Biscayne National Park is an underwater park and the only one of its kind in the continental United States. The park encompasses Biscayne Bay, the Florida Keys, and parts of the Florida mainland, protecting coral reefs, mangrove swamps, and tropical hardwood forests. To the west and south of Alva, you'll find two national parks. Everglades National Park protects an unparalleled landscape that provides important habitat for numerous rare and endangered species like the manatee, American crocodile, and the elusive Florida panther. Almost 70 miles (113 km) west of Key West lies the remote Dry Tortugas National Park. This 100-square-mile park is mostly open water with seven small islands. Accessible only by boat or seaplane, the park is known the world over as the home of magnificent Fort Jefferson, picturesque blue waters, superlative coral reefs and marine life, and the vast assortment of bird life that frequents the area.
Located in Highlands County, just south of the city of Ava, Highlands Hammock State Park is a beautiful destination for RV campers. The park is known for its hiking trails, wildlife viewing, and outdoor activities. Myakka River State Park is home to the largest tract of virgin longleaf pine forest in the United States. The park's habitats are home to a variety of wildlife, including white-tailed deer and wild turkeys. Visitors can enjoy hiking, swimming, canoeing, kayaking, fishing, and picnicking. This Florida park features a 19th-century utopian settlement. The Koreshan State Park Foundation maintains the historic buildings and grounds, which are open to the public for tours. Visitors can also take advantage of the park’s hiking trails, picnic areas, and boat ramp.
The Osceola National Forest and Ocala National Forest are all popular destinations for camping in the Alva area. They are all within a few hours' drive of Alva and offer a variety of activities including hiking, kayaking, fishing, and much more. Nestled between well-known theme parks and white, sandy beaches, the jewels of the Ocala National Forest attract visitors from around the world. A travel destination in its own right, the Ocala features more than 600 lakes and rivers where visitors enjoy swimming, fishing, snorkeling, canoeing and boating. The Osceola National Forest is a peaceful place where people come to escape their busy lives and reconnect with the land. Flatwoods and swamps transport visitors back in time and provide a tranquil setting for first-rate hunting, fishing and swimming opportunities.
The Fort Matanzas National Monument commemorates the place where the first permanent European settlement in what is now the United States was established. The Monument preserves the fortified coquina watchtower, completed in 1742, which defended the southern approach to the Spanish military settlement of St. Augustine. It also protects approximately 300 acres of Florida coastal environment containing dunes, marsh, maritime forest, and associated flora and fauna, including threatened and endangered species. De Soto National Memorial is a national memorial located in Manatee County, approximately five miles west of Bradenton, Florida. The national memorial commemorates the 1539 landing of Hernando de Soto. In May 1539, Conquistador Hernando de Soto’s army of soldiers mercenaries, craftsmen, and clergy made landfall in Tampa Bay. They were met with fierce resistance from indigenous people protecting their homelands. De Soto’s quest for glory and gold would be a four-year, four-thousand-mile odyssey of intrigue, warfare, disease, and discovery that would form the history of the United States.
Alva is a small city in Florida. There are several RV parks and campgrounds around Alva. These campgrounds include the W.P. Franklin North COE, Sun-N-Fun Mobile Homeowners Association Inc. & RV Park, Cypress Woods RV Resort, Whisper Creek RV Resort and the Riverside Mobile Home Park which offers basic amenities for RVers.
There are a few dump stations in Alva, Florida. RV Dump Stations at U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, W.P. Franklin North Campground, Grandmas Grove RV Park, Morgan RV Resorts - Aqua Isles Mobile Home & RV Resort, and Whisper Creek RV Resort are some of the popular options in the area. See RVshare’s guide to RV dump stations in Alva, Florida for addresses and details.
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 Alva, FL?
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 Alva, FL, 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 Alva, FL?
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.
