RV Rental Reno, NV

Reno, Nevada RV Rentals

Home to world-class skiing in the winter and a whole host of thrilling outdoor activities like biking, camping, hunting, and fishing in warmer weather, Reno is an excellent place to visit with an RV. As the largest city in Northern Nevada, Reno is home to some of the best outdoor experiences — and sights — in the entire state. If you’re trying to plan your next outdoor adventure, you can have a ton of fun with Reno RV rentals.

Situated on the eastern slope of the Sierra Nevada Mountains, Reno is referred to as the "Biggest Little City in the World.” It’s near gorgeous Lake Tahoe and sits within 50 miles of some of the best outdoor locales on the West Coast. Why not choose to see everything Reno, Nevada has to offer right from the comfort of an RV rental? 

Popular RV Destinations in Reno

Lake Tahoe

Even though Lake Tahoe isn't technically in Reno, it's an absolute must-visit destination for any RV trip. As the heart of the Reno-Tahoe region, Lake Tahoe is an incredible place to see and explore. Located about 40 miles away from Reno's city and situated on the border of Nevada and California, Lake Tahoe is considered one of the most beautiful places in the entire country.

Surrounded by stunning mountains and filled with crystal-clear water, Lake Tahoe is both a sight to behold and a locale that offers plenty of activities. You can enjoy its beaches or try out water sports — including boating and fishing — in the summer. You can also hike around its shores, exploring the wildlife and natural beauty. And with plenty of nearby camping, it's really the perfect place to spend time with your RV rental.

The Reno Arch

When you arrive in Reno, you’re going to want to make sure you stop by the Reno Arch. It’s the iconic marquee that lights up the sky, welcoming visitors to “The Biggest Little City in the World” at the intersection of Virginia Street and Commercial Row. A landmark in the city since 1926, the arch has actually moved twice and now sits in its third location.

Originally built in honor of the Nevada Transcontinental Highway Exposition, the Reno Arch has been upgraded over the years. Now, its colors change regularly in celebration of special events in Reno. Make sure you make this a sight to see whether you stay in the driver’s seat or get out of your RV.

Donner Summit

You’ve likely heard of the Donner Party, the tragic group of travelers who perished after they became trapped in the Sierra Nevada Mountains in the 1800s. Donner Summit, along with the nearby Donner Pass, is named for this party — but today, it’s a destination any RV traveler will want to visit. At Donner Summit, you’ll find a visitor’s center displaying the history of the Donner Party.

But what makes this a must-visit destination is its natural beauty. With an array of hiking and biking trails, plus sandy beaches and fishing opportunities, Donner Summit is an incredible place to indulge in your favorite outdoor activities. If you’re a rock climber, you’ll find some of the most diverse rock climbing in all of the Reno-Tahoe region, giving you everything from slabs to cracks and faces to radical overhangs.

Tom Cooke Trail

The Tom Cooke Trail is an excellent spot to visit if you enjoy hiking, mountain biking, horseback riding, or trail running. Designed solely for these activities (motorized vehicles are actually forbidden on the trail), you can explore nature, getting up close and personal with some of the best natural landscapes in Reno. The trail runs next to the Truckee River, and the 1.2-mile distance is perfect for every experience level.

While you’re exploring the Tom Cooke Trail, you’ll climb switchbacks, cross the Truckee River along a footbridge, and rise a few hundred feet in elevation. You’ll be able to take in impressive Nevada scenery, from beautiful wildflowers to surrounding mountainscapes. 

Sand Harbor State Park

Did you know you could hit the beach in Reno? Well, Sand Harbor State Park is technically in Reno-Tahoe, but it’s a fantastic place for any RV camper to spend a day on the sand. This popular beach features a rugged shoreline and deep, intensely blue water that’s sure to mesmerize you. 

