Your Trip At a Glance
- Trip Length: 9 hours, 37 minutes
- Mileage: 614 miles
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Fun fact: Ships carry between 30 million and 40 million tons of cargo through the Welland Canal every year while entering or leaving Lake Erie.
After a fairly quick trip around the western end of Lake Erie, the Detroit to New York RV trip provides opportunities to explore a national forest and a world-famous amusement park. The terrain through which you will travel is predominately rural, but there are few urban centers that'll pique your interest as well.
Road Trip Planner: Stops Along Your Route
You can drive this route in a single day with no stops, so "stopping to smell the roses" is a good strategy to enjoy the drive fully. Along the way, there are at least a dozen RV parks and campgrounds either on or near Route 80 through Pennsylvania. Before you get there, you will find a few such campgrounds along the same road in Ohio.
Cedar Point
Cedar Point is a Six Flags amusement park that's famous for its world-class collection of roller coasters. In fact, its nickname is "America's Roller Coast" because of its proximity to Lake Erie. If you're a coaster enthusiast, then this is the place for you! Just remember that it's a popular location during the spring and summer months, so buying tickets beforehand is a good idea. Cedar Point is 112 miles from Detroit.
RV Info & Tips
RV Campground: The Sandusky RV Resort is a convenient place to RV.
How Long to Stay: It'd be a good idea to plan for at least a full day. It's possible for there to be long lines for each roller coaster or other ride.
Roads: Both Route 80 and Route 2 pass by Cedar Point, making it easily accessible for RVers.
The Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, Cleveland
It's only 65 miles from Cedar Point to the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in Cleveland. The Hall not only has exhibits for the people who have been inducted but also a collection of events and other presentations throughout the year.
RV Info & Tips
How Long to Stay: It depends on how much exploration you want to do and if you want to attend an event or concert. A day or two is a great length of time to stay.
RV Campgrounds: Check out Rvshare's list of RV campgrounds in and around Cleveland.
Roads: Cleveland is a major metropolitan area in northern Ohio, so the roads therein, along with those that enter and leave the city, are highways just right for RV cruising.
Daffin's Chocolate Kingdom
Located in Sharon, Pennsylvania, Daffin's Chocolate Kingdom includes not only its name-worthy treat but also other kinds of candies. If you have a sweet tooth, then this is a fantastic place to stop and browse. Be sure to take some treats with you for the road!
RV Info & Tips
RV Campgrounds: The closest RV park is the Mercer Kampground of America, which is 18 miles away to the east.
Seasonality: The chocolate kingdom is open year round. However, the RV parks in the area might close after Labor Day. Therefore, it'd be wise to check with them regarding availability.
How Long to Stay: You can explore all the sweets this place has to offer in a single afternoon.
Allegheny National Forest
If hiking is your thing, then the Allegheny National Forest, which is 75 miles from Sharon, is just the place to stop for a couple of days. The forest provides more than 600 miles of hiking trails. Just in case two wheels are your preference over two feet, you can ride mountain bikes on many of the hiking trails. There are even dispersed camping options if you'd like to "rough it."
RV Info & Tips
Gear & Prep: Be sure to bring along at least a gallon of water per person per hour while hiking, especially during the summer months. Have broken-in boots available for these trails. Having a battery-operated GPS would be smart, too.
Seasonality: As with many outdoor options, the time from late spring until late fall is the best time to visit. The changing leaves during the autumn are worth the trip by themselves, for example.
Roads: Fortunately, the forest is accessible by highways, so you won't have much trouble driving in your RV. If you choose a dispersed camping area, though, then it'd be smart to check weather reports and any relevant warnings on the applicable websites before setting up.
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Pro Tips to Make the Most of Your Trip
Remember the old saying about the "best laid plans of mice and men." No matter how much you plan for what you think is every eventuality, things will happen that you did not expect. Be prepared with backup plans and/or materials in your RV.
Fuel & Supplies Along the Way
Despite this being a heavily traveled set of roads with ample fuel supplies, it's always a good idea never to allow yourself to get near empty on the fuel gauge. A smart plan is always to fill up when you get down to a quarter tank. It's fun, too, to bring most of your food and drink with you and to cook in your RV rather than eat at restaurants. It allows for both full immersion into the RV experience and quality family time.
Timing & Logistics
The more you try to plan for everything, the higher your stress level will be. It pays to remember that everything will take longer than you think it will. For example, if you think the lines at the rides in Cedar Point will take two hours each, then you should make that four hours. If it only takes 90 minutes, then count it as a win. Never rush to "catch up" to your plan. You'll get there, and it's not a problem not to arrive at the exact minute you planned.
Required RV Logistics
Road grades: Rural Pennsylvania has some low mountains, and as you approach New York, you'll experience the Poconos. But, none of the main roads will exceed the 6% grade limit set by the Highway Administration.
Fuel availability: Route 80 has frequent fuel stops, so you should have no issues. If you plan to detour off of the highway for any reason, then be sure to prepare by filling up beforehand.
Height restrictions: If you stay on Route 80, then you won't have any problems. However, if you decide to take the Pennsylvania Turnpike instead, then you will go through some tunnels. Most of these will accommodate all but the biggest rigs, but you might encounter one for which you might need to detour. Be sure to check them out before starting your trip if you plan to rent a big rig,
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I plan an RV road trip from Detroit to New York?
To plan an RV road trip from Detroit to New York, 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 Detroit to New York 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 Detroit to New York. 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!