Ready to leave the city and head for the hills? Los Angeles is not just about Hollywood; it’s a great place to start an outdoor adventure. When you rent a Class B RV campervan from Escape Camper Vans in LA, you’re setting up for a trip that can take you anywhere—from busy city streets to peaceful natural spots. Our LA camper van rental location is close to major airports and transport links, so it’s easy for you to go from plane to van and start exploring. Here’s everything you need before setting off on your van journey from LA.
About Our Camper Van Rental Los Angeles Location
Just minutes away from Los Angeles International Airport (LAX), our location sets the stage for your outdoor escapades. Whether you’re itching to explore the southern beaches of San Diego or the scenic drives up to Santa Barbara, you’re well-positioned to quickly get out of the city and into nature. With easy access to multiple transportation options, you can begin your road trip adventure without missing a beat from our Class B RV rental location in Los Angeles County.
Camper Van Road Trip Ideas from Los Angeles, CA
Pacific Coast Highway
Often hailed as one of the most scenic drives in the United States, the Pacific Coast Highway stretches from Southern California up to Northern California. Just rent your camper van in Los Angeles and drive up the coast through Malibu, Santa Barbara, Big Sur, and all the way to San Francisco if you wish. Along the way, enjoy breathtaking cliffside views, stop at hidden beaches, and experience the coastal cities that make California so iconic.
Joshua Tree National Park and Coachella Valley
Drive about 2.5 hours east from Los Angeles, and you’ll find yourself in Joshua Tree National Park and Coachella Valley. Joshua Tree has amazing desert views, its stunning eponymous trees, and imposing rocks that are great for climbing. Not far away is Coachella Valley, famous for its music festivals. At night, park your Class B motorhome and look up—you’ll see lots of stars. Both places offer a peaceful break from city life.
Big Bear Lake, CA
Just 2 hours away from our Los Angeles hub, Big Bear Lake offers an escape from the city with a focus on lake activities like boating, fishing, and jet-skiing. It’s an ideal destination for those looking for aquatic adventures or simply a peaceful lakeside retreat.
Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks
If you’re up for a slightly longer drive (approximately 5 hours), Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks offer an enchanting forest experience. Wander through groves of massive sequoia trees, including the General Sherman Tree, the largest tree on Earth by volume.
Yosemite National Park
A 6-hour drive north of LA, Yosemite is well worth the trip. Known for its stunning granite cliffs, clear streams, and diversity of plant and animal life, Yosemite is a paradise for nature lovers and adventurers alike. Hiking, rock climbing, and waterfall-chasing are just a few of the activities you can indulge in.
Death Valley
About a 4.5-hour drive from Los Angeles, Death Valley’s iconic desert landscape offers unique sights like salt flats and sand dunes. It’s a hot spot—literally—so make sure to bring plenty of water. Whether you’re into hiking or just taking in the views, Death Valley offers a one-of-a-kind experience.
Major Destinations Near Los Angeles, CA
Santa Barbara, CA
The so-called “American Riviera”, Santa Barbara is a 2-hour drive up the coast and offers stunning ocean views, luxurious shopping, and plenty of wine tasting. It’s a perfect pit stop if you’re headed up the Pacific Coast Highway.
San Diego, CA
About 2 hours to the south, San Diego boasts a laid-back beach vibe, a world-renowned zoo, and a rich maritime history. Whether you’re interested in surfing or just soaking up the sun, San Diego has plenty to offer.
Monterey, CA
A bit of a longer drive (about 5 hours), Monterey offers stunning coastal views, a world-class aquarium, and the famous Cannery Row. It’s another must-see if you’re exploring the Pacific Coast Highway.
San Francisco, CA
If you’re willing to venture further up the coast, San Francisco is about a 6-hour drive from Los Angeles. Known for its iconic Golden Gate Bridge, vibrant culture, and steep hills, it offers a different kind of California experience. Whether you’re exploring Fisherman’s Wharf or riding a cable car, San Francisco has something for everyone.
Camper Van Friendly Campgrounds Near Los Angeles
Malibu Creek State Park
1925 Las Virgenes Road, Calabasas, CA 91302
Just 30 minutes from downtown Los Angeles, Malibu Creek State Park offers RV and camper van-friendly sites amidst rolling hills and stunning vistas. It’s an ideal location for hikers and rock climbers.
