Road Trip with RVshare Tampa to Jackson

On a Tampa to Jackson road trip, you will come across multiple attractions, including state and national parks, zoos, museums, and theme parks. You can also find several restaurants in the major cities along the route, allowing you to sample delicious menus from Florida, Alabama, and Mississippi. In addition, the voyage between these two towns features beautiful scenery and plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, camping, and fishing. 

Road Trip Planner: Stops Along Your Route

Orlando

You can stop in Orlando, Florida, for thrilling tours and rides around various theme parks, including SeaWorld Orlando and Epcot. Nature lovers can escape to Discovery Cove, Gatorland, Leu Gardens, or Orlando Science Center. You can comfortably take a rest in Orlando thanks to the town's campgrounds and dump stations before proceeding on your exciting voyage. 

Tallahassee

Tallahassee is one of the biggest cities along the way on your Tampa to Jackson road trip. While in the city, be sure to visit Alfred B. Maclay Gardens State Park and the St. Marks National Wildlife Refuge. Moreover, you can also access informative venues such as Goodwood Museum and Gardens, Florida Historic Capitol Museum, and Museum of Florida History. Tallahassee ensures that you can stay in the city worry-free by providing several dump stations and campgrounds where you can take a rest and clean your RV's tanks before hitting the road again. 

Gulf Shores

Gulf Shores provides convenient access to different theme parks for adventurous rides, such as The Park at OWA and Waterville USA. In addition, the city features educational and historical sites like Fort Morgan and Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo. You can also drop by Gulf Shores campgrounds for overnight visits and utilize the dump stations in the area before continuing your ride to Jackson. 

Hattiesburg

You can see more than 40 art murals around Hattiesburg. This town is also home to interactive museums that are perfect for a kid-friendly vacation. Some of the local sites include The African American Military Museum and The Pocket Museum. Moreover, you can comfortably enjoy tours around the city while using the convenient Hattiesburg dump stations and campgrounds. 

Gulfport

Gulfport is home to the Mississippi Aquarium and Institute for Marine Mammal Studies, where you can learn about aquatic life with family or friends. Adventurous visitors can go to Ship Island Excursions and Gulf Island Waterpark for exciting outings. You can also unwind in Gulfport without inconveniences since the city has dump stations and multiple campgrounds within the town and in nearby Biloxi. 

National Parks

Everglades National Park

Before heading off on your Tampa to Jackson road trip route, take a detour a few hours south to Everglades National Park, where you can see the state's unspoiled marshlands. The country's largest tropical wetland provides millions of acres that you can explore to view exotic species such as Florida panthers, manatees, and American crocodiles. In addition, you can stroll along the elevated walkways above the water to appreciate scenic vistas and add fun to your experience. 

Biscayne National Park  

Biscayne National Park is another venue in southern Florida that you can stop by for family-friendly fun, including fishing, boating, and diving. The location presents beautiful views of emerald islands, aquamarine waters, and coral reefs, allowing you to take memorable photos to commemorate an exciting road trip. You can also participate in guided eco-adventures to Boca Chita Key and the Maritime Heritage Trail's shipwreck diving site. 

Hot Springs National Park

You can go to Hot Springs National Park in Hot Springs, Arkansas, for a natural spa experience during your road trip from Tampa to Jackson. The park offers tours of various bathhouses and on-site spas, allowing you to unwind in thermal baths after a long drive from Tampa. Besides baths, you can also hike along the surrounding trails to appreciate the mountainous scenery or climb the mountain tower for a sweeping view of the region. 

Nearby State Parks

Hillsborough River State Park

Hillsborough River State Park in Thonotosassa, Florida, is a few minutes away from Tampa, allowing you to begin your Tampa to Jackson RV road trip in style. The park has two bike-friendly trails where you can get in a workout while viewing the lovely environment. Aside from this, you can engage your companions in other outdoor activities like fishing, picnicking, paddling, hiking, geocaching, and horseback riding. 

Gulf State Park

You can enjoy a short drive to Gulf State Park in Spanish Fort, Alabama, which lets you take relaxing strolls along meandering boardwalks that pass over dunes and swamps on the way to the beach. The venue features a dog pond where you can take your pet for a swim, making it an ideal site for animal lovers. Moreover, the park permits fishing at the gulf from the pier or at Lake Shelby. You can catch various species, including catfish, bream, bass, flounder, redfish, and Spanish mackerel. 

Paul B Johnson State Park

You can drive to Paul B Johnson State Park in Hattiesburg, Mississippi, to stroll around magnificent natural surroundings featuring majestic loblolly and long-leaf pines, ancient oaks, and delicate dogwoods. This site is an attractive destination for families since it supports multiple recreational activities, including swimming, jetskiing, fishing, and golfing. 

Lake Lincoln State Park 

Lake Lincoln State Park in Wesson is close to Magee, Mississippi. At the park, you can take your loved ones for a relaxing outing to have fun at a picnic area, volleyball court, and swimming beach. You can also hike along the different trails and enjoy the serene environment. Furthermore, there's a boat launch ramp at the park's lake, making it easy to participate in fishing and boating activities. 

Roosevelt State Park

Roosevelt State Park in Morton, Mississippi, provides backcountry camping for adventurous visitors looking to have a unique and engaging experience. The spacious park also allows you to go horseback riding, bicycling, snowshoeing, and cross-country skiing. You can also fish at the site or take relaxing walks around the pathways while viewing the various wildlife in the area. 

Along the Way

Busch Gardens Tampa Bay

You can put Busch Gardens Tampa Bay among the first venues to visit on your Tampa to Jackson road trip itinerary. Busch Gardens features an open-air vehicle tour around the 65-acre Serengeti Plain where you'll see various animals. You can also add excitement to your visit by riding the rollercoasters. 

Tallahassee Museum

You can take children to the Tallahassee Museum in Tallahassee, Florida, to see remarkable flora and fauna. The museum also features historical buildings that let you experience Southern life from years past, including the Seaboard Airline Caboose, Bethlehem Missionary Baptist Church, and Bellevue Plantation house. Moreover, this venue offers a zip-line course that gives you the chance to enjoy a thrilling challenge. 

Bellingrath Gardens and Home

The Bellingrath Gardens and Home in Theodore, Alabama, offers a beautiful tour around a garden featuring various flower species. This site is also home to a museum where you can look at the displays of artifacts and the Bellingrath couple's original furnishings. Moreover, the Bellingrath Home is full of eye-catching architectural features, including a slate roof and flagstone terraces. 

Hattiesburg Zoo

You can look at different animals at Hattiesburg Zoo when driving through Hattiesburg, including monkeys, giraffes, anteaters, snakes, and birds. Kids can also ride on the train or carousel, making it a convenient and exciting family trip destination. In addition, it also has adult-friendly activities such as The High Ropes Adventure Course, a four-story rope course, and Mining Expedition, where you can mine for gems and stones. 

Mississippi Museum of Art

The Mississippi Museum of Art in Jackson has a souvenir store offering exhibition-related products suitable for all age groups. You can tour the nearby Art Garden, a 1.2-acre park created to engage tourists with versatile arts. The open outdoor space allows you to view exhibitions and attend cultural events and festivals while surrounded by native garden beds, seasonal foliage, and water features. 

When you follow this road trip itinerary from Tampa to Jackson, 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 Tampa or Jackson.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

To plan an RV road trip from Tampa to Jackson, 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 Tampa to Jackson 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 Tampa to Jackson. 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!