Texas RV Road Trip Guide: Rentals, Parks & Campgrounds

There’s no better way to explore the Lone Star State than from the comfort and freedom of an RV. Whether you’re navigating the pine forests of East Texas, winding through Hill Country’s back roads, or camping beneath desert stars in Big Bend, this Texas RV road trip guide helps you plan the journey of a lifetime. With thousands of miles of open highway and a deep love for the outdoors, Texas is an RV traveler’s paradise.

This comprehensive guide is built for every kind of road tripper—whether you’re renting your first RV, towing a fifth wheel, or living the full-time van life. We cover the most scenic RV parks and campgrounds, where to rent an RV, essential route tips, and even the best roadside eats across the state. You’ll also find must-have apps, boondocking advice, and park reservation strategies—all backed by local insight and real Texas travel experience.

From Hill Country wineries to Gulf Coast breezes and wild desert horizons, RVing gives you a front-row seat to Texas in all its vast, untamed beauty. Let’s get rolling.

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Best RV Rental Platforms in Texas

Renting the right RV is your first big step toward an unforgettable Texas road trip. Whether you need a compact campervan for Hill Country or a luxury motorhome for West Texas, these top rental platforms and local vendors offer options for every budget, group size, and travel style.

1. RVshare

RVshare is the largest peer-to-peer RV rental marketplace in the U.S., and it’s extremely popular in Texas. You can filter by vehicle type, delivery options, pet-friendliness, and even festival readiness. The platform also includes insurance, 24/7 roadside assistance, and a generous cancellation policy. It’s a great choice for beginners and seasoned travelers alike.

Address: Based online, available across Texas
For more info: rvshare.com

2. Outdoorsy

Austin-based Outdoorsy offers a similar peer-to-peer model with an emphasis on modern design, clean listings, and local owner support. You can rent everything from vintage Airstreams to off-road-ready campervans. The platform includes trip protection, damage coverage, and even a concierge service in select Texas markets.

Address: Based online, available across Texas
For more info: outdoorsy.com

3. Cruise America

If you’re looking for a more traditional rental experience, Cruise America offers a national fleet of Class C motorhomes with pickup locations in major Texas cities like Austin, Dallas, and Houston. They’re known for consistency, nationwide support, and affordability for families.

Address: Multiple locations across Texas
For more info: cruiseamerica.com

4. Texas RV Adventures – San Antonio

A locally owned RV rental company offering luxury Class A and Class C motorhomes with high-end finishes. Texas RV Adventures includes free mileage packages, generator time, and a dedicated walk-through session for each renter. Great for first-time RVers who want hands-on service.

Address: 8383 US-87, San Antonio, TX 78263
For more info: texasrvadventures.com

5. American Dream Vacations – Austin

With a wide range of motorhomes, travel trailers, and toy haulers, American Dream Vacations provides both short-term and long-term rentals from their Austin location. They offer unlimited generator use and are pet-friendly.

Address: 4500 I-35, Austin, TX 78745
For more info: americandreamvacation.com

6. Lone Star RV Rentals – Houston

Specializing in newer model RVs with flexible pick-up times, Lone Star RV Rentals offers personalized service with helpful trip planning support. Their fleet includes luxury Class A options perfect for extended trips or special events.

Address: 1721 Spring Cypress Rd, Spring, TX 77388
For more info: lonestarrvrental.com

7. El Monte RV – Dallas

A well-established national company with a Dallas hub, El Monte RV features both economy and luxury rentals, one-way rentals, and international traveler support. Their rigs are road-trip ready with bedding, kitchen kits, and mileage packages.

Address: 3500 S Central Expy, McKinney, TX 75070
For more info: elmonterv.com

Best RV Rental Platforms in Texas

Finding the right RV rental is the foundation of a great Texas road trip. Whether you’re cruising through the desert with a luxury motorhome or parking at a Hill Country winery in a teardrop trailer, these platforms offer top-tier selections, solid support, and options tailored to every kind of traveler.

