Donner Memorial - United States
Discover the RVezy RV rental marketplace
About Donner Memorial
RV quick facts for Donner Memorial
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Max RV length | 28 ft (motorhomes), 24 ft (trailers) |
| Full hookups | Not available at campsites; water taps available nearby |
| Dump station | Not available at park; inquire with ranger station for nearby options |
| Road restrictions | I-80 over Donner Pass subject to winter closures and chain requirements (R1, R2, R3); check CalTrans before travel |
| Reservation window | 6 months in advance via ReserveCalifornia.com |
| Cell service | Excellent coverage by Verizon and AT&T (4G/5G available) |
Featured RV rentals for Donner Memorial
Best time to visit Donner Memorial
June through August is prime RV camping season, when all campgrounds are open and temperatures range from the mid-70s to low 80s Fahrenheit with minimal precipitation. Shoulder season camping is possible in May (after Memorial Day) and September, though Creek and Splitrock campgrounds close September 1, leaving only Ridge open through early October. Winter cross-country skiing and snowshoeing are available November through March, but RV camping is not available due to extreme snow and freezing conditions. Plan ahead for I-80 winter closures and chain control requirements, which occur frequently from November through April.
Heavy snow, campgrounds closed
Peak snowfall (44+ inches), campgrounds closed
Significant snow possible, campgrounds closed
Spring transition, campgrounds closed until late May
Opens around Memorial Day; all areas operational
Peak season begins, dry and warm
Warmest month, excellent for water activities
Peak camping season, clear skies
Creek and Splitrock campgrounds close Sept 1, Ridge remains open
Ridge campground closes Oct 1; all areas closed by month end
Campgrounds closed; snow begins, winter conditions approach
Heavy snow, campgrounds closed
Things to do at Donner Memorial
- China Cove Loop Trail EasyRV parking available
This scenic waterfront loop trail circles a protected cove on Donner Lake's shore. The 3.3-mile easy walk offers lake views, sandy beach access, and picnic areas with shade. Popular for swimming in summer and accessible via the day-use parking area with RV parking nearby. alltrails.com/trail/us/california/china-cove-trail-at-donner-lake
- Donner Lake Swimming and Beach AccessRV parking available
The park offers direct access to Donner Lake for swimming from designated beach areas at China Cove and the main day-use section. Summer water temperatures reach 76 degrees, making it comfortable for swimming and paddling.
- FishingRV parking available
Donner Lake and Donner Creek offer year-round fishing opportunities for rainbow and brown trout. Fishing licenses are required and can be purchased online or at local shops in Truckee.
- Boating and Paddle SportsRV parking available
Donner Lake allows kayaking, paddleboards, motorboats, and sailing with a 35 MPH speed limit. Rentals and boat launches are available at the Donner Lake Marina and within the park's day-use area.
- Lakeside Interpretive Trail EasyRV parking available
This easy walk along the lake features interpretive panels focused on natural and cultural resources, including the Donner Party history and Native American heritage. Wheelchair-accessible sections are available.
- Pioneer Monument and Visitor CenterRV parking available
The park's museum showcases the Donner Party emigrant experience, railroad history, Native American heritage, and early motorists who crossed Donner Pass. Exhibits are housed in the seasonal Visitor Center. parks.ca.gov/DonnerMemorial
- Historic Donner Pass Trail ModerateRV parking available
This 6-mile out-and-back easy to moderate hike passes through restored segments of historic railroad tunnels with scenic clearings offering lake views. A unique trip through mountain engineering history. alltrails.com/trail/us/california/donner-tunnels
- Split Rock Trail Loop ModerateRV parking available
A moderately trafficked loop trail starting at the day-use area that winds through Split Rock campground. The trail features varied forest, wildlife viewing, and rock formations.
Top Hosts near CA, United States
Victor is great and very helpful for first time beginners like us to experience RV trip 👍
WAI KEI P. - Aug 2024
Everything was great. Victor was great. Recommend for anyone that needs to rent a motorhome.
Steve S. - Mar 2024
Matt was very responsive and easy to work with. The trailer was perfect for our family vacation. Loved every minute!
Jennifer T. - Aug 2024
Trailer was perfect, very easy to work with Matthew.
Eich N. - Apr 2024
RV delivery to a campground, made simple
Skip the pickup. Skip the towing. Get an RV delivered and set up at your campsite so you can arrive, unpack, and start your trip stress-free.
Choose your perfect RV
Browse RVs that offer delivery to your site and book the one that fits your budget and adventure style.
Lock in your campsite
Reserve your campsite with the hookups and amenities you need. We’ll help you find RVs that meet site requirements.
Arrive and relax
Your host delivers and sets up the RV before you get there. Just show up and start enjoying your trip.
Find the perfect RV for these nearby campgrounds
RV Rentals Donner Memorial
Donner Memorial, CA, United States
How to get to Donner Memorial
Donner Memorial State Park is located in Truckee, California, 32 miles east of Reno, Nevada (36 minutes via I-80 E) and 100 miles northeast of Sacramento (1 hour 41 minutes via I-80 E). The park entrance sits at Donner Pass summit, which experiences heavy winter snowfall and frequent chain control requirements (R1, R2, R3 levels) from November through April; check Caltrans conditions before traveling, as the pass may close during severe storms. Large RVs may be halted at Applegate (westbound) or the Nevada state line (eastbound) during winter weather. The nearest airport is Reno/Tahoe International Airport, 50 miles away for fly-and-rent options.
RVezy vs. Traditional RV rental
RVezy rentals
- Book directly from local RV owners
- Choose the exact RV you want
- Delivery to your campsite, home, or destination
- More variety: trailers, motorhomes, and campers
Traditional RV rental
- Limited fleet from a rental company
- Exact RV not guaranteed
- Pickup only at retail locations
- Fewer RV types and less availability