Dreaming of a自由 and immersive adventure in the magnificent nature of Oregon, USA? Traveling by campervan is the key to unlocking a unique and unforgettable experience. The freedom to move, stop wherever you want, and wake up surrounded by stunning natural scenery – all within reach when you choose to rent a campervan. This article will be your detailed guide to exploring Oregon in your own way, from choosing and renting the right campervan, to must-visit destinations and valuable on-the-road experiences.
I. Why Oregon is the Ideal Destination for a Campervan Trip?
Oregon, a state in the Pacific Northwest region of the United States, is renowned for its diverse and pristine natural beauty. From the rugged Pacific coastline, lush green forests, and majestic Cascade Mountains, to crystal-clear lakes and mysterious high deserts, Oregon has everything to satisfy every exploration passion.
Traveling by campervan in Oregon is more than just a trip; it’s a journey to experience freedom and a deep connection with nature. You can:
- Explore Freely: Unbound by fixed schedules, you can freely plan and change your itinerary as you wish, stopping at any destination you love.
- Save Costs: Instead of paying for hotels and restaurants, a campervan provides you with a mobile living space with full amenities, helping you significantly save on accommodation and dining expenses.
- Experience Camping in Nature: Oregon boasts countless beautiful campsites, from beachfront campgrounds to secluded spots deep in the forest. A campervan allows you to fully enjoy the camping experience without worrying about setting up tents or carrying bulky gear.
- Access Pristine Locations: Campervans can take you to places that are difficult to reach by public transport, opening up opportunities to explore Oregon’s untouched and lesser-known regions.
- Connect with the Campervan Travel Community: Campervan travel is a large and friendly community. You can easily connect with like-minded people, share experiences, and receive helpful advice.
A campervan parked at a campsite in Oregon with a lush green forest backdrop
II. Detailed Guide on How to Rent a Campervan in Oregon
To begin your Oregon campervan adventure, the first and most important step is to rent a suitable vehicle. Here’s a detailed guide on the steps to rent a campervan in Oregon:
1. Determine the Right Type of Campervan
Campervans come in various types, from compact vans suitable for couples to larger vehicles with full amenities for families or groups of friends. When choosing a campervan type, consider the following factors:
- Number of People: Determine the number of people on your trip to choose a campervan with enough sleeping space and comfortable living area.
- Desired Amenities: Decide on the essential amenities for your trip, such as a kitchen, toilet, shower, heating system, air conditioning, etc.
- Budget: Campervan rental prices vary depending on the type of vehicle, rental duration, and included amenities. Set your budget to choose a suitable vehicle.
- Driving Experience: If you’ve never driven a campervan before, opt for smaller, easier-to-handle vehicles.
Some popular campervan types in Oregon:
- Class B Campervan (Van Conversion): Compact and fuel-efficient campervans, easy to drive, suitable for 2-3 people. Often equipped with a kitchenette, bed, and sometimes a portable toilet.
- Class C Campervan (Motorhome): Larger campervans with spacious interiors and full amenities like a kitchen, toilet, shower, separate beds, suitable for families or groups of 4-6 people.
- Truck Camper: Campervans mounted on pickup truck beds, versatile and with good off-road capability, ideal for those wanting to explore remote locations.
2. Search and Compare Campervan Rental Companies
Oregon has numerous campervan rental companies, from large international corporations to local businesses. To find the best option, you should:
- Search Online: Use campervan rental price comparison websites like RVshare, Outdoorsy, Cruise America, Escape Campervans, etc., to search and compare prices from various companies.
- Read Customer Reviews: Consider past customer reviews and feedback regarding vehicle quality, service, and company reliability.
- Check Rental Terms and Conditions: Carefully read the rental terms and conditions, including cancellation policies, mileage limits, insurance fees, etc.
- Contact Companies Directly: If you have any questions, don’t hesitate to contact rental companies directly for advice and answers.
3. Book Your Campervan Rental
Once you’ve chosen a company and a suitable campervan, proceed with booking. The booking process typically involves these steps:
- Select Pick-up and Drop-off Dates: Determine the rental period that fits your trip itinerary.
- Choose Optional Add-ons: Select optional add-ons such as kitchen kits, bedding sets, child seats, etc. (if needed).
- Provide Personal Information and Payment: Provide personal information, driver’s license, and credit card to pay the deposit and rental fee.
- Confirm Booking: After completing payment, you will receive a booking confirmation email.
4. Pick Up and Inspect the Campervan
On the pick-up day, go to the rental company’s location to complete the pick-up procedure. Ensure you:
- Bring All Necessary Documents: Driver’s license, identification documents, and booking confirmation.
