From the turbulent waters of the Pacific Ocean crashing into coastal rocks along the Oregon Coast to the towering forests of California’s awe-inspiring Coastal Redwoods to the world-famous wine region, Napa Valley, to the second tallest Cascade Volcano, Mount Shasta, this Portland to Northern California road trip itinerary is packed with highlights!
From hiking spectacular trails and driving scenic byways to sipping wine and relaxing by a lake you’ll want to spend 7 days exploring the many diverse highlights Oregon and Northern California have to offer. And there’s no better way to do so than in an Escape Camper Van! Travel with comfort and ease in a compact mobile vacation home on wheels!
Travel Time from Portland to Northern California and back to Portland
The week-long loop from Escape Camper Vans in Portland to Northern California and back to Portland takes 25 hours to drive and covers 1,350 miles.
This route includes driving the Oregon Coast south, continuing along the Northern California Coast, heading east to Napa Valley, and finally heading north to Mount Shasta, via I-5 on the way back to Portland.
Best Time of Year for a Portland to Northern California and back to Portland
It’s possible to take a road trip from Portland to Northern California at any time of year but each season offers a different experience.
Spring
If you enjoy wildflowers and waterfalls, spring is a spectacular time to road trip from Portland to Northern California. The forests come to life following the winter rains, and even snow in some regions!
From late March to mid-May you’ll beat the summer break crowds so it’s a great time to explore here. Of course, temperatures are cooler than in the summer so pack layers and a couple of extra blankets to stay warm while walking on the beach or when sipping wine from the back of your camper van!
Summer
Summer is the most popular time to road trip from Portland to Northern California. The weather is warm, even very hot in some areas, and sun is almost guaranteed throughout the summer. It’s a great time to swim in lakes, relax in the shade, and go hiking.
Of course, great weather means larger crowds; so book campsites well in advance and start your days early to avoid lines.
Fall
Fall brings comfortable temperatures and changing leaves making the Oregon Coast and Northern California region a beautiful place to visit. Crowds decrease as kids go back to school and you’ll find a little more peace away from others on hiking trails.
Temperatures start to drop in the fall and it’s rainier than in the summer so pack layers! But overall, fall is a great time to road trip from Portland to Northern California.
Winter
If you’re ok with a bit of rain, a winter Portland to Northern California road trip is not a bad option. Very few tourists visit these destinations in the winter so you’ll definitely avoid the crowds.
You might not get the best views of the Pacific Ocean if it’s raining but the moody Redwood forests come to life following winter rains. Views on Mount Shasta are hit or miss – it’s stunning when covered in a fresh coat of snow but visiting the area during a storm brings logistical travel challenges. So check the weather before you head out!
Preparation for a Portland to Northern California Road Trip
Now that you’ve booked your campervan, here are a few tips to get you ready for your Portland to Northern California road trip.
Book Campsites in Advance
If you’re traveling in the busy season from the end of May to early September, book your campsites as far in advance as possible. With school breaks and summer weather, this is a busy time to travel!
Outside of the busy season, many campsites become first-come, first-served or campsites close for the season so do a little research if traveling from November to March.
Go Grocery Shopping
The Oregon and California coasts are pretty remote in some areas. Dining opportunities are limited and large grocery stores are even more limited. Try to do a big grocery store before you head out of Portland!
Fuel Up
This route has a number of gas stations along it, except minimal services in Redwoods National Park; so fuel up before getting there.
**Bonus Tip – gas is WAY cheaper in Oregon than in California so plan to fill up on your way in and out of the state!
Pack a Rechargeable Battery
It’s nice to keep your devices going when out exploring. You can only charge electronics when the camper van is running so if you want to keep your phone going at night or when hiking on a trail, a rechargeable battery is good to have.
Check Weather and Road Conditions Before Heading Out
A road trip to such beautiful places means dealing with occasionally unpredictable weather. Always check up on road and weather conditions before you hit the road in case you need to create a backup plan.
Pack Layers
You’ll visit many destinations along this trip in varying weather climates. Napa Valley is the warmest region you’ll visit. Temperatures along the coast vary based on sunshine and wind. In the mountain region of Mount Shasta, higher elevations are much cooler. Clothing layers are the best way to pack!
Portland to Northern California Road Trip Stops
Start your Portland to Northern California road trip adventure driving along the Oregon Coast. Just before you cross the border into California the road narrows and the tall trees begin to tower above you. Before you know it, you’re exploring Redwoods National Park!
