Join us on an unforgettable journey through California's breathtaking national parks with this meticulously crafted 7-day road trip itinerary. As avid explorers and travel bloggers who have personally driven this route and stayed at each campground, we can offer you insider tips and a perfect blend of natural wonders and urban exploration.
Our extensive research of California's national parks, combined with countless hours spent hiking its trails and photographing its vistas, ensures that this itinerary is not just a list of destinations, but a curated experience. So, pack your bags and get ready for an adventure that we've crafted to be as enriching and awe-inspiring as the landscapes we'll explore together.
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Day 1: Las Vegas to Sequoia National Park - The Journey Begins
Our epic journey kicked off in the vibrant city of Las Vegas, where excitement and anticipation filled the air. We picked up our home-on-wheels from Avanti Campervans near the airport, taking a moment to familiarize ourselves with our temporary abode. These comfortable and well-equipped vehicles became our faithful companions throughout this incredible adventure.
Leaving the neon-lit streets of Las Vegas behind, we watched as the landscape gradually transformed into the rugged beauty of the Mojave Desert. Our first stop was the historic mining town of Calico, a ghost town that offered a fascinating glimpse into California's Wild West past. We wandered through the restored buildings, peered into old mine shafts, and imagined the bustling life that once filled these now-quiet streets.
Insider Tips: If you're planning your trip for late September, check if your dates align with Calico Days. This annual event offers train rides, live music, food, and shopping - it's like stepping back in time! |
Continuing westward, we reached Bakersfield, a city known for its rich history and vibrant culture. We stretched our legs and grabbed a bite at one of the local eateries, Taco La Villa, which we thought was delicious. Other recommendations to stop as you pass through Bakersfield are Temblor Brewing, and Cafe Smitten.
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As the day progressed, we watched the flat landscapes give way to rolling hills, signaling our approach to the Sierra Nevada mountains. Our destination for the night was the serene Horse Creek Campground, nestled in the foothills of these majestic peaks. As we set up camp, we took in the tranquil surroundings and prepared for the adventures that awaited in Sequoia National Park.
Insider Tips: When booking at Horse Creek Campground, we highly recommend trying to reserve a spot between sites 71-75. We chose site 75 and were rewarded with beautiful hilltop views of the valley. In doing our research in advance, we also knew that by picking a higher elevation campground, there was less chance of our reservation being canceled due to flooding. |
Day 2: Exploring the Giants of Sequoia National Park - A Day Among the Ancients
We woke up to the crisp mountain air and the gentle rustling of leaves, feeling excited for the day ahead. Today, we'd be walking among giants in Sequoia National Park, home to some of the largest trees on Earth. We started our day with a hearty breakfast at our campsite, fueling up for the awe-inspiring hikes ahead.
Our first stop was Morro Rock, a granite dome rising 6,725 feet above sea level. The hike to the top was challenging but rewarding, offering panoramic views of the Great Western Divide and the western half of the park. As we caught our breath at the summit, we took a moment to appreciate the vastness of the landscape stretching out before us. Pro tip:💡 Start this hike early to avoid crowds and the midday heat.
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We continued our journey through the land of giants with a hike through Crescent Meadow, often referred to as the "Gem of the Sierras." This lush, wildflower-filled meadow surrounded by towering sequoias offered a tranquil setting for our midday break. We recommend packing a picnic lunch to enjoy here – just remember to practice Leave No Trace principles and pack out all your trash.
Insider Tip: Crescent Meadow is a less crowded version of the Big Trees Trail. While we highly recommend visiting both trails, if you prefer to escape the crowds then you may consider Crescent Meadow over Big Trees Trail with limited time. |
In the afternoon, we tackled the Big Trees Trail, a gentle 1.4-mile loop that showcases some of the park's most impressive sequoias. This trail provides informative exhibits about the ecology and history of these magnificent trees, enhancing our appreciation of their resilience and longevity. It's a great option for families or those looking for an easier walk with big rewards.
We capped off our day with a visit to the General Sherman Tree, the largest tree on Earth by volume. Standing at the base of this 2,200-year-old giant, we felt a profound sense of awe and humility. The General Sherman Trail is a short but memorable walk that puts into perspective the true majesty of these ancient beings. 💡 Arrive early or later in the day to avoid the busiest times and have a more peaceful experience.
