RV Rental Los Angeles
Los Angeles is a prime starting point for a road trip across California and beyond. With an RV rental in Los Angeles, you'll experience the freedom of a road trip, the flexibility to set your own itinerary, and the comfort of having a home on wheels. Whether you're planning a family holiday, a couple's getaway, or an adventure with friends, renting an RV allows you to explore California in your own time.
The real advantage is where the city sits. From a single LA pickup you can reach the Pacific Coast Highway in under an hour, Joshua Tree National Park in three, and Death Valley National Park, Sequoia or Yosemite National Park inside a day's drive. Head east and Las Vegas and the Grand Canyon open up; head south and you're in Orange County and San Diego before lunch. You get transport, a bedroom, and a fully equipped kitchen in one vehicle, and the flexibility to change the plan halfway through it.
Most depots sit within a short drive of Los Angeles International Airport, so it's straightforward to land, shuttle or ride-share to the depot, and be on the road the same day. Rentals aren't available inside the LAX terminal itself, and if you're arriving on a long-haul flight several suppliers recommend collecting the vehicle the following morning instead – LA traffic is not the place to drive an unfamiliar motorhome while jet-lagged.
Why choose an RV rental in Los Angeles?
Los Angeles is an ideal hub for your RV adventure, within drivable distance of some of the most iconic national parks in the United States:
Yosemite National Park
Joshua Tree National Park
Grand Canyon National Park
Death Valley National Park
Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks
Channel Islands National Park, just off the Ventura County coast, with mainland visitor centres in Ventura and Santa Barbara
Los Angeles gives you easy access to some of the most breathtaking national and state parks in the country, plus the beaches of Santa Monica, Venice Beach, Malibu, Huntington Beach and San Clemente, and the mountains of the Angeles National Forest and San Bernardino National Forest. From compact camper vans perfect for couples, to large motorhomes ideal for family vacations, Los Angeles has a wide range of RV options.
How much does it cost to rent an RV in Los Angeles?
RV rental costs in Los Angeles range from $80 to $250 per night depending on the class of vehicle, the season, and how far ahead you book. Over a week that works out at roughly $850 to $1,800 for the vehicle alone.
The nightly rate is only part of it. Comparing total costs rather than headline nightly rates is the single most useful thing you can do when choosing between suppliers, because the extras vary far more than the base price does.
A realistic week in an LA-based RV:
Cost | Typical range |
RV rental | $850–$1,800 |
Fuel | $280–$450 |
Campgrounds | $30–$95 per night |
Propane refill | $30–$60 |
Tolls (FasTrak) | $2–$15 per crossing |
Hidden costs in RV rentals usually show up in three places: mileage, where a daily limit can add up quickly if you're driving to the Grand Canyon and back; generator usage, which is often billed by the hour; and preparation or cleaning fees charged at drop-off. Check all three before booking, and if you're covering long distances look for unlimited mileage rather than a daily allowance.
Prices in the LA area vary significantly with seasonality and demand. Summer sees peak demand with rates 30–50% higher than the shoulder seasons, and the most popular rental months are July, August, and September.
Which type of RV should you rent in Los Angeles?
Different RV classes suit different trip types and group sizes, and in a city like this the choice matters more than usual – parking, campground length limits, and LA traffic all reward a smaller vehicle.
Class B camper vans are ideal for city navigation. Built on a Sprinter or ProMaster chassis, they drive like a large van, fit into standard parking bays, and handle the switchbacks on the Pacific Coast Highway and the dirt roads around Joshua Tree without drama. The obvious pick for couples and for anyone splitting time between downtown Los Angeles and the coast.
Class C motorhomes are the versatile middle ground for families and longer trips. A cab-over bunk adds sleeping space without a great deal of extra length, and most sites near Los Angeles will take one.
Class A motorhomes are full-size and luxurious, with the most living space and the best amenities. Best on long highway runs and at RV resorts with full hookups – least happy in LA traffic and on narrow canyon roads.
Travel trailers are the cheapest way in, starting around $85 per night, if you have something to tow with. Unhitch at the campsite and use the tow vehicle to explore.
Toy haulers have a rear garage designed for transporting extra gear – bikes, boards, quads – and suit trips built around an activity rather than a route.
You'll also be choosing between two kinds of supplier. Peer-to-peer rental platforms list privately owned vehicles and often provide unique and personalized RV options, sometimes with delivery to your hotel or to LAX. Traditional commercial fleet rentals offer standardized vehicles built for durability, with staffed depots, roadside assistance, and consistent hand-over procedures. Neither is automatically better – peer-to-peer tends to win on character and price, and commercial fleets on predictability and support.
