California is a fantastic state with so much to explore!
It's home to some of the most famous cities in America, as well as the world renowned Yosemite National Park.
Renting an RV or campervan in California allows you to explore some of the more untouched areas of the state, including beautiful natural wonders, craggy coastlines and clear blue lakes.
There are so many options when it comes to renting campervans in California...
So many that it can be hard to know who to choose - so we’ve done the hard work for you!
Here’s a round up of the 15 best campervan and RV rentals in California!
GoSee is the largest RV and campervan comparison service in the world.
Their website is incredibly user friendly. Simply input your city and dates, and see what’s available within your budget.
Now, California is an very popular road trip destination so RVs and camper vans sell out quickly, especially if you’re visiting during the summer.
For this reason, you'll need to be organized when you’re planning your Californian adventure.
GoSee allows you to quickly see what’s available for your chosen dates, and only offers the most trusted and reputable companies.
It's always worth beginning your hunt with a quick search on GoSee, here’s some of the other things that make them so great:
For more info, read our in-depth review of GoSee Travel (Motorhome Republic).
With over 40 years of RV rental experience, helping adventurers from all over the world, you know you’re in good hands with Road Bear RV.
They have bilingual staff who speak both English and German, and they pride themselves on excellent customer service, with 24/7 emergency help.
They offer one of the newest rental fleets on the market, with all vehicles guaranteed to be no more than 18 months old.
The large vehicles mean they’re a very family friendly company, and they even offer free convenience kits for under 6s.
Road Bear RV also offers complimentary shuttle services from certain airport hotels, and to some international airports.
With so much to offer, this company is undoubtedly one of the best RV rentals in California!
Brand new 2022 models are guaranteed with every rental!
The smallest vehicle has capacity for 2 adults and 2 children, whilst the largest can fit up to 5 adults and 2 children.
All vehicles come with a stove, oven and fridge, as well as lots of other features and facilities.
You won’t even need to worry about entertainment on the road as all vehicles come with TVs.
Outdoorsy is a great unique motorhome rental option in California. It's a well trusted RV marketplace, connecting RV owners with people looking to rent a campervan.
It’s a great way to not only offer the widest variety of RV rentals, but also connect like minded people.
It also gets use out of the 17 million RVs that go unused for the majority of the year!
Before booking vehicles you can ‘meet the host’ and have a chat with them about the vehicle and what’s on offer.
Some owners will deliver vehicles to you, or you might be able to get the vehicle set up ready for you at a campsite or an RV park.
During the booking process you can see the different insurance packages on offer, and decide which is best for you.
For more information, check out our in-depth Outdoorsy review!
With over 200,000 vehicles listed on Outdoorsy there’s going to be something for every traveler and every type of trip.
From tiny compact micro-vans ideal for solo travelers, to large motorhomes ideal for a big family trip.
During your search you can filter by certain amenities, so you only find RVs offering exactly what you need. You can also easily filter by price to ensure you see only what’s within your budget.
The nature of an RV marketplace means Outdoorsy offers unique RV experiences, with that personal touch you simply can’t get from a big RV rental firm.
Many of the rentals also offer a variety of campervan accessories so check what's included before you book!
You certainly won’t lose your Escape Rentals RV in a parking lot! All their vehicles are hand painted with amazing artwork.
They’re one of the top choices for RV rentals in California, with two locations in the state, as well as 11 others around the US and Canada.
Whilst their RVs come with a great range of facilities including queen sized beds, full kitchen fit outs and dual battery systems, there’s also lots of optional extras on offer.
Escape Rentals offer great competitive rates, so there’s something for even the budget traveler amongst us.
Escape Campervans offers 4 different types of RV to rent in California, as well as a jeep that sleeps 2. Their largest vehicle has capacity for up to 5.
Their unique hand painted artwork offers a totally unique RV rental experience in Los Angeles and San Francisco.
