If you’re thinking about heading along the West Coast for the blissful sun and dramatic National Parks, this is the perfect itinerary for you! The ultimate Californian Road Trip filled with many places to see and things to do!
Collect your RV from Travellers Autobarn Los Angeles and spend a few hours learning to drive your vehicle. If you’re from the other side if the world driving on the opposite side of the road will take some time getting used to.
Los Angeles to Temecula
Stop 1
Once you are comfortable in your RV head South down to Temecula for a day trip before heading back up the coast. This area is famous for its wine-region! If you want to make this extra special, book a hot air balloon ride over the wineries. This is truly something to remember! You’ll be able to explore the many award-winning wineries that blanket this region. No one likes a reckless driver, so no drinking and driving! Rather, pre-plan to spend the night.
Temecula to Santa Monica Pier
Stop 2
From Temecula, head North West over to the coast to Santa Monica Pier. For some old fashion fun, why not head to the double-jointed pier that juts out into the Pacific Ocean? This is the best way to let your hair down and go on some thrill-seeking rides! The best part is admission is free!
Santa Monica Pier to Yosemite National Park
Stop 3
It is a 296-mile drive from the pier to Yosemite National Park. This National Park is one of the most well-known and most desired places to go. Its spectacular beauty stretches for miles. Put on your hiking shoes and get amongst nature at its finest, with a wide variety of treks to choose from. The longer the hike the better the view! We recommend at least 3 days here to make the most of this magical place.
Yosemite National Park to Mono Lake and Mono County
Stop 4
Right next door to Yosemite National Park is Mono Lake. Based in Mono County, this relatively shallow but dramatic lake was formed hundreds of thousands of years ago. This is a great stop for a picnic lunch. Be careful to not drink the water! The extremely high-salt content makes this lake a very salty body of water.
Mono Lake to Lake Tahoe
Final Stop
It is a breezy 110-mile drive North from Mono Lake to your destination. Lake Tahoe straddles the state line between California and Nevada. This Lake is a huge fresh water Lake, perfect for water sports! Visit Vikingsholm for an awesome look at a modern-day castle, nestled in the hills surrounding Lake Tahoe.
Lake Tahoe
We recommend you spend at least a few days in each stop along the way. It is all about experiencing different culture and nature at its best! If, like me, you cannot pack your bags fast enough! Contact Travellers Autobarn to grab a quote for your ultimate Californian Road Trip!
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- See all Los Angeles road trips
Get the best rates on campervan rentals across Los Angeles
Road trips are meant to be fun and stress-free, and we make sure they stay that way. Our budget campervan rental in Los Angeles provides a cost-effective solution for travelers who want comfort and convenience.
FAQs about Los Angeles to Lake Tahoe road trip
Driving from Los Angeles and Lake Tahoe is around 677 miles (1100 km). So, it would typically take you between 11 and 14 hours, depending on how often you stop. Instead of tackling one long drive, we recommend taking a 10-day road trip so you can enjoy the journey and stop at the attractions along the route.
On your way from Los Angeles to Lake Tahoe, there are many places to stop and enjoy the drive at your own pace. Temecula is a good one to start with if you want to stretch your legs and explore somewhere different. You can stop for lunch or walk through the main part of town, and if you have time, there are plenty of places to check out nearby.
Further north, Santa Monica is worth pulling over for. The pier is a fun stop where you can walk around, grab something to eat, or just sit by the water for a while. Once you head inland, Yosemite National Park allows you to get into nature a bit. There are walking trails of all lengths, and you don’t need to go far from the road to see some really nice views.
After Yosemite, you’ll pass Mono Lake. It’s an easy stop with a few spots to get out and look around. The landscape is unusual and quiet, so it’s a good place to take a break. From there, Lake Tahoe isn’t too far. Once you arrive, there are beaches and walking tracks, and if the weather’s right, you can head out on the water or just take a walk around the lake before finishing your trip.
You can pick up your campervan rental from our branch in Los Angeles. Unfortunately, we don’t have a facility in Lake Tahoe for you to drop it off once you arrive. Our drop-off locations are in Las Vegas, San Francisco, and Los Angeles.
Along the route, you will pass a bunch of lovely freedom camping spots that you can factor into your trip if you need a break. Use our guides to find freedom camping sites in California and Nevada along the route.
The best time to drive from Los Angeles to Lake Tahoe is between May and October. You’ll avoid snowy mountain passes and get clear skies for the drive. Summer is great for hiking and lake views, while early fall brings changing leaves and thinner crowds. If you’re going for snow sports, winter’s fine, just check road conditions before you head out.
Yes, especially if you are heading up during the quieter months. Booking your campervan in advance allows you to catch an off-season deal and lets you focus on the route, the weather, and what you want to do once you arrive.
There are no tolls on the Los Angeles to Lake Tahoe route, so you can enjoy the mountain drive without running into any toll roads.
Our Campervans
Seats 2-5
Tent Optional
Chairs Optional
Ice Box Optional
Ext. Table Opt.
Gas Cooker Opt.
