Top 15 Stops You NEED to Make on your SF to Portland Road Trip+Bonus Itinerary

Cruising down the Pacific Coast Highway in a campervan – is there anything more liberating? This 15-day itinerary crafts a perfect loop road trip from San Francisco to Portland, weaving in iconic sights, hidden gems, and breathtaking natural wonders. Get ready for towering redwoods, dramatic coastlines, charming towns, and a vibrant city escape in Portland.

Best time to take a road trip from San Francisco to Portland 

Aim for the sweet spot between spring (April-May) and fall (September-October). Spring offers blooming wildflowers, while fall boasts vibrant foliage. Summer brings sunshine, but expect crowds. Avoid winter as some high-altitude areas may experience snowfall.

Is it better to rent a campervan or take your own car? 

Renting a campervan adds a layer of adventure and flexibility. Companies like Outdoorsy, Indiecampers and, offer a variety of campervan options. Consider factors like fuel efficiency, sleeping arrangements, and onboard facilities like a kitchenette or bathroom

So before diving into the itinerary, let’s take a look at both. Here’s a breakdown: 

• Campervan may be cheaper if you plan on free camping (dispersed camping) most nights, cook your meals, and travel with multiple people to split the cost
• Car & Hotels/Airbnbs may be cheaper if you prioritize comfort, flexibility, and find good deals on accommodation

Additional factors to consider

• Number of Travelers: Campervans are better suited for smaller groups (2-4)  
• Camping Experience: If you’re new to camping, a car and hotels might be easier
• Trip Style: Campervan offers a more adventurous experience, while hotels provide more comfort.

Ultimately, the best option depends on your priorities and budget.

Here are some resources to help you with your research:

• Campervan Rentals:Outdoorsy, Escape Campervans, Travelers Autobarn,Indiecampers
• Campgrounds: https://www.parks.ca.gov/, https://stateparks.oregon.gov/
• Hotels/Airbnbs: Travelocity, Airbnb

Why you need to a road trip from SF to Portland at least Once

You will just about be able to see A LOT of California and Oregon in just one road trip. You know, like seeing at least 3 national parks, at least 2 national forests and more waterfalls than you can count. If you need any more convincing here you go. 

• No rigid schedules or destinations
• From mountains to plains, quaint towns to dramatic coastlines, each mile brings a fresh visual treat 
• Have quality time with loved ones
• Discover hidden gems and random stumblings
• Unplug, unwind, and appreciate the beauty of nature, I am talking about a full digital detox 

San Francisco to Portland Road Trip Itinerary  

1. 📍San Francisco (Start & End Point)
2. 📍Gualala
3. 📍Mendocino
4. 📍Redwoods National Park
5. 📍Brookings, Oregon
6. 📍Siuslaw National Forest
7. 📍Cannon Beach, Oregon
8. 📍Portland, Oregon
9. 📍Umpqua National Forest
10. 📍Crater Lake National Park
11. 📍Lassen Volcanic National Park
12. 📍Lake Tahoe

Multiple west coast cities, 3 National Parks, 2 National Forests and a boatload of adventure on this San Francisco to Portland Road Trip.

Don’t forget your America the Beautiful Pass to give you access to all national parks and more than 2,000 federal recreation sites  for one year. For just $80.00,it is definitely worth your buck.  

Also!!!

Always check the fire forecast before you leave. We went in early August and the views of Crater Lake were not that visible due to the nearby wildfires. 

Day 1: Gualala

🚗Distance:  (115 miles from San Francisco, 3 hours)

Our first stop on this SF to Portland road trip is a cute seaside town,Gualala. I recommend making this place your first overnight stop on this road trip. It’s got so much charm and it’s the perfect soft introduction to the California coast. 

• Explore Point Reyes National Seashore (free) – a 30 minute detour on your way to Gualala for a half-day adventure. Hike along dramatic cliffs, spot elephant seals lounging on the beach, and marvel at the historic lighthouse
• Hike The Gualala Bluff Trail offers stunning ocean views and the opportunity to see some of the area’s native wildlife
• Relax on the beautiful Cooks Beach (my personal fav) with fine sand and a gentle stream that meanders through one side, perfect for wading or playing in for younger kids
• Other fun things to do in Gualala and places to stop between SF and Gualala 

Stay: Gualala River Redwood Park ($35/night) – Immerse yourself in nature at this peaceful campground nestled amidst towering redwoods. Enjoy easy access to the Gualala River for a refreshing dip or kayaking adventure. Or stay at an cute airbnb or hotel

Eat: Be sure to get some fish sliders and fish tacos at Gualala Seafood Shack , Franny’s Cup and Saucer for the best baked goods.

