Rodeos to Roller Coasters: Family Friendly RV Adventures
Texas RV Adventures Your Kids Will Never Forget
Family vacations are always exciting, and there’s nothing better than hitting the road in an RV to explore Texas! With its wide range of destinations and kid-friendly activities, Texas is the perfect state for families on the move.
Whether you’re seeking hands-on learning or outdoor fun, these ten Texas destinations have something for everyone. Here are the best family-friendly spots to visit, complete with RV parking tips to make your trip hassle-free.
South Padre Island
7355 Padre Blvd, South Padre Island, TX 78597
(956) 761-6433
South Padre Island is a paradise with sandy beaches, calm turquoise waters, and countless activities to keep everyone engaged. Families can take part in sandcastle-building workshops, creating intricate award winning level castles under the guidance of experienced instructors.
For even more fun, explore dolphin-watching tours available year-round. Kids will love spotting playful dolphins while learning about marine life from knowledgeable guides. Afterward, enjoy kayaking or paddleboarding in the gentle waters. South Padre Island truly offers a mix of relaxation and family fun.
RV Parking Nearby
KOA Campgrounds, on the island and minutes from the beach, offers spacious RV sites with full hookups, plus convenient access to water activities.
Space Center Houston
1601 E NASA Pkwy, Houston, TX 77058
(281) 244-2100
At Space Center Houston, kids will be amazed by towering rockets, interactive exhibits, and a glimpse into NASA’s groundbreaking history. Visitors can learn about iconic missions, like the Apollo program, and explore Mars rovers or space technology.
Be sure to check out the astronaut training simulators where you can experience life as an astronaut. For a unique photo opportunity, take pictures underneath the real Saturn V rocket. It’s an engaging, hands-on way to inspire the next generation of explorers.
RV Parking Nearby
Seaside RV Resort & Hotel is only 15 minutes away, offering full hookups, a pool, and family-friendly amenities on the water and welcomes everybody.
The Dr. Pepper Museum - Waco
300 S 5th St, Waco, TX 76701
(254) 757-1024
The Dr. Pepper Museum in Waco, Texas, is a must-visit for soda lovers. It is housed in the brand’s original bottling plant. This engaging museum explores the entire soft drink industry. Visitors trace the history of Dr. Pepper, America’s oldest major soft drink. It started in 1885 and is now a cultural icon. Exhibits feature vintage advertisements and memorabilia. You will see antique bottling equipment and unique Dr. Pepper bottles.
Alternatively, the museum’s working soda fountain is a popular stop. Guests can sample the classic 23-flavor blend. You can also become a soda chemist and create your own concoction! This hands-on experience is personalized and flavorful. Ultimately, the museum offers a nostalgic, memorable experience. It blends history, science, and pure entertainment. It is an ideal outing for families and history enthusiasts.
RV Parking Near The Museum
There are plenty of options surrounding the Waco area. The North Crest RV Park offers full hookups and a range of amenities, including a spacious and clean shower houses, laundry machines, 50 amp hookups and is big rig friendly. Another option is Riverview Campground, which provides a peaceful riverside setting just a short drive from Waco’s attractions.
The Dinosaur Park
893 Union Chapel Rd, Cedar Creek, TX 78612
(512) 321-6262
Take a journey back to the Jurassic and Cretaceous periods with a visit to The Dinosaur Park. This family-friendly attraction, nestled along a scenic nature trail, offers more than just a walk in the woods. It’s an immersive, educational adventure perfect for dinosaur enthusiasts of all ages.
As you explore the well-maintained paths, you’ll encounter dozens of life-sized dinosaur sculptures. Each one is meticulously crafted and placed to create the feeling of stepping into a prehistoric world. Additionally, interpretive signs accompany the dinosaurs, providing fascinating details about their diet, habitat, and history.
The park is designed to engage both kids and adults, making it a fun and educational experience. Younger visitors will marvel at the size of the sculptures, while parents and educators can enjoy learning about prehistoric creatures. It’s a perfect mix of exercise, education, and imagination.
Kids can also dig for “ancient” treasures in the fossil dig area, an interactive activity they’ll love. When it’s time to rest, enjoy a packed lunch in the shaded picnic areas surrounded by nature’s sounds.
