Road Trip with RVshare Atlanta to Charleston

If you want to get a full impression of the southern lifestyle, consider an Atlanta to Charleston road trip. This easterly trip will expose you to a national park, several interesting cities, and more than a few entertaining points of interest. Overall, you can expect to be on the road for a few hours on this trip, but if you're going to spend any time at any of the exciting locations along the way, you may need to set aside a week or so. During the trip, you'll also see some beautiful beaches, and you'll also be able to check out the majestic Savannah River.

Road Trip Planner: Stops Along Your Route

Athens, GA

Located in Georgia's Clarke County, Athens is a consolidated city about 70 miles from your start point in Atlanta. Athens is the home of the University of Georgia, which is partially why the city has grown over the years. Today, Athens has a population of over 100,000 with a rich and vibrant culture. You can visit the Georgia Museum of Art, the Georgia Museum of Natural History, or historical locations like the Taylor-Grady House in the city.

Athens campgrounds provide you with a place to lay your head, and most also have a good set of amenities. For example, Sunset Ridge Campground, which is nearby Elberton, has a pool. Sites like Shoal Creek Campground also have conveniences like an on-premise dump station for you to use.

Augusta, GA

Augusta, GA, is one of those cities that actually predates the nation. It was founded in 1736 by General James Edward Oglethorpe and was named for a Welsh princess. Augusta is the location of the state's first medical school and was formerly the state capital. Today, there's plenty to do in this city of almost 200,000. Places like the Morris Museum of Art and the Augusta Market at the River see thousands of visitors every year.

Augusta campgrounds include options like Heritage RV Park, but if you go outside of the city, you'll find options like Shady Grove RV Park, Ridge Road Campground, and Bob's RV Park, which all have multiple RV sites and hookups for every RV type.

Columbia, SC

Columbia, SC, is the closest city to the sprawling Congaree National Park, and it is a city with a lot to do. This is the state capital, and the city itself has a suburban/urban mix. This is a city of young professionals, and it's known as the "Soda City" by locals.

National Parks

Congaree National Park

Congaree National Park is the only national park along this specific route. As you travel on your road trip from Atlanta to Charleston, this park will appear on the latter half of the trip near Columbia. This is an absolutely massive national park; it spans over 26,276 acres, so bring hiking gear when you're ready to explore. Also, it gets humid during the summer, so dress appropriately and stay hydrated.

Nearby State Parks

Hard Labor Creek State Park

Despite the toughened name, Hard Labor Creek State Park is a great place to visit with the entire family. The park spans almost 6,000 acres and lies in both Morgan and Walton counties in Georgia. You can paddle in a kayak or canoe in the park, and there are miles of trails for adventurous RVers to explore. If you love to ride horses, this is also a great park to consider, and during the spring, summer, and fall, you can explore it on horseback tours.

Panola Mountain State Park

Georgia state parks are varied when it comes to topography, and Panola Mountain is a good example of this. The mountain is a pristine granite outcropping that spans 100 acres. At the park, there are plenty of recreational opportunities for RVers making the road trip from Atlanta to Charleston. This includes guided tree-climbing, archery, geocaching, and hiking.

Mistletoe State Park

Mistletoe State Park can be found in Appling, GA, and it is a park that's great for people looking to do things on the water. Mistletoe is on Clarks Hill Lake, so if you love to fish or boat, this is a place you should consider. Shore lovers should also consider this lake with sandy beaches, especially families with kids.

Poinsett State Park

Towards the end of your trip, you'll come across Poinsett State Park, which is part of the South Carolina State Parks System. In the park, there are 25.6 miles of trails for hiking or bicycling, and there are also 10 acres on which you can fish or swim. Boating is also allowed on Poinsett, so if you're a paddler, this may be your spot. In addition to these features, there are 1,000 acres of land to explore that ranges from low country forests to mountainous landscapes.

Myrtle Beach State Park

Myrtle Beach is one of the most iconic locations for spring breakers, but did you know that it is a South Carolinian state park? At almost any time of year, this beach is populated by people looking to relax, so it's a great stop to make during the latter half of your road trip. Not only are there hiking trails, but there are a wide variety of water sports to take part in, and there are eateries throughout the park.

Along the Way

Georgia Aquarium

Where else can you see species as diverse as whale sharks, alligators, and dolphins? The Georgia Aquarium features true biodiversity and promotes education about ocean and freshwater life. Additionally, this is also a facility that engages in research and conservation efforts to help better the plight of affected species. Kids can spend the week at Camp H20, which teaches and keeps them engaged using exciting activities.

The Mall at Stonecrest

The Mall at Stonecrest is considered a super-regional shopping mall that spans over 1.2 million square feet. The mall itself is two stories and features an IMAX AMC theater. When it's time to eat, you and your family will have options since there are 15 eateries within the mall. This is an expansive mall; while you're on this leg of your Atlanta to Charleston RV road trip, you'll have access to over 100 retail stores, so you'll be able to stock up.

The Old Gaol

The Old Gaol is a historic site that served as a jail in 1807. Known as the Rock Gaol, it is built of granite with two-foot thick walls and is the oldest standing masonry jail in Georgia. You can find The Old Gaol in Greensboro, GA, and it includes free parking and self-guided tours. While this is a family-friendly place to visit, keep in mind that this is a prison, so places like the prison gallows exist where they hung violent criminals up until 1924.

Phinizy Swamp Nature Park

Phinizy Swamp is a 1,100- acre park that's located in Augusta. The swamp also has an attached center for water sciences. At the park, you'll find trails and activities to engage in on the water. If you love wildlife, you'll see herons, wood ducks, and ibis in the area. Fishing enthusiasts are able to keep up to eight fish per day in the park. Just remember, if you have a toy hauler with a boat, you can't use it here.

EdVenture Children’s Museum

EdVenture is a non-profit educational institution that's designed specifically to educate kids through play. In fact, play is a central tenet of the museum since children learn best when they are enjoying themselves. There are three campuses of EdVenture, and along this route, you'll be able to visit both the Columbia and Myrtle Beach locations. Both offer a different experience, so it's worth hitting them up along the way.

When you follow this road trip itinerary from Atlanta to Charleston, you will enjoy historic locations and beautiful scenery along the way. If you want to travel in comfort and style, consider an RV rental from RVshare. From large motorhomes to compact campervans, there is a rig that will meet your travel and budget needs. Once you hit the road, you are protected by our renter guarantee and 24/7 roadside assistance. Find the perfect vehicle for your travel needs in Atlanta or Charleston.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

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