Day 2: Mendocino 

🚗Distance:  (50 miles, 1 hr)

You will continue to head north on Head north on Highway 101, stopping in Mendocino, a charming Victorian village with art galleries, boutiques, and stunning coastal cliffs. 

• Stop at Point Arena Lighthouse for stunning ocean vistas and a glimpse of California’s lighthouses
• Explore Russian Gulch State Park for tide pools, waterfalls, and dramatic scenery
• Visit Fort Bragg to see  the famous Glass Beach, where the shoreline is covered in colorful sea glass pieces 
• Make your way to downtown Fort Bragg and window shop their many quaint shops 
• Walk one of many trails in Mendocino Headlands State Park  and have a sunset picnic 
• Relax on one of many beaches in Mendocino . Portuguese Beach is pretty and walkable. 
• Head further north, stopping at charming coastal towns like Westport and Waldport for fresh seafood and local shops.

Stay: Check into a cozy inn, or an AirBnB . OR Head to one of these campgrounds for a beautiful beachfront camping experience. Big River Campground ($45/night) – This oceanfront campground offers full hookups for convenience and a running creek. 

Eat: Grab a picnic lunch and enjoy it at a scenic overlook (Mendocino Headlands is perfect spot ) or try Café Beaujolais, known for its farm-to-table cuisine . Ive heard great stuff about it. 

Day 3: Eureka 

🚗Distance: 145 miles, 3 hours

Eureka is a charming city in Northern California, and is known for its redwood forests, Victorian architecture, and art scene.

• Drive through the iconic Avenue of the Giants (free) in Humboldt Redwoods State Park, marveling at the towering trees 
• Take a short detour to explore the Founders Grove (free), a stunning stand of ancient redwoods with a boardwalk for easy access 
• Visit Arcata, a 10 minutes drive from Eureka and go to  Cafe Moka to treat yourself to a 30 minute session inside a redwood hot tub or sauna with a delicious cup of espresso at your side 
• Stroll through this charming Victorian seaport town, admiring the beautifully restored buildings 
• Browse through antique shops, art galleries, and local boutiques in Old Town Eureka
• Kayak through Humboldt Bay Wildlife Refuge for a chance to see a variety of birds and marine animals in their natural habitat (guided tours available)
• Read here for best things to do in Eureka 

Stay:Eureka Campground & RV Park ($40/night) – Centrally located with full hookups, this campground offers easy access to Eureka’s attractions. Or AirBnBs  and hotels 

Eat: Jacks Seafood is great for Lobster Mac n Cheese and Fish and chips. Just go, you wont regret it.

Day 4: Redwood National Park 

🚗Distance: 40 minutes, 40 miles 

Continuing North on Highway 1, we enter Redwood National and State Parks. These ancient giants, some towering over 300 feet, are a humbling reminder of nature’s grandeur.  If you can’t get enough of redwoods, spend the day here, it’s another national park you can check off your list. 

• Hike amongst towering redwoods on the easy and scenic Redwood Creek Trail in Redwood National Park
• Drive through the 10 mile  Newton B. Drury Scenic Parkway, stopping at viewpoints for breathtaking panoramic views.  
• Visit the Trees of Mystery  and explore redwood oddities like the leaning tree and the drive-thru tree tunnel 
• Explore Fern Canyon, a wonderland adorned with ferns and dripping with moss  a hidden gem within Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park ( aka where Jurassic Park was filmed)

Stay: Elk Prairie Campground ($30/night) – Nestled amidst towering redwoods, it’s quite dreamy. Keep an eye out for Roosevelt elk grazing in the meadows at dawn and dusk. AirBnb or Hotels are great choices too 

Eat: Pack a picnic lunch with fresh local ingredients from the Eureka Farmers Market. Enjoy a scenic lunch break amidst the redwoods. 

Day 5: Bandon

🚗Distance  (100 miles, 2 hours) 

Between Redwoods National Park and our next destination Bandon, there are sooo many cute coastal towns that you don’t want to miss like Brookings, Gold Beach and Cape Blanco with so many things to see and do. 

• While in Bandon, you have to go to FaceRock Creamery, which is one of the premiere cheddar makers on the west coast
• Take a walk along Bandon Beach, expansive sandy beach, searching for colorful sea glass and unique shells
• Visit the famous Face Rock Scenic Viewpoint, There is a very long set of steps down to the beach from the parking lot with benches along the way to sit and enjoy different views. Its so cool 
• Hike the Coquille Point Trail for panoramic views of the rugged coastline
• Learn about cheesemaking at the Face Rock Creamery and sample their award-winning cheeses 
• witness the mesmerizing artistry of Circles in the Sand. Skilled artists transform the beach into a canvas, crafting intricate labyrinthine pathways 

Stay: Campground in Bandon ($35/night) scenic campgrounds with the ocean as your backyard. Enjoy a campfire under the starry night sky. Or stay in a hotel or Airbnb. 

