Drive Out to a National or State Park Near San Francisco

Looking for national and state parks within driving distance of San Francisco? Then it's time for a road trip! In these uncertain times, many of us are rethinking the way we travel and the added safety precautions that must be considered along the way. A rental car from a neighborhood Enterprise location in San Francisco can alleviate many of these concerns so you can get to the park safely.

It may even be cheaper and more convenient to rent a car for your road trip instead of using your personal vehicle. With so many styles and options available, you’re sure to find the perfect rental car for your travels. Not sure which car to choose for your road trip? We can help! We've compiled a list of the best road trip cars for families, adventure-seekers and more.

There are a lot of national and state parks near San Francisco to choose from, so we narrowed it down to the top ones that would make a perfect adventure or a quick weekend getaway. Be sure to check out the parks' websites to get their latest info before you hit the road.

National Parks Near San Francisco

Joshua Tree National Park

Located in southern California, it's named for the twisted Joshua trees in the area.

Drive timeapprox. 8 hours (Driving Directions)

Distanceapprox. 512 miles

Open daily

Entranced fees required

Camping allowed

Death Vally National Park

Located in both California and Nevada, the park is known for its extreme weather yet very-much-alive dessert. 

Drive timeapprox. 7.3 hours (Driving Directions)

Distanceapprox. 458 miles

Open daily

Entranced fees required

Camping allowed

Yosemeti National Park

Yosemite National Park is located in the Sierra Nevada Mountains in California and is known for its giant, ancient sequoia trees.

Drive timeapprox. 3 hours (Driving Directions)

Distanceapprox. 167 miles

Open seasonally

Entranced fees required

Camping allowed

State Parks Near San Francisco

Mount Tamalpais State Park

Just North of the Bay Area, this park offers superlative hiking, picnicking, wildlife watching.

Drive timeapprox. 0.5 hours (Driving Directions)

Distanceapprox. 15 miles

Open daily

Entranced fees not required

Camping allowed

Tomales Bay State Park

The park features "multiple gently sloping, surf-free beaches, protected from winds by Inverness Ridge". 

Drive timeapprox. 1.3 hours (Driving Directions)

Distanceapprox. 47 miles

Open daily

Entranced fees required

Camping not allowed

Mount Diablo State Park

The park offers a summit visitor center & observation deck, plus trails, campsites & picnic areas.

Drive timeapprox. 1.3 hours (Driving Directions)

Distanceapprox. 43 miles

Open daily

Entranced fees required

Camping allowed

Driving Resources

COVID-19 Car Rental FAQs

Check out our COVID-19 FAQs for more information on Enterprise hours of operation, upcoming and existing reservations, Enterprise Plus and what steps we're taking to keep employees and customers safe with our Clean Car Pledge.

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Planning a Road Trip During COVID-19

Are you thinking about taking a road trip during COVID-19? Check out our tips and resources to consider before you leave.

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Stretch your legs – and your travel budget – with a free upgrade at participating locations.

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