The vans are also super economical and easy to drive, so they’re ideal if it’s your first time renting an RV in California.
Cruise America is one of the largest and highly regarded RV firms in America, operating in over 100 locations across 33 states.
With over 50 years of motorhome rental experience, you know you’re in good hands!
When you pick up your vehicle, staff will help you plan the best route for your California road trip. There's also the Cruise America app which helps travelers find destinations and campsites throughout their trip.
They also offer long term rental options for temporary housing or business use.
Their variety of vehicle sizes means Cruise America is the ideal choice for a large group or family trip, or an intimate couples getaway.
With so much experience in the RV world, Cruise America knows what’s good when it comes to comfort on the road. All vehicles come equipped with air-con, a gas stove, a fridge, a microwave, and a toilet.
The largest RV has a maximum capacity of 7, so is great for big family trips, or the ultimate adventure holiday with all your friends. Their smallest vehicle can sleep 3, and it’s smaller size makes it perfect for first time RV renters.
The Adventure Travel Trailer is available at their Los Angeles pick up. You can leave the trailer at a campsite, and enjoy the freedom of exploring in just your own smaller vehicle.
All vehicles have a fresh water toilet, shower, gas stove, microwave, and fridge.
With so many locations around the state, it’s so easy to book a one way RV rental in California.
Travelers Autobarn specialize in converted campervans, with standing room and great amenities.
They offer loads of budget friendly benefits including free unlimited miles, free extra drivers, and discounts at campsites.
This will undoubtedly help keep costs down in the notoriously expensive state of California!
Unlike the majority of other firms, Travelers Autobarn offers rentals to those 21 and over.
They also offer one way rentals which is great if you want to start your California road trip in Los Angeles and finish in San Francisco.
Campervans from Travelers Autobarn are typically smaller, so ideal for couples, groups, or even solo travelers.
The most budget friendly is the minivan. If you have your own camping gear but want the option of sleeping in a van this is the vehicle for you!
Their other options are both fully converted campers with good headroom, microwave, fridge, aux battery, and a convertible bed/seating area.
Of the two campers, the Kuga has a newer interior as well as solar panels.
With almost half a century’s experience on the RV rental market, El Monte certainly knows how to lead the way in motorhome rentals.
They stand out from the crowd by opening on Sundays, making motorhome rental more convenient and accessible.
El Monte also offers airport transfers and has multilingual staff. They specialize in one way rentals, which can be especially useful when exploring the state of California.
There’s even professional cleaning and multi point inspections after each rental, as well as regular vehicle services.
This means you're guaranteed a seamless transaction and are safe in the knowledge that everything’s up to scratch.
El Monte’s vehicle fleet consists of Class As, Class Cs and temporary living units.
All vehicles are 2021 or newer, and can sleep between 5 - 8 people. The vehicles are spacious with plenty of storage space. Facilities include A/C, shower, toilet and kitchen.
If you’re renting on a budget check out their ‘Run of the Fleet’ option. You book at a discounted rate but don’t know which vehicle you’ll get until pick up day.
Lil'RV may only offer small vehicles, but they have everything you need for your California road trip.
Whether you’re exploring national parks, taking a trip up the coast, or camping in the wilderness, LilRV’s got you covered.
And better still, they allow rentals for anyone over 21!
This makes them one of the best options for small RV rentals in California.
Lil'RV has 2 vehicles to choose from. Both are converted mini vans, so are economical, compact and easy to use.
They’re ideal for first time RV renters who might be nervous about maneuvering a larger vehicle.
The Trailblazer has room for 4 with 2 double beds, whilst the Wavefarer sleeps 2.
These micro RVs come equipped with everything you need for your California road trip (including the kitchen sink!). There’s ample storage space, a butane gas stove, water tank, fridge, a sink with tap and drain, and AC.
Expedition Motorhomes are ideal for those looking to enjoy the California coastline from the comfort of a luxury motorhome.
