Road Trip with RVshare Jacksonville to Raleigh

Relax and enjoy the Southern scenery on your Jacksonville to Raleigh road trip. Stops in Savannah, Charleston, and Charlotte are perfect for soaking up the best of what the South has to offer in beautiful historic districts, famous museums, and exciting theme parks such as Carowinds. Continue your fun at Congaree, Shenandoah, and Great Smoky Mountains National Parks for sunshine-filled days spent hiking, camping, and exploring the mysteries of each unique location. On your travels, you'll also get to pan for gold at Reed Gold Mine and immerse yourself in Carolina Tar Heel territory in Downtown Chapel Hill. 

Road Trip Planner: Stops Along Your Route

Savannah, Georgia

Savannah is a Southern delight with city highlights such as the Savannah Historic District, where you can wander down cobblestone-paved streets lined with fantastic boutiques, incredible eateries, and relaxing bars. Get familiar with the city on a historic trolley tour; then, check out some supernatural sights at the Bonaventure Cemetery. Mobile ghost tours of the city are also available and have you cruising the haunted streets in a real hearse on Hearse Ghost Tours. You'll also want to explore River Street, Old Fort Jackson, the Mercer Williams House Museum - another haunted site - and City Market. 

Biltmore Gardens RV Park is closest to the historic district of Savannah and features roomy sites, a dog walking service, and an on-site antique store. Dump stations can be found nearby. 

Charleston, South Carolina

Add a fun stop in Charleston to your Jacksonville to Raleigh road trip itinerary to experience the essence of the South. Historic destinations await at the Magnolia Plantation and Gardens, Patriot Points Naval and Military Museum, and Drayton Hall that feature guided tours and unforgettable exhibits. Grab a refreshing glass of lemonade, and wander over to Joe Riley Waterfront Park to strike a pose in front of the famous Pineapple Fountain. While you're in the area, walk down Rainbow Row for a self-guided tour of 13 historic and colorful Georgian houses. Don't forget to visit the Angel Oak Tree, King Street, The Battery, and the Historic Charleston City Market before you take off. 

Mount Pleasant/Charleston KOA Holiday is a Southern oasis that's located on the grounds of a real antebellum plantation. Some of the things that you'll enjoy here include free wagon rides to Oakland Plantation, bike rentals, a swimming pool, and a dump station. 

Charlotte, North Carolina

Charlotte is packed with ultra-cool and fun things to see and do. Begin your adventure at Carowinds, a thrilling theme park that features tons of hair-raising coasters such as Copperhead Strike, Afterburn, Fury 325, and the Carolina Cyclone, as well as a sweet water park. Stop at the NASCAR Hall of Fame for the vintage race cars and high-tech exhibits and then wander over to the Olde Mecklenburg Brewery to sample their impressive beer selections and scarf down a sauerkraut-smothered brat or Bavarian-style pretzel. More to explore here is the Billy Graham Library, the Mint Museum, and Freedom Park. 

Lake Myers RV & Camping Resorts offers fun amenities that include a mini-golf course, a swimming pool, and a game room. There's also a store, laundry facilities, and a dump station on the property. 

National Parks

Your road trip from Jacksonville to Raleigh features some spectacular national parks that are just a few hours from your route. 

Congaree National Park

Congaree National Park has 22,000 biodiverse acres to explore and plenty of activities to enjoy. At this park, you can check out the Harry Hampton Visitor Center to watch an informational 18-minute film; then, spend the day hiking the Weston Lake Loop's low boardwalk for glimpses of the local fauna that includes bobcats and opossums. Kayaking or canoeing through the park's lush wetlands offers more opportunities to view turtles, otters, and gators in their natural habitats. The beauty of Congaree is excellent for photography, so be sure to capture as many beautiful shots as you can. 

