Three of California's national parks are within 90 miles of Fresno, CA, which makes it not only a hub for road trips but also for the exploration of nature. Yosemite National Park is one of the busiest in the entire country as nearly 4 million people visit each year. It's popular among experienced climbers because of El Capitan, which is the largest piece of exposed granite in the world. The Nose is rated just 5.9 in difficulty, but it's the most popular route to the summit. The toughest is The Dawn Wall, which is rated 5.14c. There are only a handful of climbs in the world that are more difficult. Photographers, many of whom wish to follow in the footsteps of Ansel Adams, love to photograph the crags, forests, and wildlife of Yosemite National Park. The distance from Fresno to Yosemite National Park is 61 miles.
It's 53 miles to King's Canyon National Park. The park is famous for being the home of General Grant, a 267-foot sequoia that's 29 feet in diameter. There are 55 hiking trails in King's Canyon National Park. It's a good idea to check with park staff before setting out on hikes because trails are subject to closure for various reasons, including fire danger. Sometimes, trails are closed to protect the environment, hikers, or both. Unlike many other national parks that provide bridle trails, King's Canyon National Park offers three stables from which you can either participate in organized tours on horseback or rent horses for your trip down the applicable trails.
Sequoia National Park, which adjoins King's Canyon National Park, is home to the largest living thing on the planet, the General Sherman tree. This 275-foot tall giant sequoia measures more than 60 feet in circumference, weighs nearly 2,000 long tons, and is almost 3,000 years old. This park is 77 miles from Fresno. The park's 112 hiking trails convert to snowshoe and/or cross-country skiing tracks during the winter, and these trails are of varying difficulties. Birders will be able to enter quite a few species into their notebooks, such as towhees, flycatchers, and grosbeaks. If you're incredibly lucky, then you might catch sight of a California condor. None of these giant birds nest in the park, but they occasionally fly through it.
Millerton Lake State Recreation Area is 27 miles from Fresno. Water-based activities are the biggest draw at this state park, largely because of the 40 miles of coastline at the lakes inside the park. Trout, catfish, crappies, and bass headline the species you can chase with a rod and reel. The campground fits rigs up to 36 feet in length.
Colonel Allensworth State Historic Park is 78 miles from Fresno. It is the only place in all of California that was founded, built, and maintained by a Black community. It lasted from 1908 until 1914 when the town's water source mysteriously became poisoned with arsenic. The buildings that remained until the late 20th century were eventually added to the National Register of Historic Places, becoming a state historic park in 1974. There's just one easy hiking trail in Colonel Allensworth State Historic Park, and it's 1.4 miles long.
600 miles from Fresno, Beaver Dam State Park makes for an interesting road trip. One of the interesting things about it is that there have not been beavers in Beaver Dam State Park for a long time. The park gets its name from the original beaver dam that created the lake in the park. You can ride ATVs along designated trails that take you past many overlooks and other scenic sites. If you like to stargaze, then you can take advantage of the area's notably dark night sky.
Sierra National Forest is 37 miles from Fresno. This forest is at anywhere from 9,000 feet to nearly 14,000 feet of elevation, so it'd be a good idea to acclimate before exploring it. The wildflowers in the area are of particular note, especially the poppies and lupine. The abundant wildlife includes black bears, coyotes, foxes, and mule deer.
Despite being just about 60 miles away as the crow flies, Inyo National Forest lies 312 miles away by road because the road must go around and between three national parks to get there. The different species of trees and smaller plants in Inyo National Forest draw amateur botanists from all over to study the Jefferson pines, juniper, bitterbrush, and lodgepole pines. Mountain lions prowl the area, and so do black bears, looking for antelope and mule deer.
It's a 99-mile drive north to Stanislaus National Forest. Set aside by Congress in 1897, Stanislaus National Forest is one of the oldest such forests in the country. Hikers love this forest for its nearly 1,100 miles of hiking trails. Anglers love it for the 811 miles of streams, brooks, and creeks in which they can fish for nearly a dozen species.
Devil's Postpile National Monument is 72 miles from Fresno, CA. As the name implies, there are 60-foot pillars of basalt that cooled into columns thousands of years ago when the area was volcanically active. Currently, the Devil's Postpile National Monument is closed and is not expected to reopen before June 2024.
Similar to the route you have to take to get to Inyo National Forest, Manzanar National Historic Site lies a circuitous 288 miles from Fresno. This site has a dark history because it was a Japanese Internment Camp during World War II. It's an educational wake-up call to take one of the guided tours and hear about the ways that citizenship was taken away from nearly 100,000 people. When not taking a guided tour, you can photograph mule deer, elk, and small game like gophers or prairie dogs.