Located 15 minutes from the Pacific Ocean, Expedition Motorhomes are ideally situated for travelers to get exploring the west coast straight away.
Airport pick up and drop off are available to those flying into LAX Airport.
There’s 7 different types of vehicle in Expedition Motorhome’s fleet.
The largest can sleep up to 10 adults, but the smaller vehicles are more compact and easier to maneuver.
The interiors of Expedition Motorhomes fleet is what makes them stand out, with luxurious leather sofas and flat screen TVs.
There’s also a variety of extras and add-ons that you can buy to add an extra level of comfort to your trip.
Britz Campervans USA has two branches in California; one in Los Angeles and the other in San Francisco.
Staff are multilingual at both branches, speaking English, Spanish, German and Dutch.
One of the great things about Britz is they offer one way rentals between all their locations.
All basic rental rates include convenience kits, taxes, fees and 100 miles per day.
All Britz Campervan vehicles are guaranteed to be new models. You won’t get anything older than 2021.
Their fleet is made up entirely of 4 berth models, with large rear and cab-over beds. All vehicles come with an awning, camping table, generator, outdoor storage and water tank.
Rental rates come with pretty much everything you need so it’s a really easy and straightforward process.
Lost Campers are a family run business striving to provide top of the range RV rental for all budgets. If you’re looking to rent a cheap RV you’ve come to the right place!
Their best feature has to be their all inclusive rates.
Unlimited bedding, camping gear, cookware, and 24 hour assistance are included in the prices, as well as 150 miles a day. You've also got the option to add on extras!
Once you’ve rented from Lost Campers once, you’re eligible for discounts on future bookings.
Lost Campers vehicles all include full size mattresses, bedding, and camping equipment.
Out of their 6 vehicles, The Wanderer is the most simple and budget friendly. It’s perfect for those that love camping, but would like to sleep in a van.
The rest of the vehicles have more features!
The Redwood is their largest and best equipped with space for 3 child seats, a power inverter, sink, and dual battery.
Some of the other vehicles sleep 4/5 whilst the rest sleep only 2, so there's a good variety to choose from.
RVShare offers one of the largest and most trusted RV rental marketplaces in the United States.
It’s not dissimilar to Outdoorsy as they connect owners with renters, however RV share focuses specifically on RVs.
It’s easy to compare different vehicles side by side, looking at their prices, amenities and special features.
You can also book with confidence thanks to their 24 hour roadside assistance!
If you want to learn more, check out our RVshare review!
Of course the fleet can vary year on year, but you’re pretty much guaranteed to always find a vehicle that works for you.
Whether you’re after a compact camper for a solo adventure, or a large luxurious rental for a big family trip, a quick search and filter on RVShare will point you in the right direction.
Cabana aims to offer wonder, serendipity, and exploration.
Their vision is to create a ‘mobile hotel room’ so this means high end amenities and great facilities on the road. Cleaning, insurance and unlimited mileage are included in all rates.
They also offer contactless trip planning and custom itinerary services, as well as excellent campsite recommendations.
Discounts are available for extended trips, and one way rentals too.
Cabana’s high quality and high tech fleet ensure there’s a seamless and unique integrated travel experience. Vehicles have seats and sleeping space for 2.
Every vehicle comes with a queen sized bed, toilet, hot shower, kitchen, bedding, towels, toiletry, and camp chairs. There’s also loads of storage space including pull out drawers and a wardrobe.
Vintage Surfari Wagons have led the way as pioneers of vintage VW bus rental services for over 14 years. They offer an amazing opportunity for a unique RV rental in southern California.
They’re experts in VW bus revamping; having revamped for themselves and private owners since 2005.
Therefore, most interiors have had an extensive and professional revamp. The few stock interiors that do remain are in great condition!
As well as an amazing set of vehicles for rent, Vintage Surfari Wagons also offer group camping tours.