1. RVshare

As the largest peer-to-peer RV rental platform in the country, RVshare connects you with thousands of RV owners across Texas. From vintage trailers to luxury diesel pushers, their inventory is massive—and deeply customizable. You can search by RV type, amenity (like pet-friendly or festival-ready), and delivery options, making it easy to find rigs that suit your exact needs. Every rental includes comprehensive insurance, free 24/7 roadside assistance, and flexible cancellation terms. The site is beginner-friendly and has one of the most responsive customer support systems in the business.

Address: Based online, serving all major Texas cities
For more info: rvshare.com

2. Outdoorsy

Founded in Austin, Outdoorsy brings a polished, tech-savvy experience to peer-to-peer RV rentals. Their platform has a strong reputation for quality listings—many with stylish interiors, unique layouts, or off-grid upgrades. You’ll find everything from rooftop tents and converted Sprinters to luxury fifth wheels. Outdoorsy offers built-in trip insurance, 24/7 support, and even roadside help through a robust protection program. For travelers flying into Texas, they also offer “deliver-to-you” services in most major cities.

Address: Based online, with headquarters in Austin, TX
For more info: outdoorsy.com

3. Cruise America

A more traditional choice, Cruise America operates a standardized fleet of Class C motorhomes that are perfect for families, first-timers, or travelers looking for predictability. Their RVs come in a few fixed sizes and include all the basics—kitchen, bathroom, generator, and sleeping space for up to 7 people. With rental stations in Austin, Houston, Dallas, San Antonio, and El Paso, it’s easy to plan a loop or one-way adventure. Cruise America also offers trip insurance, roadside support, and budget-friendly pricing for longer trips.

Address: Multiple Texas locations including Austin, Dallas, Houston, and San Antonio
For more info: cruiseamerica.com

4. Texas RV Adventures – San Antonio

For travelers based in or near San Antonio, Texas RV Adventures offers high-end, fully loaded RVs in a locally managed setting. Their lineup includes luxury Class A diesel motorhomes and well-equipped Class C models ideal for small families or couples. What sets them apart is their all-inclusive pricing—no surprise generator fees or mileage overages. They walk each renter through a full orientation and even help plan routes. Their local knowledge and hands-on service make them a go-to for stress-free trips.

Address: 8383 US-87, San Antonio, TX 78263
For more info: texasrvadventures.com

5. American Dream Vacations – Austin

With a large fleet and over 20 years in the business, American Dream Vacations offers a variety of RV styles, from small travel trailers to Class A motorcoaches. Located just south of downtown Austin, this family-run company emphasizes flexibility—they cater to weekend warriors as well as extended trip planners. Their rigs are well-maintained, and they allow pets, tow vehicles, and generator use without outrageous surcharges. Whether you’re headed for the Hill Country or Big Bend, they offer tailored recommendations for routes and campgrounds.

Address: 4500 I-35, Austin, TX 78745
For more info: americandreamvacation.com

6. Lone Star RV Rentals – Houston

Located just north of Houston in Spring, Lone Star RV Rentals has become a top choice for travelers looking for luxury and late-model rigs. Their fleet focuses on newer motorhomes with modern floorplans, smart TVs, slide-outs, and upgraded kitchens—perfect for road trippers who want the comforts of home on wheels. They’re known for stellar customer service, including flexible pick-up times and helpful walkthroughs for RV newbies. With proximity to Houston and The Woodlands, this is an ideal launch point for a coastal or Hill Country adventure.

Address: 1721 Spring Cypress Rd, Spring, TX 77388
For more info: lonestarrvrental.com

7. El Monte RV – Dallas

El Monte RV is a national rental service with a strong Texas presence, especially near the DFW metroplex. Their inventory includes both economy and luxury models, and their one-way rental options are perfect for road trippers flying into one city and out of another. Units come fully outfitted with linens, kitchenware, and even child seats upon request. With competitive rates and availability even during peak travel seasons, they’re a solid option for long-distance travelers or international visitors looking to explore Texas without limits.

Address: 3500 S Central Expy, McKinney, TX 75070
For more info: elmonterv.com

Must-Visit RV Parks in Texas

Whether you’re looking for resort-style amenities or remote serenity, Texas RV parks cater to every type of traveler. These standout parks offer a combination of full hookups, scenic settings, and authentic Texas hospitality—making them top stops on any RV road trip.

