RV Rental Santa Clarita, CA

Explore Santa Clarita, California in an RVshare RV Rental

The first settlers in Santa Clarita were the Tataviam Indians. In 1769, the area was explored by Gaspar de Portola, who named the region Santa Clara for its river. However, the name was already being used in the San Francisco Bay area, so to avoid further confusion, it was renamed, Santa Clarita. In the early 19th century, the Spaniards built an agricultural outpost in the valley. In 1839, the territory became part of the Rancho San Francisco land grant to Antonio Del Valle.

Del Valle established a cattle and sheep ranching center, and it was prosperous until a severe drought wiped the economy out in the 1860s. During this time, oil became a significant part of the industry, and California’s first refinery was built. The railways connected the valley with San Francisco and Los Angeles during the same year. The film industry took off in Santa Clarita shortly after the start of the 20th century. This encouraged western actors to live here, including John Wayne, William S. Hart, Gene Autry, Tom Mix, and Harry Carey. 

While you’re visiting Santa Clarita, stop in at Vasquez Nature Area and Nature Center to explore the 932 acres of seasonal streams and spectacular rock formations. There are places to picnic, hike, camp, and watch a movie. Another popular spot is the Reyes Winery off the Sierra Highway in Santa Clarita, where you can participate in a wine tasting of their handcrafted cabernet, sauvignon, merlot, and syrah wines. 

Events Near Santa Clarita, California

• Santa Clarita Cowboy Festival – At this two-day event, you can walk through rich western heritage displays, listen to live music, and shop for cowboy accessories during April at William S. Hart Park in Newhall.

• 9th Annual Wheelchair Sports Festival – This two-day sporting event features 15 adaptive recreational activities to watch as competitive individuals strive to excel in their sports of choice. The event is held in spring at the Santa Clarita Sports Complex. 

• Santa Clarita Boots & Brews Country Music Festival - This one-day country music festival is a fabulous celebration of delicious foods, great music, and ice-cold beer in June at Central Park.