The fleet consists of 70s, 80s, 90s, and 00s campers, all equipped with camping equipment. Vehicles can sleep either 2 or 4 people, which makes them perfect for couples or small families.
The camper buses on offer include Eurovans, Bay Windows, and Vanagons.
You are certainly guaranteed to look the part during your California road trip in a vehicle from Vintage Surfari!
Indie Campers operate in over 40 locations across Europe, and the US. With over 2000 campervans, motorhomes and converted vans to hire you’re guaranteed to find something that suits you at Indie.
You can choose from Indie’s own range of fully equipped campers, or rent a privately owned campervan nearby.
Campers can be picked up at a variety of rental locations throughout California including Los Angeles and San Francisco.
One way rentals are also available, which can be ideal for a road trip around the state.
Yet another RV marketplace, Indie Campers are newer to the market but are expanding everyday.
The fleet from private sellers can change throughout the year, but they also have their own range of Indie Campers which are available from different pick up locations all over the world.
There’s 5 different models of vehicle available from their Los Angeles depot, and 4 available in San Francisco.
The Wrangler is a smaller vehicle with a trail kitchen and portable gas stove. There’s space for 2 to sleep in this vehicle so it’s ideal for either solo or couple trips.
The larger Solis vehicle can sleep 4, has an integrated bathroom, shower, and kitchen so is ideal for a family road trip.
Offering an ‘elevated wanderlust experience’, The Camper Cartel is a campervan rental firm run by adventurers, for adventurers.
All rates include unlimited miles and mandatory roadside assistance is added to all quotes at $12 a day. Free pick up and drop off is offered within the Topanga area too!
You can also offset your trip through Camper Cartel’s carbon offset program if you're looking for an eco-friendly option.
There’s are variety of extras you can choose to add to your rental too.
They’ve even created four awesome music playlists to provide the perfect background noise for your scenic trip through California.
Camper Cartel offers four different vehicles.
There are two converted Ford Transit vans, one with a high roof and one with a low roof. Both of these can seat and sleep 2.
Both campers include a full set of camping gear, solar power, toiletries, outdoor shower, and a built-in kitchen. The other two vehicles are 4x4s which seat 5 and sleep 2, with 3 more in tents.
Prices are very varied when it comes to renting an RV in California. You can expect to pay anywhere between $75-$350 per night.
Yes, this is a HUGE range, but it depends on the class of RV you go for and the facilities on offer. RV rental prices reflect the expensive nature of travelling California.
Remember that renting a campervan/RV means that your transport and accommodation costs are combined. You’ll likely have facilities to cook your own meals too, so won’t be splashing the cash on eating out.
With this in mind, RV rental is actually one of the most budget friendly and affordable ways to explore California.
Most RV rental firms in California require you to be at least 25, however some of the firms we have recommended above have a minimum age of 21.
You can’t simply pull up and park anywhere in California as this could result in a parking ticket.
There’s always going to be campsites that will allow RV and motorhome parking. But, California also has lots of wild camping options on BLM land where it is free to park. However, some of the areas can only be accessed with 4WD so do your research first!
Ask your rental companies for recommendations of where to park up, before you head off. They’ll give good advice on where you can go, and also how to avoid more hazardous drives.
You’ll come across a fair few truck stops throughout your California road trip. These are a great option for free overnight parking.
Hopefully we have inspired you to take a tour of ‘the Golden State’ in an RV!
Which of our RV rental recommendations will you go for?
Or have we missed a great California RV rental company?
Let us know in the comments below!
After you've decided on your perfect campervan then it's time to start planning your road trip, and luckily California has a lot to offer!
First of all, there are plenty of fantastic cities to visit including Los Angeles, San Diego, San Francisco, and Santa Barbara!
You've also got lots of awesome national parks in California including Yosemite, Death Valley, and Joshua Tree National Park, as well as the spectacular Sierra Nevada Mountains!
If you've found this rental guide helpful then we've got plenty more where that came from:
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