1. Grand Texas RV Resort – New Caney

Located just 30 minutes north of Houston, Grand Texas RV Resort is part of a larger entertainment district that includes a theme park, water park, and shopping complex. The park features paved sites with full hookups, Wi-Fi, clean bathhouses, and laundry facilities. Families will love its proximity to Big Rivers Waterpark, while long-term travelers appreciate the on-site dog park and quiet country vibe despite being close to the city.

Address: 22846 TX-242, New Caney, TX 77357
For more info: grandtx.com

2. Skyline Ranch RV Park – Bandera

Set along the Medina River and surrounded by oak trees and hills, Skyline Ranch RV Park is a peaceful retreat just outside Bandera, the Cowboy Capital of the World. The park offers riverfront sites, fishing access, hiking trails, and regular potlucks in the community hall. It’s ideal for RVers looking to experience Hill Country charm and attend local rodeos, honky-tonks, or cowboy poetry nights in town.

Address: 2231 State Hwy 16 N, Bandera, TX 78003
For more info: skylineranchrvpark.com

3. The Vineyards Campground & Cabins – Grapevine

Tucked beside Lake Grapevine and just minutes from Dallas-Fort Worth, The Vineyards Campground & Cabins blends natural beauty with big-city access. Spacious RV sites come with lake views, fire pits, picnic tables, and full utilities. Guests can rent kayaks, explore hiking trails, or walk to historic downtown Grapevine’s wine tasting rooms. It’s perfect for those who want outdoor living without giving up urban convenience.

Address: 1501 N Dooley St, Grapevine, TX 76051
For more info: vineyardscampground.com

4. Maverick Ranch RV Park – Lajitas

Located within the Lajitas Golf Resort near Big Bend National Park, Maverick Ranch RV Park provides desert luxury with mountain views. The park features 100 sites with full hookups, a pool, bathhouses, and access to resort amenities like golf, horseback riding, and spa services. It’s an exceptional base for exploring Big Bend or enjoying star parties, river rafting, and desert hikes.

Address: 100 Main St, Lajitas, TX 79852
For more info: lajitasgolfresort.com

5. Hill Country RV Resort – New Braunfels

A family-friendly park near Schlitterbahn Waterpark and historic Gruene, Hill Country RV Resort offers over 250 full-service sites with cable TV, Wi-Fi, indoor pools, and playgrounds. The park also features game rooms, fitness centers, and frequent themed events. With easy access to the Guadalupe River, wineries, and San Antonio day trips, it’s a favorite for both weekenders and snowbirds.

Address: 131 S Rueckle Rd, New Braunfels, TX 78130
For more info: hillcountryrvresortnb.com

6. Rayford Crossing RV Resort – Spring

Nestled in The Woodlands area north of Houston, Rayford Crossing offers a boutique-style RV experience with manicured grounds, resort amenities, and a quiet, residential feel. Guests enjoy a heated pool, dog parks, catch-and-release fishing, and community events like movie nights and food trucks. It’s a great stop for travelers who want relaxation close to shopping and dining.

Address: 29321 S Plum Creek Dr, Spring, TX 77386
For more info: rayfordcrossing.com

7. Big Bend Resort & Adventures – Terlingua

Located just minutes from the entrance to Big Bend National Park, Big Bend Resort & Adventures offers basic but well-positioned RV sites for those looking to explore the desert. The park includes full hookups, showers, a general store, and a restaurant. While the amenities are simple, the access to Big Bend’s hiking, rafting, and dark skies is unbeatable.

Address: 53623 TX-118, Terlingua, TX 79852
For more info: bigbendresort.com

Top Texas State Parks for RV Camping

Texas is home to more than 90 state parks, and many of them are RV-friendly with full or partial hookups, scenic campsites, and access to hiking, swimming, paddling, and wildlife. These standout state parks are perfect for RV travelers looking to blend nature, comfort, and unforgettable landscapes.

