Rent an RV in Oxnard & Explore Coastal California

Discover Oxnard: Your Coastal Gateway

Welcome to Oxnard, the coastal gem of Southern California and the perfect launchpad for your next great adventure. When you rent an RV in Oxnard, you’re not just getting a vehicle; you’re unlocking a world of sun-drenched beaches, fertile plains, and scenic drives. Located in Ventura County along the beautiful Pacific coast, Oxnard is strategically positioned between the glamour of Los Angeles and the charm of Santa Barbara, making it an ideal starting point for any road trip.

Geographically, Oxnard is blessed with a stunning natural landscape. It sits on the Oxnard Plain, a vast, flat region known for its incredibly fertile soil, which has made it one of the most productive agricultural areas in California. The city is famous for its strawberries, but also produces a wealth of other crops. This agricultural heritage is contrasted by its pristine coastline, which stretches for miles and includes some of Southern California's best-kept-secret beaches. The nearby Channel Islands National Park, often called the 'Galapagos of North America,' is just a short boat ride away, and your decision to rent a camper in Oxnard gives you the flexibility to explore both the coast and the inland valleys at your own pace.

The history of Oxnard is a rich tapestry woven from Chumash Indian heritage, Spanish missionary influence, and American agricultural ambition. The city was founded in the late 19th century and named after the Oxnard brothers, who built a successful sugar beet factory in the area. This factory spurred the city's growth, and remnants of this history can be seen in the beautiful Victorian architecture of Heritage Square. With a current population of over 200,000 residents, Oxnard is a vibrant, diverse city with a strong sense of community and a rich cultural scene. It's home to a number of notable figures, including rapper Madlib and boxing champion Fernando Vargas, adding to its dynamic character.

The weather in Oxnard is, in a word, idyllic. It boasts a Mediterranean climate with mild, wet winters and warm, dry summers. The coastal breeze keeps temperatures pleasant year-round, with average highs ranging from the mid-60s°F (about 18°C) in winter to the mid-70s°F (about 24°C) in summer. This makes any time of year a great time to rent an RV in Oxnard. However, the best time to visit is arguably from late spring through early fall (May to October). During these months, you'll experience the warmest weather and the least amount of rain, perfect for beach days, hiking, and cruising down the Pacific Coast Highway in your camper. The strawberry season peaks in the spring, offering a delicious local treat to enjoy on your journey. For those seeking an off-road adventure, you might even consider looking for a 4x4 camper to rent in Oxnard, giving you access to more remote areas. Choosing to rent a camper in Oxnard provides the ultimate freedom to chase the sun and discover all the hidden corners of this magnificent region.

What to See and Do Around Oxnard

Once you've settled into your camper, Oxnard and its surroundings offer a treasure trove of sights and activities. Having a mobile base when you rent an RV in Oxnard means you can explore these diverse attractions with unparalleled ease.

Start your exploration at the Channel Islands Harbor, the gateway to the spectacular Channel Islands National Park. The harbor itself is a lively spot with waterfront restaurants, shops, and marinas. You can take a whale-watching tour, rent a kayak, or simply enjoy the view of the boats bobbing in the water. From here, book a ferry to the islands for a day of hiking, bird watching, and experiencing California's raw, untouched nature.

For beach lovers, Oxnard is paradise. Oxnard State Beach and Park is a wide, sandy expanse perfect for sunbathing, picnics, and volleyball. It’s less crowded than its neighbors to the south, offering a more relaxed vibe. A short drive in your camper will take you to Silver Strand Beach, a local favorite known for its excellent surf breaks and laid-back atmosphere. Parking your RV nearby and spending a day by the ocean is a quintessential California experience.

History buffs will be captivated by Heritage Square in downtown Oxnard. This charming block features beautifully restored Victorian and Craftsman houses, a historic church, and a water tower, all moved from their original locations to be preserved. It offers a fascinating glimpse into the city's turn-of-the-century past. After your visit, you can return to the modern comforts of your home-on-wheels. Your decision to rent a camper in Oxnard allows for this perfect blend of history and modern convenience.

Car enthusiasts cannot miss the Mullin Automotive Museum, a world-class institution celebrating the art deco and machine age design of French automobiles. The collection is breathtaking, featuring some of the most beautiful and rare cars ever made. It’s a must-see, even for those not typically interested in cars. For something a bit different, the Carnegie Art Museum, housed in a former Carnegie library, showcases a diverse range of Californian art.

