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.
How do I correctly set up and take down a popup camper rental, and what kind of tools or equipment do I need?
Setting up and taking down a popup camper rental typically requires a few basic tools, including a rubber mallet, wheel chocks, and a few different sized wrenches. The process will vary based on the specific model, but typically involves locating and extending the stabilizer jacks, popping up the roof, extending the sidewalls, and connecting any necessary hoses and cables. Be sure to follow any instructions provided by the owner and ask for assistance if you are unsure about any aspect of the setup.
Can I rent a popup camper in Alva, FL without a vehicle capable of towing it, and if so, what are my options for renting a towing vehicle?
Standard passenger sedans typically able to tow popup campers that weigh less than 1,500 pounds. Heavier duty vehicles, such as 4x4 SUVs, can usually tow a heavier popup. If you are unable to tow, another option is to have the popup campered delivered to your campsite. The RVshare owner will bring it to the campground and set up for you, then tow it away after your trip is over.
Are there any special driving considerations or techniques I should know when towing a popup camper rental in Alva, FL?
When towing a popup camper rental, it's important to practice safe driving techniques and be aware of your surroundings. You may need to adjust your driving speed and distance from other vehicles to account for the additional weight and length. It's also important to make sure the camper rental is properly secured and level before hitting the road.
What kind of amenities can I expect in a popup camper rental, and how do they compare to other RV rentals in Alva, FL?
Popup camper rentals typically offer a range of amenities and features, including comfortable sleeping quarters, kitchen appliances and supplies, and on-board storage options. While they may be more compact than other RV rentals, they often offer a more affordable and flexible option for travelers who want to explore the outdoors.
Can I bring my bedding and linens to use in the popup camper rental, and what kind of storage options are available for these items?
Many RVshare owners will provide bedding and linens for the popup camper rental, but you can certainly bring your own if you prefer. There are typically storage compartments and cubbies located throughout the interior of the camper rental for storing personal items.
How do I properly level and stabilize a popup camper rental at my campsite or RV park, and what equipment or tools do I need for this?
Discuss your particular campsite with the RV owner to determine if leveling and stabilizing will be necessary. To properly level and stabilize a popup camper rental, you will need a few basic tools, including leveling blocks, wheel chocks, and a bubble level. The process will vary based on the specific model, but typically involves leveling the camper rental side-to-side using the leveling blocks and adjusting the front-to-back level using the tongue jack.
What weather conditions should I know when renting a popup camper in Alva, FL, and how can I prepare for them?
Depending on where you are renting the popup camper, you may need to prepare for a range of different weather conditions. It's important to check the forecast before heading out and be prepared with appropriate clothing and gear for any potential weather events. You should also take steps to protect the camper rental from high winds, rain, and other elements by properly securing it and using any available window covers or awnings.
Can I bring my outdoor equipment or appliances to use with the popup camper rental, such as a portable grill or camping chairs?
Yes, you can certainly bring your own outdoor equipment and appliances to use with the popup camper rental. However, be sure to check with the RVshare owner beforehand to make sure there is enough space to store your items and that they are safe to use with the camper rental.
What kind of maintenance or upkeep do I need to perform on the exterior and interior of a popup camper rental during my rental period?
The maintenance and upkeep required for a popup camper is handled by the RV owner. Handle the camper with care and return it in the condition you received it.
Are there any unique features or amenities available in popup camper rentals that may not be found in other RVs in Alva, FL?
Popup camper rentals are light and easier to tow than most other towable trailers, making them easier to bring along on your trips, and typically meaning your own vehicle should be able to tow them.
