Rent a Motorhome in Riverside & Explore Southern California

Discover Riverside: Your Gateway to Adventure

Welcome to Riverside, the sprawling heart of the Inland Empire and the perfect starting point for your California adventure! When you rent a motorhome in Riverside, you're not just getting a vehicle; you're unlocking a gateway to diverse landscapes, from sun-scorched deserts to cool mountain peaks and iconic coastlines. Situated on the banks of the Santa Ana River, Riverside is a city steeped in history and innovation. Founded in the 1870s, it owes its name and fame to the citrus industry, specifically the introduction of the navel orange, which sparked a statewide agricultural boom. Today, with a population of over 330,000, it's a vibrant cultural and economic hub, home to the University of California, Riverside, and a spirit of exploration that you'll feel instantly.

The city's geography places you in a strategic sweet spot. You're just an hour's drive from the beaches of Orange County, the mountains of the San Bernardino National Forest, and the deserts of Palm Springs. This makes it an unparalleled base if you want to rent a campervan in Riverside and see everything Southern California has to offer without being stuck in the congestion of Los Angeles. The city itself boasts a unique character, blending historic architecture like the magnificent Mission Inn with modern amenities. Among its notable personalities, you'll find figures from arts, science, and sports, reflecting the dynamic community that thrives here.

Let's talk about the weather, a crucial factor for any road trip. Riverside has a semi-arid Mediterranean climate. This means hot, dry summers where temperatures often soar above 95°F (35°C), and mild, wetter winters. The best time to rent a motorhome in Riverside and start your journey is during the spring (March to May) or fall (September to November). During these seasons, you'll enjoy pleasantly warm days and cool evenings, perfect for hiking, sightseeing, and relaxing at your campsite. Spring brings beautiful wildflower blooms in the surrounding hills, while fall offers clear skies and comfortable temperatures for exploring both the city and the great outdoors. No matter when you come, your decision to rent a campervan in Riverside will be the first step toward an unforgettable experience.

Attractions and Activities Around Riverside

Once you pick up your keys and rent a campervan in Riverside, you don't have to drive far to find incredible sights and activities. The city itself is packed with treasures waiting to be discovered.

Start your local exploration at the Mission Inn Hotel & Spa, a National Historic Landmark. This isn't just a hotel; it's a sprawling architectural marvel that occupies an entire city block. With its stunning Spanish Mission-style architecture, intricate courtyards, and museum-quality art, you can easily spend hours just wandering its halls.

For a bit of outdoor activity and breathtaking views, head to Mount Rubidoux Park. A paved trail leads to the summit, where you're rewarded with panoramic vistas of the entire Riverside area, the Santa Ana River, and the surrounding mountains. It's a perfect spot for a morning hike or a sunset view.

To dive into the region's history, visit the California Citrus State Historic Park. This open-air museum tells the story of the citrus industry's massive influence on Southern California. You can walk through fragrant orange groves and learn how this fruit shaped the state's development. It’s a unique experience after you rent a motorhome in Riverside.

Nature lovers will adore the UC Riverside Botanic Gardens, a 40-acre living museum with over 3,500 plant species from around the world. It’s a peaceful oasis with miles of scenic trails. If you're a fan of aviation, the March Field Air Museum is a must-see, featuring an extensive collection of military aircraft that will captivate visitors of all ages. Your decision to rent a campervan gives you the flexibility to explore all these local gems at your own pace.

Epic Road Trip Itineraries from Riverside

Riverside's prime location makes it the ultimate launchpad for iconic road trips. After you rent a motorhome in Riverside, the open road is yours. Here are a few curated itineraries to inspire your journey.

🏜️ The Desert Escape (3-4 Days)

🏔️ The Mountain Retreat (2-3 Days)

🍷 The Coastal & Wine Country Cruise (3-4 Days)

Returning Your Campervan Clean in Riverside

After an amazing road trip, it's time to think about returning your vehicle. Most rental companies require you to return the motorhome clean, both inside and out. Cleaning the exterior of a large campervan can be tricky, as many standard car washes can't accommodate the height and width. You need a place with high clearance.

When you rent a motorhome in Riverside, planning this final step can save you time and money. Here are a few suitable locations in or near Riverside that are equipped to handle large vehicles like RVs and motorhomes:

1. Blue Beacon Truck Wash
These are designed for semi-trucks, making them perfect for even the largest motorhomes. They offer thorough, high-clearance washing services.
Address: 2115 E. Steel Rd, Colton, CA 92324 (A short drive from Riverside)

2. TA Truck Service
Many TravelCenters of America (TA) locations have truck wash bays that can easily accommodate RVs. They provide reliable and professional cleaning.
Address: 4265 E. Guasti Rd, Ontario, CA 91761 (Conveniently located near the airport and major freeways)

3. Self-Serve Truck & RV Washes
Look for local self-serve car washes that have at least one oversized bay dedicated to trucks and RVs. These offer a more hands-on, budget-friendly option.
Example: E-Z Kleen Car Wash, 24390 Sunnymead Boulevard, Moreno Valley, CA 92553 (Often has high-clearance bays)

Always call ahead to confirm hours and that they can service your specific vehicle size. A clean return ensures a smooth and happy end to your incredible campervan journey.

Getting to Riverside for Your Campervan Adventure

Your journey to rent a campervan in Riverside begins with getting here, and thankfully, the city is well-connected for international and domestic travelers.

By Air:
Riverside is served by several major airports. The closest and most convenient is Ontario International Airport (ONT), located just 20 minutes away. A larger, primary hub is Los Angeles International Airport (LAX), about a 60-90 minute drive west, offering the most extensive international connections.

• From the USA & Canada: You'll find numerous direct flights to both ONT and LAX from major hubs like New York (JFK), Chicago (ORD), Atlanta (ATL), Toronto (YYZ), and Vancouver (YVR) on carriers like Delta, United, American, and Air Canada.
• From the UK & Ireland: Major carriers like British Airways, Virgin Atlantic, and Aer Lingus offer direct flights from London Heathrow (LHR) and Dublin (DUB) to LAX. From there, you can rent a car or take a shuttle service to Riverside.
• From Australia & New Zealand: Qantas, Air New Zealand, and other airlines operate direct flights from Sydney (SYD), Melbourne (MEL), and Auckland (AKL) to LAX.
• From South Africa: Travelers from Johannesburg (JNB) or Cape Town (CPT) will typically have a connecting flight in Europe (like Amsterdam or London) or the Middle East (like Dubai) before flying on to LAX.

By Car:
Once you land, especially at LAX or ONT, the easiest way to get to your campervan pickup location is by car. Riverside is located at the junction of major freeways, including the I-15, I-215, SR-91, and SR-60, making it easily accessible from anywhere in Southern California. The drive from the airport is your first taste of the California freeway system before you begin your grand tour in your rented motorhome.