Smell that? That’s the sweet, sweet smell of the open road. Freedom from your everyday obligations, adult responsibilities, and diet rules. Temporarily…let’s not get crazy, bills still need to be paid and that kale isn’t going to eat itself. All that negativity aside, there’s a road trip adventure awaiting you! North, south, east, or west – no road map is needed here. Plus, you likely have GPS already, just in case ;). When the open road is on your horizon, do visions of a shiny RV dance in your head? Mine too. Herding the fam into the RV is the prime travel cliché, but for some, the cost-benefits may be the reason behind it. Driving motorhomes or hauling travel trailers offer not only the capacity to bring that “home essence” on vacation, but can also be a more affordable way of traveling, considering the average rate of hotel rooms for the family.
In California, we’re fortunate to have many great campsites with hiking trails, beaches, ice (who knew that was a great amenity), and of course, a place to hook up an RV. If you don’t own an RV, but have been pondering one for you or your family, we have low RV rates and options to help. From Los Angeles to Napa, we’ve outlined five campsites below that may be worth a visit. Not only are these campsites reasonably-priced in comparison to nearby hotels, but just as our membership grows, in part, due to positive online reviews, the RV parks we share received rave reviews, each averaging over 4 stars. That’s right, while dirt and bugs detract from a hotel’s star-rating, out here in the wild, they are welcome. Start your engine, folks. Let’s hit the road.
- Near Logix Burbank – Hollywood RV Park
Located near many L.A. attractions, Hollywood RV Park provides guests with full RV hookups, a gym, laundry facilities, and restrooms. There’s even Wi-Fi for those of us who have trouble completely shutting ourselves off from the digital world. Campsites are offered daily, weekly (with some exclusions), and monthly. Rates are based off of 4 people per site, with an additional charge of $5 per person and up to a maximum of 8 people. Reviewers boast about the peacefulness, friendly & helpful staff, and clean facilities.
Price per Day: $65 + Tax, please check website for weekly & monthly pricing
Average price of nearby hotels: $100
- North of Santa Barbara – Flying Flags RV Resort & Campground
How about some RVing with a touch of sophistication? Flying Flags RV Resort & Campground is situated near Solvang, so you can easily happen upon some wine tasting. If your agenda includes hiking in nature, the beautiful Los Padres National Forest is also close by. Amenities onsite include a swimming pool, playground for the kiddos, laundry facilities, free Wi-Fi, and more.
Price per Day: Varies; website offers pricing based on day, vehicle type, and number of guests
Average price of nearby hotels: $141
- Northeast of Fresno – Camp Edison
With plenty of hiking, horseback riding, and fishing, Camp Edison has an abundant amount of campsites (252) to choose from. For those wanting to be in the middle of nature, this site appears to offer that experience and more. Reviewers were taken aback by the beauty of the lake and were delighted with the boat rentals, restroom facilities, and site options.
Price per Day: Varies by campsite, $32+, please check website for further cost breakdowns
Average price of nearby hotels: $115
- Nuzzled in Sequoia National Park – Lodgepole Campground
Reservations are recommended to score a site at this popular campground. Though there are a limited amount of sites available during the fall and spring, Lodgepole Campground has 214 sites for guests in the summer. Their simple amenities enhance the true “camping” feel of the area. There are restrooms, a visitor center, and even a free shuttle service that takes you to the main hiking trails. One thing to note is that there are dump and water stations available (weather permitting), but no hookups at the campground; though, generators are allowed on some campsites. Reviewers love the rustic beauty of the area, cleanliness of the campground, and friendly rangers.
Price per Day: $22
Average price of nearby hotels: $136
- East of Sonoma – Skyline Wilderness Park
Two RV parks with wine nearby? Don’t judge me. Yes, Skyline Wilderness Park is located in Napa, a city well-known for its wine, but there are several other activities to keep the adventure going here. Some of the parks amenities include trails that are perfect for hiking and biking, picnic areas, and archery? Yes, you read that right; there is an archery range if you’re looking to get your inner Katniss on. Reviewers rave about the views, clean facilities, and nearby California native garden.
Price per Day: $25+
Average price of nearby hotels: $205
Adventure awaits you this season and the road is your oyster. Head into your surrounding landscapes to sip some wine, learn a new hobby, or just sit down, look out, and breathe in that nature air. And, if you love the idea of being at your destination, but wince at the thought of all those “glorious” miles on the road, we’ve shared some suggestions for tossing boredom out the window in Rev up the RV – 5 Easy & Affordable Road Trip Games. Adulting is optional.
*Logix does not officially endorse any of the options listed above. Please check with campsites for the latest information or updated safety guidelines.