Explore the barren but majestic beauty of the desert where the Mojave and Colorado Deserts meet at Joshua Tree National Park, which is about a half-hour east of Indio. Offering more than 1,200 miles of vast desert wilderness and surreal rugged vistas, Joshua Tree National Park is also a great starting point for two more of our pre-planned road trips, including Joshua Tree to Long Beach and Joshua Tree to Santa Fe.
For an even more surreal desert experience, you can head 250 miles north to one of the hottest, driest, and least hospitable places on Earth, Death Valley National Park. The park's Furnace Creek is the location of the world's highest recorded air temperature, a sweltering 134 degrees Fahrenheit in July 1913.
When you are tired of the desert and want to enjoy some water sports and activities, head 205 miles west to Channel Islands National Park, where you can explore nearly 250,000 acres of undeveloped, seabound wonderlands, including a wide variety of unique flora and fauna that has thrived on these pristinely preserved islands. You can also learn about the indigenous history of the islands, stretching back thousands of years before the islands became a national park.
At the Salton Sea State Recreation Area, about 25 miles southeast of Indio, you can watch birds and other wildlife at the Sonny Bono Salton Sea National Wildlife Refuge or spend a few hours kayaking in one of the lowest points on earth. As the name implies, however, be prepared for the high salinity of this body of water.
If you prefer the rugged beauty of high mountain wildernesses, you may want to visit the 14,000-acre Mount San Jacinto State Park, which is approximately an hour and 10 minutes from Indio. The park contains granite peaks, subalpine forests, high-country wilderness, and mountain meadows bordered by an abundance of ferns.
If you enjoy terrain somewhere between harsh deserts and high mountain ranges, you may enjoy a visit to Cuyamaca Rancho State Park located a little over 100 miles southwest of Indio. This park features close to 25,000 acres of woodland forests filled with oak and pine trees, which are home to bobcats, mountain lions, badgers, foxes, and a host of amphibian species.
The Carl G. Bray Smoke Tree Painter monument, located on east Highway 111 in Indian Wells about seven miles from Indio, commemorates the international artist. It is comprised of rock walls and colorful display panels, and a palette sign. Approximately 35 miles northwest of Indio in Palm Springs is the Angel Cove Monument. According to legend, this angel-shaped rock formation at the top of a mountain peak was named by the Cahuilla Indian Tribe to show gratitude for a sick child who did not die from their illness.
If you want to camp in luxury in Palm Springs, you should stay at Palm Springs Oasis RV Resort. The resort provides a swimming pool, a hot tub, an on-site restaurant, restroom and shower facilities, a golf course, WiFi, and many more amenities. Each of the 140 sites has full hookups. Emerald Desert RV Resort in Palm Desert offers 255 RV sites with concrete pads and manicured lawns along with 30/50-amp electricity, WiFi, and cable TV. The resort also features dog parks, a gym, and a pool, and a spa. Desert Springs Spa RV Park, approximately 30 miles northwest of Indio in Desert Hot Springs, boasts a natural hot springs mineral water pool and spa in addition to shower and restroom facilities, a laundry room, and a clubhouse with a kitchen. There are 95 RV spaces, which come with 30/50-amp electricity and can accommodate RVs up to 42 feet long.
How do I correctly load and secure my recreational equipment in the toy hauler rental, such as ATVs or dirt bikes, and are there any weight or size limitations I need to be aware of?
It is important to properly load and secure your recreational equipment in the toy hauler rental to ensure safety during travel. Most toy haulers come equipped with tie-downs and rails specifically designed for securing equipment. It is important to follow the manufacturer's guidelines for weight capacity and loading instructions. You should also check with the owner of the RVshare rental for any specific instructions or recommendations.
What kind of maintenance or upkeep do I need on the toy hauler rental's garage area, and what kind of tools or equipment do I need for this?
Proper maintenance of the toy hauler is handled by the RV owner. As the renter you are responsible for being cautious and following instructions to avoid damages, as well as keeping the trailer clean and in the condition you found it.
Are there any special insurance considerations or requirements when renting a toy hauler, particularly regarding the transport of recreational equipment?
RVshare rentals always come with insurance, with three options to choose from to best suit your needs.
How do I properly level and stabilize a toy hauler rental at my campsite or RV park, and what equipment or tools do I need?
Discuss your specific campsite with the RV owner to determine if leveling and stabilization of the toy hauler rental is needed for optimal comfort and safety.
Can I bring fuel and oil for my recreational equipment, or should I purchase these items after reaching my destination?
It is generally recommended to purchase fuel and oil for your recreational equipment after reaching your destination. Many RV parks and campgrounds have restrictions on fuel storage for safety reasons.
What kind of towing vehicle do I need to rent a toy hauler, and are there any special licensing or certification requirements for operating this vehicle in Indio, CA?
The type of towing vehicle needed for a toy hauler rental will depend on the weight and towing capacity of the toy hauler itself. It is important to check with the owner of the RVshare rental for any specific requirements or recommendations. Typically a standard driver’s license is required to tow a toy hauler.
Can I use the garage area of a toy hauler rental to store items other than recreational equipment, and what weight limitations exist for these items?
The garage area of a toy hauler rental can typically be used to store items other than recreational equipment, such as bicycles or camping gear. However, it is important to follow any weight capacity guidelines provided by the manufacturer or rental owner to ensure safe operation.
Are any particular features or amenities available in toy hauler rentals that may not be found in other RVs in Indio, CA?
Toy hauler rentals often come equipped with unique features and amenities not found in other types of RVs. These can include a garage area for storing and transporting recreational equipment, folding beds or bunks, and outdoor living spaces. Checking with the rental owner for specific features and amenities can help you choose the best option for your travel needs.
