Picnicking, stargazing, rock-climbing, and spelunking keep locals coming back to Pinnacles National Park again and again. There are 16,000 acres of mountainous wilderness to explore.
Yosemite National Park is among the most-visited national parks in America. Yosemite is known for its breathtaking waterfalls. There are over 750 miles of hiking trails ranging from easy hikes and guided tours to advanced ventures deep into the High Sierras.
Kings Canyon National Park protects ancient groves of sequoia trees, crystal-clear mountain lakes, and unique rock formations. Photographers and sightseers will enjoy impressive views of the Sierra Mountains and the towering sequoia. Hiking, horseback riding, and camping are the most popular activities in the park.
Big Basin Redwoods State Park is California's oldest state park and is only 30 minutes from Soquel. Ancient coast redwoods and a rich variety of other plant and animal life are found in the park, with elevations ranging from sea level to 2,000 feet. Hiking trails bring you past waterfalls and other beautiful sights.
New Brighton State Beach is nearby and offers expansive shoreline views and easily accessible campgrounds, including over 100 sites for RVs. It became a state park in 1933 and is known for its great wildlife viewing opportunities. You can see a variety of birds alongside marine mammals such as dolphins, whales, and sea otters.
The Forest of Nisene Marks State Park is 10 minutes away from the center of Soquel, making it the perfect place to break from urban life and picnic or take a short hike. While there's no camping available at The Forest of Nisene Marks, the 30 miles of trails in this enchanting and heavily forested area can be enjoyed regardless of how long you stay.
The Monterey Bay Aquarium is 40 minutes south of Soquel, in Monterey, California, and is one of the top landmarks in California. This famous, deeply educational aquarium employs some of the country's top marine biologists and offers visitors delightful exhibits and exciting marine life.
Head north to San Francisco and you'll find the Golden Gate Bridge, one of the most famous and photographed landmarks in the world. It's a must-see for anyone visiting the area.
Less than 30 minutes away from Soquel is the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk. The boardwalk is featured in classic films such as "Harold and Maude" and "The Lost Boys." This ocean-side amusement park offers thrilling rides and lovely views of the Pacific.
The Santa Cruz / Monterey Bay KOA Holiday is right on the beach and perfect for a family affair. It has numerous playgrounds, a camp store, and a kitchen on site. The Mari Dunes RV Park is ideal for beachside campers wanting to bring their RVs and offers plenty of amenities, including laundry facilities and showers. From Santa Cruz Harbor RV Park, you'll find views of the marina just outside your window, and each site has sewer, electricity, and water hookups. There are many other great choices for campgrounds and RV parks near Monterey for more ideas and details.
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 Soquel, 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 Soquel, 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 Soquel, 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 Soquel, 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 Soquel, 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.
