One of the most fascinating national parks in the United States, Lassen Volcanic National Park is located about an hour and a half north of Chico. The park is home to a variety of wonderful landscapes, including gorgeous forests and peaceful meadows. The park also boasts volcanoes, fumaroles, mud pots, and geysers. Visitors can explore the area's volcanic features or hike through fields of wildflowers. There are also options for fishing, hiking, and boating.
Redwood National Park is about four hours northwest of Chico. The park is home to the massive trees in its name, and visitors can explore old-growth forests. The park also covers rivers, meadows, and miles of coastline, however, so there are many areas for visitors to explore. Northern spotted owls and Steller's sea lions, both of which are endangered, call the park home, making the area a great choice for birdwatching, viewing wildlife, or taking nature photos.
Yosemite National Park is about four hours and 15 minutes southeast of Chico. This park offers some of the most spectacular scenery in the state and attracts tourists from across the planet. Visitors can explore the area's three sequoia groves or take in the stunning sights of Yosemite Falls or the Half Dome. There are also dozens of options for hiking, camping, rafting, wildlife viewing, skiing, and even ice skating.
The Woodson Bridge State Recreation Area is located only about 25 minutes north of Chico. The area is home to one of the last native riparian habitats in California and hundreds of native plant species. Visitors can camp, hike, or enjoy the views of Mount Lassen, Mount Shasta, and the Trinity Alps.
The Colusa-Sacramento River State Recreation Area is just less than an hour south of Chico. The park covers 63 acres, and visitors can take in the beautiful views of the river, boat, fish, or hike. The area is also home to a range of wildlife, including raccoons, foxes, muskrats, deer, and many bird species, making it a great spot for wildlife photography.
Located about two hours southeast of Chico, Malakoff Diggins State Park is gorgeous in its own right, but the setting is also a historic one. Visitors can take in the beautiful scenery, hike, or spot wildlife. There are also opportunities at the visitor center to learn more about the history of the area and the part it played in the California Gold Rush.
One of the most beautiful local landmarks near Chico is the Whiskeytown National Recreation Area. This gorgeous natural area, located about an hour and a half northwest of Chico near Shasta, surrounds a lake and offers stunning views. There are many options for spotting wildlife.
The California National Historic Trail is also located near Chico. This trail covers parts of the Lassen, Yreka, Nobles, and Applegate trails and helps to celebrate pioneers who headed west during the California Gold Rush. The trail spans 5,000 miles, but visitors can stop at any of the sections near Chico.
A farther drive brings you to the Port Chicago Naval Magazine National Memorial in Concord, California. This memorial was designated in remembrance of a tragic World War II accident. Visitors can learn more about the accident, honor those who died, or take a guided tour.
The Almond Tree RV Park in Chico is a great option for RV camping. This charming park offers 42 sites with full hookups. The park is pet-friendly, and there are showers, a laundry facility, and a camp store. The Parkway RV Resort & Campground in nearby Orland offers back-in and pull-through sites. This RV campground has a playground, wine-tasting events, and an ice cream shop. Another popular choice is Heritage RV Park in Corning, which offers 88 RV sites with full hookups. The beautiful park is well-maintained and has gorgeous gardens.
How do I correctly set up and take down a popup camper rental, and what kind of tools or equipment do I need?
Setting up and taking down a popup camper rental typically requires a few basic tools, including a rubber mallet, wheel chocks, and a few different sized wrenches. The process will vary based on the specific model, but typically involves locating and extending the stabilizer jacks, popping up the roof, extending the sidewalls, and connecting any necessary hoses and cables. Be sure to follow any instructions provided by the owner and ask for assistance if you are unsure about any aspect of the setup.
Can I rent a popup camper in Chico, CA without a vehicle capable of towing it, and if so, what are my options for renting a towing vehicle?
Standard passenger sedans typically able to tow popup campers that weigh less than 1,500 pounds. Heavier duty vehicles, such as 4x4 SUVs, can usually tow a heavier popup. If you are unable to tow, another option is to have the popup campered delivered to your campsite. The RVshare owner will bring it to the campground and set up for you, then tow it away after your trip is over.
Are there any special driving considerations or techniques I should know when towing a popup camper rental in Chico, CA?
When towing a popup camper rental, it's important to practice safe driving techniques and be aware of your surroundings. You may need to adjust your driving speed and distance from other vehicles to account for the additional weight and length. It's also important to make sure the camper rental is properly secured and level before hitting the road.
What kind of amenities can I expect in a popup camper rental, and how do they compare to other RV rentals in Chico, CA?
Popup camper rentals typically offer a range of amenities and features, including comfortable sleeping quarters, kitchen appliances and supplies, and on-board storage options. While they may be more compact than other RV rentals, they often offer a more affordable and flexible option for travelers who want to explore the outdoors.
Can I bring my bedding and linens to use in the popup camper rental, and what kind of storage options are available for these items?
Many RVshare owners will provide bedding and linens for the popup camper rental, but you can certainly bring your own if you prefer. There are typically storage compartments and cubbies located throughout the interior of the camper rental for storing personal items.
How do I properly level and stabilize a popup camper rental at my campsite or RV park, and what equipment or tools do I need for this?
Discuss your particular campsite with the RV owner to determine if leveling and stabilizing will be necessary. To properly level and stabilize a popup camper rental, you will need a few basic tools, including leveling blocks, wheel chocks, and a bubble level. The process will vary based on the specific model, but typically involves leveling the camper rental side-to-side using the leveling blocks and adjusting the front-to-back level using the tongue jack.
What weather conditions should I know when renting a popup camper in Chico, CA, and how can I prepare for them?
Depending on where you are renting the popup camper, you may need to prepare for a range of different weather conditions. It's important to check the forecast before heading out and be prepared with appropriate clothing and gear for any potential weather events. You should also take steps to protect the camper rental from high winds, rain, and other elements by properly securing it and using any available window covers or awnings.
Can I bring my outdoor equipment or appliances to use with the popup camper rental, such as a portable grill or camping chairs?
Yes, you can certainly bring your own outdoor equipment and appliances to use with the popup camper rental. However, be sure to check with the RVshare owner beforehand to make sure there is enough space to store your items and that they are safe to use with the camper rental.
What kind of maintenance or upkeep do I need to perform on the exterior and interior of a popup camper rental during my rental period?
The maintenance and upkeep required for a popup camper is handled by the RV owner. Handle the camper with care and return it in the condition you received it.
Are there any unique features or amenities available in popup camper rentals that may not be found in other RVs in Chico, CA?
Popup camper rentals are light and easier to tow than most other towable trailers, making them easier to bring along on your trips, and typically meaning your own vehicle should be able to tow them.