Top 5 RV Destinations Near San Francisco
There’s hardly a better place for road trips in America than California. And centrally located, San Francisco has to be the best starting point for scenic drives in the state. From San Francisco Airport, you can get to every corner of California in less than a day’s drive. Whether it’s deserts you want, or forests, coasts or wine regions—they’re all within easy reach from this exciting city. So, below, you’ll find an overview of the five best RV destinations near San Francisco.
Top RV Destinations Near San Francisco
The following RV destinations near San Francisco are all natural places. You’ve got San Francisco as a base, a city you should definitely explore, so there’s really no need to head to other urban places when you’re in a stunning state like California.
5. Lassen Volcanic National Park
A mini-Yellowstone just a few hours north of San Francisco, Lassen Volcanic National Park is one of the most remarkable places in a state filled with remarkable places. The most prominent of the park’s many volcanoes, Lassen Peak Volcano dominates this wild landscape of forests, lakes and hypothermal sites. Outdoor activities are plentiful and range from hiking and snowshoeing to boating, auto touring and stargazing.
Distance from San Francisco: 236 miles
Suggested stay: 3 days / 2 nights
4. Pinnacles National Park
The youngest of the American national parks, Pinnacles National Park lies a quick two-hour drive south of the city. Protecting a unique environment that’s literally out of place, it consists of a part of an ancient volcanic field that was transported northward from the modern L.A. area by plate tectonics. Countless rock spires, domes and caves characterize this rugged area while the peacefully rolling farmlands of the Salinas Valley make for a scenic approach to the park. Visit this quiet park for scenic hikes, wonderful camping and occasional California condor sightings.
Distance from San Francisco: 124 miles
Suggested stay: 2 days / 2 nights
3. Lake Tahoe
On the border of California and Nevada lies Lake Tahoe; one of the most famous vacation destinations in the United States. Naturally, this is also one of the best RV destinations near San Francisco. This huge freshwater lake in the Sierras Nevadas offers outdoor fun all-year round. Winter provides ample skiing and snowshoeing opportunities while summers are awesome for hiking, boating and even diving.
Distance from San Francisco: 188 miles
Suggested stay: 3 days / 3 nights
2. Big Sur
Big Sur is arguably the most famous section on California Highway 1, one of the world’s greatest roads. This stretch of coastline is among the most breathtaking on earth; a place of such immense beauty it belongs on any California itinerary. From towering pine forests to impossibly scenic beaches and sheer coastal cliffs; the natural splendor of Big Sur is unparalleled in the United States. Consider parking your RV in Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park for a few days of coastal delight.
Distance from San Francisco: 146 miles
Suggested stay: 3 days / 3 nights
1. Yosemite National Park
The crown jewel of the National Park Service, Yosemite National Park in Utah National Parks is one of the great destinations on this planet. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, this epic park consists of huge waterfalls, enormous granite domes, deep valleys, wildflower-covered mountain meadows, rugged peaks and dense forests. So, unsurprisingly, it’s an outdoor lover’s paradise with world-class hiking, rock climbing and boating. Truly a one-of-a-kind place and one of the top RV destinations near San Francisco.
Distance from San Francisco: 166 miles
Suggested stay: 3 days / 3 nights