The wait is almost over. The biggest soccer tournament on earth is finally on home soil, and the U.S. Men’s National Team is kicking things off on the West Coast. Time to rally the red, white, and blue, fuel up the RV, and be part of the story.
Because let’s be honest: nothing screams American road trip like following Team USA to their opening match in Los Angeles with your own wheels, your own bed, and a front-row seat to the fan energy.
The Mission: USA’s Opening Match
- Date: Friday, June 12, 2026
- Opponent: Paraguay
- Venue: SoFi Stadium, Los Angeles, CA
- Kickoff: 6:00 PM PT
- The Stakes: The USMNT’s first match on home soil this tournament. The atmosphere won’t just be electric — it’ll be history in the making.
Phase 1: Establish Your LA Basecamp (Arrive June 10–11)
LA is sprawling, and campsites will sell out faster than a Taylor Swift presale. Book early — ideally a year ahead — and lock in one of these prime bases:
- The Beachfront Command Post — Dockweiler RV Park
LA’s only beachfront RV park. Wake up to Pacific waves, watch the planes at LAX, and still be within striking distance of SoFi. Bonus: unbeatable sunsets to start your match day. - The Central Hub — Hollywood RV Park
Quirky, artsy, and in the thick of tourist must-sees. Universal Studios, the Walk of Fame, Griffith Park — all an easy drive. Perfect if you want your soccer trip with a side of classic Hollywood.
RVs for rent near Los Angeles
Phase 2: Game Day Logistics (June 12)
Game day at SoFi Stadium = high stakes + high stress if you don’t plan ahead. Here’s how to win before kickoff:
Golden Rule: Do not drive your RV to the stadium. Unless you scored one of the rare, pre-purchased oversized passes for Hyundai Lot P, don’t even think about it.
Your Winning Strategy: The SoFi Stadium Shuttle
- Drive your tow vehicle or grab a rideshare to the LAX/Metro Transit Center Station.
- Hop on the free shuttle that runs all day. It drops you near the stadium.
- Soak it up: the shuttle itself turns into a rolling pep rally packed with fellow USA fans.
Pre-Game Tailgate & Fan Zone
Official fan fests and supporter gatherings will turn the stadium complex into a sea of chants, music, and flags. Arrive early — the party starts long before kickoff.
Phase 3: The Great I-5 Migration: LA to Seattle (June 13–18)
Once the final whistle blows in LA, the squad heads north for Match 2. This is your chance to turn the transfer window into the ultimate USA soccer road trip I-5. You have about six days to cover ~1,100 miles, so take your time and enjoy the “Left Coast.”
Option A: The Mountain Route (I-5 Express)
If you want to maximize time in the cities, stick to the interstate.
- Stop 1: Mount Shasta, CA. About 9 hours north of LA. Park the RV at a campground in McCloud or Dunsmuir. The view of the snow-capped volcano is the perfect backdrop for a post-game debrief BBQ.
- Stop 2: Ashland, OR. Just across the border. A cultural gem famous for its Shakespeare Festival, but also great for breweries and lithia water.
- Stop 3: Portland, OR. The final pit stop. Grab donuts, coffee, and tax-free gear before the final push to Seattle.
Option B: The Coastal Detour (Hwy 101)
If you have a few extra days, cut over to the coast for some RV camping Oregon coast magic.
- The Cutover: From I-5 in Oregon, head west to Florence.
- The Stop: Cannon Beach, OR. Park the rig and walk out to Haystack Rock. It’s iconic, misty, and moody—the perfect Pacific Northwest welcome.
The Drive: Heading north on the 101 takes longer, but the ocean views are unbeaten.
Phase 4: The Emerald City & Match 2 (June 19)
Welcome to Seattle, arguably the loudest soccer city in America.
- The Match: USA vs. Australia
- Date: Friday, June 19, 2026
- Venue: Lumen Field (Seattle Stadium)
- Kickoff: 12:00 PM PT
Fan Fest Seattle Waterfront
If you don’t have tickets to the match, or just want to pre-game with thousands of friends, head to the official Fan Fest Seattle waterfront at Pier 62/63.
- The Vibe: Giant screens, food trucks, and a stunning view of Elliott Bay and the Olympic Mountains.
Bonus Hub:Seattle Center (near the Space Needle) is the primary fan celebration site, hosting major concerts and viewing parties throughout the tournament.
The Road Ahead: What’s Next for Team USA?
After battling the Aussies in Seattle, the USMNT returns to Los Angeles for their final group stage match on June 25 against the winner of the European playoffs (potentially Turkey, Romania, or Slovakia).
You have two options:
- The Loop: Drive the RV back down the Pacific Coast Highway (Highway 1) for the full California dream experience.
The Drop: Leave the RV in storage in the PNW for a future trip and fly back to LA for the group finale.
Final Whistle
This isn’t just another road trip. This is your chance to witness Team USA’s journey on home turf while traveling in comfort, saving on hotels, and living in the middle of the fan zone.
Book early, plan smart, and get ready to make this more than just a match — make it a memory. Let’s go, USA!
