RV Theft in California: How to Protect Your Home on Wheels

For many Californians, an RV is more than just a vehicle—it’s a home away from home, a ticket to adventure, and a major investment. Unfortunately, as RV ownership has surged in recent years, so has RV theft. With California’s popularity as a camping and road-tripping destination, RV theft is a growing concern that travelers can’t afford to overlook.

If you’re an RV owner in Shasta County, understanding local theft trends and learning how to protect your investment is essential.

 RV Theft in Shasta County: The Numbers

While law enforcement doesn’t publish RV-specific theft rates for Shasta County, we can look at the broader motor vehicle theft statistics to understand the risk.

• Motor vehicle theft rate in Shasta County (2022): 1.91 per 1,000 residents annually (Source: Wikipedia)
• Recreational vehicle theft in California (2022): Approximately 3.9% of all reported vehicle thefts involved RVs, campers, or trailers (Source: CHP Vehicle Theft Fact Sheet, 2022).

Based on these numbers, the estimated RV theft rate in Shasta County is around 0.075 per 1,000 residents per year. While this rate is relatively low compared to overall vehicle theft, RV theft is still a serious concern because these vehicles often contain valuable personal belongings in addition to being costly assets themselves.

Why RV Theft Happens

RVs can be tempting targets for thieves for several reasons:

• High value – RVs, motorhomes, and trailers often cost tens of thousands of dollars.
• Portable assets – Unlike a house, an RV can be moved quickly, making it harder to track.
• Valuable contents – Campers often store electronics, outdoor gear, and personal belongings inside.

California’s large number of RVs, combined with busy campgrounds, remote boondocking sites, and storage facilities, creates opportunities for theft if precautions aren’t taken.

Common Targets for Thieves

• Towable Trailers – Lightweight travel trailers can sometimes be hitched and hauled away in minutes.
• Unsecured Motorhomes – Leaving doors unlocked or windows cracked can make entry easier.
• Valuables Left in View – Items like bikes, grills, or generators left outside are common theft targets.

How to Protect Your RV in California

Keeping your RV safe doesn’t have to be complicated, but it does require planning. Here are some practical steps you can take:

Invest in Security Devices

• Use wheel locks, hitch locks, and steering wheel locks to deter thieves.
• Install an alarm system and motion-activated lights.

Choose Safe Parking & Storage

• When possible, store your RV in a secure facility with surveillance and gated access.
• At campgrounds, park in well-lit areas with other campers nearby.

Hide Valuables

• Don’t leave electronics, tools, or personal items visible from the outside.
• Consider a small safe for important items like passports and cash.

Use GPS Tracking Devices

• Modern GPS trackers can help locate your RV if it’s ever stolen. Some can alert you immediately if your RV is moved.

Know California Laws & Resources

• California law enforcement agencies often provide RV theft prevention resources.
• Report suspicious activity right away and keep your RV’s VIN and registration documents in a safe place (not inside the RV).