Crystal Lake Campground
State Rte 39, Azusa, CA 91702
Located in the San Gabriel Mountains, about an hour’s drive from LA, Crystal Lake Campground offers a peaceful mountain setting with a variety of hiking trails and fishing opportunities.
Dockweiler State Beach
12000 Vista Del Mar, Playa Del Rey, CA 90293
If you’re looking to stay near the ocean, this beachside campground is camper van-friendly and just about 30 minutes from our LA hub. Enjoy a campfire while listening to the waves crash on the shore.
Grocery and Liquor Stores Near Our LA Location To Stock Up For Your Van Trip
Trader Joe’s
8645 S Sepulveda Blvd, Westchester, CA 90045, United States
One of the most beloved grocery chains in America, Trader Joe’s’ Westchester location is about a 10-minute drive from our hub. Known for its organic produce, gourmet frozen meals, and delicious snacks, it’s an excellent place to stock up before you head out on your road trip. Whether you’re a fan of their famous “Two Buck Chuck” wine or their range of international foods, Trader Joe’s has you covered.
Whole Foods Market
760 S Sepulveda Blvd, El Segundo, CA 90245, United States
For those who prefer all-natural, organic options, Whole Foods is the go-to grocery store. With an El Segundo location just 15 minutes from our Los Angeles hub, Whole Foods offers a wide variety of fresh produce, quality meats, and an extensive wine and beer section. Perfect for those who want to keep their road trip on the healthier side.
BevMo!
5634 Sepulveda Blvd, Culver City, CA 90230, United States
If your idea of a great road trip involves sipping your favorite drinks around the campfire, then a trip to BevMo! is in order. Stop by their easily accessible Culver City location for an extensive selection of beers, wines, and spirits, including a great variety of local Californian brews and wines.
Costco
3560 W Century Blvd, Inglewood, CA 90303, United States
For long-haul road trips, consider stocking up at the Inglewood Costco, just a stone’s throw from our hub. You’ll need a membership, but bulk purchases can be a smart move for extended journeys. From snacks to meats and even camping supplies, Costco offers it all in larger quantities.
Outdoor Stores in Los Angeles For Your Van Adventure
REI Manhattan Beach
1800 Rosecrans Ave E, Manhattan Beach, CA 90266, United States
Like its counterparts in other cities, REI in Manhattan Beach offers a wide selection of outdoor gear. REI has quality gear that will last throughout your adventure. The staff here are outdoor enthusiasts themselves and are always willing to provide valuable advice.
Dick’s Sporting Goods
770 Pacific Coast Hwy, El Segundo, CA 90245, United States
Just a 15-minute drive from the Inglewood location, Dick’s Sporting Goods is another great spot for all your outdoor needs. From hiking boots to tents and sleeping bags, they offer a comprehensive range of equipment. Whether you’re a camping novice or a seasoned pro, the knowledgeable staff can help you find exactly what you need for your road trip.
How much does it cost to rent a camper van in California?
On average, renting a camper in California costs between $100 and $200 per day. Smaller vehicles with a lower passenger capacity will cost closer to $100 per day, while larger vehicles with more features and a bigger capacity will cost closer to $200. You also need to keep in mind extra expenses like mileage fees and gas. Most camper vans have mileage fees of $0.30-0.40 cents per mile you drive. Plus, California usually ranks first (or at least in the top 5) of states with the highest average gas prices. As with other transportation expenses during travel, such as plane tickets and car rentals, camper van prices can vary depending on availability and the time of year. When California gets more visitors, like the holidays or spring break, camper van rental prices may be higher due to more demand.
How old do you have to be to rent a camper van in California?
Most camper rental companies in California will require drivers to be at least 21 years old. In some cases, companies may have an even higher age minimum set at 25 years old. The main reason for this is insurance expenses. It costs a lot more to insure drivers who are under the age of 21 since they don’t have as much driving history and can be seen as less responsible. When you combine that with the risk and liability involved with vehicle rental, too many fees will rack up when renting to younger drivers, which wouldn’t make it profitable. If you do find a company that will rent to a driver under 21, there will likely be a lot of extra insurance and security fees added on that will make your daily rental prices much higher. So, it’s usually best to plan to have a driver who’s at least 21 for the easiest and most cost-effective camper rental.
