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 load and secure my recreational equipment in the toy hauler rental, such as ATVs or dirt bikes, and are there any weight or size limitations I need to be aware of?
It is important to properly load and secure your recreational equipment in the toy hauler rental to ensure safety during travel. Most toy haulers come equipped with tie-downs and rails specifically designed for securing equipment. It is important to follow the manufacturer's guidelines for weight capacity and loading instructions. You should also check with the owner of the RVshare rental for any specific instructions or recommendations.
What kind of maintenance or upkeep do I need on the toy hauler rental's garage area, and what kind of tools or equipment do I need for this?
Proper maintenance of the toy hauler is handled by the RV owner. As the renter you are responsible for being cautious and following instructions to avoid damages, as well as keeping the trailer clean and in the condition you found it.
Are there any special insurance considerations or requirements when renting a toy hauler, particularly regarding the transport of recreational equipment?
RVshare rentals always come with insurance, with three options to choose from to best suit your needs.
How do I properly level and stabilize a toy hauler rental at my campsite or RV park, and what equipment or tools do I need?
Discuss your specific campsite with the RV owner to determine if leveling and stabilization of the toy hauler rental is needed for optimal comfort and safety.
Can I bring fuel and oil for my recreational equipment, or should I purchase these items after reaching my destination?
It is generally recommended to purchase fuel and oil for your recreational equipment after reaching your destination. Many RV parks and campgrounds have restrictions on fuel storage for safety reasons.
What kind of towing vehicle do I need to rent a toy hauler, and are there any special licensing or certification requirements for operating this vehicle in Turlock, CA?
The type of towing vehicle needed for a toy hauler rental will depend on the weight and towing capacity of the toy hauler itself. It is important to check with the owner of the RVshare rental for any specific requirements or recommendations. Typically a standard driver’s license is required to tow a toy hauler.
Can I use the garage area of a toy hauler rental to store items other than recreational equipment, and what weight limitations exist for these items?
The garage area of a toy hauler rental can typically be used to store items other than recreational equipment, such as bicycles or camping gear. However, it is important to follow any weight capacity guidelines provided by the manufacturer or rental owner to ensure safe operation.
Are any particular features or amenities available in toy hauler rentals that may not be found in other RVs in Turlock, CA?
Toy hauler rentals often come equipped with unique features and amenities not found in other types of RVs. These can include a garage area for storing and transporting recreational equipment, folding beds or bunks, and outdoor living spaces. Checking with the rental owner for specific features and amenities can help you choose the best option for your travel needs.