Exploring the area is so much simpler when you rent an RV in Oxnard. You have the freedom to drive up the coast to Ventura for its historic pier and Main Street shopping, or head inland to Ojai, a quirky town known for its spiritual retreats and artisanal shops. The flexibility of a camper means you’re not tied to a single location, letting you create your own perfect itinerary.

Epic Road Trips Starting From Oxnard

Renting an RV in Oxnard places you at the crossroads of some of California's most iconic road trips. Here are a few tour recommendations to inspire your journey.

🌊 The Pacific Coast Highway Dream (5-7 Days)

🍷 The Central Coast Wine & Mission Trail (3-4 Days)

🏜️ The Coastal to Desert Escape (4-5 Days)

Returning Your Camper Spotless in Oxnard

After an amazing road trip, part of the rental agreement is returning your vehicle clean. Finding a wash station that can accommodate the height and length of a large camper or RV can be a challenge. Most standard car washes are too small. To make your return process smoother after you rent an RV in Oxnard, we’ve compiled a list of suitable truck washes and large-vehicle-friendly washing facilities in and around the area.

Why it's tricky: Standard car washes have height restrictions, typically around 7 feet. Most RVs and campers, especially Class C and Class A models, are much taller, ranging from 10 to 13 feet. Using a standard wash can cause significant damage to the roof, air conditioning units, and antennas.

Here are some recommended locations for cleaning your camper:

1. Blue Beacon Truck Wash
These facilities are designed specifically for large commercial trucks and RVs. They have the high clearance and powerful equipment needed to get the job done right. The nearest one is often a bit of a drive but is the most reliable option.

Address: Check for locations in nearby hubs like those along the I-5 corridor (e.g., in the greater Los Angeles area or further north). A quick search for 'Blue Beacon' will show the closest one to your return route.

2. Self-Serve Truck & RV Wash Bays
Some self-serve car washes have oversized bays meant for trucks, boats, and RVs. These bays provide the space, high-pressure wands, and brushes you need to wash the vehicle yourself. It's a great option for those who want to be thorough.

Example Location:
H St. Car Wash & Detail
Address: 1515 S H St, Oxnard, CA 93033, USA
Note: Always confirm the height clearance of the self-serve bay before entering.

3. Mobile RV Cleaning Services
For ultimate convenience, consider a mobile RV detailing service. They come to you, whether you're at a campground or a designated spot. This is often the easiest, though sometimes more expensive, solution. A quick online search for "Mobile RV Wash Oxnard" will yield several local operators.

Planning ahead for your final wash will save you time and stress, ensuring a smooth end to your fantastic trip that began when you chose to rent a camper in Oxnard.

How to Get to Oxnard for Your Trip

Getting to Oxnard to begin your camper adventure is straightforward, with excellent connections for both international and domestic travelers.

By Air:
The primary international gateway for reaching Oxnard is Los Angeles International Airport (LAX), located about 60 miles south. A smaller, but very convenient alternative is Hollywood Burbank Airport (BUR), about 55 miles east.

• From the USA & Canada: All major US and Canadian carriers offer direct flights to LAX from hubs like New York (JFK), Chicago (ORD), Dallas (DFW), Toronto (YYZ), and Vancouver (YVR). Many also offer direct flights to the more convenient Burbank (BUR).


• From the UK & Ireland: Travelers from the UK can find daily direct flights to LAX from London Heathrow (LHR) on airlines like British Airways, Virgin Atlantic, American Airlines, and United Airlines. From Dublin (DUB), Aer Lingus offers a direct flight to LAX.


• From Australia & New Zealand: Qantas, United, and Delta offer direct flights to LAX from major cities like Sydney (SYD) and Melbourne (MEL). Air New Zealand flies direct from Auckland (AKL).


• From South Africa: Travelers from Johannesburg (JNB) or Cape Town (CPT) will typically have a one-stop flight, commonly connecting through major European hubs (like Amsterdam, Frankfurt, or London) or Middle Eastern hubs (like Dubai or Doha).

From the Airport to Oxnard:
Once you land at LAX or BUR, you can rent a car, use a ride-sharing service, or take a shuttle (like the Ventura County Airporter) to reach Oxnard. The drive typically takes 1 to 1.5 hours, depending on traffic. This allows you to easily get to our depot to pick up the vehicle you chose to rent an RV in Oxnard.

By Car:
If you're already in the United States, Oxnard is easily accessible via the US-101 freeway, which runs directly through the city. It's a scenic drive whether you're coming from the north (San Francisco, a ~5-hour drive) or the south (San Diego, a ~3-hour drive). Arriving by car gives you a great taste of the open road before you even pick up your camper.