As the day wound down, we made our way to Lodgepole Campground, our home for the night. We set up camp among the towering trees and reflected on the day's experiences as we prepared dinner under the stars. The peaceful sounds of the forest and the fresh mountain air promised a restful night's sleep, preparing us for another day of adventure. Remember to store all food and scented items in the provided bear boxes to keep wildlife wild and your campsite safe.
Insider Tip: After staying at Lodgepole Campground, we recommend booking your site within Loop 151-214. Our exact campsite was Site #203. The reason we recommend this loop is because the campsites are more secluded across the river and the trailhead for the Tokopah Falls trail is within close proximity. |
Day 3: Sequoia to Yosemite National Park - From One Wonder to Another
We rose early to catch a stunning sunrise painting the Sierra Nevada in hues of pink and gold. After a quick breakfast, we embarked on the Little Baldy Trail, a moderate 3.4-mile round trip hike that rewarded us with sweeping views of the Great Western Divide and the San Joaquin Valley. We loved this lesser-known trail for its peaceful start to our day, away from the crowds.
Before bidding farewell to Sequoia National Park, we made a stop at the General Grant Tree Trail in Kings Canyon National Park. This short, paved trail led us to the second-largest tree in the world, a fitting finale to our sequoia adventure. We took a moment to marvel at this 1,700-year-old wonder, aptly nicknamed "The Nation's Christmas Tree." It was an awe-inspiring experience that we highly recommend.
As we left the land of giants behind, our journey took us through the San Joaquin Valley. We stopped in Fresno, California's fifth-largest city, for lunch and a quick exploration. With more time, we would have liked to visit Forestiere Underground Gardens, a hand-built network of underground rooms and passages. One place recommended to stop for lunch is Castillo's Mexican Food.
The landscape changed dramatically as we approached Yosemite National Park, with rolling hills giving way to more dramatic, rocky terrain. As we entered the park and made our way to Wawona Campground, our home for the night, we felt the anticipation building for the wonders that awaited us in one of America's most beloved national parks. We arrived at Wawona before sunset to set up camp and enjoyed the tranquil evening atmosphere of this beautiful campground.
Insider Tip: Wawona was one of our favorite campgrounds of the trip! Our spacious campsite (#091) had a beautiful wooded backdop and was within close proximity to amenities. Be sure to look at the site map while booking and try to score a campsite along the South Merced River! |
Day 4: Yosemite's Majestic Landscapes - Granite Peaks and Ancient Trees
We began our Yosemite adventure with a morning hike through the Mariposa Grove of Giant Sequoias. While these ancient trees may not be as large as their cousins in Sequoia National Park, we found them no less awe-inspiring. We recommend the Grizzly Giant Loop Trail, a 2-mile journey that took us past remarkable sights like the Bachelor and Three Graces, the majestic Grizzly Giant, and the fascinating California Tunnel Tree.
After enjoying a picnic lunch, we made our way up to Glacier Point . Trust us when we say this viewpoint offers one of the most breathtaking panoramas in the entire park. Standing 3,214 feet above the valley floor, we were treated to an unforgettable vista of Yosemite Valley, Half Dome, and the High Sierra. We made sure to take our time here, soaking in the view and capturing photos to cherish for years to come.
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For those of us seeking a bit more adventure, we highly recommend the hike to Sentinel Dome. This trail offered 360-degree views of the park and was particularly magical on a clear, sunny fall day. While relatively short at 2.2 miles round trip, we were prepared for a moderately strenuous climb due to the elevation gain. The effort was well worth it for the panoramic views at the top! 💡At the end of our trip, this was the hike we couldn't stop talking about. Do not let the elevation gain scare you, we'd consider it to be a low-effort, high-reward hike that should not be missed!
As daylight faded, we made our way down into Yosemite Valley, the beating heart of the park. We set up our camp at Lower Pines Campground, where we found ourselves surrounded by towering cliffs and nestled under a canopy of stars. The gentle sound of the Merced River lulled us to sleep, a perfect end to our day and a promise of more Yosemite wonders to come. Remember to book your campsite well in advance, as Lower Pines is a popular spot and fills up quickly!
Insider Tip: On the drive to Yosemite Valley from Glacier Point, be sure to stop at "Tunnel View" for the iconic Yosemite postcard viewpoint. When booking your campsite at Lower Pines Campground some of the best sites are 076, 063, 062, 041, 039 with river access/views! |
Day 5: Waterfalls and Wonders of Yosemite Valley - Nature's Grand Display
On Day 5, we tackled one of Yosemite's most iconic hikes - the Mist Trail to Vernal and Nevada Falls. This 7-mile round trip journey took us up close to two of Yosemite's most impressive waterfalls. We found the trail challenging, especially the section of granite steps near Vernal Falls, but the breathtaking views made every step worthwhile. We highly recommend bringing plenty of water and snacks, and starting early to avoid the heat of the day and crowds.