Whichever you pick, check the RV length against the campgrounds on your route. Most sites near Los Angeles take vehicles up to around 25–30 feet comfortably; beyond that your options narrow quickly, particularly on the coast.
If you're travelling with a dog, pet-friendly RV rentals are widely available in Los Angeles – confirm the policy at booking, since fees and animal limits vary by supplier.
Compare RV rental companies in Los Angeles
Look at the choice of rental companies that you have to compare:
Britz Motorhomes: Long-established with a great 4-berth motorhome. Watch out for good offers on this vehicle.
Cruise America: An iconic RV rental company that has depots right across the USA, and one of the largest one-way networks.
El Monte RV: Well-known throughout the USA, with a depot in Los Angeles. Over 50 years in the rental industry, with everything from Class C models up to Class A motorhomes.
Escape Rentals: Budget small campers and low-top camper vans, including a Jeep with a roof tent.
Mighty Campers: Mid-range budget campervans and motorhomes offering great value.
Native Campers: Small campervans and camping cars.
Road Bear RV: Modern fleet of motorhomes at competitive prices.
Travellers Autobarn: Bargain converted SUVs and small-budget campers, popular with backpackers.
Lost Campers: No-frills camper vans at the cheapest end, available in both Los Angeles and San Francisco.
Why choose us for your campervan and motorhome hire in Los Angeles
We offer a wide variety of RVs, including compact campervans for couples, spacious motorhomes for families, and adventure-ready vehicles for groups of friends. With over a decade of experience in RV rentals, we make sure your trip is comfortable, convenient, and enjoyable. The fleets are well-maintained with 24/7 support during your rental, ensuring peace of mind wherever you go.
We also provide one-way rentals to major destinations like San Francisco, Las Vegas, and Seattle, allowing you to plan the ultimate road trip without the need to return the RV to Los Angeles. With flexible rental terms, we cater to both short trips and extended adventures. Our convenient pick-up and drop-off locations make the process smooth and hassle-free.
One-way RV rentals from Los Angeles
One-way hire is where an LA pickup really earns its keep. Common drop-offs include San Francisco, Las Vegas, Phoenix, Portland and Seattle. A one-way fee applies and scales with distance, so for shorter loops – PCH to Big Sur and back, a Joshua Tree weekend, an Eastern Sierra circuit – a round trip from a single Los Angeles pickup is simpler and usually cheaper. Availability on one-way vehicles is tighter than on standard bookings, so confirm it early.
Travel tips for your Los Angeles RV adventure
Before setting out, here are a few tips to ensure a smooth journey:
Plan your route. While flexibility is a key benefit of RV travel, having a basic itinerary ensures you cover all the must-see spots. It also helps with planning overnight stays.
Know the parking rules. Wild camping (boondocking – free camping outside of designated campgrounds) is generally restricted in California, and Los Angeles has strict parking regulations for RVs. However, you can find RV parks and campgrounds in and around the national and state parks. Use apps like Campendium or iOverlander to find spots for overnight stays.
Prepare for the weather. In summer, temperatures can soar in desert areas like Death Valley, while nights in the mountains can be cool. Make sure you're equipped for all conditions.
Book in advance. During peak tourist seasons—especially summer—campgrounds and RV parks in popular destinations fill up quickly. It's essential to reserve campsites in advance. Booking at least 12 weeks ahead is advisable for popular travel times.
Follow traffic rules. California has specific road laws for RVs, such as lane restrictions on highways. Familiarize yourself with these before hitting the road.
Driving an RV in Los Angeles
Is it hard to drive an RV? Driving an RV can feel intimidating at first, but with a bit of practice it becomes second nature. You'll be provided with a comprehensive orientation on how to operate the vehicle, including parking and driving on highways. After that it's mostly a matter of taking corners wide and leaving more braking distance.
What about mileage? While RVs use more fuel than standard cars, many vehicles are equipped with fuel-efficient engines. Planning your route ahead and avoiding unnecessary detours will help you minimize fuel costs. Don't buy more mileage than you need – but do check whether a daily limit applies, because overages on a long trip can cost more than unlimited mileage would have.
Where can I camp overnight? There are plenty of campgrounds, RV parks, and some national parks with designated RV camping spots. Wild camping (boondocking) is allowed in certain areas, but it's important to follow local regulations. Apps like iOverlander or FreeRoam can help you find legal wild camping sites. Some Walmart car parks allow overnight parking – check before you arrive.
