Road Trip with RVshare Boston to Washington D.C.

Visit some of the most famous cities in the United States on a Boston to Washington, D.C. RV road trip. The route takes you down the Eastern Seaboard, which is rich in history and natural beauty. It's a remarkably diverse route—on the same trip, you can see the Manhattan skyline, relax on the quaint shores of Martha's Vineyard, see where the Declaration of Independence was signed, and explore the National Mall. Whether you have a few days or two weeks free, you'll find activities to pack every one of your non-driving hours.

Road Trip Planner: Stops Along Your Route

As you drive between Boston and Washington D.C., you'll pass through some of the first cities that were established when settlers arrived from Europe. With options like New York and Philadelphia on the route, you'll never be far from exceptional entertainment, world-class dining, and convenient dump stations.

Providence, Rhode Island

Stroll the shores of the Providence River in Providence. The beautiful local campgrounds make it easy to experience the city’s excellent dining and arts scenes. One of the best ways to see the city is on a historical tour; other great attractions are the Roger Williams Park Zoo and the Museum of Natural History.

New York, New York

One of the most famous and most-visited cities in the world, New York is packed with iconic spots. Stroll through Central Park, catch a Broadway show, and ride the elevator to the top of the Empire State Building. The best part? Many of the nearby campgrounds are close to public transportation, so you don't have to worry about driving an RV through the city traffic.

Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

With its incredible history, Philadelphia is a top destination for history enthusiasts the world over. Once you're settled into one of the local campgrounds, check out City Hall, the Museum of the American Revolution, and the Eastern State Penitentiary. Just looking for a stroll? Rittenhouse Square Park is a great spot to relax.

Baltimore, Maryland

Head straight for the Inner Harbor in Baltimore; with its renovated industrial buildings and waterfront views, this is the place to be. You'll also find charming restaurants, shops, and even a historic tall ship. If you like to walk, it's easy to explore the harbor on foot; allow plenty of time to explore the sites along the way. Local camping spots make a great place to relax after a long day on the road.

National Parks

The trip from Boston to Washington, D.C. goes through some of the most populated areas in the United States, which means that national parks are few and far between. If you're willing to spend a few extra hours on the road, however, you can add these great national parks onto your itinerary.

Acadia National Park

At the beginning of your trip, head north from Boston to experience the beauty of Acadia National Park. Characterized by rugged, rocky shores, endless forests, and the wild Atlantic Ocean, this park contains some of the most spectacular sections of the Maine coast. Enjoy the view from your RV on the 27-mile scenic road network or get out into the wild on more than 150 miles of hiking trails.

Cuyahoga Valley National Park

One of the unsung heroes of the national park system, Cuyahoga Valley National Park is worth the detour. Located in Ohio, it boasts rolling hills and stunning forests, all covered by a 125-mile trail network. With its peaceful atmosphere, this is the perfect place to relax for a few days.

Shenandoah National Park

Head southwest from Washington, D.C. into Virginia to visit Shenandoah National Park. It's just 75 miles away, but you'd never know it to look at the wildflower-laden fields and silent forest paths. Whether you're a wildlife enthusiast or you're looking for a relaxing place to camp at the end of your trip, this is a fantastic choice.

Nearby State Parks

The road trip from Boston to Washington, D.C. is within reach of numerous state parks, many commemorating the rich history of the Eastern Seaboard. Each of the following state parks offers camping, so you can set up your RV and use it as a base camp for exploring the surrounding area.

Massasoit State Park

Set up camp among the trees at Massasoit State Park in Massachusetts, which makes a great stop for your first night on the road. The picturesque trails are perfect for hiking and biking, and the quiet campground is a short walk from the swimming and fishing areas. Don't miss it if you're traveling in the fall; that's when the cranberry bogs burst into brilliant hues of red.

Sleeping Giant State Park

Head inland from New Haven to Sleeping Giant State Park, which contains one of the highest points in Connecticut. Stretch your legs on the 1.5-mile trail up to the Mt. Carmel observation tower; from there, you can see all the way to the Long Island Sound.

Hither Hills State Park

Dreaming of falling asleep to the sound of the sea? Make the side trip out to Hither Hills State Park, which is located near Montauk, NY. Campsites here are located just steps from the Atlantic Ocean, so you can enjoy quiet morning walks and afternoon swims. If you're an angler, be sure to get a permit and try night-fishing.

Parvin State Park

See a different side of New Jersey at Parvin State Park, which contains pine forests and a hardwood swamp. During the summer, you'll love the opportunity to cool off with a dip in Parvin Lake; fishing and canoeing are also popular in the park. If you're bringing a bike, check out the trails. With 56 campsites and a restroom with hot showers, this state park makes a comfortable stopover on your road trip itinerary from Boston to Washington, D.C.

Point Lookout State Park

End your vacation with a campsite by the water at Point Lookout State Park in Maryland. Located between the Potomac River and the Chesapeake Bay, this point was once a Civil War camp—you can learn about the history in the museum and read the names of fallen soldiers in the Confederate Cemetery. Be sure to check the calendar for the historic demonstrations that happen throughout the year.

Along the Way

The trip from Boston to Washington, D.C. is packed with fascinating sites. Whether you want to chill by the sea or dive deep into American history, you'll find plenty to do.

Cape Cod National Seashore

One of the most historic locations in the United States, the Cape Cod National Seashore in Massachusetts is a must-see spot for history buffs and lovers of natural beauty. Here, you'll find sandy beaches, cranberry bogs, and excellent biking trails. Paddling and swimming are popular ways to experience the ocean. If you're interested in lighthouses and nautical history, head straight for the Highland Light, the Nauset Light, or the Three Sisters Lights.

Martha's Vineyard

A longtime summer escape for the well-to-do of New England, Martha's Vineyard is a beautiful island just off the coast of Massachusetts. Take a ferry out and enjoy an afternoon walking or biking down quiet lanes. With beaches, stores, and restaurants aplenty here, you might not want to leave. Head to South Beach or Joseph Sylvia State Beach for swimming, or rent a kayak and check out the views of the island from the water.

Yale University

Chances are, you've heard of Yale University—why not pay it a visit? Walk through the ivy-covered campus buildings in New Haven, CT, and imagine some of the luminaries who have been there before; Meryl Streep, Sonia Sotomayor, and Cole Porter are all alumni. While you're in town, check the university's calendar; a sporting event or concert is a great way to get the full Yale experience. Stop in to watch a play or a musical, and you might even see the next big movie star in action.

Statue of Liberty National Monument

One of the most recognizable sites in the United States, the Statue of Liberty National Monument makes a fun pit stop as you're passing through New York City. Take the ferry out to the island and enjoy a tour, or simply check out the view from the free Staten Island Ferry; it's free to ride, making it a great choice if you're looking to save money.

The Liberty Bell

The legendary Liberty Bell once hung in the tower of Independence Hall, which is where the Declaration of Independence was signed in 1776. Today, it's displayed at ground level at Philadelphia's Independence National Historical Park. The famous crack in the bell is easy to see; bring your camera to capture a picture.

With so much to do along the way, you can extend your Boston to Washington, D.C. road trip with a rental RV from RVshare to fill your entire vacation. In fact, thanks to the many campgrounds and attractions along the way, you can follow the path of American history.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I plan an RV road trip from Boston to Washington D.C.?

To plan an RV road trip from Boston to Washington D.C., 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 Boston to Washington D.C. 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 Boston to Washington D.C.. 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!