Road Trip with RVshare Tampa to Wilmington

If you want to travel from the Gulf Coast to Delaware's biggest city, then a Tampa to Wilmington road trip may be right for you. Swamps, beaches, rivers, mountains, and more await you in some excellent national and state parks you'll get to explore on your journey. Multiple great Eastern Seaboard cities full of fun tourist attractions are along your route; you'll even get to explore America's capital on your road trip from Tampa to Wilmington.

Road Trip Planner: Stops Along Your Route

Jacksonville, Florida  

When you visit Jacksonville, be sure to stop by great local attractions like the Jacksonville Zoo & Gardens, Catty Shack Ranch Wildlife Sanctuary, and Atlantic Beach. There are numerous dump stations and campgrounds in the Jacksonville area.

Savannah, Georgia

Georgia's oldest city is known for its Southern hospitality and charm, so you'll definitely want to visit places like the Savannah Historic District, Forsyth Park, and Historic River Street. You won’t have to look hard for high-quality dump stations and campgrounds in this popular part of Georgia.

Richmond, Virginia  

Virginia’s capital is home to fantastic attractions like the American Civil War Museum, Maymont, and the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts. Many fine dump stations and campgrounds are located around the Richmond area.

Washington, D.C.  

You could easily spend a decent portion of your road trip from Tampa to Wilmington exploring America's capital thanks to world-class destinations like the National Mall, the Smithsonian, and the National Air and Space Museum. While you’re getting your fill of D.C., you’ll have plenty of great dump stations and campgrounds from which to choose.

Baltimore, Maryland  

Fort McHenry, the Walters Art Museum, the B&O Railroad Museum, and more await you in this interesting big city in Maryland. While you’re exploring the many entertaining cultural sites in Baltimore, you’ll be able to use multiple reliable dump stations and campgrounds.

National Parks

Everglades National Park  

Before you leave Tampa, you'll want to drive south for three hours to fascinating Everglades National Park. This national park is a million and a half acres large, so you'll have plenty of swampland, marshes, pines, and more to explore. Gators, crocs, manatees, panthers, and a host of other animals live here in America's largest tropical wilderness. Boating, hiking, backcountry camping, birdwatching, and taking airboat tours are all favorite activities here. 

Biscayne National Park  

You can't come this close to South Florida without going to the beach, so you should travel four hours and 15 minutes from Tampa and half an hour from Everglades National Park to Biscayne National Park. Scuba diving and snorkeling are top-notch here; boating, fishing, and swimming are also immensely popular. Most of this park's activities take place above and below the water, but there are still some lovely trails on dry land that take you along the coast and through the mangroves. 

Congaree National Park  

Congaree National Park is 45 minutes northwest of Santee, South Carolina. If you want to see some thousand-year-old trees while paddling down the Congaree River, then this national park, half an hour from Columbia, South Carolina, may be ideal for you. There are 10 different trails you can hike on through this interesting landscape, so you'll have plenty of ways to explore the swamps, riverbanks, creeks, and forests of this park. 

New River Gorge National Park  

New River Gorge National Park is America's newest national park, so traveling an extra three and a half hours west of Richmond, Virginia, is worthwhile. The New River has long been a favorite of rafters and boaters; New River Gorge is likewise beloved by hikers and general adventurers. Old mines, cliffs, waterfalls, canyons, and even an iconic bridge are all on display at New River Gorge National Park.

Shenandoah National Park  

The entrance to Shenandoah National Park is only an hour and 20 minutes west of Fredericksburg, Virginia. This lovely 300-mile portion of the Blue Ridge Mountains contains lengthy sections of Skyline Drive and the Appalachian Trail. Unsurprisingly, hiking, biking, and riding are all popular here; you can also go rock climbing, fishing, boating, and more. Many of the trails here are pet-friendly, so this is an excellent place to take your dog for a walk.

