Road Trip with RVshare Austin to Orlando

This detailed itinerary for an RV road trip from Austin to Orlando takes you through vibrant Southern cities, across scenic Gulf Coast highways, and into Florida’s lush landscapes. Family-friendly attractions dotted along the journey give you the perfect way to create lifelong memories. There are numerous campgrounds on or near the route that provide RV hookups and convenient amenities.

Road Trip Planner: Stops Along Your Route

Your road trip from Austin to Orlando starts by taking US-290 east toward Houston, then merging onto I-10 east toward New Orleans. Both of these cities offer exceptional dining, shopping, and cultural attractions where you can stretch your legs as you make your way east. RV-friendly parking at many of the museums and waterfront parks makes it simple to explore the local areas without having to search for oversized parking.

Shangri La Botanical Gardens & Nature Center, Texas

The Shangri La Botanical Gardens & Nature Center is about 4 hours into the journey from Austin to Orlando. It's the ideal place to stop and relax as you explore peaceful gardens and discover vibrant ecosystems. There are shaded walking trails where you can stroll through the lush greenery as you unwind. The butterfly areas provide gorgeous photo opportunities for nature lovers. Birdwatching is a favorite activity for many people who visit this attraction.

RV Info & Tips:

• Campgrounds: The closest campground with RV hookups is only two miles away at Twelve Oaks RV Park. You'll enjoy pull-through sites with full hookups as well as laundry facilities.

• How Long to Stay: You'll want to spend two to three hours walking the gardens. If you want to birdwatch or do photography, plan for a half-day visit. You can stay overnight at the nearby campground if you want to rest up before you head toward Louisiana.

• Gear & Prep: The marshy areas are full of mosquitoes, so wear plenty of bug spray. Bring binoculars for birdwatching and a camera with an extra battery for capturing butterflies and garden scenery.

Avery Island & Tabasco Factory, Louisiana

The Avery Island & Tabasco Factory is about two hours past the last stop in Texas. The site offers tours of the famous Tabasco factory, where you can learn how the peppers are grown, aged, and made into the iconic sauce. The Jungle Gardens on the property provide peaceful walking trails and wildlife viewing, so be sure to bring your camera.

RV Info & Tips: 

• Campgrounds: The Oak Village RV Park and Campground in New Iberia is about 15 minutes away from Avery Island. In addition to pull-through sites with full hookups, guests also enjoy Wi-Fi access.

• How Long to Stay: The Tabasco factory and Jungle Gardens take about two to three hours to tour.

• Gear & Prep: Make sure to wear comfortable walking shoes. If you come during the warmer months, bring drinking water since much of the experience takes place outdoors in humid conditions.

Falling Waters State Park, Florida

Once you get about 10 hours into the trip, you'll come to the Florida Panhandle, where you can visit Falling Waters State Park in Chipley. This site gives you the chance to see Florida's tallest waterfall. There are boardwalks that let you walk the trails without having to navigate uneven ground. Coming to this park is a great way to take a breather before you kick off the final drive into Orlando.

RV Info & Tips: 

• Campgrounds: There's an onsite campground here where you can stay overnight. The campground offers picnic tables, a bathhouse, and both water and electric hookups for RVs.

• How Long to Stay: The boardwalks and waterfall take a couple of hours to explore. An overnight stay is an excellent way to relax before the final stretch into Orlando.

• Gear & Prep: Bring comfy walking shoes for the boardwalks and bug spray for the wooded areas.

Pro Tips to Make the Most of Your Trip

Planning your RV route will help you enjoy smooth travels. But you must remember to be flexible and spontaneous since there are so many great attractions to visit along the way. Here are some tips you can use to get the most from every mile. 

Loop Back a Different Way

Following a different route back to Austin will take you by landmarks that you missed on the way to Orlando. For example, if you take I-95 north instead of I-10 west, this will take you through Savannah rather than Tallahassee. The Savannah Historic District and Forsyth Park are two attractions here that are definitely worth visiting if you have an interest in architecture or American history. Or you could take US-98 once you get to Pensacola instead of staying on I-10. This route brings you to Gulf Shores, where the coastline offers both scenic beaches and outdoor recreation.

Timing & Weather

The weather from Austin to Orlando can become unpredictable throughout many parts of the year. You may run into heat and thunderstorms in Austin if you travel during the summer. Humidity and afternoon rain showers are common in Orlando during the warmer months. Planning your trip for spring or fall will provide the most comfortable temperatures for exploring the outdoors and checking out local attractions.

Trip Logistics

• Ideal duration: Stretching your 16–17-hour drive over several days will help you feel less exhausted as you make the journey to Orlando. Two overnight stays are ideal for a one-way RV trip. Three to four overnight stays will be helpful if you make a round trip.

• Road grades or steep passes: Most of the drive from Austin to Orlando takes place on flat highway roads. There aren't any steep mountain grades or major elevation changes to worry about. However, if you venture toward northern Georgia or go on scenic byways, you may come across some rolling hills or mild inclines, especially in the foothill and ridge areas.

• RV-friendly campgrounds for overnight stops: Here are four other RV-friendly campgrounds along or near the route from Austin to Orlando where you can stop for overnight stays: Lake Charles RV Resort, Island Retreat RV Park, Fairhope Landing RV Resort, and Bayberry RV Park.

Using our itinerary for a road trip from Austin to Orlando will take you on an adventure that you’ll never forget. You can customize it any way you want to match your travel plans. Getting from city to city is much more enjoyable when you travel in style and comfort with an RV rental. RVshare offers many rentals to choose from, so be sure to check out the options today.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

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