Rules of the road
LA traffic. Avoid driving between 7 and 10am and 4 and 7pm. It's not dangerous, just relentless, and an RV makes it worse.
Lane discipline. Keep right except to pass. California drivers will tailgate anyone sitting in the left lane.
Speeding tickets. Fines in California typically range from $200 to $500, and they're enforced.
Alcohol. California's limit is 0.08% BAC for drivers. Don't risk it.
Steep descents. Use lower gears rather than riding the brakes, particularly on the Angeles Crest Highway and the Grand Canyon approaches. Brake fade on a heavy vehicle is genuinely dangerous.
Tolls. FasTrak tolls across California range from $2 to $15. Most are avoidable if you'd rather not deal with the transponder.
Street parking. RV parking is banned overnight on many LA streets, and beach cities actively ticket and tow. Don't attempt street parking with anything larger than a camper van.
Suggested itineraries for an RV road trip from Los Angeles
Renting an RV allows for flexible travel plans across national parks and scenic routes, and LA sits within reach of more of them than any other American city.
Shorter routes
Big Sur and the Central Coast – 650km round trip, 3–4 days. North on Highway 1 through Malibu and Santa Barbara, into Big Sur for the cliffs and McWay Falls, then back inland on US-101.
San Diego and the south coast – 550km round trip, 4 days. Down through Huntington Beach and San Clemente with beach camping most of the way, then back up through Orange County.
The full Pacific Coast Highway – 1,400km. LA to San Francisco and beyond, the whole California coast in one run. Best done one way.
Joshua Tree and the desert. Joshua Tree National Park is 130 miles from Los Angeles – close enough for a long weekend, and the best rock climbing within easy reach of the city. Extend it via Palm Springs and Death Valley for a full desert loop.
Angeles Crest Highway. If you only have a day, climb the Angeles Crest Highway into the Angeles National Forest and the San Gabriel Mountains – cool pine forest, dark skies, and a completely different climate 90 minutes from the coast.
The Grand Circle – 3,500km+, 14–18 days. LA to Joshua Tree, the Grand Canyon, Monument Valley, Utah's national parks, Las Vegas, and Death Valley before returning. The most ambitious RV trip you can build from an LA base.
One-way rentals (28-day itinerary)
A 28-day one-way RV rental allows you to travel further, exploring more locations without the need to circle back to Los Angeles. Here's a possible route:
Los Angeles to Seattle
Timeframe | Route |
Days 1–5 | Start by heading north up the Pacific Coast Highway, stopping at Santa Barbara, Big Sur and Monterey. Spend a few days in San Francisco exploring its vibrant neighborhoods, the Golden Gate Bridge, and nearby Muir Woods. |
Days 6–10 | Head to Redwood National Park to see the ancient redwoods, then make your way to Crater Lake National Park in Oregon. |
Days 11–15 | Continue into Washington, visiting Mount Rainier National Park and Olympic National Park before ending your trip in Seattle. |
Return rentals (28-day round trip itinerary)
For those preferring a round trip, here's a 28-day itinerary that brings you back to Los Angeles:
Los Angeles to the Grand Canyon and back
Timeframe | Route |
Days 1–7 | Begin by heading to Joshua Tree National Park to explore its desert landscapes, then travel to Sedona, Arizona, known for its red rock formations. Spend time in Grand Canyon National Park, camping near the South Rim. Book flights, boat trips, or access to the canyon well in advance of your visit. |
Days 8–14 | After the Grand Canyon, visit Lake Powell and Bryce Canyon National Park in Utah. Continue to Zion National Park's canyons, cliffs, and Angels Landing. Book permits early. |
Days 15–21 | Make your way to Death Valley National Park before heading to Sequoia National Park to see the largest trees on earth. |
Days 22–28 | End your trip by exploring Yosemite National Park, then return to Los Angeles via the scenic routes of the Sierra Nevada mountains. |
National and state parks tour (28-day round trip)
If you're a nature lover, this 28-day road trip hits most of the key national and state parks:
Los Angeles national park tour
Timeframe | Route |
Days 1–7 | Start in Yosemite National Park, then head to Lake Tahoe for some hiking and water activities. Afterwards, drive to Lassen Volcanic National Park. |
Days 8–14 | Continue to Redwood National Park, then visit Crater Lake in Oregon. Explore the vast wilderness before heading south again. |
Days 15–21 | Visit Death Valley National Park, then make your way to Zion, Bryce Canyon, and the Grand Canyon. |
Days 22–28 | End your trip with Joshua Tree National Park, then return to Los Angeles through the Mojave Desert. |
Where to camp and what to see
There are numerous campgrounds near popular destinations, including:
Yosemite National Park: several campgrounds, like Upper Pines, offer RV spaces.
