Where is the closest RV Rental to San Bernardino, California?

San Bernardino, located in the heart of Southern California, is a fantastic starting point for RV adventures. Whether you're planning a family holiday, a romantic escape, or an adventure with friends, renting an RV in San Bernardino offers freedom to explore national parks, coastal destinations, and scenic landscapes. This guide covers everything you need to plan an RV road trip, from route suggestions to camping tips.

The nearest depots for collecting your RV are in Los Angeles, and here you will find:

1. Cruise America:

   • Features: Wide range of RVs, including compact, standard, and large motorhomes.

2. El Monte RV:

   • Features: Offers a variety of RVs, from Class A luxury motorhomes to Class C models.

3. Escape Campervans:

   • Features: Compact camper vans ideal for couples or small families, often with unique, colourful designs.

4. Jucy Rentals:

   • Features: Small campervans that are easy to drive and park,  equipped with kitchenettes and sleeping areas.

5. Road Bear RV:

   • Features: High-end motorhomes and campervans, often with newer models.

6. Mighty Campers:

   • Features: Affordable campervan options, suitable for budget travellers.

7. Travellers Autobarn:

   • Features: Budget-friendly camper vans and minivans, popular among backpackers and budget-conscious travellers.

8. Apollo Motorhome Holidays:

   • Features: Offers a range of campervans and motorhomes, from budget to luxury options.

9. Lost Campers:

   • Features: Affordable, no-frills campervans designed for budget-conscious travellers.

Why Choose an RV Rental in San Bernardino?

Ideal Location for Exploration

San Bernardino is centrally located, offering easy access to:

Location	Information
Joshua Tree National Park	Distance: ~1.5 hours (70 miles east of San Bernardino) Highlights: Unique desert landscapes, Joshua trees, rock formations, and stargazing. RV Accessibility: Campgrounds with RV accommodations: Jumbo Rocks, Black Rock, and Cottonwood Campgrounds. Some sites can accommodate RVs up to 35 feet. No RV hookups are available, but potable water and dump stations are at certain locations.
Mojave National Preserve	Distance: ~2 hours (120 miles northeast) Highlights: Expansive desert vistas, sand dunes, lava fields, and the iconic Kelso Dunes. RV Accessibility: Hole-in-the-Wall Campground offers sites suitable for RVs up to 35 feet. No hookups, but it’s quiet and spacious. Dump stations and potable water are limited, so plan ahead.
Death Valley National Park	Distance: ~4 hours (200 miles north) Highlights: Extreme landscapes, salt flats, and breathtaking views like Zabriskie Point. RV Accessibility: Several campgrounds accommodate RVs, including Furnace Creek (with hookups), Stovepipe Wells, and Mesquite Spring. Temperatures can be extreme, so plan visits during cooler months.
San Bernardino National Forest	Distance: Right in your backyard! Highlights: Dense forests, lakes, and mountain views. Great for hiking, fishing, and relaxing. RV Accessibility: Campgrounds like Serrano Campground near Big Bear Lake are RV-friendly with partial hookups. A great choice for a quick escape from the city.
Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks	Distance: ~4 hours (200 miles northwest) Highlights: Giant sequoia trees, high Sierra vistas, and rugged wilderness. RV Accessibility: Lodgepole and Dorst Creek Campgrounds have spaces for RVs up to 40 feet. Limited hookups are available, but there are dump stations and water.
Orange Empire Railway Museum (Southern California Railway Museum)	Distance: ~30 minutes (27 miles south in Perris, CA) Highlights: One of the largest railway museums in the United States, featuring vintage trains, trolleys, and locomotives. Offers train and trolley rides on select days. Perfect for history buffs and families. RV Friendly: While not specifically an RV site, the large parking lot can accommodate RVs for day visits.
Lake Arrowhead	Distance: ~40 minutes (20 miles north) Highlights: Known as “The Alps of Southern California,” offering scenic beauty, boat tours, and hiking. Lake Arrowhead Village has shops, restaurants, and seasonal events. RV Friendly: Nearby campgrounds like Dogwood Campground accommodate RVs, though hookups are not available.
Route 66 Attractions	Distance: Scattered along the iconic Route 66, passing through San Bernardino. Highlights: The iconic Wigwam Motel in Rialto. Original McDonald’s Site & Museum, the location of the first McDonald’s, showcasing memorabilia. RV Friendly: Ideal for quick stops and photo opportunities.
Glen Helen Regional Park	Distance: ~15 minutes (8 miles northwest) Highlights: Large park with fishing lakes, water slides, and picnic areas. Hosts events and concerts at Glen Helen Amphitheater, the largest outdoor music venue in the U.S. RV Friendly: Parking is available, and there’s nearby RV camping at Glen Helen Raceway.

Other Places to Visit in San Bernardino

Big Bear Lake

Perfect for mountain retreats. Bear Lake is an excellent spot for RV renters, and it’s located in the San Bernardino National Forest, making it super close and convenient. Here's what you need to know about RVing at Big Bear Lake.

Location

• Distance: - 40 miles (1 hour drive) northeast of San Bernardino.

Why Visit Big Bear Lake?