Great Smoky Mountains National Park

Great Smoky Mountains National Park is a majestic destination with over 800-miles of hiking trails, covering over 200,000 acres that's just three hours and 45 minutes east of Charlotte. Once you arrive, head to the Sugarlands Visitor Center to check out some nature exhibits and brush up on the history of the park. Natural wonders you'll want to visit include Roaring Fork, Little Pigeon River, Cades Cove, and Clingmans Dome, which is the tallest peak in the park. The area also features three mini-golf courses and is a major Ripley's Believe It or Not mecca with seven themed parks to enjoy. Consider camping out for at least two or three days to experience everything the Smokies have to offer. 

Shenandoah National Park

Shenandoah National Park is three hours and 35 minutes north of Raleigh in the lovely state of Virginia. Be prepared to strap on your hiking boots for treks above and below ground on trails that lead you through the Appalachian wilderness and into the mysterious caves at Grand Caverns and Skyline Caverns. You can check out spectacular, scenic vistas at the Hogback Overlook, Little Stony Man, and Old Rag Mountain, the most popular peak in the park. Throughout the Shenandoah Valley, you'll find an impressive array of tasty wineries that perfectly fuse the natural beauty of the park with delectable cuisine and relaxing wine tasting rooms. Some notable establishments to try are Veritas Vineyards and Winery, Wisteria Farm and Vineyard, and Gadino Cellars. 

Nearby State Parks

Enjoy a variety of amenities and outdoor activities at a few of America's prettiest state parks on your Jacksonville to Raleigh RV road trip. 

Skidaway Island State Park

At Skidaway Island State Park, you'll have the run of 588 wooded acres where you can kick back and bird watch, hike through scenic forests and snap a couple of pics in front of a 20-foot-tall replica of the Giant Ground Sloth. There are also fantastic picnic areas, trails for biking, kayaking waterways on the Skidway Narrows, and an observation tower. 

Sesquicentennial State Park

Sesquicentennial State Park is a great place to unwind and enjoy a few invigorating activities. This park features a refreshing splash pad, 12 miles of hiking and biking trails, and a 30-acre lake that's excellent for fishing or paddling. RV sites include electric and water hookups, and there's a dog park on-site. 

Morrow Mountain State Park

Morrow Mountain State Park is nestled in the spectacular beauty of the Uwharries, one of the oldest mountain ranges in the U.S. At this park, you can enjoy everything from horseback riding and hiking to fishing and swimming on Lake Tillery.

Along the Way

Wormsloe Historic Site

The Wormsloe Historic Site is a magical and mysterious place where you can walk amongst the ruins of an 18th-century former plantation that's also the oldest standing structure in Savannah. Guided tours are available, or you can venture to the site on your own on a breezy 2.3-mile hike through a lovely wooded area. 

Reed Gold Mine

Reed Gold Mine holds the distinguished honor of being the site of the first documented gold find in America. Get in on the gold action by panning for gold of your own, and then check out the visitor center for gold mining and geology exhibits that feature a library highlighting the Reed family genealogy. 

Downtown Chapel Hill

Downtown Chapel Hill allows you to feel the North Carolina Tar Heel love at a bevy of shops featuring special memorabilia and plenty of sports gear. Stroll down Franklin Street, where you can sample the delicious local cuisine at a couple of popular eateries, like Heavenly Buffaloes and Elaine's on Franklin. In the mood for something with hops? Step on over to Gizmo Brew Works, a premier taproom with 50 savory on-tap beers and a list of fine hard ciders. They even allow your furry-four-legged friend! At Insomnia Cookies, you're encouraged to sink your teeth into chocolate chip cookie goodness with deliveries that get them to you warm and fresh until 3:00 a.m. 

When you follow this road trip itinerary from Jacksonville to Raleigh, 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 Jacksonville or Raleigh.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I plan an RV road trip from Jacksonville to Raleigh?

To plan an RV road trip from Jacksonville to Raleigh, 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 Jacksonville to Raleigh 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 Jacksonville to Raleigh. 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!