Before leaving, don’t miss the gift shop, which offers unique dinosaur-themed souvenirs, toys, and educational materials. It’s the perfect way to remember your exciting trip.
RV Parking Near The Dinosaur Park
The next door Hwy 71 RV Park offers full hookups and a range of amenities, including a pool and easy access to the park (Just a few minutes walk!). Another highly rated option is Great Escapes RV Park Austin Oaks, which provides a quiet and convenient location for exploring all the area has to offer.
SeaWorld - San Antonio
10500 SeaWorld Dr, San Antonio, TX 78251
(210) 520-4732
This sprawling theme park, nestled in the heart of Texas, provides a unique opportunity to explore ocean wonders and experience adrenaline-pumping attractions.
Among the park’s major draws are its impressive roller coasters. For instance, the Steel Eel stands out with its towering drops and exhilarating airtime hills, providing a sensation of weightlessness. Similarly, the Great White, an inverted coaster, sends riders through twists, turns, and loops at high speeds, offering an intense and memorable experience.
Beyond the rides, SeaWorld San is renowned for its incredible animal exhibits and educational presentations. Visitors can get up close with a variety of marine creatures. A particular highlight for many is the opportunity to pet stingrays in a shallow, interactive pool.
Furthermore, the park features habitats for dolphins, sharks, sea turtles, and various fish, each designed to educate guests about marine conservation and the diversity of ocean life. Check out the list of animal experiences they offer!
Ultimately, whether you’re seeking the rush of a roller coaster, the wonder of marine life, or the excitement of a live performance, SeaWorld San Antonio delivers a comprehensive and enriching experience for visitors of all ages. It’s a destination where fun meets education, making it a perfect getaway for families looking to create lasting memories.
RV Parking Near SeaWorld
Sun Retreats San Antonio West, (formerly known as Blazing Star RV Resort) is less than 5 minutes from the park and has luxury RV amenities. For free overnight parking, Walmart on Potranco Road allows RV guests, but confirm parking with store management beforehand.
If you’re heading southbound from Dallas or Austin, be sure to stop in at Schatziland and take a break by our pool, do some laundry and rest up for your Sea World vacation! We are about an hour north in San Marcos near the Premium Outlet Malls.
Morgan’s Wonderland - San Antonio
5223 David Edwards Dr, San Antonio, TX 78233
(210) 495-5888
Morgan’s Wonderland is more than just an amusement park; it’s a place where differences are celebrated, and every child has the opportunity to play, learn, and grow alongside their peers.
Morgan’s Wonderland stands as a beacon of inclusivity, a theme park uniquely designed to cater to children of all abilities. Its thoughtful layout and specialized attractions ensure that every child, regardless of their physical or cognitive capabilities, can experience the joy and wonder of a day at the park.
Furthermore, the park boasts a variety of accessible swings, allowing children using wheelchairs or with limited mobility to enjoy the exhilaration of soaring through the air. These swings are a testament to the park’s commitment to providing universal access to fun.
Beyond the physical attractions, Morgan’s Wonderland also features a rich array of sensory experiences. Interactive exhibits engage the senses of touch, sight, and sound, providing stimulating and calming environments for children with sensory processing differences. These attractions are carefully crafted to be both entertaining and therapeutic, offering a holistic play experience.
From ramps for easy wheelchair access to adapted seating and harnesses, every detail ensures that children of all abilities can safely and comfortably participate. This dedication to universal design transforms a typical theme park experience into one that is truly welcoming and accessible to everyone.
Ultimately, Morgan’s Wonderland is more than just an amusement park; it’s a place where differences are celebrated, and every child has the opportunity to play, learn, and grow alongside their peers.
RV Parking Near Morgan’s Wonderland
Situated 5 miles away, Stone Creek RV Park is family-friendly with electric, sewer, and water hook-ups. Additionally, nearby street parking on Perrin Beitel Road is available for RVs, but spaces may be limited.
Big Bend National Park, Chisos Mountains Lodge
Rural Station, 1 Basin Jct, Big Bend National Park, TX 79834
(432) 477-2291
Big Bend National Park, situated in the remote wilderness of West Texas, is officially certified as an International Dark Sky Park. Consequently, it ranks as one of the premier stargazing destinations in the world.
