Despite the trip's short length, traveling from Birmingham to Daytona Beach provides plenty of opportunities for fun with your family or friends. The road trip itinerary from Birmingham to Daytona Beach includes exciting detours that allow you to explore state parks, hit the Daytona International Speedway for some thrilling events or simply relax at the beach. Make sure to spend some time at Talladega National Forest along the way and stop by cities like Atlanta and Jacksonville to explore what these urban hubs have to offer.
This Birmingham to Daytona Beach road trip does not cross any national parks. However, if you would like to visit one during the trip, you can detour further north or east to one of two national parks. For the first, you can head into Tennessee to Great Smoky Mountains National Park. The other option is Congaree National Park, which is located in South Carolina. To reach this park, you will need to continue east on I-20 into South Carolina before heading south. If you can add a few extra days to your RV journey, you may even be able to visit both of these parks.
Chattahoochee Bend State Park
Chattahoochee Bend State Park, which is one of Georgia’s newer state parks, is also one of the largest parks in the state. It comprises 2,910 acres, and it is a great place to do some wildlife spotting. Inside the park, you will be able to take out a kayak or a canoe on the river. If you do not have a boat, there are boating rentals available in the park. You can also hike or bike through the forest on one of the many trails found here. Geocaching and fishing are also big activities that many visitors enjoy in this park.
Sweetwater Creek State Park
Another Georgia state park to enjoy during your road trip from Birmingham to Daytona Beach is Sweetwater Creek State Park. The park is about 2,500 acres, and it's located just a few minutes from downtown Atlanta. Sweetwater Creek is home to a 215-acre lake, streams, rapids, rocky bluffs and forests that you can explore. You can even find rentals available for canoes, kayaks and paddle boats so that you can go fishing or just enjoy spending time on the water. There are several trails that you can hike as well. In fact, there are over 15 miles of trails within the park.
Anastasia State Park
Anastasia State Park is one of the first state parks in Florida that you'll encounter on this road trip route. It consists of about 1,600 acres of land made of beaches, sandy dunes, marshes, and more. In the park, there are several miles of paved paths and roads that are ideal for biking. If you prefer to walk, there are several semi-flat trails to explore. The park is located on the Great Florida Birding and Wildlife Trail, which makes it an excellent place to go birding or catch a glimpse of some of Florida's native animals like the roseate spoonbill or painted buntings. You can also take in some of the wildlife while on a boat exploring the water or fishing. Since the park has a beach, visitors will often take the opportunity to swim and surf in the water.
Washington Oaks Gardens State Park
Washington Oaks Gardens State Park is another Florida state park that you may want to stop and enjoy. It offers a peaceful respite from the road with the opportunity to see Florida’s oldest living oak tree, a rose garden, and reflection pools. The gardens are full of roses, azaleas, camellias, and other exotic plants. The beach has unique coquina rock formations that you can explore as well. The park has a trail system that's 1.7 miles long, and it can be hiked or enjoyed on a bike if you prefer.
Tomoka State Park
If you like watching birds, then make a stop at Tomoka State Park. It's only about 10 miles from Daytona Beach, so it’s most likely the last state park you'll visit. In total, the park has over 160 species of birds that you can find in the area. You might also be able to spot whitetail deer, bobcats, tortoises, and a variety of snakes. There are also more than 90 species of fish that can be found in the park; however, to go fishing here, you'll need a Florida fishing license, so be sure to purchase one if you plan to test your angling skills.
MOSH Science Museum
If you like science and history, you'll definitely want to visit the MOSH (Museum of Science and History) in Jacksonville. It is an innovative experience for adults and children alike, and there are exhibits, live animal shows, and planetarium programs that you will not want to miss throughout the year. If you plan an RV trip through Jacksonville, be sure to check what will be available for you to see during your visit.
St. Augustine Lighthouse
The St. Augustine Lighthouse is a structure that stands about 165 feet tall. The lighthouse serves as an educational maritime museum, and it is open for the public to explore. You'll be able to climb up the 219 steps to the top and experience a view of the city from the lighthouse.
Daytona International Speedway
If you're an avid NASCAR fan, set aside some time to stop at the Daytona International Speedway in order to check out the cars and a race if you time your visit right. Other events are held here as well, such as marathons, ATV races, and Bike Week.
Atlanta, GA
A stop in Atlanta is a must if you are interested in the history of Georgia. It is a city that was tragically burned down during the Civil War but slowly rebuilt into a major epicenter of the South. While visiting, you will be able to check out some museums, including the Atlantic History Center and The High Museum of Art. Also, make sure to stop by the Martin Luther King Jr. National Historical Park. If you love animals, then take the time to explore the Georgia Aquarium and Zoo Atlanta. If you need to find a place to stay for the night, there are several Atlanta campgrounds nearby that you can consider and most of them have full hookups available that can accommodate any size of RV. In addition, most of the campgrounds nearby also have swimming pools and amenities that the whole family will enjoy during their stay.
Macon, GA
Macon is a city that was mostly untouched during the Civil War, so it features plenty of older buildings and architecture that remain from before that time. While visiting this city, make sure to stop by the Allman Brothers Band Museum at the Big House and the Harriet Tubman Museum. Check out the event schedule for the Macon Coliseum as well while you're in the area. If you need to find a dump station in the area to get rid of your wastewater, there is plenty that you can use. Many are free for RVers to use, but a few will charge a small fee.
Jacksonville, FL
The last major city to explore during this Birmingham to Daytona Beach RV road trip will be Jacksonville. This is a major coastal city, so you'll be able to enjoy the beach along with a variety of cultural offerings in the area. There are many waterways throughout the city, and you can explore places like the Cummer Museum of Art and Gardens and the Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens. If you decide to stay the night in Jacksonville, you will find plenty of nearby campgrounds. The Pelican Park RV Resort has premium amenities that you won't always find at a campground. Some of the top features include a fishing lake, a swimming pool, and horseshoe pits. Big Tree RV Park is another location that offers plenty of shade and amenities for you to enjoy.
When you follow this road trip itinerary from Birmingham to Daytona Beach, 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 Birmingham or Daytona Beach.
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