Gateway Arch National Park is almost five hours away in Missouri. This park is home to a massive 630-foot arch that promises exceptional views of St. Louis and the Mississippi River. Tour the 91 riverside acres, or visit the many historic buildings and modern-day museums. The National Park Service provides various riverboat cruise options.
Indiana Dunes National Park is 276 miles away in Indiana on the shores of Lake Michigan. This park has 15 miles of stunning lakefront and an additional 20 square miles of forests, dunes, prairies, and wetlands. Kick back on the beach for a relaxing afternoon of swimming and sunbathing. You can also set out for a few hours of hiking, horseback riding, and biking.
Don't miss out on soaking in the warm, healing waters at Hot Springs National Park. About 668 miles south in Arkansas, this national park is in the middle of a prominent city full of restaurants, museums, and entertainment options. Feel free to relax in the baths, hike the many trails, or enjoy a breathtaking view from the top of a mountain tower.
Wapsipinicon State Park is a 400-acre, multi-use recreational area that's within 40 miles of both Cedar Rapids and Iowa City. This state park is home to the famous Horse Thief Cave as well as a three-span bowstring arch bridge. There are several miles of hiking trails here, a nine-hole golf course, and a river full of smallmouth bass and bullheads.
Lake Keomah State Park has hundreds of acres of dense forest and an 83-acre, man-made lake. During the pleasant summers, swimming and fishing are popular on the unsupervised beach. Feel free to picnic, view the wildlife, mountain bike, and birdwatch. Trek the three-mile trail to check out the beautiful Keomah Village.
The 2,000-acre Backbone State Park is the oldest state park in Iowa. It has 21 miles of hiking and multi-use trails as well as a lake and several historic buildings. Enjoy hours of canoeing, swimming, fishing, and paddle boating on Backbone Lake. Many visitors try climbing and rappelling on the dolomite limestone cliffs.
The Amana Colonies National Historic Landmark represents the lasting impact of one of the country's longest-lived communal societies. What started in 1714 is still honored today in the Amana Colonies, and this landmark is one of Iowa's must-see landmarks.
The Old Capitol Building in Iowa City has been renovated and repaired several times over the years. Today, you're welcome to tour the grounds and check out the museum housed inside.
Maquoketa Caves State Park is home to a one-of-a-kind wilderness that makes it one of the most unique state parks in Iowa. There are many beautiful limestone caves here as well as archeological artifacts from previous human inhabitants.
Morgan Creek Park in nearby Palo is a modern campground with an extensive trail system and sports fields. The Arboretum and Butterfly Garden next door is home to 250 species of trees and shrubs. Squaw Creek Park in Marion offers 700 acres of outdoor recreation areas perfect for picnicking and wildlife photography. The campsites here are roomy and have concrete patios with fire pits and picnic tables. If you're looking for outstanding views and an exciting camping experience, consider staying at Scales Pointe Camping and Boating in North Liberty. You're sure to love the playground, marina, bustling bar and restaurant, and horseshoe courts.
How do I properly pack and store my belongings inside a camper van rental, and what storage options are available?
When renting a Class B motorhome from an RVshare owner, there are typically several storage options available for your belongings. You can utilize overhead storage compartments, under-bench storage, and even cabinets for heavier items. When packing your belongings, it's best to use soft-sided luggage or collapsible containers to save on space. Keep items secure while driving by using bungee cords or tension rods to prevent shifting during travel.
Can I drive a camper van rental in Amana, IA without prior experience, and are there any special driving considerations I should know?
Driving a Class B motorhome rental is typically similar to driving a regular car, but there are a few things to keep in mind. Make sure to adjust your mirrors before setting off and be aware of the height and length of your vehicle. It's also advisable to take a test drive around the RVshare owner's neighborhood to familiarize yourself with the handling and braking of the vehicle before embarking on your trip.
What kind of maintenance or upkeep do I need to perform on the camper van rental during my rental period?
The owner of the RV is responsible for maintenance. Renters should keep the RV clean and handle with care to avoid any damages. You may need to empty the water tanks depending on your agreement with the RV owner.
Do I need to know any weight or height restrictions when driving a camper van motorhome rental in Amana, IA?
It's important to know the height and weight restrictions of your camper van rental in order to avoid accidents or getting stuck in low clearance areas, especially when traveling on highways or bridges. It's also advisable to check local regulations regarding weight limits when driving on certain roads.
Can I park or store a Class B motorhome rental in a regular parking spot or garage in Amana, IA, or are there specific requirements for parking and storage?
Parking a Class B motorhome rental in a regular spot or garage can be challenging due to the size of the vehicle. It's important to check local regulations and parking restrictions before setting off on your trip. RVshare owners may also provide guidance on where it is safe to park or store the vehicle.
What fuel efficiency considerations do I need to consider when driving a Class B motorhome rental, and how can I minimize the impact on my fuel costs?
Most Class B motorhomes are relatively fuel efficient, but it's important to be mindful of your driving habits in order to minimize fuel costs. Avoid idling the engine unnecessarily, accelerate smoothly, and avoid excessive speeding. It's also a good idea to plan your route before departing in order to avoid getting lost or taking unnecessary detours.
Are any particular features or amenities available in a camper van rental that may not be found in other RVs in Amana, IA?
Features and amenities vary depending on the model of the Class B motorhome rental, but some popular options include a built-in microwave, refrigerator, and TV/DVD player. Some models may also include a shower and toilet, while others may not. Check the listing details on RVshare for all of the available amenities for each rental.
How do I correctly set up and use the kitchen and bathroom facilities in a Class B motorhome rental?
Each RVshare owner may have different instructions for using the kitchen and bathroom facilities in their Class B motorhome rental. In the bathroom, there may be a shower and/or toilet that needs to be hooked up to water and sewage sources. RVshare owners will typically provide instruction manuals or walkthroughs of the rental vehicle's features.
Should I bring my entertainment equipment or appliances for the camper van rental, such as a portable grill or music player?
While some Class B motorhome rentals may include entertainment equipment or appliances, such as a grill or music player, it's always a good idea to double-check with the RVshare owner about what amenities are included in the rental. If you have specific entertainment preferences, you may want to bring your own equipment or devices.
Are any specific campgrounds or RV parks in Amana, IA particularly well-suited for a camper van and what amenities or features do they offer?
There are many campgrounds and RV parks in Amana, IA that are well-suited for Class B motorhome rentals. Some popular amenities include electrical hookups, dump stations for sewage, and picnic tables. It's important to research and reserve a spot in advance to ensure availability during your trip. RVshare owners may also have recommendations for great campsites or RV parks in the area.