Road Trip with RVshare Atlanta to Austin

There are lots of adventurous places to discover when you go on an Atlanta to Austin road trip. The journey takes you through five states, including Georgia, Alabama, Mississippi, Louisiana, and Texas. The route provides easy highway driving and plenty of places to pull over and explore. RV travelers will find no shortage of campgrounds to stay at as they explore scenic overlooks, awe-inspiring landmarks, and family-friendly attractions. 

Road Trip Planner: Stops Along Your Route

The drive from Atlanta to Austin is an incredible route that combines rich history and lively Southern culture. Ideal for recreational vehicle travel, the roads wind past rural river towns, expansive grasslands, and gently sloping woodlands. Each of the following locations offers RV-friendly parking, accessible roads, and plenty of chances to explore.

Oak Mountain State Park, Alabama

Oak Mountain State Park in Alabama is about two and a half hours away from Atlanta. It's the perfect place to stay overnight before you head toward Mississippi. The park offers fishing, swimming, and many other outdoor activities. There are more than 50 miles of trails that feature hiking and biking paths.

RV Info & Tips:

• Campgrounds: The park offers large, wooded RV sites, making it simple to set up overnight or stay for several days.

• Roads: You'll have easy access to I-65, giving you smooth travel for heading north or south or exploring nearby cities like Birmingham.

• How Long to Stay: One to two nights here is plenty of time to check out the hiking trails and see the wildlife up close with guided nature programs.

Vicksburg National Military Park, Mississippi

The Vicksburg National Military Park is right around three and a half hours from your overnight stay in Alabama. There's a big visitor center here where you can learn all about the battle history. Guided programs are offered by the park. A lot of people who visit this attraction love looking at the monuments and pondering how the siege unfolded. A nearby RV site (outside of the park) makes it simple to stay overnight instead of having to rush your visit.

RV Info & Tips:

• Campgrounds: Camping is not allowed inside the park, but you can go to a nearby RV park. 

• Roads: RV parking is available at the visitor center, but some of the roads going through the park are narrow and may be difficult to maneuver.

• How Long to Stay: Six to eight hours at the park is ample time to see all of the major highlights. An overnight stay is a great idea if you want to rest up before you head toward Louisiana and Texas.

Tyler State Park, Texas

Doing a stop at Tyler State Park will put you about two and a half hours from Austin. It's the perfect place to unwind before you finish the drive. The park offers hiking, fishing, and more. There's a nice little lake where you can paddle if you're in the mood for relaxing on the water. And with lots of shaded picnic areas and trails to choose from, you won't have to worry about running out of things to do.

RV Info & Tips:

• Campgrounds: There's a campground inside the park with water and electric hookups for RVs. Best of all, these sites sit near the lake, giving you peaceful waterfront views.

• Roads: You'll be right off Highway 14, which takes you to I-20 for easy access to the rest of your route. The roads are well-maintained and paved.

• How Long to Stay: Plan to spend at least one night here. You'll have time to explore the trails and relax by the lake before you continue your drive.

Pro Tips to Make the Most of Your Trip

You'll find your RV travels are much more enjoyable when you take a bit of time to plan ahead. Here are some of the most important things to consider.

Loop Back a Different Way

On the way back from Austin, if you take a different route, you can see other vistas, such as river valleys, pine woods, and parts of the Mississippi countryside that you missed on the way out. For a change of scenery, try taking a detour north toward Hot Springs or south toward Lafayette instead of going back along I-20. Both routes lead to interesting state parks, restaurants, and viewpoints. Another benefit of taking an alternate route back is that it allows you to sidestep any delays caused by construction or heavy traffic on the major highway corridor.

Timing & Logistics

Without breaks, the journey from Atlanta to Austin can easily take 13 to 14 hours. To make the most of your time in an RV, it's best to spread your travel over several days. Constant vigilance is required due to the extreme weather conditions that might develop along the route, which can range from humid mornings in the Southeast to afternoon storms in Mississippi and drier, hotter weather in middle Texas. RV parks near popular spots, such as Pelham, Morton, and Doyline, tend to fill up quickly during weekends and peak seasons, so it's a good idea to book an RV campground in advance.

Fuel & Supplies Along the Way

There are plenty of large gas stations along I-20 with RV-friendly pull-through areas, particularly in Mississippi and Alabama. To avoid having to scramble in remote parts of East Texas or Louisiana, it's best to plan fuel breaks 100 to 150 miles apart. Because smaller communities may not have as many alternatives for RV supplies or fresh vegetables, it's a good idea to stock up in bigger areas like Shreveport, Jackson, or Birmingham.

Trip Logistics

• Ideal duration: Three to six days is a reasonable amount of time to go from Atlanta to Austin in an RV since it allows you the chance to stop and enjoy the scenery without forcing yourself to drive too much. You can visit important sites in several states without overdoing it, and you'll still reach Austin in good spirits.

• Road grades or steep areas: While the majority of Interstate 20 is level, there are a few areas in eastern Alabama and northern Louisiana where you may experience gentle rolling hills. These inclines are mild and suitable for most recreational vehicles.

• Tunnels or bridge height restrictions: The main bridges of Interstate 20 from Atlanta to Austin are tall enough to accommodate RVs and big rigs, and the route between the two cities is tunnel-free. However, you should still exercise caution when taking detours via older state parks or smaller communities; many of them have low-clearance bridges and narrow overpasses.

Embark on a journey from Atlanta to Austin with this detailed road trip itinerary. You'll pass through charming Southern towns, lush woodlands, and expansive Texas vistas. Think about renting an RV from RVshare if you want a hassle-free and comfortable vacation. The RV selection in Atlanta and Austin is vast. You can select from Class A motorhomes, Class C RVs, travel trailers, and more.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I plan an RV road trip from Atlanta to Austin?

To plan an RV road trip from Atlanta to Austin, 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 Atlanta to Austin 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 Atlanta to Austin. 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!