Continue south along California’s coast for the most scenic vistas and spend an evening watching the sunset in the quaint town of Mendocino. It’s a perfect mid-way point as you carry on to Napa Valley the next day to taste some world-class wine.
Wrap your trip up by driving back north on I-5 but don’t pass up the opportunity to visit Mount Shasta, one of the tallest Cascade Volcanoes, before you return your Escape Camper Van in Portland after a week of fun adventure!
Day 1: Oregon Coast
Start your drive by heading west to the Oregon Coast. The drive down the 101 is the most scenic route to reach the California Redwoods!
The week-long loop from Escape Camper Vans in Portland to Northern California and back to Portland takes 25 hours to drive and covers 1,350 miles.
This route includes driving the Oregon Coast south, continuing along the Northern California Coast, heading east to Napa Valley, and finally heading north to Mount Shasta, via I-5 on the way back to Portland.
Along the way, you’ll pass through small coastal towns while cruising alongside the Pacific Ocean on your right and past rolling farm hills on your left. The iconic cliffs and coastlines you see photos of – many of those spots are from beaches along the Oregon Coast!
Things To Do along the Oregon Coast
Once you reach the Oregon Coast there are many scenic pull-offs to enjoy. The Sea Lion Caves are a great spot to really get to know the locals! This wildlife preserve and bird sanctuary is a good spot to stretch your legs and enjoy the native wildlife.
As you continue south you’ll soon pass Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area. It’s a unique place, home to one of the world’s largest stretches of coastal sand dunes located in a temperate climate. There are many hiking trails, campgrounds, dunes, and even thirty lakes that you can explore throughout the area.
Head to Samuel H. Boardman State Scenic Corridor to enjoy the beautiful Oregon coastline where steep thick forests meet sandy beaches. This coastline is rugged but impressive. It’s a great spot for hiking, sunset watching, and the occasional whale-spotting opportunity!
Oregon Coast Camping
Tillicum Beach Campground is located right along the coast, just south of Newport Oregon. It’s a year-round campground with beachfront views. Sites have picnic tables, fire rings, drinking water, and flushing toilets. Reserve your site ahead from late May to early September to guarantee a spot.
Half Moon Bay Park and Campground are located right next to Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area, alongside the Pacific Ocean. It’s the perfect spot to camp and explore the dunes! Sites have fire rings, picnic tables, and toilets. There is close access to swimming and hiking trails.
Harris Beach State Park is a year-round campground located right along the coast. It’s a great spot for wildlife watching and hiking. Sites have toilets, drinking water, picnic tables, and fire grates.
Days 2 – 3: Redwood National and State Parks
As you continue down the Oregon Coast you’ll eventually cross the border into Northern California. From there, you’re only a short drive from the northernmost parts of Redwood National and State Parks.
Redwood National and State Parks is a national park complex made up of 3 state parks: Jedediah Smith Redwoods State Park, Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park, and Del Norte Coast Redwoods State Park. The parks flow into one another and are connected by main routes. From famous scenic byways to plentiful hiking trails there are plenty of ways to explore this region.
Things To Do in Redwood National Park
Drive the scenic Avenue of Giants when visiting Redwood National Park. The 31-mile road runs parallel to Highway 101 and offers breathtaking views through one of the most scenic stretches of Northern California redwoods.
Without stops, plan to spend at least two hours driving the route. The roads are windy and slow but offer many pull-off opportunities for photos. You could easily spend a whole day hiking and exploring along the byway.
Another fantastic but slightly shorter scenic drive is the 10-mile Newton B. Drury Scenic Parkway in Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park.
Without stopping, you could drive this route in 20 minutes but the towering redwoods will leave you stopping at pullouts the whole way. There are many hiking trails off of Newton B. Drury Scenic Parkway.
The Big Tree Wayside located in Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park is one of the quickest and most easily accessible options to see many large old-growth redwoods in the park.
Choose from a flat 200-yard stroll around the “Big Tree”, one of the most popular trees in the park, or carry on and walk the “Circle Trail” to see several other large trees along the way. The Big Tree Wayside is located right off Newton B. Drury Scenic Parkway.
Redwoods National Park isn’t just known for the towering redwoods. The wet environment is also known for various bright green fauna and waterfalls. Trillium Falls is a can’t-miss spot if you enjoy hiking and dense green forests.
