Road Trip with RVshare Austin to Memphis

As you kick off your Austin to Memphis road trip, you may want to start by listening to some western swing music as you roll up Interstate 35 through Round Rock, Killeen, and Dallas. Then, throw in some Texas country music as you head along Interstate 30 on your way to Arkansas. Once you cross the state line, choose some bluegrass tunes. By the time you get to Little Rock, change to listening to rockabilly. This allows you to get introduced to these musical styles while exploring the regions where they were once popular. All along the way, you'll find terrific national and state parks to visit, outstanding points of interest, and friendly cities to explore. 

Road Trip Planner: Stops Along Your Route

Waco, Texas

Stop in Waco to visit the Waco Mammoth National Monument, the Texas Rangers Hall of Fame & Museum, and the Mayborn Museum Complex. There are many great campground choices in Waco, like the Flat Creek Farms RV Resort, where you can go fishing, or Riverview Campground with its scenic hiking trails. RV dump stations in Waco are available at the Pilot Flying J Travel Plaza, Mother Neff State Park, or Airport Park. 

Dallas, Texas

Explore the largest contiguous urban arts district in the United States while visiting Dallas. There are many other fun things to do in this city, including exploring Dealy Plaza, the Dallas Zoo, and The George W. Perot Museum of Nature and Science. Great campground choices in Dallas include Treetops RV Resort, which often hosts special family activities, and Traders Village RV Park, where a flea market is usually happening. Check out the spacious RV dump stations in Dallas at Lewisville Lake Park Campground, Rockwall Travel Center, and United RV Center. 

Little Rock, Arkansas

Little Rock is a city with a rich history waiting for you to explore it. Sites include Little Rock Central High School Historic Site, the William J Clinton Presidential Library, and the Museum of Discovery. Little Rock campground options include the exciting Downtown Riverside RV Park where entertainment and festivals often occur within walking distance. Cherokee Lakes RV Park, where you can go fishing and hiking, is another great choice. Find RV dump stations in Little Rock at the Downtown Riverside RV Park, which makes it a convenient location to meet all your needs, or Little Rock North KOA Campground, where you may be able to join in special programming after emptying and filling your tanks. 

National Parks

Hot Springs National Park

Take a bath in the popular healing waters at Hot Springs National Park at two different locations. The Buckstaff Bathhouse has been open almost continuously since 1912. You'll undress and wrap yourself in a sheet to a soaking tub before staff scrubs your body down with a loofah. You'll then enjoy a hot towel wrap, a sitz bath, a steam cabinet, and a needle shower. The second experience happens at the Quapaw Baths & Spa, where you'll choose between the four pools that feature different temperatures. You can soak in tubs that accommodate one, a couple, or several people. Before you leave bathhouse row, you can get a drink at the only brewery in a national park, go shopping, and tour the museum. 

Nearby State Parks

Lake Whitney State Park

Include a stop at Lake Whitney State Park near Whitney, Texas, on your Austin to Memphis RV road trip. Anglers will love going fishing at this state park. The 37-square-mile lake is also a fantastic spot to go waterskiing as it has a sandy swimming beach. There are many miles of trails around the lake to explore, and you may see deer, raccoons, armadillos, and opossums. 

Cooper Lake State Park

Cooper Lake State Park near Sulphur Springs, Texas, is divided into two sections. The north side of the lake is Doctors Creek, while the south side is South Sulphur. Put a vessel in the water at the boat ramp to go fishing or fish from the fishing pier. While you need to make reservations a week ahead of time, you can rent canoes and kayaks. The 10.5-mile Buggy Whip Equestrian Trail is a great place to go riding at South Sulphur. Both units have fantastic hiking trails to follow. 

Crater of Diamonds State Park

You may get lucky enough to find a huge diamond at Crater of Diamonds State Park near Murfreesboro, Arkansas. You can rent tools from the park to dig for a diamond, and a gemologist is on hand to help you identify if you were lucky enough to find one. People find about 675 diamonds annually. Take a break from looking to explore the hiking trails. This park also has a fantastic water park that's open seasonally. After you've worked up an appetite, grab a meal at the seasonally open café. 

Daisy State Park

You'll want to stop and explore Daisy State Park near Kirby, Arkansas, on your road trip from Austin to Memphis. Rent a canoe for paddling fun on Lake Greeson, and you won't want to miss seeing the unique rock formations along the shoreline at this park in the Ouachita Mountains. Anglers love fishing for trout on the Little Missouri River. Bear Cycle Trail is a fantastic place to ride an ATV. 

Pinnacle Mountain State Park

While Little Rock, Arkansas, is a fantastic city to explore on your road trip from Austin to Memphis, set aside some time to check out the scenic beauty found nearby at Pinnacle Mountain State Park. It's home to the Arkansas Arboretum, where you can explore over 71 acres of plants and flowers. See flora there that you would normally only see if you visited each of the state's six regions. Then, head out on a paddling adventure on the Big and Little Maumelle Rivers. Bring your bike along so that you can ride along the 7 miles of biking trails and your hiking boots to explore some of the 15 miles of hiking trails. The staff at this park often offer fascinating interpretive programs. 

T.O. Fuller State Park

Don't be so anxious to end your adventure that you forget to include a stop at T.O. Fuller State Park on your road trip itinerary from Austin to Memphis. The pool at this park with its diving boards is a great place to play with your family. There are over 8 miles of hiking trails at this state park. Stop at the gift shop to buy a souvenir from your road trip from Memphis to Austin.

Along the Way

Old Settlers Park at Palm Valley

Make the Old Settlers Park at Palm Valley in Round Rock, Texas, one of the first stops on your Austin to Memphis road trip. Play a disc golf game or watch one of the games on the soccer, football, baseball, or softball fields. Bright Lake at this park is a wonderful spot to go fishing. If you have children along, they'll adore the seven playgrounds. 

Magnolia Market at the Silos

Created by Chip and Joanna Gaines of HGTV fame, you won't want to bypass a chance to visit Magnolia Market at the Silos in Waco. Stroll through the gardens while your children play in the wooden teepee. Grab a bite to eat from the various food trucks, shop for many types of home décor, or treat yourself to a delicious gift from the bakery. 

University of Texas at Arlington Planetarium

Take a seat to watch an amazing show with surround sound and video at the University of Texas at Arlington Planetarium. This location provides a fabulous opportunity to ask questions of astronomers. They often host special events, so be sure to check their calendar. 

 Dallas Arboretum & Botanical Garden

Spread across 65 acres, the Dallas Arboretum & Botanical Garden is a great place to take photos, so be sure to bring your camera. You may want to start your visit at A Woman's Garden with its gorgeous infinity pool before wandering on to the Jonsson Color Garden to see a vast array of different-colored flowers in bloom. Special events often occur at this location. 

Heifer Village and Urban Farm at Heifer International

Start your visit at the Heifer Village at Heifer International in Little Rock, where you can participate in hands-on learning activities designed to teach you about life on the farm. A special scavenger hunt helps you learn more about hunger and poverty issues around the world. See vegetables growing in the greenhouses and low-till organic gardens. Finally, stop and see the alpacas, sheep, goats, chickens, and a mini-Jersey cow. Some guests may even be able to help feed them. 

When you follow this road trip itinerary from Austin to Memphis, 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 Austin or Memphis.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

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