Road Trip with RVshare Nashville to Gatlinburg

Put on some country tunes and get ready for a great road trip as you travel from Nashville to Gatlinburg, Tennessee. While you might be tempted to hop on Interstate 40 and spend your time only in Nashville and Gatlinburg, you'd miss many delightful opportunities in between those two cities. This guide is designed to highlight some historic sites, stunning views, and amazing cultural attractions along the way. Driving an RV or towing a camper allows you to stop in and stay awhile at national and state parks during your Nashville to Gatlinburg road trip. 

Road Trip Planner: Stops Along Your Route

Adamsville  

This community in Western Tennessee is a great place to spend the night at campgrounds like Country Critters Campground and RV Park. Step into a local diner and relax as you are warmly greeted in this town of 2,000. Head to the nearby farms to get fresh produce or cut your own Christmas tree, depending on the season. You can find nearby RV dump stations at Pickwick Dam Campground near Counce or Pickwick Landing State Park near Savannah. 

Shiloh

So much important history took place in the hills around Shiloh that you'll want to spend time learning about it. When visiting this community, try to see the Cherry Mansion and the Tennessee River Museum in addition to the national military park. There are many campgrounds in this area, including ones at Battlefield Campground and Green Acres RV Park. When you are looking for an RV dump station near Shiloh, consider the Love’s Truck Stop in Ramer or the 45 S Truck Stop in Milledgeville. 

Chattanooga  

Chattanooga has been named one of the top cities in the U.S. to visit because of its outdoor adventures, museums, and food. You can visit many attractions in Chattanooga, including Rock City Gardens, Ruby Falls and the Tennessee Aquarium. You can camp in many beautiful campgrounds, including Raccoon Mountain Caverns & Campground that offers wild cave tours to campers and Sweetwater/I-75/Exit 62 KOA, which has a catch-and-release fishing pond. There are many available dump stations in the Chattanooga area, including the ones at Chester Frost Park and Sweetwater KOA. 

Knoxville  

The city of Knoxville is diverse. It's easy to explore an urban lifestyle, especially in the thriving downtown area, and connect with nature there. Use our RV camping guide to locate campgrounds in the Knoxville area, including Soaring Eagle Campground located near Bristol Motor Speedway and Southlake Campground on the shores of the Tennessee River. You will also find many RV dump stations in the Knoxville area, such as at Escapees Raccoon Valley RV Park and the Flying J Travel Center #722. 

National Parks

Cumberland Gap National Historical Park

Stand in awe of the gap in the mountains where early settlers and animals traveled between mountains at Cumberland Gap National Historical Park. Go on the two-hour tour to see the glistening stalagmites and flowstone cascades at the underground cathedral while listening to the park ranger to learn more about the area. Go on the four-hour tour to see the Hensley Settlement where people lived from 1904 to 1951. There are many miles of hiking trails waiting to be explored at this national park. 

Manhattan Project National Historical Park

Start your tour of the Oakridge part of the Manhattan Project National Historical Park at the American Museum of Science and Energy. During the four-hour bus tour, you'll see the X-10 Graphite Reactor where uranium for the first atomic bomb was produced, the New Bethel Church that was constructed in 1924, the overlook where the K-25 Gaseous Diffusion Building stood and the Y-12 New Hope History Center. 

Great Smoky Mountains National Park

The Great Smoky Mountains National Park covers parts of Tennessee and North Carolina. Consider going on a hike through some of the backcountries at this park. You can also go for scenic drives through much of the park or attend ranger-led programming. 

Nearby State Parks

Radnor Lake State Park

Go for a hike at Radnor Lake State Park to see the amazing variety of wildlife in this protected Class II Natural Area. This day-use park in Nashville is unique because of its urban setting and the care taken to develop trails for all ability levels. 

Henry Horton State Park  

Once home to Tennessee Governor Henry Horton, Henry Horton State Park is located on the shores of the Duck River. This park is a great place to go on a guided rafting trip, play disc golf, swim, skeet shoot, hike, fish, and golf. You can also eat in the restaurant and enjoy a drink in the lounge. With so many fantastic things to do at this state park, consider making it an overnight stay on your Nashville to Gatlinburg RV road trip. 

Fort Loudon State Historic Park

This 1,200-acre state park was built about 1756, and it is one of the earliest British fortifications on the Western frontier. You can take part in many reenactments at this park, but fun happens at Fort Loudon State Historic Park even when reenactments aren't going on. You can rent a kayak or a stand-up paddleboard to explore Tellico Lake, hike around its shores or go fishing for bass and catfish. 

Cumberland Mountain State Park

There are many things to do at Cumberland Mountain State Park, which is located on the Cumberland Plateau. You can launch almost any type of watercraft at this state park to enjoy time on Byrd Lake. Bring your mountain bike along because there are trails, including those with jumps for advanced and beginning riders, waiting to be explored. Take a swim in the pool, play a round of golf, or hike along 14 miles of trails. 

Seven Islands State Birding Park

Visitors gasp in awe at the breathtaking views of the Great Smoky Mountains from this park. Over 190 species of birds have been spotted here, so bring your binoculars to watch as you hike along Seven Islands State Birding Park’s paths. You're welcome to launch a kayak or canoe to explore the French Broad River, where over 50 species of fish live. 

Along the Way

Belle Meade Plantation  

Learn how this site went from a humble log cabin to one of the most prestigious thoroughbred racing farms in the world. During your visit, you can tour the mansion and take a Segway tour of the grounds. This site also hosts events like wine-and-cheese parties and bourbon-tasting parties. This historic landmark is located very near Nashville, Tennessee. 

Buford Pusser Home & Museum  

See the home that legendary sheriff Buford Pusser lived in at the time of his death. Buford Pusser was a man whose story has been told in the "Walking Tall" movies. He is viewed as a hero for his one-person battle against illegal moonshine and prostitution, which ultimately ended in tragedy. The home is preserved almost exactly as Buford Pusser left it on the day that a one-car accident took his life. This home is located in Adamsville, Tennessee. 

McClung Museum of Natural History & Culture  

This museum at the University of Tennessee at Knoxville features exhibits about different cultural groups in the state and the state’s natural history. You can also view ancient Egyptian artifacts, learn about life in Knoxville during the Civil War, glimpse fossils collected from around the state, and see art from around the world there. 

Knoxville Museum of Art  

Many talented artists have lived in Eastern Tennessee. Countless examples of their work are on display at the Knoxville Museum of Art. 

Anakeesta

Anakeesta is a Cherokee word that means higher ground. You will enjoy all types of mountaintop experiences at this 70-acre theme park that's located just outside of Gatlinburg, so don't get in a hurry to end your road trip itinerary from Nashville to Gatlinburg. Instead, ride the zip lines and the single-mountain coaster or relax with a great meal and shop at unique stores.

While you can quickly travel down the interstate on a road trip from Nashville to Gatlinburg, you would miss so many opportunities to see fantastic scenery, have new adventures, and learn about history. Consider renting an RV in Nashville or Gatlinburg, and explore Southern Tennessee at a slower pace. You will build memories to last a lifetime.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I plan an RV road trip from Nashville to Gatlinburg?

To plan an RV road trip from Nashville to Gatlinburg, 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 Nashville to Gatlinburg 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 Nashville to Gatlinburg. 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!