Located just off Ventura's coast, Channel Islands National Park covers five of the area’s eight channel islands, offering a total of around 250,000 acres of terrain to explore. While you are there, you can learn about the indigenous history of the islands or enjoy a number of outdoor activities including hiking, biking, kayaking, fishing, bird-watching, and exploring other sea life.
A short trip further inland will take you to Sequoia National Park where you can explore forests full of some of the world’s largest trees perched high atop the majestic Sierra Nevada mountains. Although hiking is the park's most popular activity, you can also ski, snowshoe, rock climb, or explore the park on horseback.
Located right next to Sequoia National Park is Kings Canyon National Park, where you can visit the General Grant Tree, which was proclaimed by President Calvin Coolidge to be “The Nation’s Christmas Tree.”
Located right in Ventura, Emma Wood State Beach was named after Emma Grubb Wood, a local sheep rancher who found rich reserves of oil beneath her property. The park is now a popular destination for fishing, swimming, hiking, and surfing.
If you head about 15 miles up the coast towards Santa Barbara, you can visit Carpinteria State Park, where you can pick up shells and snails from the shallow tide pools that line the shores of this park or go whale watching in the winter.
A short trip south will take you to Point Mugu State Park where in just a single day you can walk on a sandy beach beneath rocky cliffs, hike through the shade of a river canyon, or wander across a valley nestled deep in the Santa Monica Mountains.
Ventura lies in the heart of an area steeped in history. While you are in the area, you will want to check out the George Washington Faulkner House, located just up Highway 126 in Santa Paula. The Queen Anne-style house was built in 1894 and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. In Ventura, you can visit the Santa Gertrudis Asistencia, or Santa Gertrudis Chapel, which was a "sub-mission" to the Mission San Buenaventura. Although the original location was buried in 1968 by the construction of California State Route 33, prior to demolition, archaeologists excavated the site and moved a number of foundation stones to create the Santa Gertrudis Asistencia Monument.
As a popular tourist destination, there are a number of RV parks and campgrounds to choose from in Ventura County. If you prefer a more central location with easy access to Los Angeles and local conveniences, you might enjoy a stay at the Evergreen RV Park. If you prefer a smaller, more quiet park, you might enjoy the Mountain View RV Park in nearby Santa Paula.
For those who want to be right on the beach and enjoy stunning panoramic views and scenic vistas, you might enjoy a stay at the Ventura Beach RV Resort. Located right across the street from the Ventura County Fairgrounds, you can walk to both the Ventura River and the Pacific Ocean from this resort. When you've finished soaking up the sun for the day or doing other outdoor activities, you can relax in this resort's spacious clubhouse.
How do I properly pack and store my belongings inside a camper van rental, and what storage options are available?
When renting a Class B motorhome from an RVshare owner, there are typically several storage options available for your belongings. You can utilize overhead storage compartments, under-bench storage, and even cabinets for heavier items. When packing your belongings, it's best to use soft-sided luggage or collapsible containers to save on space. Keep items secure while driving by using bungee cords or tension rods to prevent shifting during travel.
Can I drive a camper van rental in Ventura, CA without prior experience, and are there any special driving considerations I should know?
Driving a Class B motorhome rental is typically similar to driving a regular car, but there are a few things to keep in mind. Make sure to adjust your mirrors before setting off and be aware of the height and length of your vehicle. It's also advisable to take a test drive around the RVshare owner's neighborhood to familiarize yourself with the handling and braking of the vehicle before embarking on your trip.
What kind of maintenance or upkeep do I need to perform on the camper van rental during my rental period?
The owner of the RV is responsible for maintenance. Renters should keep the RV clean and handle with care to avoid any damages. You may need to empty the water tanks depending on your agreement with the RV owner.
Do I need to know any weight or height restrictions when driving a camper van motorhome rental in Ventura, CA?
It's important to know the height and weight restrictions of your camper van rental in order to avoid accidents or getting stuck in low clearance areas, especially when traveling on highways or bridges. It's also advisable to check local regulations regarding weight limits when driving on certain roads.
Can I park or store a Class B motorhome rental in a regular parking spot or garage in Ventura, CA, or are there specific requirements for parking and storage?
Parking a Class B motorhome rental in a regular spot or garage can be challenging due to the size of the vehicle. It's important to check local regulations and parking restrictions before setting off on your trip. RVshare owners may also provide guidance on where it is safe to park or store the vehicle.
What fuel efficiency considerations do I need to consider when driving a Class B motorhome rental, and how can I minimize the impact on my fuel costs?
Most Class B motorhomes are relatively fuel efficient, but it's important to be mindful of your driving habits in order to minimize fuel costs. Avoid idling the engine unnecessarily, accelerate smoothly, and avoid excessive speeding. It's also a good idea to plan your route before departing in order to avoid getting lost or taking unnecessary detours.
Are any particular features or amenities available in a camper van rental that may not be found in other RVs in Ventura, CA?
Features and amenities vary depending on the model of the Class B motorhome rental, but some popular options include a built-in microwave, refrigerator, and TV/DVD player. Some models may also include a shower and toilet, while others may not. Check the listing details on RVshare for all of the available amenities for each rental.
How do I correctly set up and use the kitchen and bathroom facilities in a Class B motorhome rental?
Each RVshare owner may have different instructions for using the kitchen and bathroom facilities in their Class B motorhome rental. In the bathroom, there may be a shower and/or toilet that needs to be hooked up to water and sewage sources. RVshare owners will typically provide instruction manuals or walkthroughs of the rental vehicle's features.
Should I bring my entertainment equipment or appliances for the camper van rental, such as a portable grill or music player?
While some Class B motorhome rentals may include entertainment equipment or appliances, such as a grill or music player, it's always a good idea to double-check with the RVshare owner about what amenities are included in the rental. If you have specific entertainment preferences, you may want to bring your own equipment or devices.
Are any specific campgrounds or RV parks in Ventura, CA particularly well-suited for a camper van and what amenities or features do they offer?
There are many campgrounds and RV parks in Ventura, CA that are well-suited for Class B motorhome rentals. Some popular amenities include electrical hookups, dump stations for sewage, and picnic tables. It's important to research and reserve a spot in advance to ensure availability during your trip. RVshare owners may also have recommendations for great campsites or RV parks in the area.
