Road Trip with RVshare Houston to Colorado Springs

The drive from Houston to Colorado Springs takes you through wide-open plains, across rolling hills, and along scenic backroads. You’ll have plenty of opportunities to stop for photo ops at overlooks and natural landmarks. RV-friendly campgrounds along the way make it simple to plan overnight stays where you have everything you need to rest and recharge. Feel free to customize our itinerary to your travel style so you can enjoy every mile of the journey. With so many detours and attractions on the route, you can easily turn your trip into a full adventure.

Road Trip Planner: Stops Along Your Route

Your journey from Houston to Colorado Springs will start by taking Interstate 45 toward Dallas. Along the way, you can stop at The Woodlands and Waco before you reach Amarillo. Then, as you cross into New Mexico, you’ll come to Raton, which is the perfect place for staying overnight. As you get closer to Colorado Springs, you’ll travel through Raton Pass and Trinidad, both of which offer awe-inspiring mountain scenery.

Lake Meredith National Recreation Area, Texas

Just after crossing into the Texas Panhandle is the Lake Meredith National Recreation Area. It’s the ideal place to stop for some boating, fishing, and hiking. If you come during the summer, you may want to bring your swimsuit to swim in the lake. Hiking along the canyon rim is an excellent way to take in sweeping views of the landscape. The red rock cliffs provide a dramatic backdrop for photos.

RV Info & Tips:

• Campgrounds: This recreation area does have onsite campgrounds for RVs. Blue West Campground and Sanford-Yake Campground both offer electric hookups, along with nearby dump stations and fresh water fill points.

• How Long to Stay: Plan to stay at least one night so you can take in a gorgeous sunset and sunrise over the canyon. Two to three nights here offers even more time to explore the shoreline and check out multiple hiking trails.

• Gear & Prep: Pack your swimsuit if you come during the summer. Hiking shoes will make it easier to explore all of the different trails. Don’t forget plenty of drinking water if you plan to spend long hours outdoors.

Sugarite Canyon State Park, New Mexico

Once you make it to Raton, continue for about 15 minutes to Sugarite Canyon State Park. This stop offers forested mountain campsites and fishing at two lakes. The cool alpine air will have you refreshed as you explore the hiking trails and check out the scenic overlooks. The relaxing mountain setting makes for a peaceful break that will leave you feeling recharged before continuing your trip.

RV Info & Tips:

• Campgrounds: Soda Pocket and Lake Alice Campgrounds are both within the park and offer RV-friendly electric hookups. A dump station is also located within the park for easy waste disposal.

• How Long to Stay: This is another spot where it’s a good idea to stay at least one night to explore and unwind without feeling rushed. There are multiple trails and scenic lake views to discover.

• Gear & Prep: Mountain temperatures can drop quickly at night, so bring plenty of warm layers. Sturdy hiking shoes will make your feet more comfortable for longer walks on uneven trails. If you plan to fish, bring your fishing pole, tackle, and bait.

Spanish Peaks, Colorado

Spanish Peaks is an attraction that’s about 2.5 hours from Colorado Springs. It’s another wonderful spot to stay overnight and rest before continuing on your journey. Twin volcanic peaks showcasing dramatic rock formations provide some of the most stunning landscapes in southern Colorado. This spot is a striking gateway into the Rocky Mountains with its rugged cliffs, alpine scenery, and wide-open vistas.

RV Info & Tips:

• Campgrounds: The closest campground with RV hookups is about 30 to 40 minutes away at Lathrop State Park. The campground provides paved pads with both electric and water hookups, as well as a dump station. You’ll enjoy easy access to both boating and fishing here.

• How Long to Stay: Plan to spend about three to four hours checking out the scenic overlooks and mountain views, then an overnight stay at the nearby campground. This gives you time to enjoy the peaks and rest before you continue toward Colorado Springs.

• Gear & Prep: You’ll absolutely want to bring your camera to capture the dramatic peaks and sweeping alpine scenery. Comfortable walking shoes will make it much easier to explore the rocky viewpoints.

Pro Tips to Make the Most of Your Trip

As you make your way from Houston to Colorado Springs, you can take detours through small towns to check out local attractions. Or you might want to loop back a different way to visit scenic backroads and hidden gems. That’s the great thing about our itinerary — you can customize it any way you want.

Loop Back a Different Way

When you head back toward Houston from Colorado Springs, take US Highway 160 instead of Interstate 25. This will take you through Durango, where you can stop at Mesa Verde National Park to check out the ancient cliff dwellings. Once you reach Albuquerque, hop on Interstate 40 and continue east. This route brings you to Tucumcari, where you can stay overnight and view the classic Route 66 neon signs.

Best Time to Travel

The best time to travel from Houston to Colorado Springs is anytime during the spring or fall. These parts of the year provide the mild temperatures needed for comfortable driving. If you travel during the summer, you should expect extreme heat and heavy traffic in some areas. Driving during the winter may also present hazardous conditions, like snow and frozen roadways.

Trip Logistics

• Ideal Duration: The road trip from Houston to Colorado Springs is a lengthy one that is much more enjoyable when you split it up over several days. You don’t want to spend hours on end driving since this can lead to fatigue and agitation from exhaustion. By planning multiple overnight stays, you’ll be able to rest and relax as much as you need to keep alert and refreshed.

• Road Grades or Steep Passes: Much of the drive from Houston to Colorado Springs will take place on flat plains and open highways. Driving in an RV is very pleasant since you won’t have to worry about steep grades for most of the trip. However, once you get toward southern Colorado, you may cross into some mountain ranges that include elevation changes. You can use navigation route-planning apps to plan your route and avoid steep passes if needed.

• Fuel Availability or Long Stretches Without Services: As you come into major cities, you’ll notice an increase in fuel stations and rest stops. Most of the major highways from Houston to Colorado Springs also have lots of service areas. Once you get into rural New Mexico and southern Colorado, they become spread farther out, though. Keeping your tank at least half full is an excellent way to avoid running low on fuel.

You’re going to come across breathtaking scenery and vibrant mountain views as you go on your Houston to Colorado Springs road trip. Following our itinerary simplifies picking out stops and planning for overnight stays. To ensure you have the best time possible, make sure that you travel in the right RV. With RVshare, you get a vast selection of RVs to choose from. Check out the options today.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I plan an RV road trip from Houston to Colorado Springs?

To plan an RV road trip from Houston to Colorado Springs, 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 Houston to Colorado Springs 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 Houston to Colorado Springs. 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!