Road Trip with RVshare Dallas to Santa Fe

Going on an RV road trip from Dallas to Santa Fe will take you through wide-open plains, along historic highways, and by scenic desert landscapes. You’ll have plenty of RV-friendly attractions to choose from along the way, like Palo Duro Canyon and Route 66 roadside stops. Many campgrounds on the journey offer RV amenities, like full hookups and dump stations. Feel free to customize the itinerary to meet your trip’s unique travel plans.

Road Trip Planner: Stops Along Your Route

This itinerary for a trip from Dallas to Santa Fe offers plenty of opportunities to explore regional dining options and interesting hidden gems. Much of the journey takes place along well-maintained highways, making it simple to travel in an RV.

Caprock Canyons State Park, Texas

Caprock Canyons State Park is located in the Texas Panhandle, southeast of Amarillo. After passing through North Texas, it's a nice spot to stop and relax for a while. Hikers can enjoy breathtaking views of red rock formations, grazing bison, and picturesque canyon paths. The spacious trails let you explore with more freedom, so you don't have to worry about crowds.

RV Info & Tips: 

• Campgrounds: There’s an on-site campground with RV hookups. You’ll enjoy easy access to the trails, making it simple to hike without having to drive elsewhere.

• Seasonality: The most comfortable hiking conditions take place during the spring and fall. Summer tends to get really hot.

• Gear & Prep: Always bring plenty of drinking water, especially if you intend to hike the trails. Binoculars will give you close-up views of the grazing bison.

Cadillac Ranch, Texas

Located on Interstate 40 to the west of Amarillo, Cadillac Ranch is a convenient pit stop for those traveling by RV. It’s perfect for a short picture stop and stretch session without extending the journey. The site features a row of half-buried Cadillac cars covered in layers of colorful graffiti, creating iconic roadside art and photo opportunities. The striking graffiti and ever-changing designs are favorites for people interested in public art and photography.

RV Info & Tips: 

• Campgrounds: There isn’t an on-site campground here, but you won’t have to travel far. The Amarillo RV Resort is only about 15 minutes away and offers full hookups with Wi-Fi access. You’ll have convenient access to the highway to continue your journey toward Santa Fe.

• Seasonality: Come year-round, but enjoy the best weather for exploring the site if you visit during spring or fall.

• Gear & Prep: The uneven ground means you should wear closed-toe shoes for exploring the area. If you want to add your own artwork to the cars, bring some spray paint.

Blue Hole, New Mexico

Blue Hole is about nine hours into your journey and about three hours before you get into Santa Fe. Come during the morning to enjoy peaceful swimming in the spring or during the afternoon to watch divers as they practice. The park features picnic tables and grassy areas, where you can relax with a book or take photos with friends and family.

RV Info & Tips: 

• Campgrounds: Santa Rosa Lake State Park is only about 15 minutes away and provides RV-friendly amenities at its on-site campground. The lake access lets you fish and makes this area a great place to stay overnight.

• Seasonality: You may want to come during the summer if you plan to swim or snorkel. This time provides the best weather conditions for enjoying the water without cold temperatures.

• Gear & Prep: Make sure to pack your swimsuit if you want to swim and your water shoes to keep your feet protected on the rocky edges.

Pro Tips to Make the Most of Your Trip

There’s so much to see and do as you make your journey from Dallas to Santa Fe. Staying flexible is a great way to enjoy spontaneous stops at national parks, desert viewpoints, and scenic pull-offs. From one-way RV trips to extended getaways, here are some helpful tips you can use to plan a smooth and memorable drive.

Loop Back a Different Way

If you’re doing a round trip, you can always take in other areas of breathtaking scenery by looping back a different way. For example, if you take US-84 when leaving Santa Fe, this will bring you to Abiquiú, where you can check out Ghost Ranch and its dramatic desert cliffs. If you return south via US-285 instead of retracing I-25, this route takes you through the Española Valley, which features postcard-worthy river views and colorful high-desert landscapes.

