From Alcatraz to the Golden Gate Bridge, San Francisco is a must-see destination for travelers. But what if you could amplify the experience by adding a unique twist—exploring the city and its surrounding areas in a camper van? With Escape Camper Vans, you can explore California’s many natural wonders, with the freedom to roam only made possible with a camper van. Here’s everything you need to know before setting off on your Northern California van adventure.
Our Bay Area Camper Van Rental Location
Our San Francisco camper van rental hub is strategically located just minutes from San Francisco International Airport. This location serves as an ideal gateway for all your Bay Area adventures.
How to Get to Escape Camper Vans from San Francisco International Airport (SFO)
Instructions on how to pick up your Escape Campervan will be provided with your reservation confirmation.
Road Trip Ideas from San Francisco, CA
Northern California: Redwood National Park, Mount Shasta, Lassen Volcanic National Park, and more.
This Northern California road trip explores a wide range of environments. You’ll spend your first day cruising along the Pacific Coast. Spend the next day and a half immersed in the serene redwood forest. Spend the last couple of days exploring the high alpine in Mount Shasta and Lassen Volcanic National Park. The variety of striking landscapes along this Northern California road trip will leave you speechless. Whether you love challenging hikes, gentle strolls, dining out, or scenic drives, Northern California offers it all.
Big Sur
For an unforgettable coastal experience, Big Sur is your go-to spot. About a 3-hour drive from San Francisco, the towering cliffs and the expansive Pacific will leave you spellbound.
Napa Valley
Just about an hour’s drive from San Francisco, Napa Valley is synonymous with fine wines and beautiful vineyards. Park your camper at a scenic spot, and you could wake up to rows of grapevines stretching into the horizon.
Point Reyes National Seashore
If the ocean is calling your name, head to Point Reyes National Seashore, approximately 1.5 hours from San Francisco. It’s a haven for wildlife, featuring a variety of birds, seals, and even whales if you’re lucky.
Lake Tahoe
About 3.5 hours from San Francisco, Lake Tahoe is the perfect destination for summer water sports and winter skiing. The drive offers spectacular views that make you want to pull over just to take it all in.
Yosemite National Park
Yosemite is a bit further out, but absolutely worth the 4-hour drive in your camper van rental. Yosemite’s stunning natural beauty is something you have to see at least once in your lifetime.
Los Angeles
Our Los Angeles camper van rental location makes it easy for you to take a one-way road trip down the beautiful California Coast. Simply rent your camper van at our SF location and drop it off at our LA location when your trip is complete. This road trip can lead to beautiful coastal towns or take detours to explore places like Sequoia National Park and Kings Canyon National Park.
CA 89
A trip up picturesque CA 89 is the perfect way to experience Northern California’s forests, sweeping valleys, rivers, and lakes. Taking the northern route means you will first experience the desert shores of Lake Topaz before heading to Lake Tahoe. As you continue north, you will discover Lassen Volcanic National Park before you hit Mount Shasta, the fifth-highest peak in the state. This trip is jam-packed with campsites, small towns, waterfalls, and rivers, and is sure to impress anyone.
Major Destinations Near San Francisco, CA
Sacramento, CA
Rich in history, Sacramento is home to the California State Capitol Museum, where you can learn about the state’s legislative process and history. Wander through Old Sacramento Waterfront, a lively district with cobbled streets, historic buildings, and a variety of shops and eateries. For families, the Sacramento Zoo and Fairytale Town offer a fun-filled day out. Sacramento is also known for its farm-to-table restaurants, making it a burgeoning foodie destination. Plus, the American and Sacramento rivers offer opportunities for outdoor activities such as kayaking, paddleboarding, and riverside picnics.
Santa Cruz, CA
Just a 1.5-hour drive from San Francisco, Santa Cruz promises an invigorating blend of natural beauty and cultural flair. Renowned for its sandy beaches and vibrant surfing culture, the city also boasts the iconic Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk, an amusement park featuring classic rides and modern thrills. Venture beyond the coast to discover charming boutiques, eclectic art galleries, and a diverse culinary scene that ranges from beachside seafood shacks to upscale international cuisine.
Monterey, CA
Just a bit farther south is Monterey, a picturesque coastal town that embodies California’s rugged coastline. Here, you can visit the world-class Monterey Bay Aquarium, known for its giant kelp forest and playful sea otters. Don’t miss the 17-Mile Drive, a scenic road that winds through Pebble Beach and Pacific Grove, offering vistas of coastal cliffs, cypress forests, and the often misty Pacific. Additionally, Cannery Row, made famous by novelist John Steinbeck, offers an array of shops and restaurants, as well as beautiful ocean views.
Mendocino, CA
A three-hour journey north of San Francisco will bring you to the serene settings of Mendocino. This coastal village is an ideal retreat for those looking to escape urban hustle and bustle. With stunning panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean, the Mendocino Headlands offer hiking trails that hug the coastline. Whether it’s kayaking in the Big River, exploring the Pygmy Forest, or simply enjoying the local wineries, Mendocino provides a leisurely pace with a heavy focus on outdoor activities.
Camper Van-Friendly Campgrounds Near San Francisco
Kirby Cove Campground
948 Fort Barry, Sausalito, CA 94965
Situated just across the Golden Gate Bridge in beautiful Sausalito, Kirby Cove offers stunning views of San Francisco. It’s perfect for those who want to enjoy nature without straying too far from the city.
Samuel P. Taylor State Park
8889 Sir Francis Drake Blvd, Lagunitas, CA 94938
If you’re looking for a more secluded woodland experience, Samuel P. Taylor State Park offers plenty of spots where you can park your camper for the night.
Half Moon Bay State Beach
Half Moon Bay, CA 94019
For beach lovers, Half Moon Bay State Beach is an excellent place to set up camp. Listen to the soothing sounds of the waves as you drift off to sleep in the comfort of your camper van.
Grocery and Liquor Stores Near Our San Francisco Location
Trader Joe’s
22224 Redwood Rd, Castro Valley, CA 94546
This Trader Joe’s in nearby Castro Valley offers a unique range of high-quality and affordable products. You’ll find it here whether you’re looking for organic fruits, ready-to-eat meals, or a selection of international cheeses.
BevMo!
15100 Hesperian Blvd 400A 400A, San Leandro, CA 94578, United States
For the best selection of wines, beers, and spirits, make a stop at the BevMo! in nearby San Leandro. Their staff can even suggest some local favorites to try during your trip.
Costco
22330 Hathaway Ave, Hayward, CA 94541
If you’re planning a longer road trip and need to buy in bulk, Hayward’s Costco offers great deals on a wide variety of items, from food to camping supplies.
Outdoor Stores Near San Francisco for Your Van Adventure
REI San Francisco
A mecca of sorts for outdoor enthusiasts, REI offers a wide variety of camping gear, outdoor clothing, and even kayaks, should you wish to paddle your way through California’s lakes.
Sports Basement
Another excellent option for camping supplies, Sports Basement offers high-quality gear at discounted prices. It’s an ideal place to pick up anything you might have forgotten. You can find numerous Sports Basement locations across the Bay Area, from Berkeley to Campbell to San Francisco and beyond.
Book Your San Francisco Camper Van Rental with Escape Camper Vans Today
You’re now fully equipped with all the information you need for an unforgettable San Francisco Bay Area road trip adventure with Escape Camper Vans. Our class B RV rentals offer everything you need for the road trip of a lifetime. So what are you waiting? Book your camper van today!