1. Garner State Park – Concan

One of the most popular parks in Texas, Garner State Park is a summer favorite thanks to its cool, spring-fed Frio River, stunning Hill Country views, and nostalgic nightly dances at the park pavilion. RV sites include water and electric hookups, and there’s tubing, kayaking, hiking, and biking within the park’s 1,774 acres. Book early—this park fills up fast.

Address: 234 RR 1050, Concan, TX 78838
For more info: tpwd.texas.gov

2. Pedernales Falls State Park – Johnson City

Just outside Austin, Pedernales Falls offers a peaceful escape with limestone riverbeds, cascading waterfalls, and miles of hiking and equestrian trails. The RV campsites come with water and electric hookups and are located near scenic overlooks and shaded picnic areas. It’s a perfect weekend base for Hill Country wine country or a dip in the Pedernales River.

Address: 2585 Park Road 6026, Johnson City, TX 78636
For more info: tpwd.texas.gov

3. Balmorhea State Park – Toyahvale

Home to one of the largest spring-fed swimming pools in the world, Balmorhea State Park is an oasis in the middle of West Texas desert. The 1.3-acre pool stays around 72–76°F year-round and is teeming with fish and turtles. RVers can reserve one of several full hookup spots and enjoy swimming, birdwatching, or stargazing under wide desert skies.

Address: 9207 TX-17, Toyahvale, TX 79786
For more info: tpwd.texas.gov

4. Caprock Canyons State Park – Quitaque

Less crowded than nearby Palo Duro, Caprock Canyons is a hidden gem in the Texas Panhandle. It offers dramatic red rock canyons, wild bison herds, and miles of trails along the Caprock Escarpment. RV campsites come with water and electric, and some are near Lake Theo for fishing and paddling. It’s rugged, remote, and ideal for photographers and hikers.

Address: 850 Caprock Canyon Park Rd, Quitaque, TX 79255
For more info: tpwd.texas.gov

5. Inks Lake State Park – Burnet

A Central Texas classic, Inks Lake is known for its pink granite outcrops, water recreation, and family-friendly camping. The park has over 200 campsites—many of them waterfront—with full hookups, restrooms, and access to canoe rentals, fishing piers, and hiking trails. It’s especially popular in spring when wildflowers blanket the surrounding hills.

Address: 3630 Park Rd 4 W, Burnet, TX 78611
For more info: tpwd.texas.gov

6. Davis Mountains State Park – Fort Davis

Tucked in one of Texas’s highest mountain ranges, Davis Mountains State Park offers sweeping views, cool mountain air, and easy access to nearby attractions like the McDonald Observatory and Fort Davis National Historic Site. RVers can stay at Indian Lodge or in shaded campsites with water and electric. The park is peaceful, scenic, and ideal for birdwatching or star-gazing.

Address: TX-118 N, Fort Davis, TX 79734
For more info: tpwd.texas.gov

7. Mustang Island State Park – Port Aransas

For beach-loving RVers, Mustang Island delivers salt air, sandy feet, and sunrise views over the Gulf. The park offers 48 water-electric sites just steps from the beach, with opportunities for swimming, kayaking, surf fishing, and shell hunting. It’s a favorite coastal destination, especially in shoulder seasons when the weather is mild and crowds are thin.

Address: 9394 TX-361, Corpus Christi, TX 78418
For more info: tpwd.texas.gov

Scenic RV Road Trip Routes Across Texas

Texas isn’t just one place—it’s five distinct landscapes in one enormous state. RV travelers can experience everything from high desert to coastal wetlands, piney woods to red rock canyons. These scenic routes showcase the best of Texas for RVers, with accessible roads, spacious campgrounds, and unforgettable views along the way.

1. Hill Country Wine Trail (Austin to Fredericksburg)

This classic Central Texas route is a favorite among RVers for its rolling hills, vineyard stops, and charming towns. Start in Austin and head west through Dripping Springs, Johnson City, and Stonewall before reaching Fredericksburg. Along the way, visit wineries like Becker Vineyards, Grape Creek, and William Chris, and stay overnight at nearby RV-friendly sites like Hill Country RV Resort or Jellystone Park in Fredericksburg.

