Your Trip At a Glance
- Trip Length: 17 hours and 15 minutes
- Mileage: 1,161 miles
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Fun fact: Detroit is considered the birthplace of Motown, and the city’s nickname is “Motor City.”
On your RV excursion from Detroit to Orlando, you’ll pass through vibrant towns and cities and encounter an intriguing mix of quirky roadside spectacles and natural wonders. The journey showcases brilliant landscapes with shifting terrains, from Midwestern plains to forested hills and peaceful wetlands as you travel through Ohio, North Carolina, Georgia, and Florida.
Road Trip Planner: Stops Along Your Route
When driving from Detroit to Orlando, you’ll see a remarkable mix of landscapes, starting with the Midwestern plains before transitioning into industrial and metro areas in Ohio. As you continue south, the route moves through the rolling hills and forested countryside of North Carolina, with scenic stretches and optional detours toward the Appalachian region. Farther south, Georgia’s pine forests and tree-lined highways give way to Florida’s wetlands and sandy coastlines.
Columbus, OH
While on your RV adventure, you might want to stop in Columbus, OH. In Columbus, you will find many magnificent attractions, including Columbus Zoo and Aquarium & The Wilds, Center of Science and Industry, Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens, and Scioto Mile & Greenway Trails. You can stock up on essentials and food at ALDI, North Market Downtown, or Market District Supermarket. You will find camping gear and equipment at Cabela’s, REI, and SITKA Gear. While visiting local attractions, you can stop by and get lunch at Butcher & Rose or The Pearl.
RV Info & Tips:
● Campgrounds: While staying in Columbus, you will find many RV campgrounds and great amenities. These campgrounds include Sunbury/Columbus North KOA, Jellystone Park North, Alton RV Park, and Berkshire Lake Campground. The amenities include full hookups, swimming pools, dog parks, laundry facilities, and playgrounds.
● Seasonality: Most of the RV campgrounds in Columbus are open from May to October. However, during the off-season, you can get seasonal and extended stay options at larger campgrounds.
● How Long to Stay: You should stay in Columbus for at least two days if you want to see everything that the city has to offer.
Winston-Salem, NC
Winston-Salem, NC, is a great place to stop along the way. Some of the city's main attractions include Old Salem Museum & Gardens, Downtown Winston-Salem, and Tanglewood Park. Restock your fridge by shopping at Publix, ALDI, The Fresh Market, or Trader Joe’s. Grab new camping gear at Great Outdoor Provision Co., Academy Sports, or Sportsman’s Warehouse. Dine out at local restaurants, including Twisted Pine, Sage & Salt, and The Old Fourth Street Filling Station.
RV Info & Tips:
● Campgrounds: During your visit, you can stay at beautiful RV campgrounds with plenty of wonderful amenities. These RV campgrounds include Salem Breeze RV Park, Winston-Salem Fairgrounds Campground, and Jomeokee Campground. The amenities include electric and water hookups, bathhouses, Wi-Fi, restrooms, and playgrounds.
● Seasonality: Many RV campgrounds are open year-round. However, the Fairgrounds Campground is only open from September to October, and Teaberry Hill is seasonal and only open from May to October.
● How Long to Stay: You can visit all attractions in Winston-Salem within two to three days.
Jacksonville, FL
Once you enter Florida, consider a stop in Jacksonville. This city boasts many amazing attractions, including Kathryn Abbey Park, the nearby Ginnie Springs, Jacksonville Zoo, Tree Hill Nature Center, and Boneyard Beach. If you need more groceries, you can shop at ALDI, Freshfields Farm Jacksonville, The Fresh Market, or Trader Joe’s. For camping gear and supplies, you can shop at REI, Sportsman’s Warehouse, and Academy Sports and Outfitters. When visiting Jacksonville, try one of the city's top restaurants, such as The District SPR, River & Post, or RH Rooftop Restaurant.
RV Info & Tips:
● Campgrounds: While you stay in Jacksonville, you can find many RV campgrounds with amazing views and amenities. A few of the more popular RV-friendly campgrounds in the area include Big Tree RV Park, Fleetwood RV Park, and Thompson Mill RV Park. The amenities include full hookups, laundry facilities, pull-thru sites, dump stations, and cable TV.
● Seasonality: You will find both seasonal and year-round RV campgrounds in Jacksonville. The peak season runs between March and October. Snowbirds can find seasonal and extended stay options.
● How Long to Stay: To get the most out of your stay, you should consider staying in Jacksonville between three and four days.
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Pro Tips to Make the Most of Your Trip
You can make the most out of your RV trip from Detroit to Orlando by following our helpful tips. These tips will help you find vital services, like gas stations and camping stores, on your trip. By traveling smarter, you avoid inconveniences and enjoy your trip more.
Alternate Route Options
One of the fastest routes from Detroit to Orlando starts on I-77 South and connects to I-95 South. However, if you want an alternate route, you can travel down I-75 South. This route will take you through Ohio, Kentucky, Tennessee, Georgia, and then Florida.
Fuel & Supplies Along the Way
On this route, you can stop at 24-hour gas stations to fuel up and grab snacks. You should fuel up during the day when traveling through rural areas. Camping and grocery stores open in the morning and typically close by 9 or 10 p.m. You may find 24-hour stores in larger cities.
Campground Reservations and Advance Bookings
After you plan your stops, go ahead and reserve your RV camping spots ahead of time. Peak seasons, like late spring and summer, bring larger crowds, and the camping spots fill quickly.
RV Logistics List:
● Seasonal driving conditions: Winters will mean snow in areas of Ohio, West Virginia, and the Carolinas. Snow is also likely in the northern portions of Georgia. When traveling during the summer, you should track severe storms and hurricane alerts. Road closings are likely in the summer due to heavy rainfall in Georgia and Florida.
● Fuel availability or long stretches without services: On this route, you will find plenty of 24-hour gas stations, like Love’s and Pilot Flying J. However, as you travel through more quaint towns, you may encounter earlier closing times. You will see long stretches of highway without these services.
● RV-friendly campgrounds or overnight stays: If you are setting up camp or just need somewhere to stay overnight, you can stay at local RV campgrounds. Your options include Waldo RV & Motorsports Park, Hammondell Campsites and RV Park, and The Campsites at Disney’s Fort Wilderness.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I plan an RV road trip from Detroit to Orlando?
To plan an RV road trip from Detroit to Orlando, 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 Orlando 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 Orlando. 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!