and biking are also common activities enjoyed in the park. What makes this park so unique is that there is actually a waterfall that you can walk behind and explore close-up.

Red Rock Canyon State Park

About 80 miles east of Bakersfield, you will find Red Rock Canyon State Park. The park covers 27,000 acres of land, and there are several rock formations and scenic desert cliffs to take in and enjoy while you are here. During spring, the desert is alive with stunning flowers, which gives you the opportunity to take beautiful pictures of this part of the country. Wildlife like roadrunners, coyotes, hawks, and lizards can easily be seen in the park.

Along the Way

Wild Waves Theme and Water Park

When you are traveling with kids, nothing beats a day at an amusement park, and this park near Tacoma, WA has thrill rides, family rides, and water rides for you to enjoy. It’s the perfect place to cool off during the summer, and it will give you plenty of excitement for the day. 

Enchanted Forest Theme Park

The Enchanted Forest Theme Park, which is located in Oregon, is family-owned and -operated. The park brings storybooks to life for young children, and you will see Alice in Wonderland, Humpty Dumpty, Pinocchio, and more. Children can test their luck panning for gold, and there is a comedy theatre that the entire family will enjoy.

Yosemite Ziplines and Adventure Ranch

If you are looking for a bit more adventure during your trip, you can test out some of the ziplines at the Yosemite Zipline and Adventure Ranch to get your fill of adrenaline. There are family courses that those who are less experienced can enjoy as well. There is a giant rope course at the ranch that you can try your hand at as well.

Hollywood Sign

You’ve seen the Hollywood sign on television, and it's a great destination to hit before you finish your road trip from Seattle to Los Angeles. The sign symbolizes ambition, success, and the notion of dreams coming true that many seek in Hollywood. You will have to take a photo from a distance because it’s illegal to pass the gates restricting access to the sign.

When you follow this road trip itinerary from Seattle to Los Angeles, 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 Seattle or Los Angeles.

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!