The hike to and from Trillium Falls is a mile with 200 feet of elevation gain. Turn back at the hiker’s bridge or carry on past the falls to explore deeper into the old-growth redwood forest.
Camping in Redwood National Park
Elk Prairie Campground is a year-round campground with 75 sites in Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park. The campground has toilets, potable water, showers, and fire rings. Elk Prairie Campground costs $35 a night and requires reservations from May to October.
Camp right on the Pacific Coast while watching elk graze at Gold Bluffs Beach Campground in Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park. The 26-site campground is open year-round and has showers, toilets, potable water, and fire rings. Sites go for $35 a night.
Mill Creek Campground is situated among young redwoods and tall maples. Located in Del Norte Coast Redwoods State Park, the 145-site campground is located just south of Crescent City. Mill Creek Campground is open from mid-May to early October. Sites are $35 a night and have potable water, flushing toilets, and hot showers.
Camp among old-growth redwoods along the Smith River at Jedediah Smith Campground. The 86-site campground is located near Crescent City and has showers, water, and fire pits. Sites cost $35 a night. Reservations are required from May through September. Jedediah Smith Campground is first-come first-served from October to April.
Places to Eat in Redwood National Park
Redwood National Park does not have any restaurants or food vendors in the park itself. Check out nearby towns including Eureka, Crescent City, Klamath, Orick, and Trinidad for food and snack options.
Day 4: Mendocino
As you continue south along the coast from Redwood National and State Parks you’ll next pass through the town of Mendocino. This coastal community is known for its state parks, quaint town, and restaurants. It’s the perfect midway point between the Redwoods and Napa Valley!
Things To Do in Mendocino
Mendocino Headlands State Park is an impressive park located right on the coast with rugged bluffs and inlets right in Mendocino. The park has two beaches and is connected to the Big River unit which spans eight miles along the nearby Big River. Hike the Bluffs Trail for a few minutes or a few miles. It’s a stunning sunset spot.
Russian Gulch State Park is located just a couple miles north of Mendocino. It’s home to 15 miles of hiking trails offering coastal walks and shaded leafy forest strolls alongside waterfalls. Explore the fern canyon, walk along the coastal headlands, wander among redwoods, or photograph the famous Russian Gulch Bridge.
The Point Cabrillo Lighthouse was completed in 1909 and stands tall in front of the rugged headlands of Point Cabrillo Light Station State Historic Park. The lighthouse has been fully restored and is open daily from 11 am to 4 pm. The surrounding area is a great spot to enjoy sunrise and sunset.
Glass Beach is located about 20 minutes north of Mendocino in Fort Bragg. As its name states, the beach is covered in sea glass. Garbage was dumped into the sea nearby for decades which later created this sea glass. Despite its unfortunate origins, the unique and colorful beach is commonly photographed and enjoyed by many.
Wander across 47 acres of stunning botanical gardens alongside the Pacific Ocean. The Mendocino Coast Botanical Gardens feature a rich and diverse display of plants ranging from wetlands and coastal bluffs to canyons and close-cone pine forests.
Camping in Mendocino
Van Damme State Park Campground is a 65-site year-round campground just 3 miles south of Mendocino. The state park offers plenty of hiking opportunities and campsites surrounded by dense forests. Sites cost $45 a night and have bathrooms, water, showers, and fire grates.
Just two miles north of Mendocino’s downtown sits the Russian Gulch State Park Campground. Open seasonally from May to September the campground has 26 campsites with flushing toilets, water, showers, fire rings, and picnic tables. The park is covered with ferns and waterfalls. Sites cost $45 a night.
Places to Eat in Mendocino
10483 Lansing St, Mendocino, CA 95460
Stop by GoodLife Cafe & Bakery for a cup of fair-trade coffee and organic cafe bites including, New York-style bagels, salads, entrees, desserts, and fair-trade coffee. Dine inside or out front on the sunny deck while enjoying breakfast, lunch, or dinner!
45040 Main St, Mendocino, CA 95460
Dine at Flow Restaurant & Lodge while taking in views of the Pacific on the outdoor patio or from the waterfront bar. Featuring many organic and local globally inspired dishes you can’t go wrong at Flow. There are plenty of vegan and gluten-free dishes as well as local and organic meats and vegetables.
45104 Main St, Mendocino, CA 95460
Fog Eater Cafe serves classic California vegetarian cuisine right in downtown Mendocino. The fresh plant-based dishes are sourced right from Mendocino and Sonoma counties. From gluten-free and vegan dishes to local beer and wine-based cocktails Fog Eater Cafe has something for all diners.
