Road Trip with RVshare Miami to Gainesville

Starting this Miami to Gainesville RV road trip, you will want to head south about 30 minutes so that you can enjoy a national park during your trip. Then, you can head back north on I-95. If you are a fan of NASCAR, you will want to continue taking this interstate up to Daytona Beach, especially if there is a race happening during your trip. However, most people will prefer to start heading a bit west by taking I-75 North. This route will take you through Orlando and give you the option of spending some time at the Disney parks. 

Road Trip Planner: Stops Along Your Route

Fort Lauderdale, Florida

Fort Lauderdale is a destination to visit for those who love to enjoy beaches, but it has a lot more to offer than just fun in the sun. While visiting the city, make sure that you check out the Bonnet House Museum and Gardens, the Historic Stranahan House Museum, the Museum of Discovery and Science, and the Antique Car Museum. 

There are a lot of campgrounds in the Fort Lauderdale area that you can consider if you are planning on being in the region for more than a day. Paradise Island RV Resort is close to the beach, and it has a lot of amenities to entertain you. If you need to get rid of the waste in your RV, there are plenty of dump stations that you can take advantage of in the area. 

West Palm Beach, Florida

West Palm Beach is a city situated by the shore, and it has unique shops and entertainment that you can enjoy. During your time visiting the city, make sure that you see some of the highlights like Rosemary Square, Worth Avenue, Ragtops Automobile Museum, and the Flagler Museum. Kids will love to spend time at Rapids Water Park, and it is a great way to enjoy family time together while having fun. If you are an animal lover, there are plenty of options to see animals in this city, like the Loxahatchee National Wildlife Refuge, the Lion Country Safari and Palm Beach Zoo, the Manatee Lagoon, and the Panther Ridge Conservation Center.

West Palm Beach campgrounds are plentiful, so make sure that you select one to stay at so that you can spend more time in the city. Palm Beach RV Park is close to golf courses, so if you want to work on your swing, this location may be an option to consider. Find a campground nearby that has a free dump station for guests to use so that you can easily offload your black and gray wastewater. Many campgrounds only charge a small fee to RVers who are not staying at one of their campsites.

Orlando, Florida

Orlando is a must-see location that you will want to stop at during this Miami to Gainesville RV road trip. Obviously, you can spend some time exploring the Disney parks, including Magic Kingdom, Epcot, Animal Kingdom, and Hollywood Studios. If you are looking for culture, take time to visit the Orlando Museum of Art, Madame Tussauds Wax Museum, the Kennedy Space Center, Discovery Cove, and Sea Life Orlando Aquarium. If you enjoy Ferris wheels, make an effort to go to ICON Park to ride the 400-foot observation wheel. It is the tallest wheel on the East Coast, and each pod is air-conditioned and can hold 15 people. The view from that far up is incredible, and you can see Universal, the Wizarding World of Harry Potter, and the Kennedy Space Center.

There are plenty of campgrounds and RV parks in the Orlando area. If you enjoy boating or fishing, the Bill Fredrick Park at Turkey Lake is ideal. They even have a disc golf course that you can enjoy when you come back to the campground for the evening. The kids will love Disney's Fort Wilderness Resort because there is so much to entertain them there. There is even a dog park for your pets to enjoy. If your wastewater tank is getting full, you can easily find a dump station in the area to use. Many RV campgrounds and resorts allow guests to use their dump stations without charging an additional fee.

National Parks

Biscayne National Park

The only national park that is remotely close to this road trip itinerary from Miami to Gainesville is Biscayne National Park. The park is more than 172,000 acres, and it is a destination that you will want to visit, especially if you like to dive under the water to explore. About 95 percent of the park is actually underwater, so don't forget to bring your goggles to see it. This national park is known as one of the best diving and snorkeling sites in the country, so it's definitely worth the extra 30-minute drive that it will take to get here from Miami. If you follow the Maritime Heritage Trail, you will find a number of shipwrecks, a reef, and incredible sea life that you can explore. There are tours available if you don't want to explore the park on your own.

Nearby State Parks

Oleta River State Park

Oleta River State Park is one of the Florida state parks that you will pass during this RV road trip. It is an urban oasis that covers just a bit more than 1,000 acres. This is a great park for those who want to take a dip in the water and cool off. It is also an option for anglers and paddlers to get in the water and relax. The park has more than 15 miles of trails that you can explore on foot or on a bike. 

Jonathan Dickinson State Park

Jonathan Dickinson State Park is another state park that you will want to visit during this trip because it is the largest one in the southern part of Florida. The park is about 18 square miles with the Loxahatchee River going through it. The river is an ideal place to fish or to boat, and there are even rentals available in the park to use if you don't have one. Hiking, biking, and horseback riding are also activities that can be enjoyed in the park. In fact, there are guided tours on horseback or boat that you can experience.

Paynes Prairie Preserve State Park

Paynes Prairie Preserve State Park is located roughly between Ocala and Gainesville. The 22,000-acre park is a great place to see wild horses, bison, and other animals. There are hundreds of birds that live in the park, so have your binoculars on hand. If you like to hike, this is the best way to explore the park fully, but you can also do it on a bike or on the back of a horse. Canoeing and fishing are other activities that can be enjoyed in this park. 

Along the Way

Butterfly World

Butterfly World is a fascinating place to visit with live butterflies that can land on your shoulders as you explore the gardens. There are over 20,000 butterflies and a variety of exotic birds here. 

Morikami Museum and Japanese Gardens

Another unique attraction to consider stopping at during your road trip from Miami to Gainesville is Morikami Museum and Japanese Gardens. The museum is a way to learn about Japanese art and culture through the many exhibits. The gardens are a relaxing place that will bring comfort and inspiration to you. There are six distinct gardens that you can explore at the Morikami Museum and Japanese Gardens. 

Gatorland

Gatorland is a park that has zip lines that you can ride. It is entertaining for both kids and adults, and if you are in the park at night, there is a Gator Night Shine that allows you to get a glimpse of the gators in the water. In addition to being a gator park, you can also explore a free-flight aviary and a petting zoo that has other animals that you may want to see. 

When you follow this road trip itinerary from Miami to Gainesville, 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 Miami or Gainesville.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I plan an RV road trip from Miami to Gainesville?

To plan an RV road trip from Miami to Gainesville, 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 Miami to Gainesville 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 Miami to Gainesville. 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!