Novato, California is a city in Marin County located only a short drive from the Pacific Coast and about 20 miles north of San Francisco, California. Before it became Novato, the area was home to several villages inhabited by the Coast Miwok indigenous people. An 8,876-acre stretch of land in the area known as Ranch Novato was granted to Fernando Feliz by the Mexican government in 1839. The land was named after a local leader of the indigenous tribe. After Novato and all of California became part of the United States in 1848, orchards and vineyards were planted in the area by early pioneers. The first school was built in Novato in 1859, and in 1879, a railroad was constructed, connecting the community to other parts of the state. The Novato area saw major growth after World War II with many new homes and a freeway built during the 1940s and '50s. Novato was officially incorporated in 1960, and as of 2022, the city's population was approximately 53,000.
While visiting the city, you should explore Old Town Novato, which boasts several preserved historical buildings. The area is home to the iconic city hall, a well-known landmark located inside a beautiful church built in 1890. You may also want to check out a few of Novato's many unique museums. Some of the most interesting places are the Hamilton Field History Museum, the Marin Museum of Contemporary Art, the Marin Museum of the American Indian and the Novato History Museum.
When the sun is shining, consider strolling around the bustling Downtown Novato Farmer's Market. Alternatively, you could have a peaceful picnic at Pioneer Park, ride your bike through Stafford Lake Park, or play a few rounds at the Indian Valley Golf Club. If you're in the mood for live entertainment, why not catch a play, concert or poetry recital at Novato Theater Company? Then when you're ready to eat, you can try the delicious cuisine at Marvin's Restaurant. For dessert, you can pick up some mouthwatering candy at Celine's Sweets.
One nice camping option in Novato is Novato RV Park, which has 70 full-hookup RV campsites available for $99 per night. The campground is located conveniently close to a variety of attractions, shops and restaurants. Guests can enjoy many amenities as well, including a pool, a hot tub, laundry facilities, free Wi-Fi and a camp store.
Twenty-five minutes north of Novato, Wine Country RV Park has a lovely campground and is a fantastic place to stay if you're a wine enthusiast. The park is located within a short distance of many wonderful Sonoma County wineries. There are full-hookup RV campsites available, and they can accommodate RVs of any size. Additionally, the campground is located right next to the beautiful campus of Sonoma State University.
You could also stay at the Treasure Island Mobile Home & RV Park, which is situated just south of San Francisco, 55 minutes south of Novato. You can rent one of the full-hookup RV campsites, and during your stay, you'll have access to two huge laundry facilities, a pool, a hot tub and free Wi-Fi. Within walking distance of the park, you'll find a Costco Wholesale, Trader Joe's and Grocery Outlet, and all the amenities of San Francisco are located nearby as well.
Nestled among the Mayacamas Mountains in northern California, Sugarloaf Ridge State Park is located in the town of Kenwood, California and is home to the gentle Sonoma Creek. The scenic area, 50 minutes northeast of Novato, boasts 25 miles of serene hiking trails, which offer great opportunities to spot coyotes, gray foxes, bobcats and other interesting wildlife. Visitors can also stop by the Robert Ferguson Observatory, which contains three telescopes and offers a variety of unique programs year-round.
If you're looking to get away from the city for a peaceful retreat, you should consider Austin Creek State Recreation Area, an hour and 10 minutes northwest of Novato. The tranquil park features rolling hills, colorful wildflowers, quiet meadows and babbling streams. While visiting the picturesque nature area, you can navigate the 20 miles of trails on foot or horseback. The park's trails are relatively rugged, so make sure you're prepared for a challenging hike or ride. If you have a valid fishing license, you could also spend a morning casting your line in Bullfrog Pond.
Another fantastic spot for a lovely getaway is Half Moon Bay State Park, which comprises several gorgeous beaches along Half Moon Bay, an hour and 20 minutes south of Novato. In total, the park covers 181 acres and offers excellent opportunities for all types of fun in the sun. Visitors frequently enjoy many types of water-based recreation, such as snorkeling, fishing, boating and swimming. The area is also known as a top-notch surfing destination. Alternatively, you could spend your time exploring the nearby hiking trails or simply relax and get some sun on the beach.
Thirty-five minutes southwest of Novato, the Muir Woods National Monument is named after the famous naturalist John Muir. Muir was often referred to as the "Father of the National Parks." The monument contains breathtaking old-growth redwood trees, many miles of scenic hiking trails and stunning vistas. While visiting the park, you can explore the lovely scenery and observe the many unique species of flora and fauna. Make sure to check out Muir Woods Trail, a short hiking route that's accessible for wheelchairs and strollers.