Days 5 – 6 Napa Valley
If you love wine then no trip from Portland to Northern California is complete without a stop in Napa Valley. It’s one of the world’s premier wine destinations with over 400 wineries and tasting rooms to choose from.
And the experience goes beyond wine tasting. Take a walk or a hot air balloon ride above a stunning valley. Dine at an authentic restaurant in one of the many small towns. Head to a market for local food and craft products. The exploration options in Napa Valley are plentiful.
Things To Do in Napa Valley
Castello di Amorosa is one of the most iconic wineries in Napa. Famous for its authentic 14th-century Tuscan Castle, there’s no other winery in Napa that looks like this.
The medieval castle has a drawbridge, moat, five towers, courtyards, chapel, stables, a torture chamber and more. The castle enhances your wine-tasting experience, not that it’s needed with such a great selection of Napa Valley’s finest wines to choose from.
Beringer Vineyard wins the title of Napa’s oldest continuously operating winery. With over 140 years of winemaking experience and a historic property displaying fine craftsmanship, Beringer is another popular winery to check out when visiting Napa Valley.
Napa’s Oxbow Public Market is a riverside marketplace filled with food vendors, local produce, and craft artisan work. It’s the perfect spot to stop in Napa on a couple’s date or a family trip. From an oyster co to homemade chocolates to cheese, spices, and a distillery, there’s plenty to enjoy at the Oxbow Public Market.
Explore the quaint city of St. Helena is located in the north of Napa Valley. The streets of the small city are filled with boutiques, restaurants, cafes, and olive oil and wine-tasting rooms. Downtown St. Helena is the perfect place to dine for lunch or dinner while visiting Napa.
Hop on the historic Napa Valley Wine Train to coast through Napa’s landscape while enjoying local wine and cuisine onboard. Choose from a variety of tasting experiences onboard while shuttling between your stops at some of Napa’s famous wineries.
Start your morning in Napa in a hot air balloon ride above the valley! It’s one of the most unique and spectacular ways to explore the region. Take in views of the manicured vineyards surrounded by the rolling hills rising above the valley and on a clear day, you’ll even catch views of the Pacific Coastline!
Camping in Napa Valley
Bothe-Napa Valley State Park is located in Calistoga in the northern part of Napa Valley. It’s one of the only camping areas in the valley and a lovely spot for close access to wine tasting while sleeping among the dense forest of coastal redwoods and Douglas firs.
The campground is open year-round. Reservations are always recommended and remaining spots are available first-come, first-served.
Spanish Flat Campground is located on Lake Berryessa just a 30-minute drive from Napa Valley. It’s the perfect spot to enjoy nature and lake sites with close access to wine tasting. Hiking, fishing, boating, and wildlife watching are popular here.
Steele Canyon Campground is located on Lake Berryessa, about a 45-minute drive east of Napa Valley. Enjoy the sites of Lake Berryessa or take out a boat or paddleboard to explore. Steele Canyon Campground offers easy access to hiking, swimming, boating, and fishing.
Places to Eat in Napa Valley
Napa Valley spans 30 miles long from north to south. Throughout the valley are many small towns with cute downtowns and a variety of dining options from cafes to 5-star Michelin restaurants. Olive oil-tasting rooms, wine-tasting experiences, local ice cream parlors, and boutiques fill the streets. Some notable towns to check out are Calistoga, St. Helena, and Napa itself.
Days 7 – 8: Mount Shasta
As you head back north to return your Escape Camper Van in Portland, the quickest route is I-5. This is possibly the most scenic stretch of California’s I-5 because of the stunning views of Mount Shasta towering above the horizon for miles.
So, while you’re passing through you might as well make at least a pit stop, or even better, spend a full day and night exploring the region of the 14,180-foot-tall Cascade Volcano. From relaxing at Lake Siskiyou to strolling along one of the many hiking trails, you don’t want to miss out on this stunning region.
Things To Do in Mount Shasta
Everitt Memorial Highway is a windy road that takes you to the highest drivable point on Mount Shasta – 8,000 feet up. It’s a scenic drive that offers plentiful access to hiking trails and dispersed campsites along the way.
Enjoy views of Mount Shasta, the surrounding national forest, and on a clear day, even Lassen Peak in the distance! Everitt Memorial Highway opens when clear of snow; plowing starts in the late spring to early summer.
