Road Trip with RVshare Pittsburgh to Nashville

Your RV road trip from Pittsburgh to Nashville begins in southwestern Pennsylvania, where the Allegheny and Monongahela Rivers converge to form the Ohio River. While in the Steel City, you'll find something for all ages. This includes several museums, sports complexes, and the Pittsburgh Zoo and Aquarium.

Along the way, you'll come across many beautiful state parks. Ohio's West Branch State Park, with 29 full-hookup sites, offers fishing, boating and hiking. As you pass through four states, you'll find caverns, wildlife sanctuaries, and ample RV parks and campgrounds. Upon your arrival in Nashville, you won't want to miss the many legendary country music venues, especially the Grand Ole Opry House.

Road Trip Planner: Stops Along Your Route

When traveling from Pittsburgh to Nashville, you'll discover a mix of cities, history and nature. This road trip is ideal for RV travel with typical interstate driving and charming small towns along the way.

Mammoth Cave National Park

Mammoth Cave National Park in Kentucky offers exciting underground adventures. Aboveground, there are over 80 miles of trails, canoeing, kayaking and horseback riding. Once the sun sets, enjoy designated dark sky areas for stargazing.

RV Info & Tips:

• Campgrounds: Mammoth Cave Campground is located near the visitor center. There are also rustic sites for a more primitive experience.

• Seasonality: The park is open all year.

• Roads: Main roads are suitable for all RVs with no size restrictions. Secondary gravel roads can be challenging for larger RVs.

• How Long to Stay: Plan to stay at least two days to explore the main attractions.

• Gear & Prep: Bring sturdy, closed-toe shoes for hiking. You'll also need layered clothing and a light jacket for cool evenings.

Louisville, Kentucky

In Louisville, you can explore several great attractions like the Kentucky Derby Museum and the Louisville Slugger Museum. This city is also the home of the Muhammad Ali Center. Nightlife abounds with bourbon tours and tastings, live music, and performing arts.

RV Info & Tips:

• Campgrounds: Derby Park Campground and RV Park, Louisville South KOA Holiday, and Bourbon Springs RV Resort are all RV-friendly campgrounds in the city.

• Roads: Main roads and interstates are RV-friendly. Streets in older parts of the city are narrow. Navigation apps with RV settings will be helpful.

• How Long to Stay: You need three to five days to see all the key attractions, neighborhoods, distilleries and cultural spots.

Clifty Falls State Park

Clifty Falls State Park is found along the Ohio River and features stunning waterfalls and a nature center with live animals. Activities include a seasonal Olympic-size swimming pool, hiking, tennis and picnicking. Special highlights you shouldn't miss are the ADA overlook, the beautiful gorges and the historic tunnel.

RV Info & Tips:

• Campgrounds: Clifty Falls State Park has a campground with primitive and electric loops.

• Seasonality: The park is open all year, but areas like the nature center, pool and camping ground are seasonal from May to October.

• Roads: Roads within the park are generally RV-friendly, but they can be hilly. Expect curves, some grades and tight turns in older areas.

• How Long to Stay: Plan on several days to relax and enjoy all the park has to offer.

Pro Tips to Make the Most of Your Trip

A road trip from Pittsburgh to Nashville is a wonderful way to see some of the best sites in Ohio, Kentucky and Tennessee. A little preplanning will help you relax and enjoy your time on the road. Consider your route options, where to stop for essentials and other logistics before heading out.

Alternate Route Options

You can start by heading north to make a stop at Ohio's Cuyahoga Valley National Park. This makes it possible to visit two national parks during your road trip while adding to the scenic experience. This route will add a little time to the trip, so plan accordingly.

Fuel & Supplies Along the Way

You'll find several major travel centers between Pittsburgh and Nashville, such as Pilot, Love's and TA Travel Centers. There are several along I-79, I-70 and I-65. Many of these stops offer propane, dump stations and RV parking. They also have grab-and-go food options along with a small variety of groceries and other essentials.

Timing & Logistics

Break your road trip up into two or more days for safety and comfort. This also gives you time to explore the many cities and towns along the way. Columbus, OH; Cincinnati, OH; and Louisville, KY are all good overnight locations. Expect delays leaving Pittsburgh and entering Nashville, especially during rush hour. Check the weather when traveling during the winter season. Snow and ice can slow travel.

Route Logistics

• Tunnel or Bridge Height Considerations: Know your RV's exact height, including the AC unit. Interstates generally have a 14- to 16-ft clearance. Areas like the Cumberland River crossing or older downtown bridges in Nashville can have lower height limits.

• Long Stretches Without Fuel: The longest stretches without fuel are found in the rural areas of Kentucky near Mammoth Cave National Park. There are also fewer fuel stops along I-65 and I-75.

• Best Time to Go: Spring and fall are the best times of year for this road trip. The weather is comfortable, and you can see the early blooms or fall foliage. You'll also enjoy fewer crowds than during the summer months.

When you take a road trip from Pittsburgh to Nashville, you'll experience many scenic attractions and beautiful cities offering plenty to do. For a comfortable, relaxing trip, consider an RV rental from RVshare. You'll find an array of RVs to choose from, ranging from large motorhomes to cozy camper vans.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

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