Road Trip with RVshare Houston to San Antonio

Houston is closely associated with the United States' space program, and you can tour NASA's visitor center at the flight control and astronaut training complex. You might also want to plan a visit to the Houston Grand Opera in the Theater District. While in Houston, you should make plans to stop by the Historic District to try one of the upscale restaurants or view the 19th-century architecture. On your Houston to San Antonio road trip, your final stop is rich in colonial and cultural history. The Alamo is a must-see location as it's a renowned spot that played a huge role in the battle for Texan independence. With this Houston to San Antonio road trip itinerary, you will not miss any of the fun in this Texas-sized adventure. 

Road Trip Planner: Stops Along Your Route

Several cities pass through the route on your Houston to San Antonio road trip. While on the road, you can spend the night at one of the relaxing campgrounds or find a dump station to keep your vehicle clean and healthy. 

Katy

Katy is just west of Houston, and it's known for its railroad history. At the Katy Heritage Railroad Museum, you can see the resorted depot and old caboose railroad car. This museum also features antique farming equipment. If you want to enjoy some fishing, visit the leafy Mary Jo Peckham Park. At the end of the day, you can find a few campgrounds to get a good night's sleep.

Spring

Spring is part of the Houston metro area, and it's a great place to explore. While you're visiting the Houston area, you can park your rig at one of the local campgrounds. Spring is home to the Hurricane Harbor Splashtown water park. If you would rather stay dry, then the Mercer Botanic Gardens is another popular spot in town. Finally, you'll want to see the best of Spring's nightlife, art galleries and restaurants with a stop at Old Town Spring.

San Marcos

San Marcos is the home of Texas State University. If you're a sports fan, you should check out all the college action, including an exciting football game. This place is also an excellent destination for those who want to enjoy the local music and arts festivals. The San Marcos River is a great place to canoe, kayak or tube. Once you're ready to settle down for the day, there are many campgrounds in the local area that can accommodate your RV.

National Parks

If you're looking for a great way to reconnect with nature, you might want to visit one of these national parks in Texas. These places are a great way to kick back and relax on your trip. Before you plan your road trip itinerary from Houston to San Antonio, you'll want to check out the national parks guide at RVshare's website.

Big Bend National Park

Big Bend National Park is just over an hour south of Alpine, and it's the perfect destination for mountain bikers, kayakers and hikers. Located at the Rio Grande River's bend, this 801,000-acre park separates the United States and Mexico. You'll want to plan a visit to see the park's various landscapes, including canyons, hot springs, rivers, mountains and deserts. In the Chisos Mountains, Emory Peak is the highest point at 7,832 feet. If you're looking to explore the local area, there's even a ghost town called Terlingua, and it hosts the annual Day of the Dead celebration on November 2. While you're in the park, there are several programs to join, including ranger-led walks. Big Bend is well known for its outdoor activities, such as fishing, horseback riding, bicycling and bird-watching. Since this location has less light pollution, Big Bend is the perfect place to gaze at the stars. Note that Big Bend is about six hours from San Antonio.

Guadalupe Mountains National Park

Guadalupe Mountains National Park is one of the newest parks in the United States. You can find the ruins of an old stagecoach trail and the restored Frijole Ranch at this park. Guadalupe Peak is the highest point in the state at 8,749 feet. Since this is a new park, there are fewer amenities at this location, so you should be well-prepared when entering. However, there are still plenty of activities to enjoy, including backpacking, hiking, horseback riding and stargazing. While you're here, you can appreciate the natural beauty of Texas as you spend some time in this national park that is seven hours from San Antonio.

Nearby State Parks

With a visit to a state park, you can take a break from the road. These parks offer plenty of recreational activities. After a day of fun, you can get back to your adventures on your Houston to San Antonio RV road trip. At RVshare, there's a state park guide that can help you find the best locations in the area. 

Galveston Island State Park

If you want a "beach day" in Texas, you should consider a visit to Galveston Island State Park. This park is only 60 miles from Houston, and it's near the Gulf of Mexico. You can find all types of recreational activities here, including swimming, fishing and bird-watching. Galveston Island State Park is home to several species of birds, and if you head over in the spring or fall, you can see the birds as they migrate to other parts of the country. 

Guadalupe River State Park

Guadalupe River State Parknear Boerne is the perfect retreat for an RV vacation. With over 2,000 acres of land at your disposal, you'll find plenty of places to explore. This location is a great spot to camp out throughout the year as the climate remains warm. Many people visit this location for water activities, including fishing and canoeing. 

Blanco State Park

If you're an angler, you will not want to miss your opportunity to visit Blanco State Park. This park is about an hour from San Antonio. You can find a large variety of fish in the lake, including sunfish, rainbow trout, channel catfish and largemouth bass. The large picnic pavilion is an excellent place to have an afternoon snack. You might want to grab a water tube and head to the river for some fun. With its easy water access, there are many water-based activities that you can enjoy at this state park.

Along the Way

During your road trip from Houston to San Antonio, there are plenty of places to stop and explore. Whether you want to see a historic landmark or shop in a trendy store, make sure to visit these exciting locations in Texas. 

Space Center Houston

For those who happen to be space fans, a visit to Houston would not be complete without a stop at NASA's Mission Control. At this location, you'll want to sign up for a tour of the Space Center. These tours are very popular, and it's recommended that you schedule your visit in advance. You can get a close look at the space program's artifacts and learn about the astronauts' training methods on the tour. 

Houston Museum of Natural Science

Every year, two million people visit the Houston Museum of Natural Science. It's one of the most popular museums in the country, and there are over four floors of natural history displays and exhibits. You'll want to stop by the Morian Hall of Paleontology, which features over 60 dinosaur skeletons on display. 

Alamo Mission

The Alamo Mission was once known as the Misión San Antonio de Valero. This historic Spanish mission was founded in the 18th century. Today, the Alamo is known for the Battle of the Alamo that took place in 1836. You can visit the Alamo Plaza Historic District to learn more about this battle for Texas independence. 

San Antonio River Walk

Located on the banks of the San Antonio River, the River Walk is a city park. You can visit the local shops and restaurants or see the public artwork that lines the riverbanks. If you want to see a little bit of San Antonio's history, check out the five historic missions near this popular spot.

There are a variety of places to visit on your next road trip from Houston to San Antonio. In order to make the most of your time on the road, you might want to think about renting an RV from RVshare. You can find a wide range of vehicles to fit your needs and budget. Whether you're in Houston or San Antonio, RVshare has you covered. When you're ready to hit the open road, make sure to book your RV from RVshare.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

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