After our invigorating morning hike, we spent the afternoon exploring the valley floor. We visited the Yosemite Valley Visitor Center, which we found incredibly informative about the park's geology, wildlife, and human history. We then took a short walk to the base of Yosemite Falls, North America's tallest waterfall. Standing there, feeling the mist on our faces, was a truly awe-inspiring experience.
We capped off our day with a visit to Bridalveil Falls, one of the most photographed sights in the park. The short hike to the base of the fall offered us yet another perspective on Yosemite's grandeur. As the sun began to set, we found a quiet spot along the Merced River to reflect on the day's adventures and the natural beauty surrounding us. This peaceful moment by the river became one of our favorite memories from the trip, and we encourage you to take time for similar moments of reflection during your visit.
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Day 6: Yosemite to San Francisco - From Wilderness to Urban Wonder
As we bid farewell to the wilderness, we made our way towards the bustling city of San Francisco. Our drive took us through California's gold country, a region steeped in history and scenic beauty. We highly recommend making a stop in the charming town of Sonora for lunch and a leisurely stroll down its historic main street. It's a great way to stretch your legs and immerse yourself in the area's rich past. In our most recent trip, we extended our duration beyond 7 days and continued our California tour down HW1. However, below outlines our recommendations on how to spend a few final days in San Francisco based off of our prior visits to this iconic city.
Approaching San Francisco, watch in awe as the landscape transformed dramatically. The rolling hills give way to the iconic skyline of the City by the Bay. Crossing the Bay Bridge, feel the excitement build as you entered this world-renowned city. The view from the bridge is breathtaking, so if you're not driving, have your camera ready!
We recommend spending the afternoon exploring some of San Francisco's most famous sights. Start at Fisherman's Wharf, where you can sample delicious fresh seafood and watch talented street performers. A short walk will take you to Pier 39, where you have the chance to see sea lions basking in the sun. It's a lively area full of energy and a must-visit for first-time visitors to the city.
To cap off your day, we recommend taking a ride on one of San Francisco's iconic cable cars, the world's last manually operated cable car system. It's not just a mode of transport, but a historic experience in itself. Ride up and down the city's steep hills, ending at Lombard Street, known as the "crookedest street in the world." Pro tip:💡try to grab a spot on the outside of the cable car for the best views, but hold on tight!
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Day 7: San Francisco and Departure - A Final Day of Urban Exploration
We recommend making the most of your final day by visiting some of San Francisco's most iconic landmarks. Start early with a visit to the Golden Gate Bridge. Walking across this engineering marvel, you'll be treated to stunning views of the city and the bay. The crisp morning air and the gentle hum of traffic beneath you will make for an unforgettable experience.
Next, take a ferry to Alcatraz Island. This former federal prison offers a fascinating look into America's penal history and provides unique views of the San Francisco skyline. Be sure to book your tickets in advance, as this popular attraction often sells out. The audio tour is also recommended, bringing the island's history to life.
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We recommend spending your afternoon exploring some of San Francisco's diverse neighborhoods. Walk through the bustling streets of Chinatown, the largest Chinatown outside of Asia, immersing yourself in the sights, sounds, and smells of this vibrant community. Visit the colorful murals in the Mission District, each telling a story of the neighborhood's rich cultural heritage. With some time to spare, take a stroll through Golden Gate Park, home to museums, gardens, and even a herd of bison. The park's serene atmosphere provides a perfect contrast to the city's urban energy.
Insider Tip: Areas with higher crime rates in San Francisco that we would recommend avoiding are Tenderloin, the southern part of the Mission District, and the area around the Civic Center. Avoid exploring at night, be mindful of your surroundings, avoid walking alone, and check crime statistics of the areas you plan to visit. |
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From the ancient sequoias to the granite cliffs of Yosemite, and finally to the urban wonders of San Francisco, this road trip showcases the best of what California has to offer. We felt a deep appreciation for the natural beauty and cultural richness we had encountered.
Before catching our flight home, we made sure to return trusty campervan near the airport. As we boarded our plane, we carried with us a wealth of memories and a newfound appreciation for the natural and urban wonders of the Golden State. We felt grateful for the opportunity to have experienced such a diverse range of landscapes and cultures in a single trip.