  • Distance: ~80 miles

  • Highlights: Wine tastings, wildflowers, historic Main Streets

  • Best For: Couples, scenic slow-travel, culinary travelers

2. West Texas Wild (Marfa to Big Bend)

A dramatic, open-sky drive through some of Texas’s most surreal landscapes. Begin in Marfa, then cruise south through Alpine, Terlingua, and into Big Bend National Park. You’ll pass desert plateaus, remote ghost towns, and some of the darkest night skies in North America. Set up camp at Maverick Ranch RV Park or Big Bend Resort & Adventures, and explore iconic hikes like Santa Elena Canyon or Lost Mine Trail.

  • Distance: ~130 miles

  • Highlights: Art in Marfa, desert roads, Big Bend hikes

  • Best For: Adventure seekers, photographers, nature lovers

3. Coastal Cruise (Corpus Christi to Galveston)

This breezy route hugs the Texas Gulf Coast, offering miles of beach views, ferry rides, and fresh seafood. Start in Corpus Christi, drive through Port Aransas, cross via ferry to Rockport, and follow the coast north through Matagorda, Freeport, and into Galveston. Ideal for families or anyone chasing ocean air. RV parks like Mustang Island State Park and Galveston Island KOA offer beachfront access.

  • Distance: ~225 miles

  • Highlights: Beach camping, birdwatching, Gulf Coast culture

  • Best For: Families, surfers, spring/summer travel

4. Panhandle Plains Drive (Amarillo to Palo Duro Canyon)

If red rocks and wide-open plains call to you, head north to the Texas Panhandle. Start in Amarillo, where Route 66 nostalgia meets cowboy culture, then head southeast to Palo Duro Canyon State Park, the second-largest canyon in the U.S. The drive is short but dramatic, and the park has RV sites with jaw-dropping views. Don’t miss a stop at Cadillac Ranch or a steak challenge at The Big Texan.

  • Distance: ~30 miles

  • Highlights: Palo Duro hikes, Route 66 kitsch, canyon views

  • Best For: RV beginners, quick trips, outdoor lovers

5. Piney Woods Parkway (Tyler to Caddo Lake)

Explore East Texas’s lush, forested landscape with this underrated RV route. Begin in Tyler, known for its rose gardens and arboretum, then travel northeast through the Piney Woods Scenic Byway to Caddo Lake State Park, where bald cypress trees draped in moss line the bayous. This route offers a peaceful, shady contrast to the rest of the state’s scenery and cooler temps year-round.

  • Distance: ~110 miles

  • Highlights: Bayou kayaking, forest trails, small-town charm

  • Best For: Nature lovers, fall travelers, birders

Essential Apps & Tools for Texas RV Travel

Successful RV road trips depend on more than just a map. With the right digital tools, you can save money, avoid traffic, discover hidden gems, and find last-minute campsites—especially in vast and rural areas like West Texas. Here are the best apps every Texas RV traveler should have.

1. Roadtrippers – Plan Your Route & Discover Stops

Roadtrippers is the most popular trip planning app for RVers, allowing you to map your route and explore points of interest along the way—think scenic byways, local eateries, roadside attractions, and unique campgrounds. You can calculate fuel costs, time your drive, and even share your itinerary with friends. A must-have for building scenic and strategic routes through sprawling Texas terrain.

2. GasBuddy – Save on Fuel Anywhere in Texas

Fuel costs can add up quickly on a long RV road trip. GasBuddy uses real-time user data to show the cheapest gas stations nearby. It’s especially helpful in rural stretches like between Fort Stockton and Terlingua, where fuel stops are few and far between. You can also track fuel spending and earn rewards through the app.

3. DriveTexas – Real-Time Road Conditions

From flash floods in Hill Country to icy Panhandle roads in winter, Texas weather is unpredictable. DriveTexas, created by the Texas Department of Transportation, offers live updates on closures, construction, and hazardous road conditions. It’s essential for route planning and staying safe, particularly in remote or storm-prone regions.

4. Campendium – Campsite Reviews & Boondocking Info

Campendium provides detailed information and reviews on RV parks, public lands, and free campsites across Texas. It includes photos, cell signal strength (key for digital nomads), pricing, and amenity breakdowns. It’s particularly useful in less-developed areas like Big Bend, where finding verified dispersed camping can be tricky.