At Sand Harbor State Park, you’ll find picnicking spots, a boat ramp, and plenty of places to rent kayaks and paddleboards. Set against the Sierra Nevadas, you can swim, dive, boat, fish, or simply relax against a beautiful backdrop. There are quite a few places to camp nearby too — just keep in mind that this beach is so popular it can get crowded in the summer.

Hunter Lake

Another beachy destination for any RV traveler is Hunter Lake. You can enjoy this natural wonder near Reno in a few ways. You can visit the lake and enjoy water sports, or you can take advantage of the off-road trail, a 30-mile loop that takes you through the Toiyabe National Forest and into the mountains.

At Hunter Lake, you can hike or drive an off-road vehicle up 3,500 feet of elevation. With a combination of fire roads and very rugged routes that seem barely passable, it’s the perfect place to adventure if you love rough driving. Just make sure to visit between April and November before this lake trail becomes covered in snow and inaccessible.

Truckee River Whitewater Park

If you’re looking for adventure, you’ll find it at Truckee River Whitewater Park. This Reno-Tahoe destination is designed to provide you with thrills, allowing you to traverse the river and its whitewater rapids in kayaks, canoes, rafts, or even inner tubes. The river and its exciting rapids feature 11 drop pools and stretch over 2,600 feet in total. 

Just pick a spot to start upstream, and you can careen down the river at a fast pace. No matter how you choose to ride, you’ll get to navigate quick-moving rapids and enjoy stunning scenery along the way. The freshwater features plenty of fish, including Lahontan cutthroat trout, and you can even fish right from the banks of the river and whitewater park.

Rancho San Rafael Regional Park

Rancho San Rafael Regional Park gives you the perfect opportunity to see Reno from a different perspective. Just minutes from downtown Reno, it’s a park that features hundreds of miles of diverse trails for hiking and exploring, covering beautiful scenery like the May Arboretum, historic Ranch House, and even Herman’s Pond.

RV campers will love visiting Rancho San Rafael Regional Park — there’s a ton to see and explore, from picnic sites to a disc golf course to miles of trails. From short beginner hikes to heart-pumping expert trails, wetland scenery, to sagebrush landscapes, you can get a panoramic view of Reno and Sparks, standing amid the Virginia Foothills and Sierra Nevada Mountains.

Events and Entertainment in Reno

The Great Reno Balloon Race

One of the coolest events to witness in Reno is the Great Reno Balloon Race. Held every September, this festival welcomes more than 120,000 visitors each year who head out to Rancho San Rafael Regional Park to watch over 100 hot air balloons rise into the sky. It’s the largest hot air balloon festival in the U.S., and the balloons (well, their pilots) race against each other to Truckee Meadows. 

The Great Reno Balloon Race starts early at 6:45 a.m., but you can begin participating in events like Glow Patrol and Dawn Patrol as early as 5 a.m. Hot air balloons fly in the dark for a once-in-a-lifetime spectacle. From photo opportunities to kid- and family-friendly activities, it’s a full day of festivities.

Artown

Whether you’re an art lover, an artist yourself, or simply someone who enjoys art events, Artown is a great festival to check out. Held each year for the entire month of July, Artown is one unforgettable event. It features over 500 different multidisciplinary forms of art, including visual arts, music, dance, theater, and more. 

During Artown, you can check out works and events with local and world-renowned artists. You can participate in art walks, join workshops, and even check out highlights like concerts, a Monday music series, music in the park, and dancing in the park. Each day of Artown brings something different to Reno.

Wine Walk

Step out of your RV and away from your chosen Reno campground for Wine Walk at the Riverwalk District. This regular event occurs on the third Saturday of each month from 2-5 pm. right in the middle of downtown Reno. You can stroll through shops, restaurants, and wine shops along the Riverwalk while enjoying a glass of wine — or a few glasses of wine.

Wine Walk will take you for a stroll along the Truckee River and all of the hottest spots in the heart of Reno. You have control over your wine, too; you can start at any participating business, get a glass and a wristband, and continue on your way. It’s fun, it’s relaxing, and it’s a perfect way to explore a new city.