Make sure you stop by Lake Siskiyou when visiting Mount Shasta. On a clear, calm day Lake Siskiyou is the most wonderful spot to take in the reflection of the massive volcano reflecting beautifully in the lake. It’s also a popular spot for swimming, fishing, boating, kayaking, SUPing and more!
A short drive from the town of Mount Shasta is the trailhead for Castle Lake and Heart Lake. The 3-mile out-and-back trail takes hikers up to two scenic lakes offering incredible views of Mount Shasta and the surrounding national forests. And you guessed it – one of those lakes is heart-shaped!
If you want to hike a bit up Mount Shasta but don’t have the gear and experience to summit the mountain then the moderate hike to Horse Camp is a great option. You’ll climb nearly 1,000 feet in elevation through the coniferous forest before reaching the Shasta Alpine Lodge. The out-and-back trail is about 3.5 miles round trip.
Camping in Mount Shasta
Drive Everitt Memorial Highway to its very end and you’ll reach Panther Meadow Campground. At nearly 7,500 feet in elevation right on Mount Shasta, you’ll enjoy impressive views of the summit and surrounding national forest. The campground is open seasonally when the road is open – usually from July 1 to November 1.
There are 15 sites at Panther Meadow Campground with tables, fire rings, and vault toilets. There are no water spigots but you can filter water from a nearby creek. The campsite is first come, first served. It’s free but there is a 3-day camping limit per person per year.
Bunny Flat Trailhead is the perfect spot to sleep in an Escape Camper Van. It’s nothing special – just a flat paved parking lot with some pit toilets but that’s all you need right? It’s an easy spot to pull in late and make yourself comfortable for the night. Make sure you bring water from town as there is none available up there.
McBride Springs Campground is right off Everitt Memorial Highway on your way up to Mount Shasta. It sits at 5,000 feet in elevation and is a first-come, first-served campground. The campground has vault toilets and drinking water. Stays are limited to 7 days.
If you’re looking for a campground with a few amenities then check out Lake Siskiyou Camp Resort. It’s located in a beautiful spot, right along the shores of Lake Siskiyou. Go swimming, and fishing, or rent kayaks or paddle boards right from the resort. The resort also has a restaurant, grill, and bar where you can dine and hang out.
Places to Eat in Mount Shasta
1011 S Mt Shasta Blvd, Mt Shasta, CA 96067
Start your morning off with a cup of coffee and breakfast burrito or wrap from Seven Suns Coffee & Cafe. Or choose from the many bakery items or lunch entrees. Open from 6 am – 2 pm, Seven Suns has a plate for everyone.
320 N Mt Shasta Blvd, Mt Shasta, CA 96067
Enjoy craft beer on tap and classic American dishes at Pipeline Craft Taps & Kitchen. Seared ahi bowls, lamb burgers, balsamic steak salad, and cauliflower bites are just a few of the tasty bites on the menu here. Many dishes pair well with the local craft beer options.
5701 Dunsmuir Ave, Dunsmuir, CA 96025
Just a 12-minute drive south of Mount Shasta town is Dunsmuir Brewery Works, a microbrew pub with craft beers and tasty bites in a casual environment. Grab a sandwich, salad, and shareable. It’s the perfect way to relax after a day of hiking or exploring around Mount Shasta.
Why Rent a Camper Van for a Portland to Northern California Road Trip?
Avoid the hassle of changing accommodations each day or setting up a tent every night after a long day of exploring and instead, enjoy the comforts of traveling in an Escape Camper Van. They’re easy to operate, compact, and mobile!
Unlike traveling in a big RV, an Escape Campervan can park just about anywhere and there’s no need to worry about electric or sewer hookups. Escape Camper Vans allows you to customize your experience offering extra accessories to make your road trip as comfortable as possible!
Reserve with Escape Camper Vans for your Portland to Northern California Road Trip
Traveling in an Escape Camper Van is the perfect way to take in all the wonders on a Portland to Northern California road trip. From the Oregon Coast beaches and California’s mighty Redwoods to world-class wines and an awe-inspiring volcanic peak this road trip showcases bucket list wonders every American wants to explore.
So what are you waiting for?! It’s time to start looking at flights then book your Escape Camper Van. With a convenient Portland Escape Camper Van pick-up location, it’s easy to hit the road and start exploring the day you fly in!
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