eng
This is the second time we have called on Cooldrive for our camper van reservation in the USA. The first time we were very satisfied, everything went very well. I think it will be the same for this new booking, to be confirmed in 15 days. Fast response, competitive offer, I recommend this site without any problems.
Over 50 000
rentals since 2011 !
rentals since 2011 !
Seattle, the vibrant metropolis of the Pacific Northwest, is an ideal destination for nature and adventure enthusiasts. With its breathtaking landscapes, between mountains and ocean, the city offers a multitude of outdoor activities. Opting for a camper van rental in Seattle will allow you to easily explore the wonders of the region, such as Mount Rainier National Park or the San Juan Islands. Whether for a family getaway or an adventure with friends, hitting the road in a camper van is an unforgettable experience that will bring you closer to the wild beauty of the Pacific Northwest.
Discover the wonders of Seattle in a camper van! Freedom, nature, and unforgettable moments await you.
Seattle is the ideal starting point for exploring the wild nature and diverse landscapes of the Pacific Northwest in a camper van. Whether you have a week or three, these itineraries will take you through mountains, forests, coasts, and iconic volcanoes while enjoying the comfort and freedom offered by a converted van.
7-10 day itinerary: Nature and volcanoes around Seattle
Starting from Seattle, this route immerses you in the natural wonders close to the city. In just a few days, explore Mount Rainier National Park, where you can park your camper van in the heart of the forests and admire the glaciers. Continue to Mount St. Helens to understand the fascinating geological history of this active volcano, with a night of camping nearby. Finally, finish with an escape to Olympic National Park, between mountains, rainforests, and wild coasts. This compact itinerary allows for a mix of hiking, relaxation, and discovery within a few hours of Seattle.
14-day itinerary: Complete loop between mountains, coasts, and cities
From Seattle, embark on a two-week loop that combines nature and culture. After an initial stop at Mount Rainier, drive along the Olympic Peninsula in your camper van, with a possible detour to Port Angeles for an orca watching cruise. Then head to the Pacific coast to La Push and Forks, before returning inland through the Columbia River Gorge. This route offers a balance between vast wilderness and charming small towns of the Northwest. Seattle remains your base, from where you return with varied and authentic memories.
21-day itinerary: From Seattle to the California coast through the great parks
For an extended trip, this camper van road trip takes you from Seattle south to San Francisco, crossing iconic natural sites. After exploring the surroundings of Seattle, including Mount Rainier and Mount St. Helens, head south visiting Portland and then the giant Redwoods forests. You can also discover Crater Lake, a spectacular volcanic lake. This three-week route is ideal for lovers of diverse landscapes, mixing mountains, volcanoes, ancient forests, and vibrant cities, all while fully enjoying the freedom that a camper van offers.
All the towns where you can rent a motorhome in the United States
Discover on this map all the cities in the United States where you can rent your motorhome or campervan.
Use the search engine to find out exactly which departure and return towns you can use to organise your road trip.
To do this, enter the first letters of the country in the corresponding field and discover all the cities in the United States or elsewhere.
Loading the interactive map...
Explore Seattle and its surroundings in a camper van or RV
Seattle, a jewel of the west coast of the United States, offers a unique experience for travelers in camper vans or RVs, between urban landscapes and wild nature, with weather and rates that vary greatly depending on the season.
When to visit Seattle
The best time to travel in a camper van or RV around Seattle is from July to September, when the weather is most pleasant. During this time, temperatures hover around 14 to 25°C, and rain is rare, especially around Lake Washington or in nearby national parks like Mount Rainier National Park. The months of April to June are also feasible, with cooler temperatures but already more sunshine, ideal for exploring the Capitol Hill neighborhood or Pike Place Market under a less cloudy sky.
Weather and activities in a camper van
In summer, the weather is generally dry and sunny, perfect for exploring scenic routes like Chuckanut Drive or along the shores of Puget Sound. Winters in Seattle are mild but very rainy, making van getaways more challenging, especially around the Olympic Peninsula where rain dominates. Autumns and springs offer lush nature, but it's wise to carry an umbrella, even for short trips to Discovery Park or Woodland Park.
Seasonality of rates
Rates for camper van rental or parking in designated areas around Seattle significantly increase in July and August, especially near tourist sites like the Space Needle or North Cascades National Park. The months of April, May, and September allow for more favorable rates while enjoying pleasant weather to explore the coast or venture into the surrounding mountains.
