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5 Must-See RV Destinations on the West Coast

Erin Peters
Sunset of a starfish at Cape Blanco State Park, Oregon

A starfish emerges on a sea rock during low tide in Port Orford, Oregon

Dreaming about cruising down the west coast? We’ve got you covered! In this list, we’ve written down five RV destinations you can’t afford to miss!

With seaside views, lush forests, and summer sun nearly all year-round, it’s no wonder travelers can’t get enough of the place. These 5 must-see RV destinations on the west coast each has their own je ne sais quoi.

Del Valle Regional Park, California

Del Valle Regional Park, Livermore. Photo Credit: Unsplash, Rajasri Janakiraman

Deep in the valley skirted by oaky hills lies Del Valle Park, a lakeside recreation attraction for all ages. You can go swimming, windsurfing, and kayaking at the beach, or explore the beautiful wilderness for hiking, horseback riding, or even mountain biking.

In the summer season, you can participate in the programs at the amphitheater, join naturalists and sing songs, tell stories, play games, and roast marshmallows at the firepit. You can also take a tour of the lake with staff!

We’re only at the first one on the list and it’s already packed with so many activities and amenities. Due to its prime location, you may have to make a few stops at Napa Valley and other tourist attractions for some wine-tasting.

Stay: Sugar Barge RV Resort and Marina –  Located in the heart of the Sacramento/ San Joaquin River Delta, it’s one of the finest RV campgrounds in the central California region. Boat and RV dry storage is available.

Big Basin Redwoods, California

Big Basin, California. Photo Credit: Unsplash, Jordan M. Lomibao

Founded in 1902, the Big Basin Redwoods park is recognized as the first ever state park in California. The 18,000-acre forest is teeming with wildlife and luscious plants of different species. The campground has miles upon miles of hiking trials that lead you to waterfalls and crystal-clear streams, or deeper into the recesses of the forest, where creatures are waiting, long undisturbed by human activity.

Earlier last year, the August Complex fire burned about 97% of California’s oldest state park. Big Basin Redwoods State Park is getting more than $540,000 to help it recover from the wildfire. To support the recovery efforts of this beloved park through our many wonderful partner organizations, please visit https://www.parks.ca.gov/BigBasinRecovery. While it’s currently closed, keep this park on your list for future RV vacations to support California’s nature and wildlife.

At the edges of the forest you can find magnificent views of the Pacific Ocean. The park has more than 80 miles of trails. And a new Nature Museum has been closed for renovation. It will reopen in Spring 2020 with all new exhibits.

Because these redwood trees of this kind are some of the tallest and oldest on the planet, consider yourself walking amongst gods of a woodland realm of North Californian beauty.

Stay: Coyote Valley RV Resort –  After a recent 2020 expansion, you’ll find new premium plus sites with additional new clubhouse, pool, spa, bocce, giant dog park, bird estuary, restrooms and showers.

Cape Blanco State Park, Oregon

A starfish and other sea life on a rock during sunset at low tide. Photo Credit: Getty Images, michaelschober

Don’t miss out on this nearly secluded beach that is perfect for seashore living, especially on the Oregon coast. There are hiking trails to the ocean bluffs that lead you to breathtaking views of the Pacific.

This isn’t one of the five must-see RV destinations on the west coast for nothing. You’ll be plunged into a different, yet reverent world that knows only peace and tranquility, a kind you’ve never found in the city’s hustle and bustle.

At the westernmost tip of Oregon perched perfectly over the ocean are beautiful buildings near Cape Blanco, including a lighthouse and an early Irish settler’s house both built in the late 1800s. Take a visit into one of the most well-preserved historical sites in the state, and look into the stories of the Hughes family.

Have you ever wanted to ride a horse to the beach? Well, here you can! Ride on horseback as the waves crash behind you with your wind in your hair, and immerse yourself completely into the spectacular seaside sun.

Stay: Port Orford RV Village – Enjoy river and ocean fishing, crabbing, whale watching and beach combing.

Wallowa Lake State Park, Joseph, Oregon

Wallowa Mountains. Photo Credit: Unsplash, Evan Sanchez

In Southeast Oregon, just a little beyond Joseph Town, a sleeping giant lies nestled between snow-tipped mountains. Right at the south end of the lake is Wallowa Lake State Park, where RV campers can stay the night and bask in the natural splendor of the place.

Daytime activities are at every corner. Boat rentals are available with full stocks, and within walking distance you can find a path that leads to hiking trails. Nearby, there are plenty of restaurants to visit, and more things to occupy your time with.

Explore the amenities like go-kart courses, horseback riding, miniature golf, and a tram that takes you to the top of Mt. Howard. The majestic Wallowa Lake may as well be the stuff of myth and mystery, and yet it welcomes all to its valley.

Stay: Mt View RV on the Oregon Trail – Come explore the Oregon Trail, Hells Canyon, Ghost Towns & Nat’l Scenic Byways.

Ohanapecosh, Mount Rainier National Park, WA

Mount Rainier. Photo Credit: Unsplash, Samuel Han

Have you ever been near an active volcano before? At Ohanapecosh, you’ll find yourself in wildflower meadows surrounding glacial peaks and lush green forests all the while being close and personal with Mount Rainier.

If you follow the wild river that runs through the campsite, you’ll find yourself at the Ohanapecosh Hot Springs. Nearby, you’ll also be able to explore the mountain path through the Grove of the Patriarchs trail. While you may be dry camping out here, you can easily head over to Gateway Inn, right at the Nisqually Entrance.

The origin of Ohanapecosh may have been the name of the river, as it can be the Taidnapam Indian word for “standing on the edge”. To get a good view of the volcano, you need to explore nearby areas of the park.

Stay: Harmony Lakeside RV Park & Deluxe Cabins: Relax, fish, swim, rent a boat or bring your own, ski & camp from a beautifully landscaped park on 13-mile lake near Mt St Helens & Mt Rainier.

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