Santa Maria is a charming city situated along California's Central Coast. It's located in the northwest corner of Santa Barbara County. The town's original inhabitants were the Chumash people, avid fishers who frequented the Santa Maria River and the Pacific Ocean. By the late 1700s, members of the Spanish Portolá Expedition had discovered the land that is now Santa Maria. They established the Mission San Luis Obispo de Tolosa and Mission La Purísima Concepción. By the early 1800s, more European settlers set their eyes on the area. However, it wasn't till the late 1840s that the area's lands were up for grabs. It did not take long for the area to become a thriving center for agriculture and commerce. In the early 1900s, oil was discovered here. More than $640 million worth of petroleum has been removed from Santa Barbara County oil fields over the years.
Today, the area is home to over 105,000 people. Santa Maria is the 64th most populous city in the state of California. The city is now home to several thriving enterprises, including aerospace, communications, and energy businesses. The area is also home to the Foxen Canyon Wine Trail. Popular area wineries include Presqu'ile and Rancho Sisquoc.
Top area attractions include the Guadalupe-Nipomo Dunes, Santa Maria Valley Discovery Museum, and Boomer's Funpark. Santa Maria is situated between the Bay Area and Los Angeles. As such, it has become an obvious getaway for those looking to escape urban life. The Santa Maria community represents California's Central Coast at its best. The sheer number of nearby recreation spots, state parks, and national parks makes Santa Maria an excellent road trip destination.
Santa Barbara County Fair - Santa Maria Fairpark is the site of the highly anticipated Santa Barbara County Fair. This July celebration boasts a unique lineup of entertainment and activities, including live performances from local musicians and quaint agricultural competitions.
Santa Maria Valley Strawberry Festival - The Santa Maria Valley Strawberry Festival kicks off Santa Maria's bustling spring strawberry season. The berry-themed festivities typically take place during the first weekend of April.
West Coast Kustoms Cruisin Nationals - This late spring car show is held at the Santa Maria fairgrounds. The three-day event features an art show, live music, an automotive swap meet, and a car cruise.
Vintners Festival - Join the area's top vintners as they pour wine from hundreds of local wineries. This early October event takes place at various wineries throughout the Santa Ynez Valley.
Channel Islands National Park is situated just off the coast of California's Santa Barbara County. This park encompasses eight islands and a total of 250,000 acres. The park's two visitor centers are situated on the mainland nearby in Santa Barbara and Ventura. Each of the islands has an established campground. However, the closest RV accommodations are on the mainland. Popular island activities include whale watching, kayaking, and fishing.
Pinnacles National Park is another stunning central California destination. The park's large stone pinnacles were formed by ancient volcanoes. There are plenty of designated camping spots within the park. Many of the spots even offer views of the park's unique geological formations.
Sequoia National Park is a stunning forest situated just south of Kings Canyon National Park in Three Rivers, California. This park and nearby Kings Canyon are home to some of the oldest trees in the world. Lodgepole, Dorst Creek, and Grants Grove campgrounds are just a few of the designed camping areas situated within the park system.
Pismo State Beach encompasses 17 miles of Pacific shoreline. This park is an exceptionally popular destination for lovers of the beach and ocean. Oceano Campground is the only Pismo State Beach camping area that welcomes RVs and trailers. North Beach Campground, the park's second camping location, welcomes tent campers.
Gaviota State Park is home to an expansive nature park and beach. The park encompasses nearly 2,800 acres of land just outside Santa Barbara. The park is home to 34 miles of trails and 39 primitive campsites. Campsites rent for around $45 per night. The campground has a few basic amenities, including fire rings, picnic tables, showers, and restrooms.
Morro Bay State Park is a stunning space situated on the western side of San Luis Obispo County. The park encompasses a natural lagoon and a bay. It is the site of Morro Rock, a long-extinct volcano. There are several RV camping spots within the park.
Be sure to stop by the Santa Maria Historical Museum to see pictures, artifacts, and memorabilia from historic Santa Barbara County. There are over 30,000 historic photographs in the museum archives. You can purchase local memorabilia, including local history books and souvenirs, from the museum gift shop. Then head over to the Santa Maria Natural History Museum to learn more about the area's natural attractions.
Pismo Sands RV Park is located in nearby Oceano, California. This RV park boasts 133 spots. All spots come with full hookups. Additional park amenities include free Wi-Fi, free cable, a heated pool, and a children's playground.
Le Sage Riviera RV Park boasts 62 RV-ready campsites right next to the sand at Pismo Beach in Grover Beach, California. The campground can accommodate vehicles up to 43 feet, except for one spot that can accommodate a 50-foot vehicle. All RV sites come with water, sewer, and electric hookups. Guests are welcome to use the park's free Wi-Fi and cable television.
Pacific Dunes Ranch and RV Resort in California's Pismo Beach area has 229 sites and is open year-round. The park boasts breathtaking views and plenty of opportunities for outdoor recreation. Popular campground activities include horseback riding, horseshoes, hiking, and basketball.
Motorhomes are divided into Class A, B, and C vehicles. On average expect to pay $185 per night for Class A, $149 per night for Class B and $179 per night for Class C. Towable RVs include 5th Wheel, Travel Trailers, Popups, and Toy Hauler. On average, in Santa Maria, CA, the 5th Wheel trailer starts at $70 per night. Pricing for the Travel Trailer begins at $60 per night, and the Popup Trailer starts at $65 per night.
Do you need to be a certain age to rent an RV in Santa Maria?Yes. The minimum age is 25 to be eligible to get an RV Rental in Santa Maria from RVshare.
Does RVshare have emergency roadside assistance?Yes. Every RV rental booked through RVshare receives 24/7 emergency roadside assistance.
Does RVshare offer one way RV rentals in Santa Maria?Yes. Prior to renting any RV, check with the owner since not all will offer this particular option.