All vehicles for rent in the United States
This list gives you a good overview of the offer of motorhomes, campervans, and other vehicles in the United States. Please note that not all of these vehicles are necessarily available at all rental agencies of our partners. To find out about the available vehicle options for your road trip, please use the search form at the top of this page. You can then filter the results by rental company, price, type of motorhomes, compare rental offers and their options, check availability, save your offers, and of course book online when your choice is made!
Practical tips for traveling in a camper van or RV from Seattle
The United States, and more specifically the state of Washington, offers a specific regulatory framework for camper vans, with precise rules in Seattle regarding driving, parking, and staying in converted vehicles.
Driving and regulations in Seattle
In Seattle, it is prohibited to park a camper van on public streets for more than 72 consecutive hours. Certain areas are reserved for other uses, such as food trucks, and it is essential to respect local signage to avoid fines. Regulations also require not parking within 15 feet of a fire hydrant or near major intersections. To drive, a valid driver's license must be presented, and speed limits must be observed, especially on highways and lanes reserved for vehicles with multiple passengers (HOV lanes). Finally, for camper vans registered in the state of Washington, each part (vehicle and living unit) must be registered separately with local authorities.
Sleeping and connecting around Seattle
It is possible to live in your camper van on private land in Seattle, but this practice is limited to 180 days per year according to zoning rules. To connect to electricity and water, approved sites must be used, often in campgrounds or parks dedicated to recreational vehicles. Extended parking on public streets is strictly monitored, and non-compliance can lead to penalties, including the towing of the vehicle. Areas like the Georgetown neighborhood or SoDo have seen tensions related to the extended parking of camper vans, leading to increased municipal controls.
Local tips and safety in Seattle
Extended parking of camper vans in certain industrial or commercial neighborhoods of Seattle, such as SoDo and Georgetown, often leads to complaints related to cleanliness and waste management. Local authorities regularly conduct cleaning and vehicle relocation operations to maintain safety and hygiene. It is recommended to prefer official campgrounds or private land to avoid these inconveniences. Additionally, vigilance is advised in urban areas to avoid theft or vandalism, which are common in certain sectors of Seattle.
Frequently Asked Questions about Seattle and in the United States travel
What documents are required to rent a camper van in Seattle?
To rent a camper van in Seattle, you must be at least 21 years old and present a valid driver's license. An international license is recommended if your license is not in English. An official form of identification is also required. No special commercial license is needed to drive a standard camper van in the Seattle area.
Can you rent a camper van in Seattle in winter?
Yes, rental is possible in winter, but camper vans are systematically “winterized” between late October and late March to protect water systems from freezing. A de-winterization may be requested depending on weather conditions, for an additional fee. Renters must re-winterize the vehicle upon return to avoid charges.
What are the best places to park or camp with a camper van near Seattle?
Recommended campgrounds around Seattle include Lake Pleasant RV Park in Bothell, Tolt-MacDonald Park in Carnation, and Saltwater State Park in Des Moines. It is advisable to book in advance as some sites are highly sought after, especially in peak season.
Is it easy to park a camper van in downtown Seattle?
Downtown Seattle features narrow streets and low-clearance bridges, making it difficult to drive and park a large camper van. It is preferable to park on the outskirts and use public transport to visit the city.
Can you rent a camper van in Seattle for a one-way trip?
Yes, several agencies offer one-way rentals from Seattle to other cities in the United States. This option generally includes an additional fee, varying depending on the chosen final destination.
What equipment is generally included in camper vans rented in Seattle?
Camper vans in Seattle are often equipped with a kitchen area, beds, a heating system, storage space, and a child seat anchor point. Some models also offer integrated showers and toilets.
What are the age and license requirements for additional drivers?
All drivers must be at least 21 years old and possess a valid license. They must be declared at the time of rental and listed on the contract. An international license is necessary if the original license is not in English.
How is waste and sewage management handled with a camper van in Seattle?
Seattle has dump stations, such as Evergreen RV Supply, accessible year-round for a small fee. Some campgrounds also offer free services for customers. It is important to adhere to these rules to preserve the local environment.
What are the average rates for renting a camper van in Seattle?
Prices generally range from $60 to $310 per day depending on the size and comfort of the vehicle. It is advisable to compare offers and book in advance to benefit from the best rates.
