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 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 Ventura, 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 Ventura, 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 Ventura, 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 Ventura, 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 Ventura, 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.