One of the most famous landmarks in California is the Golden Gate National Recreation Area. The San Francisco park, which is only 25 minutes south of Novato, is most known as the home of the iconic Golden Gate Bridge. Visitors can walk or drive across the bridge or observe it from one of the nearby parks. Other unique activities in the area include taking a tour of the world-famous Alcatraz Island or exploring the Presidio. If you're a hiking enthusiast, consider exploring the Presidio Ecology Trail, the Rodeo Beach Coastal Trail Loop or the Point Bonita Trail.
If you're interested in United States history, it's worth spending a day exploring Rosie the Riveter/World War II Home Front National Historical Park, 25 minutes southeast of Novato. The unique park was created to honor the sacrifices made by American civilians during World War II. The on-site museum features a variety of fascinating exhibits, which show how people worked and lived during this monumental part of our country's history.
Three hours and 20 minutes north of Novato, Mendocino National Forest comprises roughly 913,000 acres and is known as the only national forest in California without an official paved entrance. But if you make your way into the nature area, you'll find beautiful scenery and fantastic recreational opportunities. A few of the most popular activities in the area are hiking, camping, fishing, boating and wildlife viewing. While exploring adventurous paths like the Thomes Gorge and Bloody Rock Trails, be sure to watch for tule elk and other interesting creatures.
Located in eastern California, two hours and 40 minutes northeast of Novato, Eldorado National Forest covers approximately 500,000 acres of lush woodlands. The forest is home to elevations ranging from 1,000 to 10,000 feet above sea level. Visitors to the scenic area will find mountains, lakes and streams as well as superb opportunities for swimming, boating, windsurfing, rock climbing, picnicking and wildlife viewing. If you're up for a hike, the Lake Margaret and Caples Creek Loop Trails are a couple of good choices.
Another national forest boasting excellent recreational opportunities is Tahoe National Forest, four hours and 10 minutes northeast of Novato. The forest, which comprises 871,495 acres, is home to the Truckee River and the Boca Reservoir, where visitors can cast their fishing lines. While you're there, you can also explore the tranquil nature trails, many of which are surrounded by majestic sequoia trees. If you're a bird-watching enthusiast, you'll want to watch for mallards, northern pintails, cinnamon teal, gadwalls, American wigeons and other avian species.
Like many natural areas in California, Pinnacles National Park, two hours and 45 minutes southeast of Novato, is known for its gorgeous landscape and amazing wildlife. The park, which was formed through volcanic eruptions millions of years ago, is covered in massive pinnacles. In addition to the impressive rock formations, the park features grasslands, forests, caves and canyons. During your visit, you can observe cool creatures like bats, eagles, condors and falcons. You can also hike the scenic trails, explore the spooky bat caves and utilize the unique formations for some exhilarating rock climbing.
Another incredible natural area worth visiting in the region is Lassen Volcanic National Park, which is three hours and 45 minutes northeast of Novato. The park is notable for its many volcanic features, which include bubbling mud pots, geysers, volcanoes and steaming fumaroles. The area also features lots of natural beauty in the form of shimmering lakes, vibrant wildflowers and majestic mountain peaks. If you head to Warner Valley within the park, you can check out Drakesbad Guest Ranch. There, you can enjoy hiking, horseback riding, swimming, fishing and soaking in a hydrothermal pool. Another great option is to stop by Lake Almanor for a day of boating, tubing or waterskiing. The area is also known for its extremely dark skies, which make it a fantastic stargazing destination.
Four and a half hours southeast of Novato, Yosemite National Park is one of the most famous national parks in the country. The 1,200-square-mile park contains waterfalls, high cliffs, ancient sequoia trees and a quiet wilderness area. There are quite a few notable landmarks throughout the park, including the majestic Yosemite Falls and the jaw-dropping Half Dome formation. Yosemite provides a lovely setting for all kinds of outdoor activities, including hiking, backpacking and wildlife viewing. If you visit during winter, you can partake in cross-country skiing, ice-skating, snowboarding, downhill skiing and tubing.
Motorhomes are divided into Class A, B, and C vehicles. On average expect to pay $185 per night for Class A, $149 per night for Class B and $179 per night for Class C. Towable RVs include 5th Wheel, Travel Trailers, Popups, and Toy Hauler. On average, in Novato, CA, the 5th Wheel trailer starts at $70 per night. Pricing for the Travel Trailer begins at $60 per night, and the Popup Trailer starts at $65 per night.
Do you need to be a certain age to rent an RV in Novato?Yes. The minimum age is 25 to be eligible to get an RV Rental in Novato from RVshare.
Does RVshare have emergency roadside assistance?Yes. Every RV rental booked through RVshare receives 24/7 emergency roadside assistance.
Does RVshare offer one way RV rentals in Novato?Yes. Prior to renting any RV, check with the owner since not all will offer this particular option.