The Reno Air Races

Need something more thrilling than a slow-moving hot air balloon race? Make sure you’re in town for the National Championship Air Races or the Reno Air Races. A 50-year-old tradition that takes place each September, the Reno Air Races feature multiple races with different aircraft types.

From modern jets to World War II airplanes, you can watch aircraft take to the skies from the Reno-Stead Airport and race over three- and eight-mile courses. Beyond races, you can also watch air show acrobatics, military demonstrations, and visit vintage military aircraft up close — and you won’t want to miss the vendors and food stands. It’s an exciting event that’s sure to get your heart racing while you watch.

Reno Rodeo

You can watch a real rodeo right in Reno if you’re in town for the annual Reno Rodeo. This 10-day event is hosted by the Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association and takes place each June. It’s considered the “Wildest, Richest Rodeo in the West,” and it’s like no other rodeo you’ve ever seen. As the longest-running special event in Reno, you’ll get a taste of the city’s long-standing traditions.

The Reno Rodeo includes a rodeo competition as well as fun for the whole family. It consists of a carnival, kickoff concert, and a Western-themed marketplace—you can’t miss the famous Reno Rodeo Cattle Drive either. It attracts locals and tourists year after year, and it’s truly a sight to see for yourself.

Reno River Festival

Festivals aren’t usually adventurous — but the Reno River Festival is. This is a festival that’s all about having wet and wild fun, and it’s centered around incredible whitewater competitions. Welcoming more than 40,000 outdoor enthusiasts each year, the Reno River Festival features freestyle and competitive whitewater events like kayaking.

In addition to thrilling whitewater events, this festival also offers RV campers the chance to explore their own fun outdoor activities. You can participate in interactive events at the Reno Tahoe Adventure Park, the costumed Reno River Roll bike ride, or join specialty clinics like Yoga in the Park and fly fishing. You’ll also get the chance to indulge in a craft beer village, summer wine village, food booths, live music, and more.

FAQs

Q: What are RV rentals?

RV rentals are like car rentals: you can pick out an RV that’s perfect for your vacation to Reno, Nevada, and you can keep it for as long as you’d like. With an RV rental, you don’t have to worry about investing in an RV of your own or performing any upkeep. Instead, you can rent an RV only when you want to camp and cruise to new destinations.

Q: How much are RV rentals?

Renting an RV in Reno will range anywhere from $75 to $250 per night. The price will depend on the type of camper or RV you choose and its size. Larger RVs typically cost between $150 and $250 per night, while smaller models can average $75 to $150 per night. You may be able to save some cash if you opt for a whole week’s worth of nights; longer trips tend to come with per-night cost savings.

Q: Do I need to be a certain age to rent an RV in Reno?

You’ll need to be 25 years old or older to rent an RV from most Reno RV rental companies. However, some may allow drivers as young as 21 years old to rent an RV — but the price will likely be higher, and you may need extra insurance. Double-check the policies at the rental companies you’re considering before choosing where to rent.

Q: Do I need insurance when I rent an RV?

You need insurance to rent an RV. While you likely already carry auto insurance coverage, that coverage probably doesn’t extend to operating a rental RV. You can easily purchase a short-term insurance policy from your Reno RV rental company that’ll have you covered in the event of an accident or any damage.

Q: Do I need to return my rental RV with a full tank?

You may need to bring your RV back to the rental lot with a full tank of fuel. The policies vary from rental company to rental company. Some will require you to bring back your RV with a full tank; others may only need you to return with the same amount of gas as when you left. You may also have the option to have the rental company fill up the tank for you for a price.

Q: Are RVs pet-friendly in Reno?

You may be able to bring your furry friends along on your RV trip to Reno — but you’ll want to check with the RV rental company first. Some RV rentals are pet-friendly, but it depends on the rental company’s policy. Make sure to double-check that pets are allowed on your trip before bringing them along.