Road Trip with RVshare Miami to Tampa

Florida is a beautiful state that has a unique set of environments to explore. If you want to see the Gulf side of the state, then you’ll have the opportunity to visit a national forest, several state forests, and some truly unique cities. A Miami to Tampa road trip only takes about six hours, and in an RV, you can opt to bed down for the night at a local campground. This will allow you to extend the trip and get to know the Florida region facing the Gulf of Mexico. 

Road Trip Planner: Stops Along Your Route

Everglades City, FL

Called the Gateway to Ten Thousand Islands, Everglades City is a small city that is located near the southernmost tip of the state. If you’re going to visit the Florida Keys, you’ll need to pass through this area. Everglades City only has a population of 400 and is part of the Naples-Marco Island Metropolitan Statistical Area. While you’re here, visit the Old Collier County Courthouse, which has a very old-Southern vibe to it. You can also see the Museum of the Everglades here, which tells a bit about the history of the area.

Everglades City-area campgrounds include establishments like the Flamingo Campground. Also, many of the campgrounds near Everglades National Park are available. These include Forest River RV Neapolitan Cove, which offers full hookups as well as back-in and pull-through sites for RVs. There are also a few dump stations in the Everglades area.

Fort Myers, FL

Fort Myers is home to more than 62,000 residents and is known for its beautiful beaches and vibrant nightlife. While in the city, you can visit the Laugh-In Comedy Café, The Murder Mystery Dinner Train, or the Downtown Social House. Each of these locations is extremely enjoyable, and there are also several activities that are perfect for the whole family. Fort Myers beaches are known for the sand bars and fishing opportunities, and there are also hiking opportunities in the areas around the city.

Fort Myers campgrounds like Red Coconut RV Park and Lakes Park RV provide numerous back-in and pull-through sites for your RV and have several amenities to enjoy. These include beachfront vistas and trails that surround each campground for you and your family to explore.

Sarasota, FL

Located about 60 miles away from Tampa along the southwestern coast, Sarasota, FL, is a city with a population of 51,917. Along the boundary of Sarasota, you can find several of the keys that are famous in the state, including Lido Key, Armands Key, and Casey Key. Formerly, the city was also the winter headquarters of the Ringling Brothers Circus, and as a result, many of the city's landmarks are named for these seven brothers. 

National Parks

Everglades National Park

Around 40 miles south from Miami is Everglades National Park. The park is comprised mostly of wetlands and is home to species like Burmese pythons, alligators, manatees, American crocodiles, and leatherback turtles. The Burmese python that you might find in this park is actually an invasive species that has made Florida its home. Take a moment to revel in the mangroves, pine flatwoods, and sawgrass marshes as you explore.

Nearby State Parks

Bill Baggs Cape Florida State Park

Bill Baggs Cape Park is a Florida state park that was named after a famous Miami journalist who was an opponent of the Vietnam War. At this park, you can clearly see Florida’s Biscayne Bay and the Atlantic Ocean. While here, feel free to bike, hike, paddle, or boat. There are also tours of the area and plenty of opportunities to see local wildlife in its natural environments. 

Koreshan State Park

Koreshan State Park offers a slightly different experience compared to other parks in the state. This park is home to a Victorian mansion that has beautiful gardens. Formerly, this mansion was home to the Koreshans, who were a religious organization. Near the mansion, you’ll find picnic grounds, hiking trails, and playgrounds. It’s a pretty easy hike to nearby Estero Bay where you can swim and splash in the water.

Charlotte Harbor Preserve State Park

This is a Florida state park that has over 45,387 acres to explore. There’s also 100 miles of shoreline here, so this is a good option for people who want to see the Gulf of Mexico. While here, make sure to check out the Charlotte Harbor Environmental Center; it’s a great place to learn about the species and the biome at Charlotte Harbor. Hikers also love the North Cape Flats Trail since it exposes them to the primitive wilderness here at the harbor.

Lake Manatee State Park

Lake Manatee State Park is a human-created lake that originated when the dam was built along the Manatee River. The park is about 16 miles from Palmetto, FL, and there are several RV campgrounds to consider while you’re figuring out your road trip itinerary from Miami to Tampa. While here, be ready to fish, kayak, or canoe since this is a park along three miles of shoreline. 

Little Manatee River State Park

Not to be confused with Lake Manatee, Little Manatee River State Park is a park in Wimauma, Florida, that is known for its riverside activities. This place is a paddler’s dream; the water is still, so most canoes and kayaks will be able to explore easily. For those on foot, there are hikes through the canopied forests and boardwalks where you can fish. There are even opportunities to go horseback riding here.

Along the Way

Florida Panther National Wildlife Refuge

This refuge is part of the United States National Wildlife Refuge System and is managed by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. It's a great place to look for this mountain lion subspecies in their natural habitat. In addition to the Florida panther, you’ll also see wildlife species like the red-cockaded woodpecker and the region’s deer population, which makes up a large portion of the panther’s diet. 

Sun-n-Fun Lagoon

A road trip from Miami to Tampa isn’t all about wide-open spaces; sometimes, you want to kick back and have some fun. At the Sun-n-Fun Lagoon, you can enjoy lazy rivers and wave pools to your heart’s content. This waterpark in Naples, FL, has plenty of water-based rides for the entire family, and there’s also a lap and dive pool for traditional water fun.

Warm Mineral Springs Park

This Florida attraction offers an excellent opportunity for families to learn about the state’s geothermal activity. The Warm Mineral Springs is a water-filled sinkhole that developed in the area. The water is supplied by a spring vent deep under the surface, and the water is warmed by geothermal activity deep below. The water is heated year-round, so spend some time here and go for a dip with the family. This park attracts more than 100,000 visitors every year because of the mineral-infused naturally warmed waters.

The John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art

John Ringling, one of the seven famous Ringling Brothers, established this art museum with his wife, Mable, in 1927. The museum was established as a gift for Florida's people and features many art exhibits and museum pieces throughout the year. Since its inception, the museum has been designated as the official art museum of the state, and you can find famous pieces like Saint Sebastian by Niccolo De Simone here. 

The Florida Aquarium

The Florida Aquarium is located in your destination city during your Miami to Tampa RV road trip. This Tampa-area aquarium is an opportunity for you and your family to see some of the native species that inhabit the waters around Florida. For example, here you can see coral reefs, sea turtles, various crocodilian species, and sharks. The Florida Aquarium decided to celebrate its 25th anniversary in 2020 by creating a “Washed Ashore” exhibit composed entirely of plastics that have washed ashore from the sea. While beautiful, it’s a keen reminder of the status of the natural environment.

When you follow this road trip itinerary from Miami 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 Miami or Tampa.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

To plan an RV road trip from Miami 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 Miami 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 Miami 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!