Road Trip with RVshare Little Rock to Tampa

A Little Rock to Tampa road trip is a great opportunity to visit some exciting cities and to explore the state parks along the way. On this trip, you will start by going east on I-40, which will take you to Memphis, the home of the blues and the birthplace of rock and roll. From there, use I-22 E and I-20 E until you reach Atlanta. Then, take I-75 S for the remainder of the trip. Before you leave Little Rock, take some time to explore the city and to explore the Little Rock Zoo.

Road Trip Planner: Stops Along Your Route

Memphis, Tennessee

Memphis is a city known for its music, and it is associated with artists like Aretha Franklin, B.B. King, Isaac Hayes, Elvis Presley, and Johnny Cash. If you love music, then Memphis is a city that you must stop and visit. There are all sorts of music festivals and shows in the city that you can enjoy. There is also a National Civil Rights Museum in Memphis that you can visit to find out more about the African American struggle for equality. 

Since there is so much to see in Memphis, finding a campground to stay at for a night or two will give you more time in the city. Graceland RV Park is right near the attraction, and it has spacious campsites that accommodate most RVs. While you are in the area, find a Memphis dump station where you can offload your wastewater. Several campgrounds have dump stations that are free to use, like the Graceland RV Park and the Elvis Presley Boulevard RV Park.

Birmingham, Alabama

Birmingham is a city full of art, so while you are in the area, take some time to visit the historic Alabama Theater, the Wright Center Concert Hall, and the Alys Stephens Center for Performing Arts. Other points of interest to visit in the city include the McWane Science Center, Birmingham Botanical Gardens, and the Birmingham Zoo. 

Stay overnight in one of the Birmingham campgrounds nearby. There is quite a variety of campgrounds in the area, so you are likely to find something that has amenities that everyone will enjoy. Places like Shadyoaks Campground and RV Park and Hidden Cove Resort have dump stations that are free to use for guests. All other RVers will need to pay a small fee to use the dump stations, so coordinate your stay with a campground that has a dump station to make your trip more convenient.

Atlanta, Georgia

Atlanta is another city that you will want to stop at during this road trip from Little Rock to Tampa. It is a city that has it all, so make sure to visit some of the museums, historical sites, and attractions during your visit. Some of the highlights to see in the city include the Martin Luther King Jr. National Historic Site, the Fox Theater, the Georgia Aquarium, the Fernbank Museum of Natural History, and the Atlanta Botanical Gardens. Take some time while you are visiting to walk through Piedmont Park, it is bustling with wildlife, and it feels like you are miles from the city. There are festivals and other performances that you can enjoy year-round, so check to see if anything is planned during your visit to Atlanta.

So that you don’t feel stressed for time, stay at one of the Atlanta-area campgrounds. Atlanta South RV Resort and Sweetwater Creek RV Reserve are great for families to enjoy. There are a lot of campgrounds in the area that have full hookups or free dump stations that guests can use. This will make it easy to empty your wastewater before you get to your destination.

National Parks

Hot Springs National Park

A national park should be included on any road trip, but the road trip itinerary from Little Rock to Tampa does not include one. To stop at a national park on this route, you will need to backtrack before you begin heading east. Hot Springs National Park is located in the city of Hot Springs, which is about an hour west of your starting point in Little Rock. The park is unique because it is in a city environment. There are spa waters that can help you relax. If you don't want to enjoy the baths, there are a few hiking trails in the park that give you a fantastic view of the surrounding city.

Nearby State Parks

Village Creek State Park

Village Creek State Park is nearly 7,000 acres of land that is perfect for hiking. You can also enjoy bike and horseback riding in the park. There is a lake that is in the park, so fishing and boating are other popular activities that you can enjoy. Boats are available for rental in the park if you do not have your own available to use. You can enjoy swimming in the lake. If you like to golf, the park has 27 holes where you can test your golfing skills. 

Meeman-Shelby Forest State Park

One of the Tennessee state parks that you can explore along this road trip is Meeman-Shelby Forest State Park. Since there are two lakes in the park, fishing is a great activity to enjoy. Anglers can also use boats to get access to the center of the lakes as well. Boat rentals are available at the park. If fishing is not your thing, there are more than 20 miles of trail that you can explore. 

Oak Mountain State Park

Oak Mountain State Park is Alabama’s largest state park at about 9,940 acres. This park, which is just south of Birmingham, has more than 50 miles of scenic trails that you can explore. There are two lakes in the park where visitors can enjoy boating and fishing. Boats can be rented in the park. Each lake also has a swimming beach where you can get in the water and cool off. There is also an archery and a golf range where you can practice your skills.

Paynes Prairie Preserve State Park

Paynes Prairie Preserve State Park is 22,000 acres, and the low-lying area of the park becomes a lake after heavy rainfall. Because of this, there are a lot of animals that you can see in the area. Wild horses, bison, and hundreds of birds make this park their home. Canoeing, fishing, biking, and hiking are common activities enjoyed in the park. Make sure to head up the Wacahoota Trail to climb up the 50-foot observation tower to see the area's scenic views.

Along the Way

Graceland

One of the highlights of this Little Rock to Tampa RV road trip is Graceland, the home of Elvis Presley. Graceland is the place that the King of Rock & Roll called home, and when you visit, you can see his mansion, the gardens that surround the home, and more. Make sure you take a tour of the nearly 14-acre estate while you are visiting the Memphis area. You can even stop at the Meditation Garden, which is where Elvis and his family were laid to rest. 

Six Flags Over Georgia

If you enjoy amusement parks, then make a stop at Six Flags Over Georgia. Thrill rides include the Georgia Scorcher, Goliath, and the Great American Scream Machine. Kids who prefer slower rides may enjoy Justice League: Battle for Metropolis or the Harley Quinn Wild Whirl. The park also has water rides that are open during the summer months.

The Canyons Zip Line and Adventure Park

This nearly 100-acre park allows you to zip through the treetops in Ocala. It's a one-of-a-kind experience that will give you a view of the entire area from above. There are nine zip lines that you can explore and two rope bridges that you can traverse. Horseback rides are also offered in the canyons, so consider this option if you prefer to stay closer to the ground.

When you follow this road trip itinerary from Little Rock to Tampa, 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 Little Rock or Tampa.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I plan an RV road trip from Little Rock to Tampa?

To plan an RV road trip from Little Rock to Tampa, 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 Little Rock to Tampa 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 Little Rock to Tampa. 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!