Pinnacles National Park is an excellent place for rock climbing, offering various routes from easy top ropes to multi-pitch climbs along Machete Ridge. Visitors who are not into rock climbing can explore the park on the 30 miles of hiking trails ranging from easy, flat walks to more challenging all-day hikes. The park features two talus caves (also known as boulder caves) that offer guided tours during their bats' hibernation period.
Yosemite National Park is home to countless waterfalls. If you plan to see them, they flow best during the spring, right after the snow melts. Fishing, swimming, boating, and rafting along the Merced River are popular water recreational activities at the park. In winter, many visitors enjoy snowshoeing and skiing down the slopes.
Lassen Volcanic National Park has numerous lakes and streams that provide plentiful opportunities for fishing and boating. Explore over 150 miles of hiking trails that take you through volcanic peaks, mountain meadows, alpine lakes, and hydrothermal areas. Learn more about the park on a self-guided audio tour along the 30-mile park highway, and be sure to download the NPS App before visiting.
Lake Del Valle Recreation Area is ideal for boating, fishing, picnicking, horseback riding, and swimming. Boat rentals, guided tours, family programs, and a visitor center are available at the park.
Mount Diablo State Park has an extensive system for hiking, biking, and horseback riding. There are more than 50 picnic sites with barbecue stoves and picnic tables, plus three group picnic areas that hold up to 50 people. Mount Diablo became a California-registered historical landmark in 1976. You can learn more about the park at the Rock City Visitor Center.
Brannan Island State Recreation Area is the gateway to 700 miles of rivers, marshes, levees, sloughs, and river channels that make up the Sacramento-San Joaquin River Delta. Anglers have been known to catch bass, sturgeon, bluegill, salmon, and shad in the river. There is also a beach area where visitors can relax, swim, and float.
You will find lots of California landmarks spread throughout the state. One located near Pleasanton is the Monterey Bay Aquarium. Fantastic exhibits at the aquarium include playful sea otters, swirling sardines, mesmerizing jellies, and flashy fish. Explore the waters of Monterey Bay through the hourglass-shaped display over 90 feet long, where sharks glide through the deep reef and giant sea bass lumber.
The Golden Gate Bridge attracts more than 10 million visitors yearly to take in its incredible 746-foot-tall towers, Art Deco styling, signature international orange color, and sweeping main cables. The bridge's welcome center offers historical information, merchandise, and souvenirs. Learn the bridge's construction's science, history, and engineering through interactive and stationary exhibits.
Alcatraz Island reveals the complex history of American incarceration, common humanity, and justice that took place over the years when the island served as a military prison, a fort, and a maximum-security federal penitentiary. Visitors can touch its concrete walls, hear the voices of its former residents, and experience the island's isolation. The only way to arrive or depart is via the Alcatraz City Cruises.
The Fair Park RV Campground sits inside Alameda County Fairgrounds. It has camping spaces that accommodate RVs up to 80 feet long with water, sewer, and electrical services. Another great campground nearby is the Orwood Resort, with hookup and non-hookup sites. The camp has a general store, private sandy beach, full-service bar and grill, fuel dock, and wet berths. Garden City RV Park is an excellent place to spend the night while exploring the fantastic city of San Jose, offering full hookup access, Wi-Fi, and a storage shed to increase your living space while you stay.
Do I maintain or service the motorhome rental during my rental period?
No, it is the responsibility of the RVshare owner to ensure the motorhome is properly maintained and serviced before your rental period. Just take good care of your rental and keep it clean.
Are there any special driving considerations or techniques I should know when operating a motorhome rental in Pleasanton, CA?
Yes, motorhomes are larger and heavier than most passenger vehicles, so it is important to allow for more time and space when turning, merging, or stopping. Additionally, it is recommended to drive slower than the posted speed limit and to use caution when driving in windy or wet conditions.
How do I properly level and stabilize a motorhome at my campsite or RV park?
Motorhomes typically have built-in leveling jacks or blocks that can be adjusted to ensure the RV is level and stable. Some RV parks may also provide leveling pads or blocks if needed. Discuss your campsite with the RV owner ahead of time and they can provide you guidance on stabilizing.
What kind of maintenance or upkeep do I need to perform on the interior and exterior during my rental period?
You should keep the interior clean and tidy, empty waste tanks as needed, and report any damages or malfunctions to the RVshare owner. Exterior maintenance such as checking tire pressure is also recommended.
Does my motorhome rental come with bedding, linens, or other items I would consider to be personal?
This varies by RVshare owner. Some owners may include bedding and linens, while others may require renters to bring their own. It is best to check with the owner prior to renting.
Should I bring entertainment equipment or appliances for the motorhome rental?
While some motorhomes may come equipped with entertainment options or appliances, it is always a good idea to bring your own if desired. However, be mindful of any limitations on power usage or space restrictions. Check the RV listing or ask the RV owner what kind of entertainment is included.
Are there any limitations on where I can park or store a motorhome rental in Pleasanton, CA, such as zoning laws or homeowners' association regulations?
There may be restrictions on where motorhomes can be parked or stored in certain areas. It is best to research local laws and regulations or to ask the RVshare owner for guidance.
What fuel efficiency considerations do I need to consider when operating a motorhome rental?
Motorhomes are not typically known for their fuel efficiency, but there are steps you can take to improve gas mileage such as driving at a lower speed, avoiding excessive idling, and keeping tires properly inflated.
How do I properly operate and maintain the various systems in a motorhome rental?
The RVshare owner should provide you with detailed instructions and manuals for operating and maintaining the various systems in the motorhome. It is important to follow these instructions carefully to ensure proper use and prevent damage.
Are any unique features or amenities available in motorhome rentals that may not be found in other RVs in Pleasanton, CA?
This varies by RV owner and motorhome class, but some motorhomes may have unique features such as slide-outs, outdoor kitchens, or luxury finishes that may not be found in other types of RVs.