• Scenic Beauty: Gorgeous lake views surrounded by pine forests.

• Outdoor Activities: Boating, fishing, hiking, kayaking, and even winter skiing nearby.

• Mild Summer Climate: A great escape from the heat in the valley, with cooler mountain air.

RV Accessibility

Big Bear Lake is very RV-friendly, with several campgrounds catering to different needs:

1. Serrano Campground

   • Located right on the north shore of Big Bear Lake.

   • RV Amenities: Partial hookups (electric only), potable water, and a dump station.

   • RV Size Limit: Can accommodate rigs up to 40 feet.

   • Proximity to Lake: Walking distance to the lake, marina, and hiking trails.

2. Holloway’s Marina & RV Park

   • Offers full hookups (water, sewer, and electric).

   • Great for direct lake access and water activities.

   • On-site amenities include a marina, store, and boat rentals.

3. Pineknot Campground

   • A little further from the lake, located at an elevation of 7,000 feet.

   • RV Amenities: No hookups, but suitable for dry camping with smaller RVs (up to 26 feet).

   • Known for peaceful, wooded surroundings and access to hiking trails.

4. Big Bear Shores RV Resort

   • A luxury RV resort with full hookups and lakeside views.

   • Includes amenities like a pool, spa, and golf course access.

When to Visit

• Spring/Summer: Perfect for fishing, kayaking, and hiking.

• Fall: Crisp air and beautiful fall foliage.

• Winter: Nearby ski resorts like Snow Summit and Bear Mountain make it ideal for a winter RV trip.

Things to Know

• Reservations: Make reservations early, especially during peak seasons (summer and winter holidays).

• Road Conditions: Be cautious in the winter months; chains might be required on some roads due to snow.

• Lake Levels: Check current water levels before planning activities like fishing or boating, as droughts can affect them.

Big Bear Lake is a perfect getaway for RV renters who want a mix of lakeside relaxation and mountain adventure!

Travel Tips for Your San Bernardino RV Adventure

Planning Your Trip

• Reserve Early: Popular rental periods fill up quickly, especially during holidays.

• Choose the Right RV: Select a vehicle size and the correct number and type of beds suited to your group and comfort needs. There are bunk beds, fixed beds and collapsible beds in RVs.

• Use RV Apps: Download apps like Campendium and AllStays to find campsites, fuel stations, and more.

Driving and Safety

• Know Your RV: Familiarise yourself with the vehicle’s height, weight, and features before hitting the road.

• Road Rules: California requires all drivers to obey speed limits strictly.

• Parking: Look for RV-friendly lots; avoid congested urban areas where large vehicles may struggle to park.

Suggested Itineraries for San Bernardino Road Trips

One-Way Rentals (28 Days)

1. San Bernardino to Grand Canyon

• Route Highlights:

  • Joshua Tree National Park

  • Sedona, Arizona

  • Grand Canyon South Rim

2. San Bernardino to San Francisco (via Coastal Highway)

• Route Highlights:

  • Santa Barbara

  • Big Sur

  • Monterey Bay Aquarium

Return Rentals (28 Days)

1. Southern California Loop

• Highlights:

  • Start in San Bernardino.

  • Joshua Tree National Park: 3 days for desert stargazing, unique rock formations, and Joshua tree forests.

  • San Diego: 5 days exploring world-class beaches, Balboa Park, and coastal attractions.

  • Los Angeles: 4 days for iconic Hollywood landmarks, world-renowned museums, and diverse dining.

  • Big Bear Lake: 3 days for scenic lake experiences, alpine hiking, and mountain relaxation.

2. National Parks Adventure

• Highlights:

  • Yosemite National Park: 4 days for iconic granite peaks, massive waterfalls, and high-country vistas.

  • Sequoia National Park: 3 days exploring giant tree groves, deep canyons, and panoramic mountain overlooks.

  • Death Valley National Park: 3 days for desert salt flats, colourful badlands, and otherworldly sand dunes.

• Return to San Bernardino.

Historic Route 66 in San Bernardino

San Bernardino has a rich connection to Route 66, the iconic "Mother Road" of America, which runs right through the city. This stretch of Route 66 is packed with history, quirky attractions, and a nostalgic charm. Here are some highlights:

• Original McDonald’s Site & Museum

  • Location: 1398 N E St, San Bernardino, CA

  • Highlights:

    • The site of the very first McDonald’s, founded by Richard and Maurice McDonald in 1940.

    • Features memorabilia, vintage signage, and quirky items collected from McDonald’s locations around the world.

    • Free admission!

  • RV Friendly: Plenty of parking for a short stop.

• Wigwam Motel

  • Location: 2728 Foothill Blvd, Rialto, CA (on Route 66, just west of San Bernardino)

  • Highlights:

    • A historic 1930s roadside motel with teepee-shaped rooms.

    • A classic piece of Americana and a must-stop for photos!

    • The property has been restored and offers overnight stays.

  • RV Friendly: Stop for a photo opportunity; limited parking for RVs.

• San Bernardino Route 66 Rendezvous (Annual Event)

  • Highlights:

    • Celebrates Route 66 with a massive classic car show, live music, and food vendors.

