US West Coast Tour Itinerary
Imagine starting a journey along the Pacific coast. Here, rugged shores meet the calm beauty of nature. The US West Coast is perfect for camping and travel, with many landscapes and attractions.
At Camp New York, we’re thrilled to share our guide to the ultimate US West Coast itinerary. We’ll explore San Francisco’s hills and Seattle’s green city. Our trip will cover cities, national parks, and secret spots.
Whether you’re a camper from the East Coast or a seasoned traveler, our guide is for you. It will show you the best places to camp and see on the West Coast.
US West Coast Tour Itinerary Key Takeaways
- Discover the top camping spots along the US West Coast
- Explore iconic cities like San Francisco and Seattle
- Visit breathtaking national parks and hidden gems
- Get the inside scoop on the ultimate US West Coast itinerary
- Plan your trip with our complete guide
Planning Your West Coast Adventure
Planning a US West Coast tour can seem tough, but it’s worth it. As East Coast campers heading to the West, we must think about a few key things. This will make our trip unforgettable.
Best Time to Visit the West Coast
The West Coast welcomes visitors all year. But, the best time to go depends on what you like. Summer is great for camping, but it’s also busy with tourists.
Spring and fall offer nice weather and fewer people. If you’re going to Southern California, winter might be okay. But, it could be tough for places further north.
How Many Days to Allocate
Figuring out how long to stay is important. We suggest at least 10-14 days to see the main sights without rushing. But, if you want to really explore and camp, plan for 3-4 weeks.
For more tips on what to do on the West Coast, check out our guide on things to do on the West Coast of.
Transportation Options
Choosing the right way to get around is key for a great West Coast trip. You can rent a car or use public transport.
Renting a Car vs. Public Transport
Renting a car lets you make your own schedule and see beautiful views. Public transport is cheaper and less stressful. For a camping trip, an RV is a great choice. It’s both a car and a place to stay.
RV Rental Considerations
Think about your group size, what you need, and how you feel about driving big vehicles when renting an RV. We’ve helped many Camp New York visitors plan their trips. We can give you good advice on picking the right RV.
Creating Your US West Coast Tour Itinerary
A well-planned US West Coast tour itinerary is key to an unforgettable adventure. It balances urban excitement and natural beauty. We’ve crafted a route that blends the best of the West Coast, from vibrant cities to breathtaking landscapes.
Overview of Our Recommended Route
Our US West Coast tour itinerary starts in San Francisco. It takes you through California’s stunning coastline, into majestic national parks, and up to Oregon, Washington, and Seattle. Approximate driving times and recommended overnight stops are included to help plan your trip. The route is designed to maximize your experience, with camping options from beachside to forest environments within national parks.
As you travel, you’ll enjoy the flexibility to adjust your journey. You can explore urban attractions, go on outdoor adventures, or enjoy local cuisine. Our itinerary is a guide, allowing you to personalize your trip according to your preferences and time constraints.
Customizing Your Journey
We understand that every traveler is unique. We provide tips on how to customize this itinerary. For those interested in outdoor adventures, there are many hiking trails and national parks to explore. If urban experiences are more your style, we’ve included must-see cities with rich cultural and entertainment options.
As a seasoned traveler once said,
“The West Coast is not just a destination; it’s an experience that stays with you forever.”
We encourage you to adjust the itinerary to fit your interests and the season of your visit. This will ensure a truly memorable trip.
Starting in San Francisco
The vibrant city of San Francisco kicks off our US West Coast tour. It’s a blend of urban charm and natural beauty. We’ll dive into the top attractions that make it a highlight of any US West Coast tour.
Must-See Attractions in the City
San Francisco is full of iconic landmarks and exciting activities. Two top spots to visit are Golden Gate Park and Fisherman’s Wharf.
Golden Gate Park and Bridge
Golden Gate Park is a 1,017-acre oasis in the city’s heart. It has gardens, museums, and places for fun. It’s perfect for nature lovers and those seeking peace.
The Golden Gate Bridge is a marvel with stunning views. It’s great for walking or biking. For amazing photos, visit during the golden hour.
Fisherman’s Wharf has a maritime atmosphere. It’s home to sea lions, historic ships, and seafood restaurants. Don’t miss the Alcatraz Island tour, but book tickets early because it’s very popular.