Eat: Bandon Fish Market  Savor fresh, local oysters in a variety of preparations, from classic raw on the half shell to decadent oyster Rockefeller.

Day 6: Siuslaw National Forest 

🚗Distance: (116 miles, 2.5 hours) 

After soaking in the quirky charm of Bandon and witnessing the mesmerizing Circles in the Sand, delve deeper into the natural wonders of Oregon with a stop at Siuslaw National Forest. 

• Stop in Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area (free) located  just after Bandon Explore the vast Oregon Dunes, the largest expanse of coastal sand dunes in North America
• Make a quick coffee stop in the small charming town of Yachats  pronounced (Yah-Hots)
• Arrive in the forest and explore the numerous trails that weave through towering Sitka spruce and western hemlock trees
• The Cape Perpetua Trail offers panoramic ocean views, while the Mary’s Peak Trail rewards you with breathtaking vistas from the highest point in the Oregon Coast Range 
• Go kayaking or stand-up paddleboarding on the calm waters of some of the forest’s lakes, like Devils Lake
• Stretch out on the sandy beach at Yachats State Park pronounced (Yah-Hots) and visit the charming small town of Yachats

Stay: Cape Perpetua Campground offers stunning ocean views and easy access to hiking trails and tide pools. ($20/night)

Eat: Stock up on fresh local ingredients from a grocery store in Bandon or a nearby town. Enjoy a scenic picnic lunch amidst the towering trees or by the glistening lakes. Explore dining options in nearby towns like Waldport or Florence. 

Day 7: Cannon Beach

🚗Distance: (130 miles, 3 hours) 

Continue north on the scenic Highway 101, soaking up every mile of the Oregon coast and arrive in Cannon Beach, where some scenes of Twilight were filmed. 

• Enjoy the beaches and charming shoppes  of tiny town Depoe Bay on your way to Cannon Beach 
• Just before you hit cannon Beach, if you love Tillamook as much as I do, stop at their factory 
• Spend the day exploring Cannon Beach. Walk on the sandy beach, climb Haystack Rock (during low tide) , oh and go tidepool. Also you may get to see the cutest puffins!! 
• Explore Ecola State Park for tide pools, scenic hikes, and stunning views of the coastline
• Visit art galleries and boutiques in Cannon Beach for unique souvenirs and local art
• Indulge in award-winning treats like saltwater taffy and chocolates at Bruce’s Candy Kitchen. Take some home too! 
• For some coffee and bagels Sleepy Monk is great and it’s a short walk to Haystack Rock
• Take a guided horseback riding tour along the beach and experience the beauty of the Oregon Coast from a different perspective

Stay: Sea Breeze RV Park & Campground ($45/night) – stunning views and easy beach access. Enjoy a relaxing evening with the sound of waves crashing in the background. Or stay in Airbnb or Hotel 

Eat: Mo’s Seafood & Chowder House (casual) – Savor delicious seafood dishes with a relaxed atmosphere and beautiful ocean views

Related Reads: Best Road Trip from SF to Bend

Day 8: Portland 

🚗Distance: (80 miles, 1.5 hours) 

• Explore the Lan Su Chinese Garden, a peaceful oasis in the heart of the city
• Walk through  Alphabet District or Pearl District, admiring the architectural styles 
• Rent bikes and explore the city’s extensive network of bike paths, following the Willamette River for scenic views
• If you happen to be in Portland on a sunday, check out their Saturday Market, a haven for local crafts, art, and unique finds
• No visit to Portland is complete without a pilgrimage to Powell’s City of Books, The world’s largest new & used bookstore
• Take a stroll through Washington Park and check out the  6.7-acre haven Rose Garden  with over 10,000 rose bushes. Open from late May to October
• Get yourself some Gourmet s’mores torched to order at 1927 Smores Company 
• Hike to the top of Council Crest Park for breathtaking panoramic views of the city.
• See Multnomah Falls (free), the tallest waterfall in Oregon 

Stay: For a stylish experience, consider Dossier or other boutique hotels in trendy neighborhoods. Or stay in an Airbnb in Portland. Check out these RV Parks and campgrounds 

Eat: Portland has a vibrant food cart scene for affordable prices.  But for pizza, my pick is Gladstone Street Pizza oh and for doughnuts, you have to try Voodoo Doughnuts.  

Day 9: Umpqua National Forest 

🚗Distance: (145 miles, 3 hours) 

John Muir once said, ‘The best way to see the Umpqua National Forest is to lose yourself in it.’ And we couldn’t agree more!