Timing & Logistics

The best time to travel from Dallas to Santa Fe is anytime during the spring or fall. If you travel during the summer, you may encounter long periods of extreme heat that can make driving and outdoor stops uncomfortable. These parts of the country sometimes experience sudden thunderstorms and high winds, so be sure to check forecasts and prepare ahead for any weather changes.

Trip Logistics

• Ideal duration: Your trip from Dallas to Santa Fe will come with plenty of time to explore captivating stops and local attractions if you spread it out over several days. At least two overnight stops give you the chance to sightsee without feeling rushed or overwhelmed.

• Road grades or steep passes: As you make your way through North Texas and along New Mexico's highways, most of the journey will occur on flat, well-maintained roads. However, you may run into moderate grades or winding sections once you get into northern New Mexico. Steeper roads and mountain passes may be present if you venture into the Sangre de Cristo Mountains.

• RV-friendly campgrounds: Here are three other RV-friendly campgrounds along the main route that offer full hookups: Palo Duro Canyon State Park near Amarillo, TX, Tucumcari KOA Journey in Tucumcari, NM, and Santa Fe Skies RV Park near Santa Fe, NM.

You’re going to have a great time on your RV road trip from Dallas to Santa Fe using this fully customizable itinerary. To find the perfect RV rental for your journey, you can check out the many options offered by RVshare. There’s a rental to match every trip’s style and budget.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I plan an RV road trip from Dallas to Santa Fe?

To plan an RV road trip from Dallas to Santa Fe, start by mapping your route using Google Maps or a trip planner that supports RV navigation. Consider road types, fuel stops, campgrounds, and attractions along the way. Our RV rental specialists can help you choose the best vehicle and route based on your travel dates and preferences.

What type of RV should I rent for my trip?

The ideal RV depends on your travel style, group size, and destination. For couples, a camper van or Class B RV offers flexibility and easy driving. Families often prefer Class C motorhomes for more space and amenities. If you’re staying longer or need extra comfort, a Class A RV might be your best choice. Learn more about the different RV classes.

How much does it cost to rent an RV for a road trip?

RV rental prices vary based on vehicle size, rental duration, season, and mileage. On average, RV rentals range from $100–$300 per night, with discounts for weekly or monthly bookings. We also offer one-way rentals if you’re traveling from Dallas to Santa Fe without returning to the starting point.

Can I pick up my RV in one city and drop it off in another?

Yes! Many travelers love our one-way RV rental option. If the inventory is available for your route, you can pick up your RV in one location and drop it off in another, which is perfect for cross-country adventures or long-distance road trips.

What should I pack for an RV trip?

Pack essentials like bedding, toiletries, cooking supplies, and outdoor gear. Most of our RVs come equipped with kitchenware and basic amenities. Don’t forget to bring a first-aid kit, maps, and camping chairs for your outdoor setup. Keep this packing list handy to ensure you don’t leave anything behind!

Do I need a special license to drive an RV?

A standard driver’s license is all you need to rent and drive an RV. Keep in mind that you must be 25 to rent an RV.

Where can I park or stay overnight during my road trip?

You can stay at RV parks, national park campgrounds, or designated boondocking areas. Our team can recommend safe and scenic stops along your route from Dallas to Santa Fe. Be sure to reserve campgrounds in advance during peak travel seasons.

How do I handle fuel and hookups during my trip?

Most RVshare RVs are equipped for electric, water, and sewer hookups at most campgrounds. Keep track of your fuel stops and learn how to connect utilities before you hit the road. We provide a full orientation before departure to make setup easy.

Is insurance included in my RV rental?

Yes, basic insurance coverage is included with every rental. You can also purchase additional protection plans for peace of mind during your journey. We’ll explain all coverage options when you book your RV.

Can I travel with pets in my RV rental?

Absolutely! Many of our RVs are pet-friendly, so your furry friends can enjoy the adventure too. Use the filters to search for RVs that welcome pets on board.

What are the best road trip routes for RV travelers?

Popular RV routes include scenic coastal drives, national park loops, and cross-country highways. For beginners, you may want to try a long weekend trip where you don’t have to drive quite as far. Just remember to follow the 3-3-3 rule of RVing!