Day Trips from San Francisco
Looking to explore more? There are great day trip options. Muir Woods lets you see ancient redwoods. Napa and Sonoma valleys are perfect for wine tasting.
The coastal town of Half Moon Bay is another gem. It’s known for its beautiful beaches and charming downtown.
Where to Stay and Camp Near San Francisco
For Camp New York fans, we’ve found camping spots near San Francisco. Rob Hill Campground is inside the city, making it convenient. Other great spots include Kirby Cove for Golden Gate views, Angel Island State Park for bay camping, and the Marin Headlands.
Remember to check reservation details, amenities, and public transport if you don’t have a car.
Exploring the California Coastline
The California coastline is full of natural wonders. From Big Sur’s rugged cliffs to Carmel-by-the-Sea’s charming towns, it’s a treasure trove. As we drive, we’ll see breathtaking views, must-see spots, and unique camping sites. These make our US West Coast tour unforgettable.
Monterey and Carmel-by-the-Sea
Our journey starts in Monterey, known for the Monterey Bay Aquarium and Cannery Row. We must visit Carmel-by-the-Sea, with its European vibe and artist community. The 17-Mile Drive offers stunning Pacific Ocean views and famous golf courses.
For campers, Veterans Memorial Park in Monterey and nearby state parks are great. They offer beautiful beaches, hiking, and chances to see sea otters and marine life.
Big Sur Scenic Drive
The Big Sur Scenic Drive is a 90-mile stretch where mountains meet the Pacific. It’s famous for its dramatic views and many photo stops. Must-see spots include McWay Falls and Bixby Bridge.
McWay Falls and Bixby Bridge
McWay Falls is an 80-foot waterfall on a pristine beach. Bixby Bridge is a famous bridge with a dramatic arch against the rugged coast. Both are highlights of our US West Coast tour.
Camping in Big Sur
Big Sur has great camping spots, from Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park to Kirk Creek Campground with ocean views. Other great spots include Andrew Molera State Park and Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park. Remember to check reservations and peak seasons.
Santa Barbara Stopover
Next, we visit Santa Barbara, a Mediterranean-style city with Spanish architecture and beautiful beaches. Camping at El Capitan State Beach or Refugio State Beach offers unique beachfront experiences.
Santa Barbara is perfect for a stopover. It offers history, beautiful landscapes, and a relaxing vibe. It’s a great mix of relaxation and exploration on our US West Coast tour.
Los Angeles and Southern California
Los Angeles and Southern California are next on our ultimate US West Coast tour. They offer iconic landmarks and a relaxed vibe. You’ll find everything from Hollywood’s glamour to Malibu’s peaceful beaches.
Hollywood and Downtown LA Highlights
Hollywood is a key stop on any top US West Coast tour. Start with the Walk of Fame, where you can see stars of your favorite celebrities. The TCL Chinese Theatre is also a must-see, with handprints and footprints of famous stars.
Downtown LA is rich in culture. Visit The Broad museum for contemporary art in a unique building. Don’t miss Grand Central Market for food and a lively vibe.
Beach Communities: Venice, Santa Monica, and Malibu
LA’s beach communities are a must-see. Venice Beach is famous for its bohemian vibe, street performers, and Muscle Beach.
Santa Monica boasts an iconic pier and upscale shopping. Enjoy swimming, surfing, and sunbathing on its beaches. For a quieter spot, visit Malibu with its celebrity homes and beautiful beaches like El Matador and Zuma.
Day Trip to San Diego
A day trip to San Diego is a great idea. This city is known for its beaches, lively neighborhoods, and attractions. Don’t miss Balboa Park, the Gaslamp Quarter, and the San Diego Zoo.
For those who love camping, San Diego has great spots like Silver Strand State Beach and Campland on the Bay. These offer a unique experience, different from what East Coast visitors are used to.
National Parks on Your US West Coast Tour Itinerary
Exploring the West Coast reveals majestic national parks that are essential for any tour. These parks combine natural beauty with outdoor adventures, making them a highlight of the region.
Yosemite National Park
Yosemite is a gem among US national parks. It boasts granite cliffs, waterfalls, and meadows. It’s perfect for hikers of all levels.
