The best camper van rentals near San Juan Capistrano, CA

As you approach the city, you'll be greeted by the historic Mission San Juan Capistrano, often dubbed as the "Jewel of the California Missions". It's a stunning structure with a rich past that traces back to the Spanish colonial period. Visitors can explore the grandeur of its restored chapels, lush gardens, and the famous "Serra Chapel", which is the oldest standing building in California. The mission is also the site of the annual "Return of the Swallows" event, a natural phenomenon that attracts birdwatchers worldwide every spring.

Just a short drive from the mission, the San Juan Capistrano downtown district beckons with its unique blend of old-world charm and modern amenities. Walking through its narrow, tree-lined streets, you'll discover a host of boutique shops, art galleries, and local eateries that serve a variety of delicious cuisine. The district also hosts vibrant, seasonal farmers markets every Wednesday, where you can stock up your camper van with fresh, locally sourced produce.

If you're a nature enthusiast, the city's multitude of parks and hiking trails promise an immersive outdoor experience. The Ronald W. Caspers Wilderness Park, sprawled over 8,000 acres, offers a wide range of campsites, picnic spots, and trails that meander through pristine woodlands, creeks, and canyons. It's a paradise for hikers, bird watchers, and anyone seeking tranquility amidst nature.

A visit to San Juan Capistrano wouldn't be complete without exploring its coastline. Doheny State Beach is a favored spot for surfing, sunbathing, and camping right by the sea. As the day winds down, climb up to the Dana Point Headlands Conservation Area for an unobstructed view of the spectacular Californian sunset.

For wine connoisseurs, a trip to the family-owned Rancho Capistrano Winery provides a delightful experience. The winery boasts of producing over 40 different types of wines, all made on-site. A wine tasting session accompanied by their farm-to-table appetizers truly encapsulates the local flavor.

In San Juan Capistrano, you can blend immersive historical journeys, nature escapades, culinary adventures, and leisurely coastal pursuits into one enriching camper van trip. It's a destination that offers a slice of authentic California and leaves you with lasting memories. So pack your camper van, and embark on a journey to this Californian gem!

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Batvan: Storyteller Overland Stealth MODE 4x4

Storyteller Overland Stealth MODE 4x4•High Top in San Juan Capistrano

Sleeps3

Seats4

$275/ night

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Dawn: 2022 Storyteller Overland Stealth MODE 4x4

Storyteller Overland Stealth MODE 4x4•High Top in Laguna Beach

Sleeps3

Seats4

$275/ night

One of the most interesting San Juan Capistrano facts is that it was home to California's first vineyard. This means that there were grapes and wine made in 1783, making this history start almost a decade before any other wineries opened their doors.

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Rimrock: Storyteller Overland Beast MODE 4×4

Storyteller Overland Beast MODE 4x4•High Top in Laguna Beach

Sleeps3

Seats4

$300/ night

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SeaYa: Ford Transit AWD

Ford Transit•High Top in Newport Beach

Sleeps2

Seats2

$245/ night

The cliff swallow is a type of bird that usually migrates annually from Argentina to the San Juan Capistrano area. However, in 2009 they stopped migrating to this location and instead migrated to Chino Hills, California. This trend continued until 2017 when for some unknown reason these birds finally returned to Capistrano in 2018. There was even a song written about them by Leon Rene in 1940 called “When The Swallows Come Back To Capistrano."

The city of San Juan Capistrano is home to the oldest residential neighborhood in California, as well as being the location where Serra Chapel was built. The chapel is also one of only two that Father Junípero Serra founded and still remains standing today.