Interior of The Loft, from altCamp’s luxury Signature Collection.

A beachside road trip in a fully stocked adventure van? Yes, please. Orange County, CA is one of the most iconic places to kick off a camper van getaway, and not just because it’s home to perfect weather and palm-lined highways. From the Pacific Coast Highway to inland escapes like Joshua Tree and Idyllwild, renting a camper van in Orange County gives you the freedom to explore SoCal’s most unforgettable destinations at your own pace.

Here’s everything you need to know before renting a camper van in Orange County, California.

1. Why Rent a Camper Van in Orange County, CA?

Orange County combines scenic beauty with urban convenience, making it an ideal launchpad for van-based adventures. Whether you’re heading to the mountains, the desert, or hugging the California coast, a camper van offers the flexibility to go off the beaten path without sacrificing comfort.

You’ll also save time and money by avoiding nightly hotel check-ins. With a camper van, the road is your home. Watch the sunset from a beachside parking lot or fall asleep beneath the stars in a state park.

2. What Are the Best Road Trip Destinations from Orange County?

One of the biggest perks of starting your trip in Orange County is the access to diverse landscapes within a few hours' drive. Some top spots include:

• Big Sur: For a cliffside road trip like no other, take the Pacific Coast Highway north. Don’t miss Pfeiffer Beach or the Big Sur River Inn. For more reading, check out our blog Big Sur Top 8 Must-Do Activities in Big Sur, CA.

• Joshua Tree National Park: About 2.5 hours away, this desert gem is perfect for stargazing, bouldering, and hiking (in the non-summer months).

• San Diego: Cruise south to enjoy laid-back beach vibes, coastal campgrounds, and craft beer galore. One of our favorite campground is San Elijo State Beach.

• Idyllwild: A hidden gem in the San Jacinto Mountains, Idyllwild offers fresh pine air and quiet forest camping.

3. Where Can You Camp in Orange County?

Surprisingly, Orange County has some excellent local options for overnight camping too. Popular camper-friendly spots include:

• Crystal Cove State Park: Located between Laguna Beach and Newport Beach, this park offers bluff-top camping with tiered views of the Pacific.

• Doheny State Beach: A beachfront campground in Dana Point, ideal for surfers and families.

• O’Neill Regional Park: Tucked inland, this quiet park offers forested camping, hiking trails, and amenities for kids including a nature center, playground, and story walk.

Pro tip: Campsites book out fast, so reserve early, especially for weekends and holidays.

4. Can I Rent a Luxury Sprinter Van in Orange County?

Absolutely. Our in-house Signature Collection is the perfect place to start your search for a luxury Sprinter van rental. Based in Westminster, CA, right in the heart of Orange County, our flagship location offers a premium fleet of low-milage, fully outfitted Mercedes Sprinter vans.

Each van comes equipped with high-end amenities from top brands like Williams Sonoma, Parachute Home, and Apple. Features often include memory foam beds, full kitchens, solar power, and outdoor showers, making them ideal for families, couples, and solo travelers looking to explore in comfort.

5. When Is the Best Time to Rent a Camper Van in Orange County?

You can road trip from Orange County year-round, but spring (March–May) and fall (September–November) are especially pleasant. Summer often draws larger crowds, while winter offers fewer crowds and access to desert destinations like Anza-Borrego or Death Valley. If you stick to the coast, you’ll be fine year-round.

6. What Should I Pack for a Camper Van Trip in SoCal?

Your packing list depends on your destination, but some essentials include:

• Light layers for daytime warmth and cooler nights

• Swimsuits, beach towels, and sunblock

• Hiking boots or trail shoes

• Outdoor gear like bikes, surfboards, stand up paddleboards

• Chargers, headlamps, and a good playlist for the drive

Don’t forget: many rental vans come stocked with cookware, bedding, and cleaning supplies, but check your listing to avoid packing double.

7. How Much Does It Cost to Rent a Camper Van in Orange County?

Rental prices vary widely based on the van type, season, and features. Here’s a rough breakdown:

• Budget builds: $90–$150 per night

• Mid-range conversions: $150–$225 per night

• Luxury Sprinter vans, including altCamp’s Signature Collection: $250–$425+ per night

Some rental hosts offer discounts for multi-day bookings or off-season travel. Always double-check for extra mileage fees or cleaning charges before booking.

8. Are There Pet-Friendly Camper Van Rentals in Orange County?

Yes! Many Orange County rental hosts welcome pets in their vans, though there may be an added cleaning fee. Always review the listing’s pet policy, and bring supplies to keep your dog (and the van) clean—especially after beach or desert adventures.

9. What Are the Most Scenic Drives Near Orange County?

Here are a few unforgettable drives perfect for camper van exploring:

• Pacific Coast Highway (PCH): Iconic coastal cliffs, charming beach towns, and sunset views all the way to Santa Barbara and beyond.

• Ortega Highway to Lake Elsinore: A winding mountain road with panoramic views and campground access.

• Highway 74 into Palm Desert: Ideal for desert getaways with plenty of photo stops.

10. Where Can I Rent a Camper Van in Orange County?

You’ll find dozens of van options in Orange County, from DIY rigs to top-tier Sprinters. Platforms like altCamp connect you with trusted rental hosts offering a wide range of vehicles and convenient pickup near Costa Mesa, Huntington Beach, or Irvine.

Some hosts even offer extras like surfboards, outdoor showers, or camping gear packages great if you’re flying in from out of town and want to travel light.

Related articles:

• The 5 Best Places to Surf and Camp in CA

• Best Camper Van Destinations in the Southwest US

• Our Top 5 California Road Trip Destinations

Explore more nearby rentals: Los Angeles | San Diego | Riverside | Long Beach