The King's River RV Resort is 23 miles from Fresno and offers eight dozen campsites. At the time of writing, the resort's website says that it plans to add a pool and hot tub soon. Until then, you can enjoy full hookups, showers, and full restrooms.
Fresno Mobile Home and RV Park is right in the city. The 61 RV-specific campsites have full hookups. You will find showers, restrooms, and a pool for keeping cool during the summer.
It's only 8 miles to Blackstone North RV Park. It doesn't have a pool or hot tub, but it's got showers, restrooms, and full hookups. Check with the staff to see what discounts are available if you plan to visit, but as of right now, the park offers a generous military discount.
Modesto Reservoir Regional Park is 97 miles from Fresno. In addition to the dump station, the park has two boat ramps, so you can fish or otherwise spend an afternoon on the water after pumping out your RV rental's tanks.
The Madruga Alves Car Wash is 81 miles away in Turlock. This dump station is available all year, and the price to use it is just $10.
The Chevron Station Foodmart, which is also in Turlock, is just down the street. The fee is $5.
California's highways are ideal for enjoying an RV rental. You will enjoy easy driving and camping in a rented camper van, Class B motorhome, Class A motorhome, or any of the other exceptional RVs available to rent in the area. An RV is a great way to explore many different places within a region and to combine your transportation and lodging into one fun package. It's often an economical way to spend a family vacation.
You can check out some of the national parks like Yosemite National Park, King's Canyon National Park, and Sequoia National Park. As you visit the area, you can enjoy the climbing at El Capitan and the sight of the giant sequoias. Fresno is a perfect hub for taking road trips. San Francisco is 186 miles to the west, Los Angeles is 217 miles to the south and Sacramento is 169 miles to the northwest. For a slightly longer road trip, it's about 400 miles to Las Vegas, NV.
Do I maintain or service the motorhome rental during my rental period?
No, it is the responsibility of the RVshare owner to ensure the motorhome is properly maintained and serviced before your rental period. Just take good care of your rental and keep it clean.
Are there any special driving considerations or techniques I should know when operating a motorhome rental in Fresno, CA?
Yes, motorhomes are larger and heavier than most passenger vehicles, so it is important to allow for more time and space when turning, merging, or stopping. Additionally, it is recommended to drive slower than the posted speed limit and to use caution when driving in windy or wet conditions.
How do I properly level and stabilize a motorhome at my campsite or RV park?
Motorhomes typically have built-in leveling jacks or blocks that can be adjusted to ensure the RV is level and stable. Some RV parks may also provide leveling pads or blocks if needed. Discuss your campsite with the RV owner ahead of time and they can provide you guidance on stabilizing.
What kind of maintenance or upkeep do I need to perform on the interior and exterior during my rental period?
You should keep the interior clean and tidy, empty waste tanks as needed, and report any damages or malfunctions to the RVshare owner. Exterior maintenance such as checking tire pressure is also recommended.
Does my motorhome rental come with bedding, linens, or other items I would consider to be personal?
This varies by RVshare owner. Some owners may include bedding and linens, while others may require renters to bring their own. It is best to check with the owner prior to renting.
Should I bring entertainment equipment or appliances for the motorhome rental?
While some motorhomes may come equipped with entertainment options or appliances, it is always a good idea to bring your own if desired. However, be mindful of any limitations on power usage or space restrictions. Check the RV listing or ask the RV owner what kind of entertainment is included.
Are there any limitations on where I can park or store a motorhome rental in Fresno, CA, such as zoning laws or homeowners' association regulations?
There may be restrictions on where motorhomes can be parked or stored in certain areas. It is best to research local laws and regulations or to ask the RVshare owner for guidance.
What fuel efficiency considerations do I need to consider when operating a motorhome rental?
Motorhomes are not typically known for their fuel efficiency, but there are steps you can take to improve gas mileage such as driving at a lower speed, avoiding excessive idling, and keeping tires properly inflated.
How do I properly operate and maintain the various systems in a motorhome rental?
The RVshare owner should provide you with detailed instructions and manuals for operating and maintaining the various systems in the motorhome. It is important to follow these instructions carefully to ensure proper use and prevent damage.
Are any unique features or amenities available in motorhome rentals that may not be found in other RVs in Fresno, CA?
This varies by RV owner and motorhome class, but some motorhomes may have unique features such as slide-outs, outdoor kitchens, or luxury finishes that may not be found in other types of RVs.