Joshua Tree National Park: Hidden Valley is a popular choice for RVs.
Grand Canyon National Park: Mather Campground is near the South Rim and accommodates RVs.
Santa Monica Mountains: close to Los Angeles, with stunning views and easy access to the city.
RV parks near Los Angeles
Los Angeles has strict parking regulations for RVs, so plan on a designated RV park or campground every night, and reserve in advance – the popular ones near the city book quickly.
Dockweiler RV Park – 12001 Vista del Mar, Playa del Rey. About 20 miles from downtown LA and minutes from LAX, this is the only oceanfront camping inside city limits. Full hookups and shower facilities, direct beach access, and the bike path running past the door.
Malibu Beach RV Park – bluff-top sites with stunning ocean views over the Pacific, with both back-in and pull-through sites. The premium option on this stretch of coast, priced accordingly.
Leo Carrillo State Park – shaded sites near tide pools and coastal trails at the far end of Malibu, and one of the best beach camping spots in the county.
Malibu Creek State Park – 1925 Las Virgenes Rd, Calabasas. Thirty minutes from downtown Los Angeles, 7,000 acres of oak-dotted hills, with hiking, mountain biking, and rock climbing on the doorstep.
Anaheim RV Park – less than a mile from Disneyland, with full hookups and shuttles to the resort. The obvious base for Disney California Adventure and Knott's Berry Farm.
Hollywood RV Park (Van Nuys) and Walnut RV Park (Northridge) – the practical choices for Universal Studios Hollywood and the San Fernando Valley, both around 30–40 minutes out, with full hookups and good facilities.
Further afield – Bonelli Bluffs by San Dimas for lakeside camping, Sycamore Canyon at Point Mugu for canyon sites and mountain biking, and the campgrounds of the Angeles and San Bernardino National Forests for cool pine sites and stargazing.
RV dump stations and gas stations near Los Angeles
Empty your grey and black water tanks before returning the vehicle. Convenient RV dump stations include Dockweiler in Playa del Rey, Bolsa Chica State Beach on the PCH at Huntington Beach, and Balboa RV Park in Newport Beach. Most national park campgrounds have them too. For propane, U-Haul and Camping World sites across Southern California are open seven days and RV-accessible. Fill up on fuel before heading into Death Valley or the remote desert – gas stations are sparse out there and charge a premium.
When is the best time to rent an RV in Los Angeles?
April–May and September–October are the ideal rental seasons. Spring temperatures in Los Angeles sit between 15 and 24°C, the deserts are in wildflower, and the coast is comfortable without being crowded. Autumn offers warm, dry weather without the summer crowds, and the deserts have cooled back to a sensible temperature.
Summer is peak demand, with prices 30–50% higher and campgrounds full. The most popular rental months are July, August, and September, so if those are your dates, book early. Winter is the cheapest time to visit, and Southern California stays mild, though January and February are the wettest months, and some mountain campgrounds close.
Securing your RV rental in Los Angeles early is the only reliable way to get the vehicle type you actually want rather than whatever's left – and that applies doubly around major festivals, when LA-area rental prices spike and campgrounds near the venue disappear months ahead.
Theme parks, arts, entertainment and festivals
Los Angeles is home to some of the most famous theme parks in the world. Here's a guide to the highlights of LA theme parks and RV parking options while visiting. Top tip: book timed entrance to major rides and beat the queues.
1. Universal Studios Hollywood
Highlights:
The Wizarding World of Harry Potter: explore Hogwarts, Hogsmeade and the magical rides.
Jurassic World – The Ride: a thrilling water adventure featuring dinosaurs and exciting drops.
Studio Tour: go behind the scenes of real movie sets and see famous locations.
Fast & Furious – Supercharged: a high-speed 3D experience with Vin Diesel and the crew.
Simpsons Ride: step into the world of Springfield and join the Simpsons in a wild adventure.
Where to park an RV close to Universal Studios:
Hollywood RV Park (Van Nuys): a 30-minute drive from Universal, with a good location and amenities.
