Joshua Tree National Park spans over 1,200 miles of southern California and is named for the twisted, alien-looking plants that thrive there. Since the vast majority of the park is undeveloped, it offers true off-the-grid explorers an authentic wilderness experience. It is important for visitors to remember that you can legitimately get lost in Joshua Tree National Park.
Channel Islands National Park is just off the coast of one of the most densely-populated parts of America and covers five of the area's eight channel islands, spanning just under 250,000 acres. Some of the islands show signs of human habitation from as far back as 37,000 years ago.
Death Valley National Park straddles the California-Nevada border. Death Valley is one of the hottest, driest, and least hospitable places on Earth. In July of 1913, the park's Furnace Creek saw the world record high temperature of 134 degrees Fahrenheit, and the park's famous Badwater Basin is the lowest point in the United States at 282 feet below sea level.
Salton Sea State Recreation Area is a true oasis in the desert. This park first opened in 1907 and is a huge favorite among kayakers. The high salinity of the water is the reason it is called a sea and not a lake, and the basin it is located in is one of the lowest points on Earth.
From 1864 to 1883, the Yuma Quartermaster Depot provided a lifeline of supplies to all of the military posts in the Southwest. Here, on the high ground above the Colorado River, the U.S. Army's warehouses held a six-month supply of clothing, food, ammunition, and other goods for forts in Arizona, Nevada, Utah, New Mexico, and Texas.
Sitting on a bluff overlooking the Colorado River and just a short distance from the Quartermaster's Depot, the notorious Yuma Territorial Prison is a must-see for history buffs. Built in 1876, Yuma Territorial Prison State Park remained in operation for over 33 years before the inmates were moved to a new facility in Florence, Arizona.
Located on the outer tip of the peninsula facing San Diego, The Cabrillo National Monument commemorates the landing of Juan Rodríguez Cabrillo at San Diego Bay on September 28, 1542. The heroic statue of Cabrillo looking out over the bay was executed by sculptor Alvaro de Bree for the Portuguese Government in 1939, who then donated it to the United States. The sandstone monument is 14 feet tall and weighs 14,000 pounds.
Old Town San Diego State Historic Park, located in the Old Town neighborhood of San Diego, commemorates the early days of the city of San Diego and includes many historic buildings from the period between 1820 to 1870.
Palm Lane RV Park: Located just north of Imperial in the small town of Brawley, this RV park is just a short distance away from the Salton Sea. Palm Lane RV Park is mostly a home for full-time residents, which makes it a great place to stay if you'll be in the area for a while, but short-term guests are always welcome.
Desert Trails RV Park: Located just south of Imperial in El Centro, this park is directly off Interstate 8 and located right across the street from an In-N-Out Burger. As one of the biggest RV parks in Imperial County, it is loaded with amenities, including a nine-hole golf course on site.
Rio Bend RV & Golf Resort: Located to the west of El Centro near the town of Seeley, the Rio Bend RV & Golf Resort is filled with lush grass and features a nine-hole golf course that surrounds a manmade lake. Predominantly catering to seniors, organized activities are scheduled every day, and musicians frequently play at the park.
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 Imperial, 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 Imperial, 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 Imperial, 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 Imperial, 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 Imperial, 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.