Iconic Sights and Hikes
Yosemite is famous for El Capitan, Half Dome, and Yosemite Falls. Hikers can choose from easy trails like Mirror Lake loop or tackle the Half Dome ascent. Must-see spots on the US West Coast tour include:
- El Capitan
- Half Dome
- Yosemite Falls
- Tunnel View
Camping Options in Yosemite
Yosemite has 13 campgrounds with different amenities. Upper Pines needs reservations, while Camp 4 is first-come, first-served. Knowing the reservation system and camping conditions is key, even for East Coast visitors.
Redwood National and State Parks
The Redwood National and State Parks are awe-inspiring, with the world’s tallest trees. Visitors can explore groves like Lady Bird Johnson Grove and Stout Grove.
Camping in the redwood forests is available at Jedediah Smith and Prairie Creek campgrounds. It offers a deep connection with nature.
Crater Lake National Park
Crater Lake in Oregon is famous for its deep blue color and clear water. The 33-mile Rim Drive offers stunning views, and boat tours to Wizard Island are available when safe.
Hiking trails like Cleetwood Cove and Garfield Peak are great. Mazama Campground has amenities, while backcountry sites offer a simpler experience. The high elevation means a short camping season, so planning is key.
Exploring the West Coast through its national parks is unforgettable. From Yosemite’s granite formations to the towering redwoods and Crater Lake’s deep blue waters, each park showcases the region’s natural beauty.
Oregon’s Scenic Wonders
Oregon is a must-see on any West Coast road trip. It boasts lush forests, a dramatic coastline, and charming cities. We’ll explore diverse landscapes that suit all interests.
Portland: The City of Roses
Portland is eco-friendly, known for craft breweries, and has a vibrant food scene. Start your Oregon adventure here. Visit Powell’s City of Books, the world’s largest independent bookstore. Also, check out Washington Park with its Japanese Garden and Rose Test Garden.
For campers, Champoeg State Park and Milo McIver State Park are close. They offer a natural setting with easy access to city attractions.
Columbia River Gorge
The Columbia River Gorge is a stunning river canyon. It features the Historic Columbia River Highway with many waterfalls. Don’t miss the 620-foot Multnomah Falls.
Hiking trails like Eagle Creek Trail offer amazing views. For camping, Ainsworth State Park and Viento State Park are scenic spots.
Oregon Coast Highway
The Oregon Coast Highway spans 363 miles along the Pacific coast. It offers stunning ocean views and unique attractions like the Oregon Dunes. Visit Cannon Beach for its 235-foot Haystack Rock.
Cannon Beach and Haystack Rock
Cannon Beach is a charming town with art galleries and restaurants. It’s famous for the 235-foot Haystack Rock. This spot is great for photography and learning about marine life.
Best Coastal Campgrounds
Oregon’s coast has great camping spots. Cape Lookout State Park meets the ocean with old-growth forest. Nehalem Bay State Park has dunes and bay access. Beverly Beach State Park offers easy beach access and yurt rentals.
When planning, check the weather and reservation systems for the best experience.
| Campground | Location | Features |
|---|---|---|
| Cape Lookout State Park | Pacific Coast | Old-growth forest, ocean access |
| Nehalem Bay State Park | North Oregon Coast | Dunes, bay access |
| Beverly Beach State Park | Central Oregon Coast | Beach access, yurt rentals |
Washington State and Seattle
Our US West Coast tour ends in Washington State, a paradise for hikers and campers. The Pacific Northwest is known for its rugged coastline, lush forests, and snow-capped mountains. It offers a unique blend of natural beauty and outdoor activities.
Washington State is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. Olympic National Park is a major highlight. The park’s diverse ecosystems, including temperate rainforests, alpine meadows, and Pacific coastline, make it perfect for nature lovers.
Olympic National Park
Olympic National Park is a crown jewel of the US National Park system. It boasts three distinct ecosystems: temperate rainforest, alpine meadows, and Pacific coastline. This diversity makes it an ideal destination for campers from Camp New York and other parts of the East Coast.
Hoh Rainforest and Hurricane Ridge
The Hoh Rainforest is a mystical landscape with up to 14 feet of rain annually. It creates a moss-draped, emerald wonderland. Hikers can explore the Hall of Mosses Trail and the longer Hoh River Trail.
In contrast, Hurricane Ridge offers spectacular mountain views. It has summer wildflower meadows and winter skiing opportunities.
