Drive your rental RV approximately two hours southwest of Turlock to reach Pinnacles National Park. This park is a land of extremes. Thanks to volcanic eruptions millions of years ago, the landscape consists of distinctive rock spires and towers, boulder caves, and wildflower-filled canyons. If you enjoy climbing, this is the national park to visit. The park is divided into two areas that are linked with miles of trails. There's one campground on the eastern side of the park. The RV sites in the camp have hookups and barbecue pits. There's potable water, showers, a dump station, and even a swimming pool.
About two and a half hours northeast of Turlock is Yosemite National Park. View breathtaking waterfalls, hike beneath giant sequoias or take a guided tour on horseback. Rangers lead guided backpacking tours through the wilderness. There are several famous canyons, walls, and domes to climb. If you choose to stay in one of Yosemite's 10 RV-friendly campgrounds, you must make a reservation. Be prepared to rough it as there are no hookups in the park. Upper Pines Campground does have a dump station. The maximum length for RVs in the park is 40 feet and 35 feet for trailers. However, spaces that can handle campers that large are limited.
Kings Canyon National Park, two hours and 20 minutes southeast of Turlock, features Grant Grove and Cedar Grove which are filled with ancient groves of giant sequoia trees. Kings Canyon itself reaches a depth of 8,200 feet, making it one of the deepest in the United States — even deeper than the Grand Canyon. Two iconic, massive landmark pillars are here. The Grand Sentinel rises 8,518 feet in the Sierra Nevada mountains. A few miles away lies the Sphinx. The campgrounds in the park can accommodate RVs, but they have no hookups. There are dump stations nearby. Make your reservation at least a month in advance to ensure that you get a spot.
The McConnell State Recreation Area is just 20 minutes southeast of Turlock on the Merced River. Come to fish for catfish or black bass. Have a picnic in the designated areas, or go for a dip in the river. There are restrooms, showers, and potable water available for campers.
George J. Hatfield State Recreation Area lies 25 minutes southwest of Turlock. Go birding, sunbathe on the mile of Merced River frontage, or fish. Campsites can accommodate RVs up to 30 feet in length. Restrooms and potable water are on site.
The Turlock Lake State Recreation Area sits between Turlock Lake to the south and the Tuolumne River to the north, about 40 minutes northeast of Turlock. The lake contains boat ramps for water sports, and there's a beach for lying back to enjoy the scenery. The campground has 60 sites, many of which are accessible for RVs. Although there are no hookups, there are showers and restrooms.
Alcatraz Island, the infamous California landmark, is about three hours northwest of Turlock in San Francisco, but it's worth the trip. From 1934 until 1963, it housed some of the country's most notorious criminals.
“Star Wars” lovers will want to stop and see George Lucas Plaza. The bronze statue celebrates director, screenwriter, and producer George Lucas, who grew up in Modesto.
During the winter months of 1864 and 1865, Mark Twain lived in a cabin near Tuttletown, an hour and 20 minutes northeast of Turlock. A perfect replica of the Mark Twain Cabin remains and is considered a California historical landmark.
In Patterson, which is 35 minutes southwest of Turlock, Kit Fox RV Park offers full hookups, showers, and easy access to the freeway. If you're traveling with a four-legged friend or two, this RV park allows pets. Stay right at Yosemite's doorstep at Yosemite Lakes RV Resort. This large park, an hour and 50 minutes northeast of Turlock, has more than 400 sites. It provides full hookups, a store, game rooms, restrooms, and more. Closer to Stockton, about 50 minutes northwest of Turlock, French Camp RV Park features low rates, almost 200 sites, full hookups, laundry facilities, a gym, and even a restaurant.
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 Turlock, 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 Turlock, 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 Turlock, 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 Turlock, 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 Turlock, 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.