5. Harvest Hosts – Stay at Wineries, Farms & Breweries

For a unique overnight stop, Harvest Hosts connects RVers with over 5,000 wineries, farms, ranches, and small businesses that allow free overnight stays in exchange for patronage. Texas has dozens of participating locations—from Hill Country vineyards to Panhandle alpaca farms. You’ll need a self-contained RV and an annual membership.

6. KOA – Reliable Campgrounds Across Texas

KOA (Kampgrounds of America) is ideal for travelers who want consistency and clean, family-friendly campgrounds. Texas is home to more than 20 KOA locations, all searchable by the KOA app, which includes reservation tools, amenity filters, and a rewards program. Good for both quick overnights and extended stays.

7. RV Parky – RV Park Directory with User Ratings

Created by full-time RVers, RV Parky is a simple, no-frills app that lists RV parks, campgrounds, Walmarts, and rest stops across the country. It’s especially helpful when you’re in unfamiliar towns and need fast, reliable park info on the go. User reviews offer real-world insight beyond official descriptions.

Where to Eat on Your RV Route

No Texas road trip is complete without unforgettable meals—and RV travelers are uniquely positioned to explore both iconic and off-the-path food stops across the state. From slow-smoked brisket to coastal seafood and desert dining, these places offer true local flavor and RV-friendly parking or proximity to campgrounds.

1. Franklin Barbecue – Austin

Frequently named the best BBQ in America, Franklin Barbecue is a rite of passage for any foodie in Texas. Expect long lines and smoky rewards—brisket that melts in your mouth, sausage links with perfect snap, and sides like tangy coleslaw and pinto beans. RV travelers can park nearby on the east side or walk from nearby RV parks in central Austin.

Address: 900 E 11th St, Austin, TX 78702
For more info: franklinbbq.com

2. Cooper’s Old Time Pit Bar-B-Que – Llano

Located in the heart of the Hill Country, Cooper’s is a legendary stop on the BBQ trail. Known for its “Big Chop” and serve-yourself pits, this casual spot offers rustic picnic-table seating and Texas-sized portions. It’s easy to pull over here if you’re traveling between Fredericksburg, Burnet, or Enchanted Rock.

Address: 604 W Young St, Llano, TX 78643
For more info: coopersbbqllano.com

3. The Gristmill – Gruene (New Braunfels)

Set inside a restored 1800s cotton gin overlooking the Guadalupe River, The Gristmill combines Texas tradition with Hill Country charm. Popular dishes include chicken-fried steak, ribs, and their signature onion rings. The outdoor decks and shaded beer garden are perfect after a float trip or campground setup in nearby New Braunfels.

Address: 1287 Gruene Rd, New Braunfels, TX 78130
For more info: gristmillrestaurant.com

4. Stellina – Marfa

Tucked inside a modern adobe storefront, Stellina serves elevated small plates with locally sourced ingredients, West Texas wines, and house-made pastas. The interior is artful yet cozy, and the ambiance matches Marfa’s creative edge. Perfect for RVers staying at El Cosmico or nearby desert campgrounds.

Address: 103 S Highland Ave, Marfa, TX 79843
For more info: stellinamarfa.com

5. Hitchin’ Post Steakhouse – Ozona

Located just off I-10 in remote West Texas, Hitchin’ Post is the definition of an old-school Texas steakhouse. Expect hearty plates, mesquite-grilled sirloin, and a friendly staff happy to chat with travelers passing through. It’s a great fuel-up before heading deeper into Big Bend country.

Address: 1703 Ave E, Ozona, TX 76943
For more info: hitchinpoststeakhouse.com

6. La Kiva – Terlingua

In the funky ghost town of Terlingua, La Kiva is a one-of-a-kind restaurant and bar built into a cave-like structure. The menu ranges from burgers to prime rib, and live music often fills the desert air at night. It’s within minutes of the Big Bend Resort and a favorite hangout for campers, hikers, and artists.