Coastal Camping in Olympic National Park
For those who enjoy beach camping, Olympic National Park’s coastline offers unique experiences. Campers can enjoy driftwood-strewn beaches, sea stacks, and tide pool exploration. But, they should be prepared for the often wet and foggy conditions.
Seattle’s Top Attractions
Seattle is a must-visit on any West Coast tour. Visitors can explore Pike Place Market, the Space Needle, the Museum of Pop Culture, and the original Starbucks location. For camping enthusiasts, urban-adjacent options like Dash Point State Park and Saltwater State Park offer a quick escape from the city.
Day Trips from Seattle
Seattle serves as a great base for exploring the surrounding region. Day trips can include visits to Mount Rainier National Park, Snoqualmie Falls, and the Bavarian-themed town of Leavenworth. For each destination, there are camping recommendations available, making it easy to extend your stay.
| Campground | Location | Features |
|---|---|---|
| Kalaloch Campground | Olympic National Park | Beach camping, sea stacks, tide pools |
| Dash Point State Park | Near Seattle | Urban-adjacent camping, hiking trails |
| Mora Campground | Olympic National Park | Beach camping, river access |
Camping Highlights Along the West Coast
The West Coast is famous for its camping spots. You can camp by the beach or in the mountains. Travelers from Camp New York will love exploring these places. It’s a great way to see the region’s beauty.
Beach Camping Experiences
Beach camping is special here, with cliffs and sea stacks. You’ll see lots of marine life. Places like Crystal Cove State Park in Southern California are top picks.
Kirk Creek Campground in Big Sur and Kalaloch on the Olympic Peninsula are also great. Remember, coastal fog and strong tides are common. Make sure to book your spot in advance.
Mountain and Forest Campgrounds
The Sierra Nevada and Cascade Range offer amazing camping. You can camp in redwood groves and alpine meadows. Tuolumne Meadows in Yosemite is a must-see.
Lost Creek Campground at Crater Lake and Colonial Creek in North Cascades are also great. Keep in mind the elevation and when they’re open.
Urban Camping Options and RV Parks
Urban camping is easy near big cities on the West Coast. Places like Kirby Cove near San Francisco and Dockweiler Beach near Los Angeles are convenient. Champoeg State Park near Portland and Dash Point State Park near Seattle are also good choices.
Check if they have hookups, size limits, and public transport. It makes your stay easier.
Practical Tips for Your West Coast Road Trip
Planning a US West Coast tour is more than just picking places to visit. It’s about getting ready and knowing the details of your trip. Several important things will make your journey both successful and fun.
Budgeting for Your Trip
Setting a budget is key for any road trip. When you’re planning your US West Coast trip, think about all the costs. Campground fees can be as low as $20 or over $70 for the best spots by the coast. The America the Beautiful Pass, at $80, can save money if you visit many national parks.
Don’t forget to include fuel costs for the long drives and food expenses. You can save money by cooking in your campsite and eating out less. A budget that fits your travel style will make your trip worry-free.
- Campground fees: $20-$70+
- America the Beautiful Pass: $80
- Fuel costs for long distances
- Food expenses: restaurant meals vs. camp cooking
Essential Packing List
Having the right gear is essential for a great camping trip on the West Coast. Make sure to pack bear-resistant food containers for places like the Sierra Nevada. Also, bring sunscreen with high SPF for the strong Western sun, layers for changing temperatures, and a portable shower for campgrounds with limited facilities.
- Bear-resistant food containers
- Higher SPF sunscreen
- Layers for temperature changes
- Portable shower options
Safety Considerations
Safety is always the first thing to think about on a road trip. Be ready for the challenges of Western environments, like wildlife and fire restrictions. Also, know how to prepare for earthquakes and tsunamis, and be ready for remote areas with no cell service.
By knowing these things, you can stay safe and have a trip you’ll always remember.
US West Coast Tour Itinerary Conclusion
Our journey along the US West Coast has shown us a wide range of camping spots and natural wonders. From the Golden Gate Bridge in San Francisco to the Olympic rainforests in Washington State, each place is special. When exploring the West Coast, you’ll make your own story, based on what you like and what surprises you.
This trip gives our Camp New York community a new view of America’s outdoors. We hope you’ll share your camping stories and tips when you get back. This will help build a community of outdoor lovers. With this guide, you’re all set to start planning your amazing camping trip across America’s west.