Road Trip with RVshare Indianapolis to Dallas

Going on a road trip from Indianapolis to Dallas takes you through the heart of the country. Only 100 years ago, this journey was almost impossible because people had to cross the country using dirt roads and rough county routes. Today, the trip is simple to plan with major highways connecting the two cities. The journey takes you through the Great Plains and along the edges of some of the most extensive forests and deserts in the United States.

Road Trip Planner: Stops Along Your Route

The trip from Indianapolis to Dallas will transport you from the Midwest to the wild west of Texas. As you make your way into the exciting heart of Dallas, you'll pass through sleepy little villages, vast agricultural areas, hilly woods, and broad plains. Easy roads, interesting sights, and lots of places to stop, relax, refuel, and explore make the route fantastic for RV travelers and road-trippers. The drive transforms a mundane A-to-B journey into an exciting cross-country experience filled with unique characters and diverse landscapes.

Indianapolis Motor Speedway Museum, Indiana

Before you leave town on your road trip from Indianapolis to Dallas, stop by the Indianapolis Motor Speedway Museum. The museum was commissioned in 1909 and has witnessed over 110 years of racing at what is affectionately called "The Brickyard." The 30,000-square-foot building features 75 racing vehicles. A theater shows racing films, from the first-ever movie to the most recent race. A film compilation of several races is also played daily, and this compilation shows the changes in race driving from year to year. Stopping here is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to observe how humans meet challenges with technological advances. 

RV Info & Tips:

• Seasonality: This museum is open year-round, so there's no need to worry about seasonal closures or limited access. You may want to check for special events or race-day congestion if you plan to visit during peak weekends, though.

• Roads: The city roads here are well-maintained and wide for RVs.

• How long to stay: You should plan a few hours for this attraction. This gives you plenty of time to explore all of the exhibits and historic displays. If you want to stay in the area overnight, there are several campgrounds nearby, like Lake Haven Retreat or Indianapolis KOA Holiday.

Gateway Arch National Park, Missouri

The only national park that is situated directly on your Indianapolis to Dallas RV road trip route is Gateway Arch National Park. The park commemorates the starting point of the Lewis and Clark Expedition, which led to the expansion of settlements across the United States. The arch symbolizes the connection of the East and West coasts into one nation. Visitors who ride trolleys to the top of the monument are rewarded with an incredible view of Saint Louis from 640 feet above its roads and rivers. An immense amount of important historical events happened in this city, and the park includes restored and preserved buildings where those events took place.

RV Info & Tips:

• Seasonality: This park stays open year-round. Summer and holiday weekends often attract a lot of visitors, so you may need to plan ahead for parking availability. 

• Roads: The roads taking you to this park are RV-friendly. However, as you get closer to downtown, you may come across tighter streets or heavier traffic.

• How long to stay: This is another stop where you'll want to spend at least a few hours to take in all the exhibits and riverfront views. If you plan to ride to the top, you may want to reserve tickets in advance. Otherwise, you risk long wait times. 

Lake Texoma State Park, Oklahoma

Lying on the Oklahoma side of the Oklahoma/Texas border, Lake Texoma State Park comes as a surprise to those travelers coming out of the plains from the north. The sudden blue that greets the eye after several hours of green forests and brown grasses beckons travelers to stop and dip their toes into Lake Texoma. The park lies along your route if you take a short detour through Durant, and you'll find plenty of trails to hike. The fishing and watersports opportunities are fantastic. Stop and enjoy its riches before climbing back into your RV for the final stretch of your Indianapolis to Dallas RV road trip. 

RV Info & Tips:

• Seasonality: Enjoy year-round access to this park, making it simple to plan your visit according to your schedule. The spring and fall seasons tend to be less crowded.

• Roads: RV drivers greatly appreciate the well-paved roads and easy access to the park entrance. Some of the turns, however, can be a bit tight, so always take them slowly.

• How long to stay: If you want to stretch your legs, spending a couple of hours here will give you time to enjoy the trails and lakeshore views. However, you can always stay overnight at the Lakeside Motel, Cabin's & RV Park to rest up before you continue your drive.

Pro Tips to Make the Most of Your Trip

Road trips are fun because you can be spontaneous and take detours to visit scenic attractions. Or you can stick to your planned route if you prefer more of a structured experience. Here are some tips and advice you can use to make sure the trip goes off without a hitch.

Loop Back a Different Way

On the way back, take I-44 via Oklahoma City to see a separate stretch of historic Route 66. Notable locations along this detour include Pops 66 Soda Ranch, Arcadia's Round Barn, and a number of RV-friendly sites. The trip becomes more interesting without taking up much more time.

Timing & Logistics

Since it takes around 13.5 hours to drive from Indianapolis to Dallas, most RVers break the trip up into two days and spend the night somewhere along the way, such as St. Louis, Springfield, or Oklahoma City. If you must go through St. Louis, try to avoid the peak hours of 7–9 a.m. and 4–6 p.m. Keep an eye out for wind warnings that might impact RV handling, since weather conditions along I-44 and I-35 can change rapidly, particularly in Oklahoma.

Fuel & Supplies Along the Way

I-70, I-44, and I-35 all have gas stations every 20 to 40 miles, including Love's, Pilot, and TA, which are great for RVs. There are additional stations in Joplin and Miami, so it's a good idea to fill up before heading into the vast areas of Oklahoma. You can find Walmart Supercenters along the route in major towns, including Springfield, St. Louis, Tulsa, and Oklahoma City. These stores provide everything you need for groceries, RV supplies, and rest breaks.

Required RV Logistics List:

• Tunnel or bridge height considerations: There are usually no problems with height limitations along the route of I-465, I-70, I-44, and US-75 since these highways have typical interstate clearances. However, keep an eye out for posted signs and double-check your RV's height before going into tunnels, especially older ones in St. Louis or remote areas. 

• RV-friendly campgrounds or overnight stops: You have lots of RV-friendly campgrounds to choose from along your route from Indianapolis to Dallas. In Indiana, the KOA Holiday in Terre Haute and the Horseshoe Lakes RV Campground are both on your way out of the state. Once you cross over into Missouri, you may want to stop for the night at the St. Louis West/Historic Route 66 KOA in Eureka. If you'd rather continue into Oklahoma before you stop, the Will Rogers Downs RV Park in Claremore is a great place for RV travelers.

• Best time to go: This route from Indianapolis to Dallas may take you through several weather changes as you head south and then back north on your way home. The best time to travel is during spring or fall when the weather is milder and less extreme. However, you must watch for tornadoes and severe thunderstorms during the late spring season. Always be careful when driving through changing conditions, and remember to pack extra food, water, and emergency supplies so you have everything you need if you were to get stuck.

Following this road trip route from Indianapolis to Dallas will take you through beautiful landscapes, various historic sites, and several quaint Midwestern and Southern communities. You'll have plenty of opportunity to explore national parks, discover local museums, and visit charming small-town attractions. Traveling in an RV rental is a great way to ensure you get from point A to point B in comfort and style. RVshare makes it simple to book the perfect RV for your trip.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I plan an RV road trip from Indianapolis to Dallas?

To plan an RV road trip from Indianapolis to Dallas, 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 Indianapolis to Dallas 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 Indianapolis to Dallas. 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!