- Thoroughly Inspect Vehicle Condition: Check the interior, exterior, equipment, and amenities in the vehicle, ensuring everything works well and there is no damage.
- Record Any Damage (if any): If you find any damage, immediately notify the company staff and record it with photos or videos to avoid disputes later.
- Request Vehicle Usage Instructions: Ask company staff for detailed instructions on how to use the vehicle’s equipment and amenities, such as electrical, water, kitchen, and toilet systems.
- Carefully Read the Rental Agreement: Ensure you understand the terms and conditions in the rental agreement before signing.
Inside a campervan with full kitchen and sleeping amenities
III. Suggested Campervan Itinerary for Exploring Beautiful Oregon
Oregon has countless amazing destinations to explore by campervan. Here is a suggested 7-day itinerary to discover Oregon’s highlights:
Days 1-2: Explore the Oregon Coast
- Destinations: Astoria, Cannon Beach, Tillamook, Pacific City, Lincoln City, Newport.
- Activities: Visit charming coastal towns, admire the famous Haystack Rock at Cannon Beach, visit the Tillamook Creamery cheese factory, surf at Pacific City, explore the Oregon Coast Aquarium in Newport, camp at coastal campgrounds like Cape Lookout State Park or Beverly Beach State Park.
Days 3-4: Crater Lake National Park
- Destination: Crater Lake National Park.
- Activities: Admire the magnificent beauty of Crater Lake’s blue waters nestled in a dormant volcanic caldera, hike around the lake, take a boat tour on the lake, drive along Rim Drive for panoramic park views, camp at Mazama Campground or Lost Creek Campground.
Day 5: Bend & Newberry National Volcanic Monument
- Destinations: Bend, Newberry National Volcanic Monument.
- Activities: Explore the vibrant town of Bend with its craft breweries and outdoor activities, visit Newberry National Volcanic Monument with Pilot Butte, Paulina Lake, and East Lake, hike, fish, kayak, camp at Paulina Lake Campground or East Lake Campground.
Day 6: Deschutes National Forest & Lava River Cave
- Destinations: Deschutes National Forest, Lava River Cave.
- Activities: Explore the beauty of Deschutes National Forest with its vast pine forests and clear lakes, visit the unique Lava River Cave lava tube, hike, climb, mountain bike, camp at Tumalo State Park or Sparks Lake Campground.
Day 7: Multnomah Falls & Columbia River Gorge
- Destinations: Multnomah Falls, Columbia River Gorge.
- Activities: Admire the majestic beauty of Multnomah Falls, explore the Columbia River Gorge with stunning waterfalls and the scenic Historic Columbia River Highway, hike, birdwatch, camp at Ainsworth State Park or Oxbow Regional Park.
Note: This is just a suggested itinerary; you can customize it to your preferences and time.
Majestic Multnomah Falls waterfall in Oregon
IV. Useful Tips for Your Oregon Campervan Trip
To ensure your Oregon campervan trip is smooth and fulfilling, keep these helpful tips in mind:
- Book Your Campervan Early: Especially during peak tourist season (summer and holidays), you should book your campervan several months in advance to ensure availability and good prices.
- Plan and Book Campsites in Advance: Popular campsites in Oregon often fill up quickly, especially in summer. Plan and book campsites in advance, especially if you are traveling during peak season.
- Prepare Personal Items and Campervan Supplies Thoroughly: Make a list of essential items for your trip, including clothing, toiletries, kitchenware, camping gear, etc.
- Learn About Oregon Traffic Laws and Camping Regulations: Understand traffic laws, speed limits, and regulations regarding camping, campfires, waste disposal, etc., in Oregon to avoid violations and fines.
- Download Offline Maps and Travel Apps: Ensure you have offline maps and travel support apps like campsite finder apps (Campendium, The Dyrt), weather forecast apps, gas station and dump station finder apps, etc.
- Drive Safely and Carefully: Driving a campervan requires caution and high concentration, especially on steep mountain roads or narrow roads. Be sure to maintain a safe distance from the vehicle in front and adhere to speed limits.
- Enjoy and Relax: Most importantly, fully enjoy your campervan trip, relax, and immerse yourself in the beautiful nature of Oregon.
V. Conclusion
Renting a campervan to travel Oregon is an excellent choice to explore wild natural beauty and experience freedom on stunning roads. With thorough preparation and an adventurous spirit, you will have a memorable and fulfilling trip in this beautiful state. Pack your bags and start your campervan adventure exploring Oregon now! Are you ready for your adventure?