Our California national park road trip offered us an unparalleled blend of natural wonders and urban exploration. From the towering sequoias to the granite cliffs of Yosemite and the coastal charm of San Francisco, each day brought new adventures and unforgettable memories. Whether you're a nature enthusiast, a history buff, or simply someone seeking a diverse and enriching vacation experience, we can confidently say that this itinerary provides a perfect mix of activities and sights. We encourage you to pack your bags, charge your camera, and get ready for the road trip of a lifetime. The wonders of California are waiting for you, just as they were for us!
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Frequently Asked Questions About a California National Park Road Trip
What's the best time of year for a California national park road trip?
The best time for a California national park road trip is typically late spring (May to June) or early fall (September to October). During these periods, you'll enjoy mild weather, fewer crowds, and stunning natural scenery. Spring offers blooming wildflowers and gushing waterfalls, while fall provides beautiful autumn colors. Summer (July to August) can be crowded and hot, while winter (November to April) may have snow and road closures in higher elevations.
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How much does a California national park road trip cost?
The cost of a California national park road trip can vary widely depending on factors such as duration, accommodation choices, and activities. On average, budget approximately $150-$250 per day for two people, including campervan rental ($100-$200/day), campground fees ($20-$50/night), food ($30-$50/day), gas, and park entrance fees. A 7-day trip could cost around $1,000-$1,750 per person. Save money by cooking your own meals, choosing free or low-cost campsites, and purchasing an annual America the Beautiful pass for $80, which covers entrance to all national parks.
Do I need to make reservations for campgrounds in advance?
Yes, it's highly recommended to make campground reservations in advance, especially for popular national parks like Yosemite. During peak season (summer months and holidays), campgrounds can fill up months ahead. For Yosemite, reservations open up to five months in advance and often book out within minutes. Sequoia National Park campgrounds are also in high demand. To secure your preferred camping spots, book as soon as reservations become available through recreation.gov or the official park websites.
What are the must-see attractions in Sequoia and Yosemite National Parks?
In Sequoia National Park, don't miss:
General Sherman Tree - the largest tree on Earth by volume
Moro Rock - for panoramic views of the Sierra Nevada
Big Trees Trail - a paved loop showcasing massive sequoias
Tunnel Log - a fallen sequoia you can drive through
In Yosemite National Park, key attractions include:
Yosemite Valley - home to iconic landmarks like Half Dome and El Capitan
Glacier Point - offering breathtaking views of the valley
Bridalveil Fall - a 620-foot waterfall
Mariposa Grove - featuring over 500 mature giant sequoias
Vernal and Nevada Falls - accessible via the Mist Trail or John Muir Trail
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Is it safe to drive a campervan if I've never driven one before?
Yes, it's generally safe to drive a campervan even if you're a first-timer, but it requires some adjustment. Most campervans drive similarly to a large SUV or truck.
Here are some tips for safe campervan driving:
Practice in an empty parking lot before hitting the road
Be aware of the vehicle's height and width, especially when parking or driving under low structures
Allow for longer stopping distances and wider turns
Use your mirrors frequently and be mindful of blind spots
Drive at a comfortable speed, especially on winding mountain roads
Always secure loose items inside the campervan before driving
We specifically chose to rent with Avanti Campervans because we knew maneuvering a Dodge Grand Caravan on the windy national park roads would be far easier than driving a full-sized campervan. We did not have to worry about clearance, hookups, or dumping. Instead, we had everything we needed to camp comfortably in an inconspicuous minivan.
What should I pack for a California national park road trip?
For a California national park road trip, pack these items:
Clothing layers - temperatures can vary greatly between day and night
Sturdy hiking boots and comfortable walking shoes
Sun protection - hat, sunglasses, and high-SPF sunscreen
Insect repellent
Reusable water bottles and a water filtration system
First aid kit and any necessary medications
Navigation tools - maps, compass, and a reliable GPS device
Camera or smartphone for capturing memories
Binoculars for wildlife viewing
Portable charger or power bank
Cooking essentials - dishwashing bucket, towel, and food storage containers
Headlamp or flashlight
Bear-spray
America the Beautiful pass for park entry
Remember to check specific park regulations and current weather conditions before your trip to ensure you're fully prepared for your adventure.
Are you planning a California Road Trip?
We'd love to hear from you in the comments below!
Thank you! This is so helpful for our upcoming trip