Dockweiler RV Park: about 45 minutes from Universal, located near the beach and offering full hookups.
Walnut RV Park (Northridge): around 40 minutes away, with full hookups and good facilities.
For more information, see here.
2. Disneyland Resort (Anaheim)
Highlights:
Disneyland Park: the original Disney park featuring iconic attractions like Space Mountain, Pirates of the Caribbean and It's a Small World.
Star Wars: Galaxy's Edge: a fully immersive land where you can build a lightsaber, fly the Millennium Falcon, and experience Rise of the Resistance.
Disney California Adventure: a neighbouring park with attractions like Guardians of the Galaxy – Mission: Breakout!, Radiator Springs Racers and Incredicoaster.
Where to park an RV close to Disneyland:
Anaheim RV Park: only a 5-minute drive from Disneyland, with full hookups and shuttles to Disneyland.
Orangeland RV Park: located about 15 minutes from the resort.
Canyon RV Park: about 20 minutes away, set in a natural environment and offering spacious sites with hookups.
For more information, see here.
3. Knott's Berry Farm (Buena Park)
Highlights:
GhostRider: one of the longest wooden roller coasters on the West Coast.
Knott's Soak City: a water park with slides, a lazy river and a wave pool (seasonal).
Camp Snoopy: family-friendly rides featuring Snoopy and the Peanuts gang.
Calico Mine Ride: a classic dark ride through a realistic old mining town.
Where to park an RV close to Knott's Berry Farm:
Anaheim RV Park (also works for Disneyland): located nearby in Anaheim, a good base to visit both parks.
Buena Vista RV Park: just 10 minutes from Knott's Berry Farm, a convenient option with full hookups.
Orangeland RV Park: also a short drive from Knott's, providing easy access.
For more information, see here.
4. Six Flags Magic Mountain (Valencia)
Highlights:
Twisted Colossus: a hybrid wood-steel coaster known for its thrilling drops.
X2: a 4D roller coaster with rotating seats and visual effects.
Tatsu: a flying coaster that simulates the sensation of soaring like a bird.
Full Throttle: a record-breaking coaster with a massive loop and multiple launches.
Where to park an RV close to Six Flags Magic Mountain:
Valencia Travel Village: about 10 minutes from Six Flags, with full amenities.
Castaic Lake RV Park: about 20 minutes away, offering good proximity and access to the Castaic Lake area for additional outdoor activities.
For more information, see here.
5. LEGOLAND California
Located in Carlsbad, technically outside LA but close enough for a day trip.
Highlights:
Miniland USA: incredible LEGO replicas of famous US landmarks.
LEGO NINJAGO The Ride: an interactive 4D ride with ninja action.
LEGOLAND Water Park: water slides, splash zones and a lazy river.
SEA LIFE Aquarium: a family-friendly aquarium next door to LEGOLAND.
Where to park an RV close to LEGOLAND California:
South Carlsbad State Beach Campground: about 10 minutes from LEGOLAND, offering beachside camping.
Paradise by the Sea RV Resort: located nearby, providing beach access and full hookups.
Escondido RV Resort: about 20 minutes from LEGOLAND, offering a more rural environment with great facilities.
For more information, see here.
Tips for RV travel in LA
Traffic: plan around LA traffic. Avoid driving your RV during rush hours (7–10am and 4–7pm) as LA traffic can be very heavy.
Parking: none of the theme parks offer direct parking for RVs, so it's essential to plan for nearby RV parks or campgrounds and use alternative transportation (rideshares or shuttles) to get to the parks.
Reservations: many RV parks, especially those near theme parks, book up quickly, so be sure to make reservations well in advance.
With a bit of planning, LA's theme parks and RV parks provide an unforgettable experience for families and thrill-seekers alike.
Arts, entertainment, and city sights
Los Angeles is not just a gateway to nature but a city with arts and entertainment scenes:
Landmarks: Griffith Park and the Griffith Observatory give you the best free view of the city and the Hollywood Sign. The Hollywood Walk of Fame runs along Hollywood Boulevard, and downtown Los Angeles is worth a day on foot.
Museums: visit the Getty Center, LACMA and The Broad.
Festivals: time your trip around major festivals like Coachella or the LA Film Festival. Be aware that these push both rental prices and campground demand up sharply.
Shopping: explore Rodeo Drive in Beverly Hills, Melrose Avenue and Venice Beach.
Beaches: Santa Monica and Venice for the boardwalk, Malibu for the surf, Huntington Beach and San Clemente heading south into Orange County.