    • Usually held in downtown San Bernardino, it’s a major draw for car enthusiasts and Route 66 fans.

  • RV Friendly: Public parking is available nearby, but plan ahead for large crowds during the event.

• Mitla Café

  • Location: 602 N Mount Vernon Ave, San Bernardino, CA

  • Highlights:

    • Open since 1937, Mitla Café is one of the oldest restaurants on Route 66 and is said to have inspired the McDonald brothers’ fast-food concept.

    • Known for its delicious Mexican cuisine, especially their famous tacos.

  • RV Friendly: Parking is limited, but you can find nearby spots for smaller RVs.

• Route 66 Landmarks and Murals

  • Highlights:

    • Throughout San Bernardino, you’ll find murals and signs celebrating Route 66 history.

    • Key Spot: The "Welcome to Route 66" sign on Mount Vernon Avenue is a great photo opportunity.

    • Nearby Landmarks: Check out vintage gas stations and diners that have been preserved as part of the Route 66 heritage.

Route 66 Beyond San Bernardino

• Rialto: Home to the iconic Wigwam Motel, just minutes from San Bernardino.

• Rancho Cucamonga: Features historic buildings and sites like the Sycamore Inn, a steakhouse with roots dating back to the stagecoach era.

• Victorville: About 45 minutes north, the California Route 66 Museum in Victorville showcases artefacts and exhibits dedicated to the road’s history.

Mitla Café: A Historic Gem on Route 66

Mitla Café is not just a restaurant; it’s a cornerstone of history, culture, and delicious food along Route 66 in San Bernardino, California. Here’s everything you need to know about this iconic spot:

History

• Founded: 1937

• Significance:

  • Mitla Café was opened by Lucia Rodriguez during the Great Depression, making it one of the oldest surviving Mexican-American restaurants on Route 66.

  • The café became a gathering place for locals, activists, and Route 66 travelers alike. It played a key role in the local community, serving as a meeting hub for civil rights groups like the Mexican American Movement in the 1940s.

• Connection to McDonald’s:

  • Legend has it that Ray Kroc, who would later franchise McDonald's, was inspired by Mitla Café’s tacos. He saw the efficiency of the restaurant’s taco preparation process and worked with the McDonald brothers, who were regular patrons, to create their fast-food empire.

Food Highlights

Mitla Café is known for its authentic, home-style Mexican dishes that have remained consistent for decades.

• Signature Dishes:

  • Crispy Tacos: These tacos are a must-try and have been a menu staple since the beginning. They feature a perfectly fried shell filled with seasoned ground beef, lettuce, and cheese.

  • Enchiladas: Traditional and packed with flavor.

  • Chili Verde and Chili Colorado: Rich, slow-cooked stews that are fan favorites.

  • Menudo: A weekend favorite, especially for those seeking a hearty and comforting meal.

• Atmosphere: The restaurant retains much of its vintage charm, with red vinyl booths, wooden paneling, and Route 66 memorabilia that tell the story of its history.

Cultural Impact

• Mitla Café isn’t just a place to eat, it’s a living piece of San Bernardino’s history and culture.

• It’s been featured in documentaries and books about Route 66 and the evolution of Mexican-American cuisine in the U.S.

Visiting Mitla Café

• Location:

  • 602 N Mount Vernon Ave, San Bernardino, CA 92411 (right on Route 66!)

• Hours:

  • Open daily, but hours may vary. It’s a good idea to call ahead during holidays or peak travel seasons.

• Atmosphere:

  • Casual, family-friendly, and welcoming. It’s the perfect stop for travelers exploring Route 66 or locals craving authentic Mexican food.

• Parking:

  • The restaurant has its own parking lot, though spaces might be tight for larger RVs. Nearby street parking is usually available.

Why Visit?

Mitla Café is a must-see (and taste!) for Route 66 travellers, foodies, and history buffs. Whether you’re there to enjoy their famous tacos or soak in the vintage ambience, it’s an unforgettable experience that bridges the past and present.

Why Choose Us for Campervan and Motorhome Hire in San Bernardino?

1. Variety of Options: From compact campervans for couples to spacious motorhomes for families.

2. Affordable Prices: Transparent pricing and no hidden fees.

3. Local Expertise: Knowledge of the best routes, campsites, and travel tips.

4. Support: 24/7 roadside assistance to ensure peace of mind.

Where to Camp and Spend Nights

1. San Bernardino National Forest: Beautiful sites close to nature.

2. Big Bear Lake Campgrounds: Excellent for family stays.

3. Joshua Tree National Park Campgrounds: Perfect for stargazing.

Wild Camping Rules

• Wild camping is allowed in some areas managed by the Bureau of Land Management (BLM).

• Always follow Leave No Trace principles and verify local regulations.

Renting an RV in San Bernardino is the perfect way to explore Southern California and beyond. Whether you’re traveling with family, a partner, or friends, the flexibility and comfort of an RV offer endless possibilities.

To get started, request a quote or book your RV rental today. For more details, visit trusted resources like ReserveCalifornia or Recreation.gov.