Address: 23201 FM170, Terlingua, TX 79852
For more info: lakivaterlingua.com

7. Gaido’s – Galveston

A staple of the Gulf Coast since 1911, Gaido’s is a white-tablecloth seafood institution. Feast on freshly caught snapper, shrimp étouffée, or pecan pie with views of the seawall. It’s a fine-dining break from campground cooking, and nearby RV parks like Jamaica Beach RV Resort make it a convenient stop.

Address: 3828 Seawall Blvd, Galveston, TX 77550
For more info: gaidos.com


Hidden Gem RV Spots & Boondocking Locations

Not every unforgettable RV experience comes with hookups and concrete pads. Some of Texas’s most magical overnight stays are found down dirt roads, beside wild rivers, or in the shadow of canyon walls. These hidden gems offer solitude, stargazing, and a connection to the land that no resort can match. Most are free or low-cost, but come with few (if any) amenities—so plan accordingly.

1. Dolan Falls Preserve Area – Devils River

Near one of the most remote and pristine rivers in Texas, Dolan Falls Preserve isn’t open for public camping—but free dispersed camping is available on surrounding Devils River State Natural Area (DRSNA) land. You’ll need a high-clearance vehicle and a sense of adventure, but the payoff is crystal-clear water, towering cliffs, and complete silence. Note: this is true wilderness camping; bring all your own supplies and be prepared for no cell service.

Address (DRSNA HQ): 21715 Dolan Creek Rd, Del Rio, TX 78840
For more info: tpwd.texas.gov

2. Boca Chica Beach – Brownsville

If you want to camp beside the Gulf of Mexico, drive to Boca Chica Beach, where free beachfront boondocking is allowed. You’ll share the coastline with surf fishermen, turtle nests, and occasional SpaceX rocket launches. There are no facilities, so come self-contained, and keep an eye on tides. Bonus: it’s one of the most biodiverse coastal areas in Texas.

Address: Boca Chica Blvd (TX-4), Brownsville, TX 78521
For more info: fws.gov/refuge/laguna-atascosa

3. The Wall – Fort Stockton

Known simply as “The Wall” on RV forums, this large concrete barrier just off I-10 in Fort Stockton isn’t much to look at—but it’s a safe, free overnight stop often used by boondockers and van lifers. It’s flat, accessible, and surprisingly quiet for its proximity to the highway. A great place to rest before continuing west toward Big Bend or east into Hill Country.

Address: I-10 exit 256, Fort Stockton, TX 79735
For more info: campendium.com

4. Lake Meredith National Recreation Area – Panhandle

Located north of Amarillo, Lake Meredith offers several scenic campgrounds managed by the National Park Service—many of them free. Bugbee Canyon and Blue West are two favorite spots with lake views, vault toilets, and lots of space for RVs. Enjoy kayaking, hiking, and fishing without the crowds of better-known state parks.

Address (HQ): 419 E Broadway, Fritch, TX 79036
For more info: nps.gov/lamr

5. Sam Houston National Forest – Dispersed Camping Areas

In the Piney Woods of East Texas, the Sam Houston National Forest allows dispersed camping off designated forest roads. It’s a peaceful setting with tall pine canopies, seasonal creeks, and access to the Lone Star Hiking Trail, a 96-mile backpacking route. There are no services, so pack out everything and practice Leave No Trace. Great for RVers who want forest solitude without campground fees.

Address (Ranger Station): 394 FM 1375 W, New Waverly, TX 77358
For more info: fs.usda.gov

Final Thoughts

A Texas RV road trip isn’t just a vacation—it’s a lifestyle. It’s about waking up to sunrise over desert mountains, grilling under live oaks beside the river, and rolling down highways that stretch to the horizon. With its massive scale and regional diversity, Texas offers one of the richest RV experiences in the United States—if not the world.

Whether you’re chasing wildflowers in Hill Country, kayaking through East Texas bayous, stargazing in Big Bend, or just pulling into a roadside BBQ joint, RV travel puts you closer to the soul of the state. It’s flexible, immersive, and full of opportunities to discover places not found in guidebooks or apps. And with world-class parks, growing RV infrastructure, and passionate local vendors, it’s easier than ever to find your perfect rig, route, and rhythm on the road.

