Pinnacles National Park is about an hour and a half southeast of Santa Clara. Towering volcanic rock formations, bat caves, native wildlife, and more await you here.
If you drive roughly four hours east of Santa Clara, you'll reach the entrance to stunning Yosemite National Park. Hiking, mountain climbing, and camping are common activities at this park.
Lassen Volcanic National Park is four hours and 45 minutes north of Santa Clara, but it's just three hours north of Sacramento. After you've hiked or ridden past geysers, volcanoes, mud pots, and fumaroles, you can get a massage at Drakesbad Guest Ranch and gaze at the stars, thanks to the park's location in an area with little light pollution.
You can be at Portola Redwoods State Park after driving an hour west of Santa Clara. Nearly 20 miles of trails take visitors through groves of giant redwoods, past waterfalls, and into the rugged backcountry.
Lake Del Valle State Recreation Area is 50 minutes east of Santa Clara and a little over half an hour east of Fremont. Lake Del Valle is an excellent place to fish, boat, kayak, and sail; the park's trails are great locations for hiking and horseback riding.
An hour southwest of Santa Clara, you’ll find Big Basin Redwoods State Park. Hikers, riders, and bikers love exploring this park via its 80 miles of trails that wind through ancient redwood groves and old-growth forests.
Since Santa Clara is close to San Francisco, visiting fascinating landmarks is easy. The most well-known of these landmarks is the Golden Gate Bridge, which is San Francisco's iconic steel suspension bridge constructed in the 1930s. The Presidio of San Francisco, Battery Spencer, and the Golden Gate View Point are all great places to view this architectural wonder.
Just east of the Golden Gate Bridge is Alcatraz Island, which is the home of what remains of the infamous Alcatraz Federal Penitentiary. You'll get to learn about Al Capone, Machine Gun Kelly, the Birdman of Alcatraz, and more when you tour this legendary island.
If you travel an hour and 20 minutes south of Santa Clara, you'll be able to explore the Monterey Bay Aquarium. This fabulous aquarium right on Monterey Bay contains more than 80,000 aquatic plants and animals within over 200 exhibits.
One high-quality RV campground near Santa Clara is Coyote Valley RV Resort, which is 20 minutes southeast of Santa Clara in Morgan Hill. Free coffee, a putting green, a fitness center, and private patios are some of the amenities offered here. Just 15 minutes southeast of Coyote Valley is Maple Leaf RV Park, which is also in Morgan Hill. Full hookups, big-rig sites, showers, laundry facilities, and more are available here. If you want to camp near old-growth redwoods, then Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park may be your ideal campground. This state park is 45 minutes southwest of Santa Clara and has pull-through sites that can accommodate campers as long as 35 feet.
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 Santa Clara, 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 Santa Clara, 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 Santa Clara, 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 Santa Clara, 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 Santa Clara, 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.