Nearby State Parks

Little Talbot Island State Park  

No Tampa to Wilmington RV road trip is complete without a visit to one of Florida's coastal state parks, so you should check out Little Talbot Island State Park. You can easily reach the entrance to this entrancing barrier island by traveling 25 minutes east of Jacksonville. Lovely beaches, mesmerizing marshes, a maritime forest, and multiple tidal creeks are all featured here. Swimming, kayaking, fishing, hiking, biking, and more are all popular park activities. 

Fort McAllister State Park  

Fort McAllister State Park is less than 20 minutes east of Richmond Hill, Georgia. An old Confederate fort and a Civil War museum provide great locations for historical exploration. There are plenty of places to get out in nature here as well as the nearby Ogeechee River is a great area to boat and fish. More than 4 miles of trails take you around the fort and its surrounding grounds.

Cliffs of the Neuse State Park  

Cliffs of the Neuse State Park is over a thousand acres large and features fascinating cliffs that are roughly 90 feet tall. Visitors love kayaking or canoeing down the Neuse River in order to get the best view of these lovely cliffs. There's a swimming lake in which you can take a dip and multiple hiking trails that take you throughout this interesting park that's 40 minutes east of Selma, North Carolina. 

Elk Neck State Park  

You can easily find Elk Neck State Park by driving 20 minutes south of North East, Maryland. It's located on the Elk Neck Peninsula, which juts out into the Chesapeake Bay. The park has a beach area for swimming and picnicking, a boat launch on the Elk River for boating and fishing, and a raptor-viewing field that's a great place to see hawks and eagles. Multiple excellent trails take you around this park; be sure to hike the 0.8-mile trail out to the historic Turkey Point Lighthouse.

Lums Pond State Park  

Before your road trip from Tampa to Wilmington comes to a close, you should drive 10 minutes south of Wilson, Delaware, to Lums Pond State Park. The biggest attraction here is Lum's Pond, which is Delaware's largest freshwater pond and an excellent site for fishing and boating. Multiple trails are available for horseback riding, biking, and hiking. One feature that sets this state park apart from most others is the Go Ape Ziplining Course, which gives you a treetop view of the forest and pond.

Along the Way

Magic Kingdom Park  

Disney's beloved Magic Kingdom Park is only 55 minutes east of Wildwood, Florida, so you should definitely add this iconic American park to your road trip itinerary from Tampa to Wilmington. Costumed characters, excellent rides, and quality dining all await you at this Orlando Park. Be sure to check out classic rides like It's a Small World, Space Mountain, Pirates of the Caribbean, and more.

American Prohibition Museum  

A dozen minutes east of Interstate 95, as it goes through Savannah, Georgia, is the American Prohibition Museum. If you want to visit a museum at which you can also drink alcohol on your Tampa to Wilmington RV road trip, then this museum dedicated to the Prohibition era of American history is a must. You'll be able to walk through exhibits detailing everything from the Temperance Movement to the ratification of the 21st Amendment and then sip on a Prohibition-era cocktail in a speakeasy. 

ZipQuest Waterfall & Treetop Adventure Park  

Whether you want to go on a zip-line adventure by day or by night, ZipQuest Waterfall & Treetop Adventure Park has you covered. You'll be able to get great views of Carver's Falls, Carver's Creek, and Fayetteville's woodlands while experiencing a perfect blend of nature and adventure. If you want to see Carver's Creek from seven stories up, then take an exciting ride on the Sling Shot.

Old Town Alexandria  

Before you cross the Potomac into the District of Columbia, you should travel 10 minutes east of Springfield, Virginia, and visit Old Town Alexandria on the banks of the Potomac. This nationally designated historic district features period architecture, brick-lined sidewalks, and some great shops and restaurants. You can explore the King Street Mile, take a ride on a water taxi, and sip on some craft beer or cider. 

Rocky Point Beach and Park  

If you want to visit a nice beach on the Chesapeake Bay, then Rocky Point Beach and Park will be a welcome stop on your road trip itinerary from Tampa to Wilmington. You can find this 375-acre park at the mouth of the Middle and Back Rivers. Swimming, sunbathing, boating, and picnicking are some of the favorite activities at this Baltimore County park.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

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

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