Road Trip with RVshare Houston to Corpus Christi

A Houston to Corpus Christi road trip is one of the best ways to see Texas' famed Coastal Bend region. The trip involves passing through beautiful, scenic towns that have a lot of history and stunning natural beauty. This area is also host to an impressive variety of bird species. The climate is usually warm all year, with perfect weather for outdoor activities. Water sports enthusiasts will not run out of things to do. No matter whether you're hitting the beach, going birdwatching, or trying other activities, you're in for a fantastic trip.

Road Trip Planner: Stops Along Your Route

When you're on your Houston to Corpus Christi road trip, traveling along US-59 will take you through some exciting cities. There are several camping areas and dump stations in this part of the state should you prefer to extend your trip by a few days.

Sugar Land

A bustling city of over 100,000 in the southwest area of Houston, Sugar Land is host to the Fort Bend Children's Discovery Center and Houston Museum of Natural Science at Sugar Land, as well as a beautiful collection of trails. Stay at one of the campgrounds in the area and take advantage of everything to see in this city.

Refugio  

Known for being the site of the Battle of Refugio, the town retains many of its 19th-century buildings, including the Refugio County Courthouse and Our Lady of Refuge Catholic Church. Nearby campgrounds will give you an opportunity to explore this historical area.

El Campo

El Campo was originally used by Mexican cowboys in the 1800s, leading to its name of "the camp." This city, known as the "pearl of the prairie," has nearby, highly recommended campgrounds if you want to spend some more time in the area.

Victoria

Victoria is known for being at a crossroads within two hours of four of Texas' major metropolitan areas. Staying at one of the campgrounds here is a great way to start exploring everything this region has to offer.

National Parks

There are several national parks, national historical parks, and other national treasures to visit on your road trip!

Lyndon B. Johnson National Historical Park

The Lyndon B. Johnson National Historical Park is about three and a half hours from Houston on your Houston to Corpus Christi road trip and gives visitors an exciting glimpse into the life of the 36th President. The visitor centers help tell Johnson's story through interpretive exhibits that help bring the man's history to life, from his childhood, through his presidency and beyond. The site consists of the President's boyhood home, Johnson Settlement, and the LBJ Ranch, all of which are available for tours.

San Antonio Missions National Historical Park  

San Antonio Missions National Historical Park, located about three hours from San Antonio, includes missions that date back to the early 1700s when Spanish missionaries were at their most active. The four missions, Concepcion, San Juan, San Juan Capistrano, and Espada, are open for guided tours and provide exciting glimpses into early mission life. This park also has a bike trail that has beautiful scenery that you will appreciate. 

Palo Alto Battlefield National Historical Park  

Palo Alto Battlefield National Historical Park is located just over two hours from Corpus Christi. This park was the site of the first battle of the Texas Revolution, which would help build the foundations for what would become the State of Texas. Guided tours of the battlefield are available that give visitors a whole new perspective into the lives of the soldiers. The rangers also give talks about the battlefield that are very informative. Be sure to add this stop to your Houston to Corpus Christi RV road trip.

Big Bend National Park

If you're up for an adventure in the form of a stunning park, then Big Bend National Park, located seven and a half hours from Corpus Christi, is worthy of your attention. This park has a beautiful mixture of landscapes, from mountains and canyons to a desert and river, ideal for hiking, climbing, and rafting, as well as camping. The location's distance from major cities provides perfect dark-sky conditions for stargazing.

Nearby State Parks

Galveston Island State Park

Galveston Island State Park has one of the top beach locations to consider on your Houston to Corpus Christi road trip and is only one hour from Houston. Surfing and fishing are among some of the most popular water-based activities at this park due to optimal conditions most of the time. The hiking trails are a great place to take part in some serious birdwatching, as well as enjoy the warm sea breeze.

Brazos Bend State Park

Brazos Bend State Park in Needville, TX, is host to some of the more unique wildlife in the area, such as alligators. The Houston Museum of Natural Science has an observatory so you can learn more about the starry skies. Fishing, hiking, bicycling, and horseback riding are among the activities that you can take advantage of here. 

Goose Island State Park

Goose Island State Park has one of the largest numbers of birds that you'll see in a Texas state park, in a convenient location 46 minutes from Corpus Christi. The famous Big Tree in the park is an attraction you'll enjoy as you explore everything. There are also several excellent fishing spots throughout the park. 

Corpus Christi State Park

When you go to Lake Corpus Christi State Park on your road trip from Houston to Corpus Christi, you can experience a broad variety of activities in the park. Boating and paddleboarding are two of the most popular activities on the lake, along with swimming. Birdwatching and fishing are also popular among visitors to the park.

Mustang Island State Park

Mustang Island State Park is a perfect addition to your Houston to Corpus Christi road trip as it is only 27 minutes from Corpus Christi. If you enjoy walking along beaches with beautiful white dunes, this park is one of the best places for you to enjoy a beach day. Kayaking is also very popular here.

Along the Way

Space Center Houston

Space Center Houston is 33 minutes from Houston and is home to NASA's historic Mission Control. The museum has a mix of 400 traveling and permanent exhibits, as well as artifacts that relate to space travel. There are theaters at the Space Center that show films of the history of human spaceflight, using the latest theatrical technology for superior visuals and sound.

Texas SouthWind Vineyard and Winery

Texas SouthWind Vineyard and Winery is about two and a half hours from Houston. This addition to your Houston to Corpus Christi road trip itinerary will introduce you to the daily activities of a vineyard. This winery spans 145 acres, producing grapes and fruit for red, white, and dessert wines. The winery is a beautiful place to tour, and you will also have a chance to sample many of the wines.

The 1892 Victoria County Courthouse

The 1892 Victoria County Courthouse, located two hours from Houston, showcases unique architecture featuring the Romanesque Revival style. This courthouse, as one of Victoria's oldest buildings, is a well-known landmark and one of the most-photographed buildings in the area. You'll enjoy opportunities to take pictures while you're in town.

Fulton Mansion State Historic Site

The Fulton Mansion was constructed between 1847 and 1877 and was known for state-of-the-art features for its time, like copper tubs and indoor plumbing. Visitors are welcome to go on a self-guided tour to get a better look at the property, which is 40 minutes from Corpus Christi. The Visitor Center has exciting displays sharing more of the history of the area.

The Aquarium at Rockport Harbor, Inc.

The Aquarium at Rockport Harbor, Inc. is a great stop to add on a Houston to Corpus Christi RV road trip and boasts free exhibits just 38 minutes from Corpus Christi. This aquarium highlights local marine life and the importance of preserving these species. The aquarium also has a gift shop that you can stop by while you're here.

When you follow this road trip itinerary from Houston to Corpus Christi, 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 Houston or Corpus Christi.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I plan an RV road trip from Houston to Corpus Christi?

To plan an RV road trip from Houston to Corpus Christi, 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 Corpus Christi 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 Corpus Christi. 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!