Road Trip with RVshare Houston to Memphis

An RV road trip from Houston to Memphis takes you through varied landscapes, along long highway stretches, and past quiet rural communities. The route provides plenty of opportunity for visiting small towns, checking out local attractions, and exploring scenic viewpoints from the comfort of your motorhome, campervan, or other recreational vehicle. As you embark on your journey, you'll have lots of places to stop for food, fuel, and rest. Planning your RV trip in advance is a great way to ensure smooth travels.

Road Trip Planner: Stops Along Your Route

Your trip from Houston to Memphis takes you through multiple states. There are lots of detours through countryside highways and small towns offering dining, scenery, and shopping. This itinerary gives you three great places to visit. Feel free to customize the route to match your timeline and travel style.

Atlanta State Park, Texas

About two and a half hours into your trip is Atlanta State Park in northeast Texas. It's the perfect place to stop for a rest break as you stretch your legs and explore lake views and shaded shoreline trails. You can even have a picnic beneath one of the tall pines. If you want to spread the journey over several days, the park has a campground with RV spots, making it simple to stay overnight without leaving the area.

RV Info & Tips:

• Seasonality: Walking the lakeside trails is much more enjoyable when you come during spring or fall, when the weather tends to be more comfortable.

• How Long to Stay: An hour or two here is plenty of time to walk the shoreline paths and relax before you continue on your trip. Plan for one or two days if you want to extend your trip and stay at the onsite campground.

• Gear & Prep: Wear comfortable walking shoes and bring your camera to capture shots of the lake views and the towering pine trees.

Historic Washington State Park, Arkansas

Roughly four and a half hours into the trip is Historic Washington State Park in Washington, Arkansas. The park sits about 10 minutes off of I-30, giving you easy access for a quick detour or a longer visit. The park features restored buildings from the 1800s, blacksmith demonstrations showcasing authentic 19th-century techniques, and walking paths for exploring the historic town site. The period-style shops let you leave with a souvenir to remember your time here.

RV Info & Tips:

• Seasonality: You can access the park year-round. If you want a guided tour, they usually take place more in the spring and fall. The weather can get really hot during the summer months.

• How Long to Stay: Two to three hours gives you time to look at the museum exhibits and stroll the grounds.

• Gear & Prep: Walking shoes, a camera, and water are the most important supplies to bring.

Louisiana Purchase State Park, Arkansas

Louisiana Purchase State Park is about six and a half hours into your trip. It's the ideal place to visit before you kick off the final leg of the journey into Memphis. The park has interpretive signs for learning about the 1815 land survey and an elevated boardwalk taking you through the quiet headwater swamp. It's a must-see attraction for those who love nature, history, and peaceful outdoor stops.

RV Info & Tips:

• Seasonality: Fall provides the most beautiful weather for walking the boardwalk and exploring the surrounding swamp habitat.

• How Long to Stay: You can walk the boardwalk in about 30 to 45 minutes. The Dub'l R RV Park is nearby (15–20 minutes) if you want to stay overnight before finishing your journey into Memphis.

• Gear & Prep: The swampy areas attract a lot of mosquitoes, so be sure to bring insect repellent in addition to water and comfortable walking shoes.

Pro Tips to Make the Most of Your Trip

Having a great time on a road trip from Houston to Memphis is all about sticking to a general plan while being flexible for unexpected discoveries. There are lots of ways to adjust your route and personalize your schedule when traveling in an RV.

Loop Back a Different Way

When you leave Memphis to head back toward Houston, you can take I-55 South instead of looping back the same way you came in. This route will take you through Jackson, Mississippi, where you can stop for a visit at the Mississippi Civil Rights Museum. It's an excellent stop for those interested in American history and powerful cultural exhibits. Or you could take I-49 South when you reach Shreveport instead of continuing on I-20 West. This will bring you to Alexandria, where the riverfront district has several options for restaurants and relaxing overnight stays.

Timing & Logistics

If you drive straight through, it'll take you about eight and a half hours to make it from Houston to Memphis. Much of the drive takes place along long stretches of interstate highway. Breaking the trip over two to three days makes it simple to explore different cities along the way without having to feel rushed or exhausted.

Trip Logistics

• Road grades or steep passes: Although you will pass through some somewhat hilly terrain in East Texas and southern Arkansas on your way from Houston to Memphis, the terrain is mostly level. Most recreational vehicles can easily navigate this route, making it ideal for first-time drivers of bigger vehicles.

• Seasonal driving conditions (snow, heat, storms): Recreational vehicles may need extra care with their cooling systems and tire pressure during the hot and humid summers in East Texas and southern Arkansas. Once you get into Memphis, winter weather may present driving challenges with icy roads and reduced traction.

• RV-friendly campgrounds or overnight stops: There are multiple places to stay overnight on your trip from Houston to Memphis. The Atlanta State Park Campground in Texas, Millwood Lake Park in Arkansas, and Village Creek State Park in Arkansas all offer hookups for RVs.

This detailed itinerary for a road trip from Houston to Memphis lets you plan your route with ease. You can stop by scenic parks, explore small towns, and discover hidden roadside gems as you make your way from one city to the next. Traveling in an RV will take you to each place in style and comfort. Check out the many options available on RVshare today.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

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