Umpqua is one of those places you have to see at least once in your lifetime,it’s not your average forest. It is one of my favorite places I have ever been to. 

• Hike the beautiful Tokotee Falls, that looks like it is straight out of a fairytale movie. The hike is less than 1 mile and is fairly easy. Get there as early as you can, as the falls tend to get very crowded especially during the summer months.
• The Umpqua River is a paddler’s paradise, offering exciting whitewater rafting adventures for all skill levels
• Indulge in a relaxing soak at the Umpqua Hot Springs (also known as Toketee Hot Springs). These natural geothermal pools are nestled amidst a forested hillside overlooking the North Umpqua River.  The temperature varies between the pools, with the hottest reaching up to 115°F (46.1°C). Remember, the hot springs are open only during daylight hours and require a day-use pass.

Stay: Steamboat Falls Campground ($20/night) – Nestled amidst towering Douglas firs, and falls.  OR Umpqua Resort 

Eat:Pack a picnic lunch with supplies from Portland 

Related Reads: Ultimate West Coast Road Trip itinerary: San Francisco to Southern Oregon

Day 10: Crater Lake 

🚗 (Distance 65 miles, 2 hours) 

On day 10 of this SF to Portland road trip, you will reach Crater Lake. You can choose to drive the Rogue- Umpqua Scenic Byway, a 172-mile route that winds through the heart of the Umpqua National Forest. But it’s long.  Allow at least eight hours to fully appreciate the breathtaking landscapes. Alternatively drive OR-62E. The drive from Umpqua to Crater Lake is incredible and will have you mesmerized the entire way.   

• The best time to visit Crater Lake is July- September, that’s when the park’s roads and facilities  are fully opened and you can make the most of your visit
• Choose a hike from many different trails around the lake here. 
• The Cleetwood Cove Trail is a popular trail on the East rim of the park. It is the only legal access to the lake where swimming, fishing and boat tours are allowed. 

Related Reads: Best things to do in Crater Lake

Stay: Mazama Campground ($30/night) – Located on the rim of Crater Lake, this campground offers stunning views of the caldera and easy access to various viewpoints. Or stay in Crater Lake Lodge. There are AirBnBs in nearby towns as well.

Eat: Pack a picnic lunch with supplies from a grocery store in a nearby town or grab a bite at the cafeteria at Crater Lake Lodge 

Day 11: Lassen Volcanic National Park 

🚗(Distance 1 hour, 22 miles)

While at Crater Lake, you should think about making a stop to Lassen National Park. Its under one hour away and it’s got such fascinating landscape and sights. It is a mini Yellowstone, but in California. And also a bit of Mars-like terrain but in California. It’s quite the park 

• Hike to Bumpass Hell, a geothermal wonderland with boiling mud pots and sulfur vents or soak in a natural hot spring
• Hike to stunning Lake Helen, or Manzanita Lake, a vibrant blue reflective lake surrounded by volcanic peaks. After take a dip in the lake 
• More things to do in Lassen National Park Here! 

Day 12: Lake Tahoe

🚗Lassen Volcanic  to Lake Tahoe – 190 miles (3 hours) 

Related Reads: An Unbeatable Multi-Stop Road Trip from San Francisco to Lake Tahoe

I will never get enough of Lake Tahoe. I would happily say that Lake Tahoe is the love of my life, well and coffee (sorry hubby). Once there, you will know exactly what I mean. 

• Relax on the beaches of Lake Tahoe, my favorites: Kings Beach, Crystal Bay, Zephyr Cove and Sand Harbor
• Kayak/ Paddleboard to a picturesque island in Emerald Bay State Park 
• Take a hike on some popular trails which include the Rubicon Trail, Mount Tallac Trail, and Eagle Falls Trail
• More things to do in Lake Tahoe

Stay: South Lake Tahoe offers a variety of resorts and hotels, while North Lake Tahoe has charming cabins and campgrounds.

Eat: The culinary scene around Lake Tahoe is diverse, from fine dining to casual eats. 

Day 13: San Francisco 

🚗Distance: (200 miles, 4 hours) 

There are so many special things to do, see and eat in San Francisco.  You can easily spend one full day exploring San Francisco. 

• You can start by admiring the famous Golden Gate Bridge, by seeing its best views, Vista Point. Click here on details on how to reach Vista Point
• Take a breathtaking, jaw dropping, adventurous hike along the Golden coast. For those who love hiking and jaw dropping ocean views, and views of the iconic Golden Gate Bridge this 1.5 Lands End Trail moderate hike is for you
• Have brunch at the Fisherman’s Wharf, a popular tourist destination with its seafood restaurants, street performers, and souvenir shops
• Check out Lombard Street, also known as the “crookedest street in the world,” is a fun and unique experience with its steep, winding turns.