Road Trip with RVshare Orlando to Birmingham

An Orlando to Birmingham road trip is a great opportunity for you and your family to get to know the country's deep south. You'll start from the middle of the great state of Florida, work your way through Georgia, and finally end your trip in one of the most integral cities in the fight for civil rights. Along the way, you'll pass through several state parks, have a chance for some truly inspiring sightseeing, and you'll also get to know some of the friendliest people around. You may even have the chance to experience a theme park or two while you make your way northward in your RV.

Road Trip Planner: Stops Along Your Route

Gainesville, Florida

As the largest city in Alachua County, Gainesville is a north-central Florida city with a population of 132,127 people. The city is always warm and inviting; in fact, it has a subtropical climate. Gainesville is where Gatorade was developed by Robert Cade, a University of Florida professor. Gainesville is also home to the Florida Museum of Natural History, Devil's Millhopper Geological State Park, and the Kika Silva Pla Planetarium. 

While there isn't a campground directly in Gainesville, there are several Gainesville-area campgrounds in towns like Starke and Fort McCoy. Fort McCoy/Lake Oklawaha KOA is pet-friendly, has good cell reception, and has Wi-Fi. Additionally, places like Starke N.E. KOA has a pool that you and your family can use to cool off. Don’t forget to use one of Florida’s numerous dump stations to offload your wastewater.

Macon, Georgia

Macon is part of the Macon-Warner Robins Metro area and is rich in culture and the arts. If you love festivals and plan to visit a few during your road trip itinerary from Orlando to Birmingham, consider Macon since it's home to the Ocmulgee Indian Celebration, the Central Georgia Creek Festival, and the International Cherry Blossom Festival in March. Additionally, Macon's 97,000-plus residents are known for their southern hospitality, and as a result, the city has gained the nickname "The Heart of Georgia."

There are numerous campgrounds throughout the Macon area. Some of note include Fair Harbor RV Park, Ponderosa Campgrounds, and Twin Oaks RV Camping. Each has its share of amenities, and some are even pet-friendly. When you need to dump your gray and black water, there are also several Macon-area RV dump stations to select.

Atlanta, Georgia

With a population of over 500,000, Atlanta is one of the jewels of the south and serves as the capital of the state of Georgia. While its population might seem slightly meager, consider that the entire Atlanta, Georgia, metropolitan area, which encompasses Sandy Springs and Alpharetta, has over six million residents. With such a bustling population, you'll find thousands of things to do in town. This is also one of the points during the road trip where you can opt to visit the nearest national park. 

Regarding RV parks, you'll find that the majority of them are positioned in areas surrounding the city. A good example of this is Scenic Mountain RV Park, positioned on a large scenic area. While here, enjoy one of the 70 full hook-up sites that will work for most RVs. There is also an on-premise bathhouse, a swimming pool, and a whirlpool where you can relax. There's even cable TV and free Wi-Fi. When it’s time to dump your waste, consider one of the numerous dump stations in Atlanta.

National Parks

Great Smoky Mountains National Park

Unfortunately, this specific road trip doesn't have a national park along the way. That being said, the closest to this route is Great Smoky Mountains National Park. This park is located in Tennessee, so you'll have to travel a bit further north of Atlanta, which is one of the cities you'll be going through. 

In total, the park is about 167 miles away, but when you get there, you'll have opportunities for picture-taking and hundreds of trails to enjoy. This is also a good option year-round since temperatures tend to be very moderate. In total, the park is over 500,000 acres, so set aside some time to really explore the beautiful landscapes. While here, enjoy some fishing, horseback riding, or check out one of the famous landmarks like Chimney Tops, Laurel Falls, or Clingmans Dome.

Nearby State Parks

Lake Louisa State Park

The allure of Lake Louisa State Park is its wild, untouched environments. While here, it's not uncommon to see a variety of wildlife, including the famous Florida gator. The state park is on the edge of the Green Swamp. This should be your first stop on your road trip from Orlando to Birmingham because it's only about 28 miles away from your starting location.

While here, you'll be surrounded by lush cypress swamps and pines and have access to 20 miles of trails to explore. You may also encounter some orange trees during your hikes, and since these are abandoned groves, feel free to grab some fruit. This park is also unique because it has horseback riding, making it one of the few Florida state parks to offer this kind of activity. While this is a park that's best situated for hikers, there are also a few paved roads that traverse the area, so feel free to bring a smaller RV.

Paynes Prairie Preserve State Park

Found in Micanopy, FL, Paynes Prairie Preserve State Park is a beautiful 21,000-acre savanna. Named after King Payne, a chief of the Seminole tribe, the park offers numerous wildlife viewing opportunities. Do you want to see bison in the wild? Paynes has these and animals like horses, birds, deer, and alligators.

The park is open from 8 a.m. to sundown, and you can visit all year. Feel free to explore each of the eight trails here, and if you want to do things on the water, both fishing and canoeing opportunities are available. As far as camping, you can find primitive camping, standard camping, and equestrian camping within the state park grounds.

Big Shoals State Park

Big Shoals is another Florida state park that is famous for its expansive vistas and untouched atmosphere. At this park, you'll experience whitewater rafting, canoeing, fishing, and trail hiking year-round. For the hikers, there are 33 miles of trails here, so bring some comfortable hiking shoes. The big shoals in Big Shoals State Park are a reference to the whitewater rapids that snake through this area. In fact, this park is home to the largest of these in the entire state.

Along the Way

Florida Museum of Natural History

Dedicated to preserving Florida's natural biodiversity, this museum has numerous exhibits that chronicle the specific wildlife that can be found both in- and out-of-state. The museum is part of the University of Florida system, and there are also multiple events throughout the year that are designed for both kids and adults. For example, you can see a series on the Florida Springs biodiversity or the Herpetology at Paynes Prairie. There are also various limited-time exhibits that you can check out throughout the year. 

Museum of Aviation

To access the Museum of Aviation, you'll be traveling to Robins Air Force Base, which itself is a great point of interest during your Orlando to Birmingham RV road trip. Georgia has a long history of supporting avionics, and you get some of that experience here. While you visit, you can check out exhibits of vintage aircraft and some of the more modern planes that dot the aerial landscape. There are even fighter jets here to check out. The museum also has a dedicated education center so that the younger generation can learn about some of aviation's history.

Noah’s Ark Animal Sanctuary

Located in Locust Grove, Georgia, Noah's Ark Animal Sanctuary has been in operation since 1978 and is dedicated to animal conservation. Here, you will find animals like mountain lions, bears, foxes, wolves, tigers, and several primate species. They also host several drives throughout the year and ask visitors for help with their conservation efforts. Their efforts don't just extend to the exotic; they have over 181 recently acquired Chihuahuas at the park that visitors can sometimes adopt.

When you follow this road trip itinerary from Orlando to Birmingham, 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 Orlando or Birmingham.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I plan an RV road trip from Orlando to Birmingham?

To plan an RV road trip from Orlando to Birmingham, 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 Orlando to Birmingham 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 Orlando to Birmingham. 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!