Road Trip with RVshare Dallas to San Diego

Whether you're a new RVer looking for a challenge or an experienced traveler seeking a change of scenery, driving from Dallas to San Diego offers dozens of opportunities to explore the desert, visit cultural areas, and have new experiences. The trip is long, but since you're spending most of the journey on the interstate, it's also RV-friendly. At the end, you can park your rental RV in one of San Diego's campgrounds and enjoy your view of the coastline.

Road Trip Planner: Stops Along Your Route

When you need a break from driving, take time to explore some of the cities, campgrounds, and state parks along your route. You could visit a water park, take a museum tour, or practice your nature photography in the desert. This also gives you the chance to make new friends and fuel up your RV before hitting the road again.

Arlington, Texas

As the home of the Dallas Cowboys and Texas Rangers, Arlington is a popular destination for sports lovers. Other attractions include Six Flags Over Texas, museums, the famous Entertainment District, and various campgrounds, parks, and nature areas. Watch a live football game, then enjoy Texas barbecue at a local restaurant and kick back in your RV at night.

RV Info & Tips:

• Campgrounds: Dallas/Arlington KOA Holiday (pull-thru sites, free WiFi), Treetops RV Community (full hookups, concrete patios)

• Roads: Arlington is easy to reach via I-30, which runs through the city. Multiple exits provide access to the Entertainment District and nearby campgrounds, making navigation straightforward for RVers.

• How Long to Stay: A day or two should give you enough time to visit the major attractions.

Phoenix, Arizona

Phoenix is a thriving desert community with shopping centers, award-winning restaurants, water parks, cultural centers, and wildlife viewing areas. Once you've explored the metropolitan area, visit a local campground or nature preserve to admire the desert's natural beauty.

RV Info & Tips:

• Campgrounds: Plaza Verde RV Park (full hookups, back-in sites), Covered Wagon RV Park (full hookups, pool access)

• Roads: To reach downtown Phoenix, take the 7th Street exit on I-10.

• How Long to Stay: Consider staying for a day or two to see the attractions.

Coronado National Forest

Coronado National Forest offers a wide range of environments, including mountains, streams, lakes, and desert landscapes. Hit the hiking trails during the day, then have lunch at a picnic site and stay at a campground overnight. The park offers trails, scenic overlooks, and even a seasonal ski area near Mount Lemmon. During your stay, take time to appreciate the cacti, wildflowers, and unique bird species.

RV Info & Tips:

• Roads: Access points vary by ranger district, with major routes including I-10, I-19, and several state highways leading into different mountain ranges. Some forest roads are narrow and winding, so check conditions before heading off the main highway.

• How Long to Stay: If you want to explore the trails, consider staying overnight.

• Gear & Prep: Bring everything you need for exploring the wilderness, including boots, sunscreen, hats, bottled water, and comfortable hiking clothes.

Pro Tips to Make the Most of Your Trip

Driving from Dallas to San Diego takes at least a day or two, so plan your route and make reservations at the campgrounds where you'd like to stay overnight. This is important if you're traveling in the summer when campsites fill up quickly.

Alternate Route Options

If you want to spend more time exploring New Mexico, consider leaving I-40 and following US-84 or US-60 through smaller towns and desert landscapes before reconnecting with major highways farther west. These routes pass through scenic stretches of central New Mexico and offer a quieter driving experience with fewer trucks and less congestion. While taking smaller highways adds several hours to the overall trip, it allows you to slow down, enjoy local stops, and experience parts of the Southwest that are easy to miss when staying on the interstates.

Timing & Logistics

Spring and autumn are the best times to visit San Diego because you'll enjoy less traffic, reduced crowds, and comfortable temperatures. In autumn, the temperatures usually hover between the 60s and 70s, allowing you to enjoy the sights without getting overheated.

Fuel & Supplies Along the Way

You'll pass through some major cities, such as Fort Worth, Tucson, and El Paso, that have plenty of gas stations, rest stops, and grocery stores. However, you'll also drive through long stretches of desert, so make sure you fuel up whenever you get the chance.

RV Route Logistics:

• Ideal duration: Theoretically, you could complete this trip in a day, but taking at least 2 to 3 days allows you to drive at a comfortable pace and occasionally stop to see the local attractions.

• RVing along this route: This trip is great for novice RVers because you'll spend most of the drive on I-10. Just make sure you fuel up whenever you can, because you'll be driving through long stretches of desert.

• Best time to go: Generally, spring and autumn offer the best temperatures. If you decide to visit San Diego in the summer, make sure your RV has working AC and plenty of bottled water.

• RV-friendly campgrounds: You'll find dozens of RV parks along your route, especially near major cities.

With over a thousand miles between Dallas and San Diego, this is a trip for people who genuinely love the open road. You'll spend a large percentage of your time in your vehicle, but renting an RV lets you relax in clean, air-conditioned accommodations with access to a kitchen, bedroom, and private restroom. Plus, you can pull over at any time and enjoy the desert landscape.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I plan an RV road trip from Dallas to San Diego?

To plan an RV road trip from Dallas to San Diego, 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 Dallas to San Diego 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 Dallas to San Diego. 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!