Drive north across the state to reach Voyageurs National Park in International Falls. The park is almost half water and is known for waterways, lakes, and forests. You can boat, camp, fish, hike, and kayak while you are there. Enjoy cross-country skiing, snowmobiling, and ice fishing during the winter.
Isle Royale National Park in Michigan is 406 miles northeast of Albany. You must park your RV and take one of the four ferries or the seaplane to reach the park. Boating, ferry rides, hiking, and visiting the three lighthouses are popular here. There are 36 campgrounds at the park as well.
A road trip to Badlands National Park in South Dakota requires a 476-mile trip southwest of the city. Explore 370 square miles filled with eroded buttes and pinnacles. Common wildlife includes bighorn sheep, bison, and prairie dogs. There are plenty of ranger-led talks and guided hikes to help you get the most out of the park.
Crow Wing State Park is 57 miles north of Albany, covering 3,000 square miles in central Minnesota. Visit the Old Crow Wing Town Site for a glimpse into the 1800s before exploring the rest of the area. Popular activities here include hiking and canoeing.
A 58-mile drive west of the city places you at Glacial Lakes State Park. Several lakes dot the rolling prairies within the park, the largest being the Signalness, with 56 acres of water. A five-mile-long paved trail winds through the park that you can enjoy when you are not fishing. Anglers enjoy catching bass, crappies, northern pike, perch, sunfish, and walleye there.
Glendalough State Park is 89 miles northwest of Albany. Its 354-acre lake is the main draw for anglers, but you can hike the Beaver Pond Interpretive Trail and bike the Glendalough Trail. Visitors also enjoy canoeing and kayaking when they are not busy photographing the scenery.
Head southeast into St. Paul to visit the Mississippi National River and Recreation Area. Enjoy the visitor center and tour the dam at St. Anthony's Falls. Fish, paddle, or explore the area on foot. There are also areas that you might want to photograph.
Saint Croix National Scenic Riverway is 103 miles east of Albany and is home to the largest riverway east of the Mississippi River. The area encompasses 252 miles of river and lands, including the Saint Croix River along the border with Wisconsin. Bike, boat, fish, and hike there during summer or cross-country ski during winter.
Pipestone National Monument sits southwest of the city and is a Minnesota landmark where Native Americans have come for millennia to carve the soft red stone. Carved sacred pipes still get made from the rock in the 50 quarries here. Circle Trail is paved and offers views of Winnewissa Falls, but remember that you are on sacred lands, so stay on the path.
The nearby St. Cloud Campground & RV Park has 100 sites with full RV hookups, a dump station, and Wi-Fi for $45 per night. There are several facilities north in Brainerd, including Niemeyer’s Rugged River Resort with full RV hookups, a pool, showers, and hot tubs with back-in or pull-through options. Birch Bay RV Resort in nearby Nisswa offers 100 sites with full hookups, 30- and 50-amp power, cellphone reception, and a pet-friendly environment. Prices start at $45 per night.
Do I maintain or service the motorhome rental during my rental period?
No, it is the responsibility of the RVshare owner to ensure the motorhome is properly maintained and serviced before your rental period. Just take good care of your rental and keep it clean.
Are there any special driving considerations or techniques I should know when operating a motorhome rental in Albany, MN?
Yes, motorhomes are larger and heavier than most passenger vehicles, so it is important to allow for more time and space when turning, merging, or stopping. Additionally, it is recommended to drive slower than the posted speed limit and to use caution when driving in windy or wet conditions.
How do I properly level and stabilize a motorhome at my campsite or RV park?
Motorhomes typically have built-in leveling jacks or blocks that can be adjusted to ensure the RV is level and stable. Some RV parks may also provide leveling pads or blocks if needed. Discuss your campsite with the RV owner ahead of time and they can provide you guidance on stabilizing.
What kind of maintenance or upkeep do I need to perform on the interior and exterior during my rental period?
You should keep the interior clean and tidy, empty waste tanks as needed, and report any damages or malfunctions to the RVshare owner. Exterior maintenance such as checking tire pressure is also recommended.
Does my motorhome rental come with bedding, linens, or other items I would consider to be personal?
This varies by RVshare owner. Some owners may include bedding and linens, while others may require renters to bring their own. It is best to check with the owner prior to renting.
Should I bring entertainment equipment or appliances for the motorhome rental?
While some motorhomes may come equipped with entertainment options or appliances, it is always a good idea to bring your own if desired. However, be mindful of any limitations on power usage or space restrictions. Check the RV listing or ask the RV owner what kind of entertainment is included.
Are there any limitations on where I can park or store a motorhome rental in Albany, MN, such as zoning laws or homeowners' association regulations?
There may be restrictions on where motorhomes can be parked or stored in certain areas. It is best to research local laws and regulations or to ask the RVshare owner for guidance.
What fuel efficiency considerations do I need to consider when operating a motorhome rental?
Motorhomes are not typically known for their fuel efficiency, but there are steps you can take to improve gas mileage such as driving at a lower speed, avoiding excessive idling, and keeping tires properly inflated.
How do I properly operate and maintain the various systems in a motorhome rental?
The RVshare owner should provide you with detailed instructions and manuals for operating and maintaining the various systems in the motorhome. It is important to follow these instructions carefully to ensure proper use and prevent damage.
Are any unique features or amenities available in motorhome rentals that may not be found in other RVs in Albany, MN?
This varies by RV owner and motorhome class, but some motorhomes may have unique features such as slide-outs, outdoor kitchens, or luxury finishes that may not be found in other types of RVs.