Moreover, the park delights families with its breathtaking landscapes and scenic canyon trails perfect for hiking adventures. It’s stunning vistas and unique wildlife make it ideal for outdoor enthusiasts of all ages.
Add a starlit evening to your itinerary, as Big Bend is recognized as an International Dark Sky Park. Stargazing with your children provides memories to last a lifetime. Don’t forget to enjoy a picnic along the Rio Grande for a peaceful midday break.
RV Parking Near BIG BEND
Stay at the Rio Grande Village RV Park within the park. It offers breathtaking views and full-hookup facilities. However, periodically, a few sites may not be available for 38′ or longer RVs due to the size of the parking lot and orientation of the spaces.
Insider Tip! Bring binoculars for birdwatching as the park is a hotspot for migratory species.
Schlitterbahn Waterpark - New Braunfels
400 N Liberty Ave, New Braunfels, TX 78130
(830) 625-2351
Schlitterbahn Waterpark delivers aquatic fun with unique tube chutes, splash pads, and wave pools. Floating down the lazy river is perfect for soaking up the scenic beauty.
From the adrenaline-pumping excitement of its signature tube chutes, which feature exhilarating drops and twists, to the playful splash pads where younger guests can frolic safely, the park meticulously crafts an unforgettable, and wet, experience.
Beyond these, visitors can also enjoy the thrills of the Master Blaster uphill water coaster, challenge themselves on the Boogie Bahn surfing ride, or relax in the numerous heated pools and hot tubs.
For those seeking a unique experience, the park offers a river system that allows guests to float from one attraction to another without leaving the water.
RV Parking Near Schlitterbahn
Schatziland RV Park and Resort is conveniently located less than 20 minutes away from the park! We offer a ton of amenities many other parks don’t and would love to help you plan out your vacation excursions. Give us a call at (737) 221-3331 for more info.
Schlitterbahn has confirmed with us that they do accommodate day parking for RVs and Motorhomes although they do not allow overnight parking. Please see the main entrance attendant or find parking on the west side of the park.
Waco Mammoth National Monument
6220 Steinbeck Bend Dr, Waco, TX 76708
(254) 750-7946
Step into ancient history at Waco Mammoth National Monument, a unique site featuring preserved Columbian mammoth remains. Families can learn fascinating details about these creatures through guided tours with educational activities for kids.
The park also offers shaded walking trails and picnic areas for a relaxing afternoon. Visit the visitor center for souvenirs and additional interactive exhibits to enhance your prehistoric adventure.
RV Parking Nearby
Camp Fimfo Waco is just minutes away and offers a unique, family friendly setting with full RV hookups, water attractions, onsite dining and even swim up bar for the grown ups. If you’re looking for something more remote and quiet then Airport Park is the place, with beautiful lake views and wildlife. Not only that but the kids can watch airplanes take off and land!
San Antonio Riverwalk and Zoo
Riverwalk
849 E. Commerce Street, San Antonio, TX 78205
San Antonio Zoo
3903 N St Mary’s St, San Antonio, TX 78212
(210) 734-7184
Enjoy a day at San Antonio’s River Walk, where shopping, dining, and scenic boat rides combine for family fun. Stroll the pathways or take a guided riverboat tour to soak in the lively atmosphere. There is so many family friendly things to do here, spend the day enjoying the sites, music, amazing food and souvenirs by the pound.
Afterward, explore the San Antonio Zoo, known for its sprawling habitats and engaging animal interactions. The zoo also offers special events like nighttime safaris for a unique twist to your visit.
RV Parking Near The Riverwalk
Nearby Traveler’s World RV Resort (4.2 miles away) offers full-hookup spots. Additionally, public parking is also available near Pereida Street for smaller RVs.
Plan Your Family Adventure
Exploring Texas by RV promises excitement, learning, and unforgettable family memories. Whether you’re walking with dinosaurs or tubing scenic rivers, these destinations offer something unique for everyone. Pack up, fuel your RV, and start creating stories you’ll cherish forever!
