Top 5 National Parks to Explore by Campervan in Costa Rica
Costa Rica is a dream destination for nature lovers, and there's no better way to explore its lush landscapes than through a self-drive Costa Rica nature tour in a campervan. With endless jungles, volcanoes, waterfalls, and wildlife-rich parks, campervan travel in Costa Rica offers a flexible, immersive, and cost-effective way to experience it all.
Whether you're a seasoned adventurer or a beginner planning your first Costa Rica campervan itinerary, here are the top 5 national parks you should explore—along with tips on where to camp in Costa Rica, nearby towns, and road conditions.
1. Manuel Antonio National Park
Why go:
Famous for its postcard beaches and biodiversity, Manuel Antonio is perfect for spotting monkeys, sloths, and iguanas along rainforest trails.
Campervan access:
Just 3 hours from San José, it’s ideal for first-time visitors on a Costa Rica road trip. Roads are paved and safe for all vehicle types—no 4x4 needed.
Nearby towns & camping:
Stay in Quepos or just outside the park. You'll find campervan-friendly accommodations like eco-campsites and hotels with parking. Nearby services include groceries, fuel, and cafes—everything you need for a comfortable stay.
2. Arenal Volcano National Park
Why go:
Arenal is a top highlight in most Costa Rica campervan itineraries, offering hiking trails, lava fields, and rejuvenating hot springs under a volcano.
Campervan access:
The drive to La Fortuna takes around 3.5 hours from the capital. Roads are well-maintained, and it’s one of the safest areas to drive a campervan.
Facilities & camping:
La Fortuna has many options for where to camp in Costa Rica, including thermal resorts with overnight parking, eco-lodges, and standard campgrounds.
3. Corcovado National Park
Why go:
National Geographic calls it “the most biologically intense place on Earth.” Corcovado is rugged, wild, and a hidden gem for wildlife lovers.
Campervan access:
Located on the Osa Peninsula, access is challenging. A 4x4 campervan is recommended, especially in rainy season. Roads can be muddy and remote.
Where to stay:
You can’t camp inside the park, but nearby towns like Puerto Jiménez offer simple eco-lodges and camping areas. It’s a more remote, raw version of campervan travel in Costa Rica.
4. Tortuguero National Park
Why go:
This park is like the Amazon of Costa Rica—an aquatic world of canals, best explored by boat. It’s a major turtle nesting site from July to October.
Campervan access:
Drive your campervan to La Pavona, then hop on a riverboat to the park. It’s a unique mix of road and river on your Costa Rica road trip.
Facilities:
You’ll leave your van behind temporarily, but Tortuguero offers jungle lodges for overnight stays. Afterward, you can continue your Costa Rica campervan itinerary inland or toward the Caribbean coast.
5. Rincón de la Vieja National Park
Why go:
This lesser-known park in the Guanacaste region features volcanic trails, mud pots, waterfalls, and fewer tourists.
Campervan access:
Accessible from Liberia (airport hub), it’s ideal for those coming in through the northwest. Roads are partly paved; a 4x4 is nice but not essential in dry season.
Campervan-friendly stays:
There are basic campervan-friendly accommodations in Curubandé and Liberia. Some ranch-style hotels offer day-use or overnight parking, and grocery stores are within reach.
Why Choose Campervan Travel in Costa Rica?
With a campervan, you’re not tied to strict check-in times or hotel reservations. You can wake up by the ocean and sleep under a volcano, all in one trip. It's the best way to enjoy a self-drive Costa Rica nature tour, whether you're visiting for a week or longer.
You’ll save money on lodging, skip the crowds, and get deeper into the country’s natural beauty. And with many national parks in Costa Rica easily reachable by road, it’s a no-brainer for adventurous travelers.
FAQs – People Also Ask:
Is Costa Rica good for campervan travel?
Yes! It’s one of the best countries in Central America for campervan road trips, thanks to its compact size, stunning landscapes, and travel infrastructure.
Can you camp inside national parks in Costa Rica?
Most parks don’t allow camping inside, but many have nearby campervan-friendly accommodations or eco-lodges where you can park and stay.
Do I need a 4x4 to visit Costa Rica’s national parks?
Not always. Parks like Arenal and Manuel Antonio are accessible with a regular campervan. For remote parks like Corcovado, a 4x4 is highly recommended.
What’s the best time to visit national parks in Costa Rica?
Dry season (December–April) offers the best road conditions. Green season (May–November) brings fewer tourists and lush scenery, but be mindful of weather and road closures.
Are roads in Costa Rica safe for campervans?
Main roads are well-paved. Drive cautiously, avoid nighttime travel, and download offline maps in case of poor signal.
Plan Your Adventure
Whether you’re a solo traveler, couple, or family, campervan travel in Costa Rica offers the chance to explore the country on your terms. With national parks this beautiful, the journey is just as incredible as the destination.
Ready to hit the road? Book your campervan today at campervanscostarica.com and start your unforgettable Costa Rican road trip!
