Road Trip with RVshare Houston to Montgomery

A Houston to Montgomery road trip will expose you and your family to many amazing vistas and will end at one of the most critical cities for the Civil Rights Movement. The trip will see you traveling west to east, and during the trip, you'll travel through multiple states, including Texas, Arkansas, Louisiana, and Mississippi. Along the way, expect to encounter several state parks; multiple points of interest, such as the USS Alabama; and sprawling cities like beautiful Baton Rouge. This trip will also expose you to miles of coastline, so take the time to fish off the Gulf of Mexico. In this body of water, you’ll find Spanish mackerel, king mackerel, and crevalle jack, all of which make delicious dinners as well as fun for catching. 

Road Trip Planner: Stops Along Your Route

Beaumont, Texas

After Houston, the first city you’ll hit during your road trip from Houston to Montgomery is beautiful Beaumont. Beaumont has a population of 118,000, and it is home to the first major oil field in the United States, which was discovered in 1901. Beaumont is also home to the world’s largest working fire hydrant. The area is also known for its alligator population – you can find over 400 of them living in the waterways around town. If you’re looking for a place to offload your gray water, Texas has several dump stations to use.

Beaumont’s campgrounds are fairly numerous. Some noteworthy examples include Bearazinga RV Park, AAA RV Park, and LaBelle RV Park. Each of these has multiple sites for different RV types, and each also has full hookups. For those with animal buddies, LaBelle is pet friendly, and there is plenty of land for you to hike and to walk your furry friend.

Lafayette, Louisiana

Lafayette is the fourth-largest city in Louisiana and is considered the center of Cajun and Creole culture in the United States. The city was established as a home for the dispossessed Acadians expelled from Canada by the British in the 18th century. Today, Lafayette is a foodie’s dream; there’s Cajun food aplenty in the city, and the sheer number of restaurants in the area is staggering. In addition to the culinary value of the town, Lafayette has a thriving art scene that embraces the visual and performing arts. It’s also home to the University of Louisiana at Lafayette.

While in town, you’ll have a variety of local campgrounds to consider. For those looking for parks with both back-in and pull-through sites, consider campgrounds like KOA Kampground of Lafayette or Acadia Park Campgrounds. Both of these have full hookups and accommodate a wide variety of RV types. Acadia Park is even pet-friendly, and there are other pet-friendly locations in the area, such as Bayou Wilderness RV Resort and Chase’s RV Park. There are also several local dump stations.

Baton Rouge, Louisiana

Home to the massive Tiger Stadium, Baton Rouge is a city that has a truly rich history. Originally the home of the Houmas tribe, Baton Rouge has several landmarks that relate to this ancient group. For example, the Indian Mounds here are actually older than the pyramids of Egypt. The name of the city translates to “Red Stick” in French, which is a reference to the stick that was used as a dividing line between the hunting grounds of the native Bayougoula and Houmas tribes. Today, Baton Rouge is home to Civil War battlegrounds, the tallest state capitol in the U.S., and the first successful Civil Rights bus boycott in 1953.

Looking for a place to rest? There are local campgrounds. Some to consider are Baton Rouge KOA Holiday, which has 106 sites; Night RV Park, which is pet-friendly; and Port Allen’s Cajun Country Campground, which has both back-in and pull-through sites for your RV. While here, use one of the local dump stations where you can offload your wastewater.

National Parks

Hot Springs National Park

The closest national park on this trip is in nearby Arkansas. Hot Springs National Park is a beautiful location that should be included as a detour during your Houston to Montgomery RV road trip. Hot Springs National Park is in Hot Springs, Arkansas, and it’s a little more than 400 miles away from Houston, where your trip begins. Here, you’ll be able to witness some truly breathtaking geological formations, and there is also a spa and bathhouse at the national park. Additionally, there are hiking opportunities, campgrounds, and plenty of chances to observe nature and some of the wildlife species that call the area home.

Nearby State Parks

Sea Rim State Park

Sea Rim State Park is one of the coastal locations that you’ll hit on your way from Houston to Montgomery. There are 5 miles of beachfront at this state park and over 4,141 acres of land to explore. The park is ideal for bird watchers, and there are plenty of activities to do on the water, such as fishing, kayaking, and swimming. There are even horse riding opportunities here.

Palmetto Island State Park

Named for the shaggy palmetto trees that call this area of Louisiana home, Palmetto Island State Park is a swampy state park that rests on the Vermillion River. This location spans over 1,200 acres, and it’s not uncommon to encounter several types of wildlife, including alligators, within the park limits.

Fontainebleau State Park

Named for a beautiful forest near Paris, Fontainebleau State Park began its life as a sugar plantation in the 18th century. Today, the area still gets a week of rain each month, which means that the park is primarily composed of wetlands. At Fontainebleau, there are hiking, fishing, and birding opportunities aplenty, and there are also several nearby RV parks and campgrounds.

Oak Mountain State Park

With almost 10,000 acres to explore, you’ll have a full day at Oak Mountain. This is Alabama’s largest state park – its size is almost on par with some national parks! This park is perfect for birdwatchers, and the weather throughout the year is consistently pleasant.

Along the Way

Imperial Calcasieu Museum

If you want to include some art on your road trip itinerary from Houston to Montgomery, consider the Imperial Calcasieu Museum. This museum was founded in the 1960s and seeks to expand art awareness and appreciation. There are several events throughout the year, and exhibits feature a wide range of subjects, like Remembering Mossville, the Sallier Oak, and Boogaloo. There are also independent programs like Yoga Under the Oak and Toys R Art, which are designed to promote the value of the arts to school-aged children and teens.

Children’s Museum of Acadiana

Located in Lafayette, Louisiana, the Children’s Museum of Acadiana is a good option for parents looking to provide children with hands-on learning opportunities. At the museum, the goal is to teach children practical knowledge, so physical activity is expected. Here, kids can find full-sized exhibits, such as “Ami – The Acadian Ambulance,” which is a full-sized ambulance that’s complete with flashing lights. Additionally, exhibits like “Architecture Alley” and “201 E. Congress, A Site History” provide kids with exposure to important societal elements.

USS Alabama

Converted into a museum, the USS Alabama is a retired battleship that saw action in the Second World War. Today, she serves as a way for children to understand some of the United States’ naval history. There are exhibits about tanks and artillery, an aircraft pavilion, and an eatery called The Galley. Throughout the year, there are also several programs and events that are sure to interest children who want to learn a little more about history.

Civil Rights Memorial

In your final destination of Montgomery, take the time to visit the Civil Rights Memorial, which is there to honor the history of the struggle for equality in the country. Inscribed on a granite fountain are the names of 41 people who were killed fighting for Civil Rights. 

When you follow this road trip itinerary from Houston to Montgomery, 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 Montgomery.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

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