Your Trip At a Glance
- Trip Length: About 35 hours
- Mileage: Approximately 2,325 miles
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Fun fact: Seattle has one of the highest rates of dog ownership in the country. There are more dogs than children living in Seattle.
When you go on a Houston to Seattle RV trip, you'll have lots of attractions and scenic detours to choose from. The trip starts by taking I-45 north toward Dallas, where you can stop by Corsicana for a quick bite or Waco for sightseeing. The trip is fully customizable, making it perfect for RV travelers who want to explore at their own pace. You'll probably want to divide it up over several days since the drive spans multiple states and covers more than 2,000 miles of changing terrain.
Road Trip Planner: Stops Along Your Route
Your road trip from Houston to Seattle takes you through wide-open Texas plains, across the Rocky Mountains, and right next to scenic coastal stretches in the Pacific Northwest. There are plenty of RV parks and campgrounds along the way where you can stay overnight to rest up for the rest of the journey. There are also frequent pull-offs and travel plazas where you can refuel, regroup, or stretch your legs if you ever feel the need to take a break.
Palo Duro Canyon State Park, Texas
The Palo Duro Canyon State Park is about nine hours into the journey, making it the ideal place to stay overnight. It features the second-largest canyon in the country, along with breathtaking views of the cliffs and mesas. You can even go horseback riding. The park offers an on-site campground, making it easy to rest and even cook a meal in your RV without leaving the canyon.
RV Info & Tips:
Seasonality: Come during spring or fall to enjoy the best weather for exploring the canyon floor, hiking to scenic overlooks, or checking out the famous Lighthouse Trail.
How Long to Stay: You should plan on staying one to two days to take in all of the dramatic viewpoints.
Gear & Prep: If you plan to hike, bring comfortable walking shoes and lots of water. You don't want to risk dehydration in the rugged canyon terrain.
Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park, Colorado
About halfway between Texas and Washington is the Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park. It offers some of the steepest cliffs and narrowest canyons in all of North America. You can hike to scenic overlooks, walk down short rim trails, and check out dramatic viewpoints before heading to the on-site campground. You're sure to have a peaceful night of sleep before you go to your next destination.
RV Info & Tips:
Seasonality: Come during late spring or early fall; these times provide milder temperatures and clearer conditions for viewing the canyon.
How Long to Stay: A half day gives you time to visit some of the major overlooks. If you want to see an amazing sunrise or sunset, plan to stay overnight.
Gear & Prep: Any hiking you plan to do will require walking shoes and plenty of water. The weather here sometimes changes rapidly, so make sure to watch for shifting clouds and sudden temperature drops.
Umatilla National Wildlife Refuge, Washington and Oregon Border
The Umatilla National Wildlife Refuge is right off I-82/I-84. The peaceful refuge is a haven for birdwatchers, photographers, and those who love hiking short nature trails. There are plenty of places to park an RV where you can rest up and enjoy the quiet scenery before continuing toward the Cascade Mountains and Seattle.
RV Info & Tips:
Seasonality: Migrating birds and other wildlife are most active during spring and fall. This is also when the weather here tends to be the most comfortable.
How Long to Stay: Stopping at this attraction for a few hours offers ample time to explore the viewing areas and short nature trails. If you need to rest up before you head toward the Cascades, you can spend the night at the Umatilla Marina & RV Park.
Gear & Prep: Make sure to pack binoculars if you want to spot birds and wildlife at a distance. Sturdy shoes are helpful if you intend to explore the trails.
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Pro Tips to Make the Most of Your Trip
Taking time to plan your stops is a great way to ensure smooth travel. But a road trip in an RV should also offer plenty of flexibility and room for spontaneous detours. Here are some tips to improve your overall experience and ensure everyone has a good time.
Must-See Roadside Attractions
Stopping in Caprock Canyons State Park, where wild bison wander freely along the trails, is one of the overlooked experiences on a journey from Houston to Seattle. Going north, you'll come across Oklahoma's Red Rock Canyon and southern Idaho's Shoshone Falls, often referred to as the Niagara of the West.
Local Dining and Small-Town Finds
Amarillo, Moab, Pendleton, and The Dalles are just a few of the communities along the way that serve up regional cuisine that you won't find in larger cities. Beginning in Texas, you can have barbecue, then head to New Mexico and Utah for some Southwestern cuisine, and finally to Oregon and Washington to sample fresh Northwest cooking. While you're at each place, you can support local businesses and get a feel for the local culture.
Safety Tips for Long Drives
Daily weather and road condition checks are essential throughout the Houston to Seattle route because of the elevated heights, deserts, and mountains it passes. Particularly when traveling long distances between large cities, RVers should stop every couple of hours to take a short rest to stay alert. As you head into the Rockies and Cascades, be sure your RV is ready to handle temperature fluctuations, steep grades, and sometimes heavy winds.
Trip Logistics
Road grades or steep passes: Driving an RV requires slower speeds and cautious braking on steep gradients such as Cabbage Hill on I-84 and the Snoqualmie Pass on I-90. Be sure to map out your ascents and descents in advance, since these regions might feel quite different from the flat landscape you left behind in Texas.
Seasonal driving conditions (snow, heat, storms): Depending on the season, you may encounter snowy or icy roads in northern Idaho and Washington, while the southern part of the journey might offer excessive heat in Texas and New Mexico. Temperatures are often mildest in the spring and autumn, but you should still take additional precautions in the mountains in case of unexpected storms.
Fuel availability or long stretches without services: There are lengthy stretches of road without gas stations once you leave big towns like Albuquerque, Salt Lake City, and Amarillo. This is particularly true in Utah, southern Idaho, and New Mexico.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I plan an RV road trip from Houston to Seattle?
To plan an RV road trip from Houston to Seattle, 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 Seattle 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 Seattle. 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!