Book Your Los Angeles Camper Van Rental With Escape Camper Vans Today
Your dream California road trip is just a click away. From the majestic Redwoods in the north to the stunning beaches in the south, California has a lot to offer, and there’s no better way to explore it than in an Escape Campervan. So what are you waiting for? Book your Escape Camper Van today and let your California adventure begin!
One-Way Camper Van Rental California
A one-way trip in California is an excellent vacation idea year-round. California generally has moderate temperatures and mostly sunny conditions throughout the year, so you’re bound to have a terrific time visiting popular destinations like the Golden Gate Bridge in San Francisco and the famous Hollywood Boulevard in Los Angeles. That means a camper van one-way rental is an excellent vacation idea year-round, too! Plus, many benefits, like affordability and convenience, come with taking your one-way trip in a camper van (also known as a class B RV). What are the best options for a one-way Class B RV rental? We’ll explore that in this article while explaining why it’s a great option.
Why Opt for a One-Way Camper Van Rental in California?
When researching a one-way campervan rental in California, you’re probably wondering why it’s a top choice. Here are some of the main reasons travelers enjoy RV rentals:
- Convenience: The best one-way RV rental companies offer vehicles and services that make your trip more relaxing and convenient. Class B camper vans often come with helpful features like kitchen equipment and extra storage, so you have the essentials you need on the road.
- Appreciate sights and attractions: Rather than flying to your destination, camper van rental saves money and allows you the freedom and flexibility to explore unique sights and attractions. There are many top destinations throughout California, like San Diego, Santa Monica, Malibu, and Big Sur, to stop and explore during your drive. If national parks are more your speed, you can stop by Kings Canyon National Park, Sequoia National Park, or Yosemite National Park. You can even take in the scenic views along the Pacific Coast Highway from southern California all the way up the coast.
- Affordability: Since camper vans provide a sleeping space, transportation, cooking equipment, and more, you save a lot of money rather than renting hotel rooms or eating out all the time. Plus, you get a cozy environment to stay in each night as you travel cross country.
How to Choose the Best One-Way Camper Van Rental in California?
You’ll see many options when you look up “camper van rental California” or similar terms. So, how do you select the best option? Here are some factors to consider when choosing the best one-way camper van rental in California:
- Check the pickup and drop-off locations of each rental company. Make sure they’re in places where you’d like to travel to.
- Consider rental costs. Every company has slightly different pricing structures, so check to see if it’s affordable. Plus, make sure you consider extra costs like mileage fees for one-way RV rental and the fuel efficiency of the camper vans to estimate expenses appropriately.
- Read ratings and reviews for rental companies. You want to choose a company that provides excellent service and clean, well-maintained vehicles.
What Are the Top Destinations for a One-Way RV Road Trip in California? San Francisco, LA, and More!
One of California’s best routes to consider for a one-way road trip is from San Francisco to Los Angeles. The reason is that there are many top cities and attractions in between that you’ll find during your drive. During a one-way RV rental from San Francisco to Los Angeles, you can:
- Visit the Santa Monica Pier. The popular Santa Monica Pier has attractions for the whole family, from amusement park rides to a beautiful beach with amazing views.
- Take in the sights at Malibu Beach. This is one of the most scenic beaches in California, with great views and landscapes along the water.
- Go hiking in Ojai Valley. Located in Ventura, California, Ojai Valley is great for active travelers who want to take adventurous hikes and bike rides.
- Explore vineyards and go wine tasting in Santa Barbara. One of the most popular destinations for wine lovers, Santa Barbara, offers many world-renowned wine tastings you can attend.
- Visit bakeries in Solvang, California. Here, you’ll find many authentic Danish bakeries with delicious pastries and treats.
When searching for camper van rental in California, San Franciso, or Los Angeles, Escape Camper Vans, has you covered.
Why Escape Camper Vans Is the Right Choice for Your Class B RV Rental Needs
When you choose a camper van rental with Escape, you’ll receive great service at our pickup and drop-off locations in San Francisco and Los Angeles. Our vans are equipped with large beds, propane stoves, coolers, gear, and foldaway tables and chairs that’ll make your trip more convenient. Reserve yours today, or contact us with any questions you have.
