Road Trip with RVshare Chicago to Washington D.C.

On your RV adventure from Chicago to Washington, D.C., you'll begin by passing by the Rust Belt Cities with the option to take a detour to learn about the country's industrial heritage. You'll enjoy beautiful views of the Alleghenies and pass by iconic monuments, including the White House and the Lincoln and Washington Monuments. You'll also take in the rich history of Mount Vernon and Old Town Alexandria. This route is one of many road trip options from Chicago. 

Road Trip Planner: Stops Along Your Route

On this route, you'll experience a variety of landscapes. Your journey begins along the shores of the Great Lakes, where you can explore the Indiana Dunes. As you continue east, rolling farmlands give way to the metro hubs of Ohio and Pennsylvania. You'll also encounter the ridges of the Appalachian Mountains and pass by historic sites. Along the way, you'll find plenty of campgrounds to rest and enjoy overnight stays.

Michigan City, IN

While traveling through Indiana, stop by Michigan City and visit its incredible attractions. They include Indiana Dunes National Park, Washington Park Zoo, and Friendship Botanic Gardens. If you're running low on supplies, you can get groceries at ALDI, Fresh Thyme, and Al's Supermarket. If you need camping gear, you can stop at The North Face Michigan, Lighthouse Place Premium Outlets, and Runnings. While you're exploring attractions, you can stop for a quick bite at Leeds Public House, Shoreline Brewery & Restaurant, and Fiddlehead Restaurant. 

RV Info & Tips:

• Campgrounds: If you are staying overnight, you can camp at Michigan City Campground or Dunewood Campground. Amenities include full hookups, playgrounds, restrooms, showers, laundry facilities, walking paths, and camp stores. 

• Seasonality: Most of the RV campgrounds in Michigan City are seasonal and are open from May to October. 

• How long to stay: Michigan City is a terrific option for spending the day and staying overnight before hitting the road again. 

Perrysburg, OH

Stop in Perrysburg as you are driving through Ohio. During this visit, you will find many intriguing attractions including Fort Meigs, Perrysburg Area Historic Museum, The 577 Foundation, Riverside Park & Black Recreation Area, and Norma Stark Memory Garden and Labyrinth. While in Perrysburg, you can shop for groceries and other essentials at ALDI or Walt Churchill's Market. Take a break for lunch and visit a local restaurant for local eats. Swig Restaurant and  Rosaria's On 3rd Street are good options. 

RV Info & Tips:

• Campgrounds: When staying in Perrysburg, you can stay overnight at one of the area's many RV campgrounds. They include Toledo East/Stony Ridge KOA Journey, Hidden Lake Campground, and Whispering River Ranch RV Park. The amenities include full hookup camping sites, WiFi, laundry facilities, pull-thru sites, and community fire pits. 

• Seasonality: Some of the RV campgrounds are year-round, but most close in late fall.

• How long to stay: If you want to get a feel for the local culture and explore the trails at the recreation area, consider staying two nights. 

Pittsburgh, PA

A quick trip into Pittsburgh, PA will place you in a larger city with plenty of fun and exciting things to do. Local attractions include Great Allegheny Passage, Phipps Conservatory & Botanical Gardens, Point State Park, Duquesne Incline & Mount Washington, and Carnegie Museum of Art. While visiting the area, you can shop for groceries at ALDI, Market District Supermarket, or Trader Joe's and cook up a meal in your RV's kitchen.

RV Info & Tips:

• Campgrounds: When staying in Pittsburgh, you can choose from various RV campgrounds with terrific amenities. These options include Roaring Run RV Resort, Phillips RV Park, Mountain Top Campground, and Breezy Hill Campgrounds. The amenities are showers, restrooms, WiFi, laundry facilities, playgrounds, full hookups, and sports courts. 

• Seasonality: Most of the RV campgrounds in and near Pittsburgh are open from spring to late fall. 

• How long to stay: With so many amazing attractions and campgrounds available, consider staying in Pittsburgh between three and four days. 

Pro Tips to Make the Most of Your Trip

A little planning goes a long way on an RV trip from Chicago to Washington, D.C. These tips will help you navigate route options, plan fuel and campground stops, and avoid common road-trip headaches along the way.

Alternate Route Options

The fastest route from Chicago to Washington, D.C. generally follows I-90 East before connecting to I-76 East. RVers looking for a more scenic drive can choose routes that head farther south through Ohio and Pennsylvania using highways such as I-70 and I-79. These alternate routes pass through rolling hills and Appalachian foothills, offering a change of scenery from the main interstate. While these options will add extra driving time, they can be a worthwhile tradeoff for travelers who prefer a more relaxed, scenic journey.

Fuel and Supplies Along the Way

You'll find plenty of 24-hour gas stations and convenience stores along the route from Chicago to Washington, D.C., especially near major highways. Popular travel centers include Love's, Pilot Flying J, Sheetz, and Wawa. Grocery stores and outdoor retailers are available along the way for food, camping gear, and other essentials.

Booking Your Campground Reservations

It is always a good idea to book your RV camping spots in advance during peak seasons, including late spring and summer. Book your reservations at least a few days before your arrival during non-peak seasons. 

RV Logistics:

• Seasonal driving conditions: Winter driving can be challenging on this route, as snow and icy conditions are possible in several states along the way. For the most comfortable travel conditions, consider planning this RV trip between late spring and early fall. 

• Road grades: While most of the drive follows major interstates, you may encounter rolling hills and steeper grades in parts of Pennsylvania and the Appalachian region. Downshift early on inclines, maintain steady speeds, and allow extra braking distance on descents, especially when towing.

• RV-friendly campgrounds: Along this route, you'll find a variety of RV-friendly campgrounds offering convenient access and solid amenities. Options include Indiana Dunes National Park, Starved Rock State Park, Cherry Hill Park, and Fort Frederick State Park.

An RV trip from Chicago to Washington, D.C. will give you an opportunity to explore U.S. history and take in all the historic sites commemorating the country's rich past. You'll gain a deeper appreciation for the people, events, and stories that shaped the nation.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

To plan an RV road trip from Chicago 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 Chicago 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 Chicago 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!