Road Trip with RVshare Austin to Topeka

The journey from Austin to Topeka is a great one to make in an RV. Instead of going straight north between the cities, the more scenic route that heads east into Arizona will allow you to explore a national park as well. For this Austin to Topeka RV road trip, start by going north on I-35 until you reach Dallas. Head east on I-30 to reach Hot Springs National Park, and then head west on I-40 to about Tulsa. For the remainder of the trip, you will want to head north on US-75. There are several state parks along the way that you will want to enjoy and a few cities to explore.

Road Trip Planner: Stops Along Your Route

Waco, Texas

Waco is a fairly large city located about halfway between Austin and Dallas, which makes it a perfect stopping point to make on your trip. It is home to the Dr. Pepper Museum as well as the Hawaiian Falls Waterpark. You can also visit the Cameron Park Zoo, especially if you are traveling with animal lovers. If you decide to settle in for the night in Waco, there are plenty of campgrounds in the area that are worth considering. Midway Park is ideal for anglers and those who like to go boating. Quail Crossing RV Park is a pet-friendly option that you can also consider, and there are a number of Texas dump stations that you can use.

Dallas, Texas

Dallas is a city with a zoo, an aquarium, a botanical garden, and several museums, so there is an endless supply of fun to be had in this city. The Sixth Floor Museum at Dealey Plaza is a great place to see if you want to learn more about the assassination of John F. Kennedy. A few blocks from the museum, there is also a John F. Kennedy Memorial that stands 30 feet tall and 50 feet wide. 

There are several Dallas campgrounds that you can stay at in the area. With so many options, there is bound to be something that you will enjoy. Treetops RV Resort has a lot of games and scheduled activities that a family with kids might enjoy. Hidden Cove Park and Marina is located on the water and has rental options for canoes, kayaks, and Jet Skis. Many of these campgrounds have dump stations that you can use for free if you are staying there. If you do not stay overnight, using one of these dump stations will often cost you a small fee.

Tulsa, Oklahoma

The last city you will want to include on this road trip itinerary from Austin to Topeka is Tulsa. The Philbrook Museum of Art includes historic buildings and exhibits surrounded by 23 acres of gardens. If you enjoy music, then make sure to visit the Woody Guthrie Center for exhibits featuring music genres and different musicians throughout the year. The Tulsa Zoo and the Tulsa Botanical garden are also worth stopping at during your visit. 

To stay overnight in this city, you will want to find a Tulsa campground. Canyon Creek is only about 10 minutes from Tulsa, and Eagle's View RV Park is ideal for fishing. Tula RV Ranch has lots of on-site activities for the family to enjoy, and Estes RV Park has a dump station that is free for registered guests to use.

National Parks

Consider venturing off course to visit a couple of the most incredible national parks that can be found within the south-central United States.

Hot Springs National Park

While there are no national parks specifically on this road trip from Austin to Topeka, if you are willing to go off course for about four hours, you will find Hot Springs National Park. This national park is a great place to relax and enjoy some of the thermal baths that can be found here. In addition to relaxation, you can take a hike to get closer to nature. Most of the trails in the area are fairly short, but they provide a panoramic view of the surrounding area. There are 47 pools within the park that you can enjoy, but Bathhouse Row offers spa treatments if you want more than a dip. 

Nearby State Parks

Lake Bob Sandlin State Park

Lake Bob Sandlin State Park is located in Pittsburg, Texas, and it offers visitors quite a lot to explore. It is a great place to go fishing whether you want to stand on the shore or take a boat out on the water. If you do not have a boat of your own, there are rental options at the park. The lake is 9,000 square acres, so kayaking and paddleboarding are an option as well. If hiking or biking is more your pace, there are four trails that you can explore. In total, the trails add up to a little more than 5 miles, so it should only take about two to three hours to explore.

Lake Eufaula State Park

Lake Eufaula State Park is one of the Oklahoma state parks that you will have the option to explore during this RV road trip. Since the park is surrounded by a lake on three sides, there are plenty of fishing and water activities to enjoy. Fishing for bass, crappie, and catfish can easily be done from one of the docks, and there are fishing ponds for kids to enjoy as well. There are also swimming beaches that are designed to ensure that those swimming in the area will not get a hook in their foot. There is also an 18-hole golf course in the park and plenty of hiking trails that you can enjoy.

Eisenhower State Park

Eisenhower State Park is a 1,785-acre park that is full of waterfowl and other wildlife. It is located right on Melvern Lake, so fishing and boating are great options to consider when you visit. There are horse trails throughout the park that you can use to explore the area, as well as foot trails that can be utilized. Disc golf, volleyball, and swimming are other activities that are often enjoyed in the park.

Pomona State Park

Pomona State Park is the final Kansas state park that you will want to stop at. The park is about 4,000 square miles, and it sits on the southern bank of Pomona Lake. Fishing, swimming, and boating enthusiasts will love what the park has to offer. It has several hiking trails that you can explore, including the Rising Sun Trail, the BuckBrush Trail, and the Hedge-Wood Trail. All of these can be explored on foot or bike. There is also a swimming beach for the little ones to enjoy.

Along the Way

Inner Space Cavern

During your road trip from Austin to Topeka, make sure to stop at Inner Space Cavern. It is a very well-preserved cave that is located in Texas, and it has a bevy of beautiful formations that tell the history of the area. Several tours are offered through the caves, so choose one based on your experience level. Gemstone panning is also available for the younger children to enjoy. This cave is one of the four caverns that make up the Texas Cave Trail, so if you are into cave exploration, this is a must-see location.

Dr. Pepper Museum

If you enjoy learning about the history of soda and how it is made, then the Dr. Pepper Museum will be an interesting stop to make. There are experiences that you can take part in to create your own soda, guided tours that show you more about the history of Dr. Pepper, and paranormal tours where a guide will show you in-depth encounters relating to the paranormal activities within the museum. 

Little House on the Prairie Museum

If you want to explore the Ingalls family cabin and see the hand-dug well with your own eyes, then this is a stop that you will want to make. You will be able to see the Wayside Post Office that was built in 1885 and the old one-room schoolhouse that was built in 1871.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

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

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