So plan boldly, pack smart, and leave space for the unexpected. Because the best part of RVing Texas isn’t just where you’re going—it’s everything that happens along the way.

FAQs About the Texas RV Road Trip Guide

What’s the best time of year for a Texas RV road trip?

The best time to RV through Texas is during spring (March–May) and fall (late September–November). These seasons offer moderate temperatures, blooming landscapes, and fewer crowds at campgrounds and parks. Spring brings Hill Country wildflowers and optimal waterfall hikes, while fall offers clear skies, cool evenings, and stunning color changes in East Texas. Summer can be extreme, especially in West and South Texas where temperatures often exceed 100°F—though coastal routes and shaded RV parks help offset the heat. Winter is ideal for desert travel, like Big Bend or the Panhandle, but be mindful of cold snaps and icy roads in the north. Weather varies widely across the state, so pack for both sun and storms.

For most RV travelers, a standard driver’s license is sufficient. In Texas, you only need a special Class B or Class A non-commercial license if your RV exceeds 26,000 pounds gross vehicle weight (GVWR) or you’re towing another unit over 10,000 pounds. That means the majority of motorhomes, campervans, travel trailers, and fifth wheels can be operated legally with a regular driver’s license. However, always check the weight of your specific rig—especially luxury Class A models. If you’re renting, platforms like RVshare or Cruise America will confirm whether special licensing is needed and often provide tutorials or walkthroughs before departure.

Yes, there are dozens of free RV camping locations throughout Texas, especially in remote areas and public lands. Boondocking is allowed in places like Lake Meredith National Recreation Area, Sam Houston National Forest, and certain Bureau of Land Management (BLM) or wildlife management areas. Many small-town parks also offer free overnight RV parking, and apps like Campendium, iOverlander, and FreeRoam can help locate them. However, free sites typically lack hookups, so be sure your RV is self-contained. Practicing Leave No Trace and verifying local regulations is key to keeping these gems accessible for future travelers.

Absolutely. Most RV parks and state campgrounds in Texas are pet-friendly, and many go the extra mile with fenced dog runs, pet-washing stations, and pet-welcome kits. Parks like Rayford Crossing (Spring) and The Vineyards Campground (Grapevine) are known for excellent pet amenities. State parks usually allow pets on trails and in campgrounds, but not inside buildings or certain swimming areas. Always check park rules, leash laws, and heat conditions before adventuring with your pet—Texas heat can be dangerous for dogs in the summer. Packing water, shade options, and a ground mat for paws is highly recommended.

You can reserve RV sites at Texas State Parks up to five months in advance through the official website at tpwd.texas.gov or by calling the state park reservation center. Campsites range from primitive to full hookup and often include picnic tables, fire rings, and access to park amenities. Popular parks like Garner, Pedernales Falls, and Inks Lake book up quickly—especially on weekends, holidays, and during spring break. Many parks also offer same-day reservations or waitlists. It’s best to create an online account for faster checkout and easier cancellation management. Fees vary by site type, but entry fees are separate unless you have a Texas State Parks Pass.

Safety starts with knowing your vehicle, terrain, and weather risks. Texas roads range from urban freeways to narrow mountain passes and desolate desert highways. Make sure your RV is inspected, tires are in good condition, and you understand the height and weight limits. Use DriveTexas.org for road closures or flood alerts, especially in Hill Country and East Texas. Carry plenty of water, especially in remote areas like Big Bend or Devils River, where fuel and food stops are scarce. In cities, always park in well-lit areas, lock up, and never leave valuables visible. For backcountry camping, let someone know your route, and pack emergency supplies including a first-aid kit, flashlight, and satellite communicator if going off-grid.

Yes—Texas is well-equipped for RVers, with propane refill stations and dump facilities available at most large RV parks, travel plazas, and even some small-town gas stations. Apps like RV Parky, AllStays, and Campendium allow you to filter by dump station or propane access. Many Love’s, Pilot Flying J, and Buc-ee’s travel centers offer these services along major highways. Always call ahead to confirm pricing and availability, as some locations may require a small fee or limit usage to guests. Carry disposable gloves, sanitizer, and the proper hoses to make waste disposal efficient and clean.

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