Road Trip with RVshare Columbus to Albany

On your road trip from Columbus to Albany, you will want to follow this itinerary if you want to maximize your enjoyment while you're on the road. Before you leave Columbus, you should check out some of its excellent museums and educational attractions, such as the Franklin Park Conservatory, Columbus Zoo and Aquarium, and Center of Science and Industry. As you head up north, you will pass through Cleveland, and you should not miss a chance to visit the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame. Your last stop is in New York's capital, and Albany provides visitors with a perfect opportunity to check out some impressive museums and art galleries.

Road Trip Planner: Stops Along Your Route

On this Columbus to Albany RV road trip, you will pass through several cities. Many of these spots have camping accommodations and sanitary dump stations. No matter where you stop for the day or night, you can stay comfortable on the road. 

Cleveland, Ohio

Cleveland is a major city in Ohio, and it is located on the southern shore of Lake Erie. While you are in town, you should check out some musical history at the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame. The Cleveland Museum of Art has a diverse collection that spans over 6,000 years. If you are traveling with the kids, you should stop at the Cleveland Metroparks Zoo. Along with the fun attractions, Cleveland is the perfect place to pull off the road and to find a great campground for the night. 

Buffalo, New York

Buffalo is the second-largest city in New York, and there are plenty of things to see and do. If you're a fan of Frank Lloyd Wright, you can visit his Martin House in the city. The city's Canalside Park is the perfect spot for some rest or recreation. Since 1875, the Buffalo Zoo has been delighting visitors with its collection of rare and endangered animals. After a day of visiting the attractions, you have plenty of campground options for your rig. If you need to clean the waste tanks, there are a few dump stations near the city. 

Syracuse, New York

Syracuse is the perfect spot to visit a museum. This city is home to the Erie Canal Museum and the Milton J. Rubenstein Museum of Science & Technology (MOST). The Everson Museum of Art has a large collection of works from American artists. If you want to catch a performance, then you should visit the 1920s Landmark Theatre. At the end of the day, you will find campgrounds and  dump stations throughout the surrounding area. 

National Parks

On this Columbus to Albany road trip adventure, you will travel near two national parks. If you have time on your trip, you should think about checking out these locations. 

Indiana Dunes National Park

Indiana Dunes National Park is one of the newest parks in the country. This national park is tucked in the northwestern part of Indiana, and it lies on the southern shore of Lake Michigan. It covers over 20 square miles of land and 15 miles of lakefront property. If you love to get out and play in the great outdoors, this is the spot for you. Horseback riding, fishing, water sports, hiking, and biking are among the most popular activities in this park. The Indiana Dunes National Park is known for its prairies, forests, rivers, wetlands, and rugged dunes. Many visitors head to this location to check out the stunning maples, basswoods, and oak trees that line the hiking trails. However, the real attraction is the beautiful lakefront. This national park is the perfect spot to relax on the sandy shore or to swim in the waters of Lake Michigan.

Cuyahoga Valley National Park

Cuyahoga Valley National Park is located between the cities of Akron and Cleveland. If you want to get some exercise, then you should head down to the Ohio and Erie Canal Towpath Trail. This trail is a restored portion of the canal's original towpath. In the northern part of the park, the Canal Exploration Center gives you a few details about the history of the 19th-century waterway. For those adventurers, you might want to check out the Towering Brandywine Falls. This waterfall is said to be the most picturesque in the entire park. You can also catch a ride on the Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad. This railroad allows you to see the entire park from the comfort of a club car. 

Nearby State Parks

As you enjoy your Columbus to Albany road trip, make sure to check out these fantastic state parks in Ohio and New York. 

Deer Creek State Park

Deer Creek State Park is only a short drive from Columbus. This state park makes the perfect spot to start your outdoor adventure. Deer Creek covers over 3,100 acres of lush woodlands, and there are plenty of recreational opportunities to enjoy. Since the park surrounds a scenic reservoir, many visitors head to this area to hit the water for boating, swimming, and fishing. You can get a closer look at the natural wonders on the hiking trails. If you want to spend the night, this state park has a lodge and a few cottages available for rent. 

Kelleys Island State Park

If you want to enjoy nature's beauty, you need to visit Kelleys Island State Park. This park is teeming with natural beauty. You will love the views of the crystal caverns, limestone cliffs, and shimmering Lake Erie. This state park was once the native land of the Ottawa and Huron Indian tribes. Today, the state park is one of the most popular recreational areas in the state. This park is an excellent spot to hit the trails or to explore the waterways. If you want to enjoy a local delicacy, make sure to sample the wine made from the island's grapes. 

Cherry Plain State Park

Cherry Plain State Park is surrounded by a conservation area. This is a great park to visit throughout the year, and it is the perfect spot for camping, hiking, or biking. If you want to catch some fish, then you should head over to Black River Pond. This area has a boat launch, and many visitors head to this location to hook a few bass and bullheads. You can even spend the night in this park at one of the campsites or cabins. 

Along the Way

During this Columbus to Albany road trip, you should take a day or two to explore these points of interest. 

Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens

Located in Columbus, the conservatory was originally built in 1895, and it is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. You can view the exotic plant collections, Dale Chihuly glass art, and special exhibitions. This conservatory contains over 400 plant species, and its biomes represent five different climates.

Columbus Zoo and Aquarium

The Columbus Zoo and Aquarium is home to hundreds of species from around the world. In addition to the zoo, the complex includes an 18-hole safari golf club and the Zoombezi Bay water park. This location is a perfect spot to have fun and learn about all the different birds, reptiles, and mammals from across the globe. 

Rock & Roll Hall of Fame

The Rock & Roll Hall of Fame is located in Cleveland. If you are a fan of music, you will want to stop by this fascinating museum. This location covers the history of rock music, and it honors the musicians, producers, engineers, and others who have influenced the genre. 

Albany Institute of History & Art

This Albany museum is dedicated to collecting and preserving the history of the Upper Hudson Valley area. It was founded in 1791, and it is one of the oldest museums in the United States. If you are a history fan, you will definitely want to stop at this museum. While you are there, you can check out the exhibits about art and history. There is even a cafe and gift shop located in the museum. 

When you follow this road trip itinerary from Columbus to Albany, 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 Columbus or Albany.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I plan an RV road trip from Columbus to Albany?

To plan an RV road trip from Columbus to Albany, 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 Columbus to Albany 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 Columbus to Albany. 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!