Travel the west coast with an RV
Traveling the West Coast in an RV is a fantastic [...]
Traveling the West Coast in an RV is a fantastic way to explore a range of landscapes, activities, and cultural experiences! Here are some of the best stops and activities along the West Coast, starting from Washington, through Oregon, and down to California:
1. Washington
- Olympic National Park: Drive through rainforests, see alpine peaks, and enjoy the stunning coastline.
- San Juan Islands: Take a ferry with your RV to this scenic island group, known for its whale-watching, kayaking, and charming small towns.
- Mount Rainier National Park: Camp near one of the active volcanoes of the Pacific Northwest, surrounded by wildflower meadows and glaciers.
- Seattle: Park outside of town and explore the city for a day trip. There’s the Space Needle, Pike Place Market, and some fantastic local breweries.
2. Oregon
- Columbia River Gorge: Known for its waterfalls, especially Multnomah Falls, this area offers stunning views and great hiking.
- Mount Hood National Forest: Camp near this iconic peak and enjoy hiking trails, alpine lakes, and even skiing if you’re visiting in winter.
- Portland: Stop in for unique food, craft beer, and beautiful parks like the International Rose Test Garden.
- Oregon Coast: Known for its dramatic cliffs, beaches, and quaint towns. Highlights include Cannon Beach, Newport, and the sand dunes in Florence.
- Crater Lake National Park: The deepest lake in the U.S., Crater Lake is mesmerizing with its deep blue water and volcanic scenery.
3. Northern California
- Redwood National and State Parks: Walk among the tallest trees in the world. Many parks in the region offer RV-friendly campgrounds and scenic drives.
- Mendocino Coast: Known for its rugged coastline and scenic beaches, Mendocino is a charming artsy town with lots of character.
- Shasta-Trinity National Forest: Stunning mountain scenery, lakes, and plenty of hiking trails near Mt. Shasta.
4. Central California
- Napa and Sonoma Wine Country: Park the RV and hop on a wine tour! Many vineyards offer RV-friendly parking.
- San Francisco: Park outside the city and explore famous sights like the Golden Gate Bridge, Alcatraz, and Fisherman’s Wharf.
- Big Sur: This scenic stretch of Highway 1 is famous for its cliffs, ocean views, and state parks like Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park.
5. Southern California
- Santa Barbara: Known for beautiful beaches, wineries, and Spanish-inspired architecture.
- Los Angeles: Visit iconic sites like Hollywood, Santa Monica Pier, and Griffith Observatory. Malibu’s beaches are nearby, too.
- San Diego: End your trip with beaches, the famous San Diego Zoo, and a vibrant city atmosphere.
- Anza-Borrego Desert State Park: Known for its desert landscapes, spring wildflowers, and stargazing.
Practical Tips:
- Campground Reservations: Popular spots often require advanced reservations, especially in the summer.
- National Parks Pass: If you’re planning to visit multiple national parks, an annual pass could save money.
- Road Conditions: Coastal areas and mountain passes can have challenging conditions in winter, so check road closures.
- Dump Stations and Fresh Water: Plan your stops where you can refill water and empty your tanks.
With an RV, you’ll have the flexibility to create a unique route, make spontaneous stops, and enjoy the freedom of the open road!