New River Gorge National Park is just up the Appalachian Mountains from Banner Elk. This beautiful gorge was carved out over eons by the ancient New River. Outdoor adventures include hiking, biking, rock climbing, and white water rafting. There are plenty of opportunities to see the local wildlife and to see the breathtaking autumn leaves. Take a hike on the Canyon Rim Overlook Boardwalk for fantastic views of the gorge, river, and 900-foot bridge.
Great Smoky Mountains National Park lies on the western escarpment of the Appalachian Mountains in Tennessee. These beautiful mountains are filled with wildflowers, lightning bugs, and black bears during the summer. In the winter, light blankets of snow cap the mountaintops and dust the valleys. Take the Rainbow Falls Trail for views of the falls on your way to the top of Mount Le Conte.
Congaree National Park is in the heart of South Carolina. The state's only national park, Congaree, features a diverse ecosystem. There are forests, fertile valleys, and a winding river that lead into swamps and floodplains. Take the Fork Swamp trail for opportunities to see local wildlife, or hop in a canoe and follow the river. Afterward, explore the small ghost towns around the park for a glimpse into history.
Roan Mountain State Park straddles the border of North Carolina and Tennessee. This massive mountain range tops out at 6,285 feet, which makes it one of the tallest mountains on the East Coast. High-elevation bluffs provide gorgeous views of the Doe River. In the summer, head over to Watauga Lake for swimming and boating in one of the most pristine lakes in the country.
South Mountains State Park is located just down the mountain from Banner Elk. This park is a transition from the foothills to the Appalachian Mountains. Miles of trails wind through the beautiful forests for hikers, bikers, and horseback riders. Take a trip to High Shoals Falls for an up-close view of the towering falls. Lake James is a beautiful place for fishing, swimming, and boating. Finally, the town of Morganton is next door, with fantastic restaurants, shopping, and local breweries.
Grayson Highlands State Park sits beside Mount Rogers, the tallest mountain in Virginia, and features high-elevation grasslands and meadows. The park is famous for its wild ponies that roam the grounds. Hiking trails wind through the park and lead to excellent picnic and camping areas.
Horn in The West is an open-air theater and historic recreation of frontier life in the heart of Boone, North Carolina. Annual reenactments of the Battle of Horn in The West bring visitors back to the triumphs of the Revolutionary War. The grounds also have multiple frontier-era cabins that were relocated from nearby locations.
Tweetsie Railroad is a family-friendly amusement park with a deep history in Blowing Rock, North Carolina. The train ran from Winston-Salem, North Carolina to Johnson City, Tennessee before a great flood destroyed the tracks in the 1940s. Stranded in Blowing Rock, the train became a destination for tourists and locals. Now it features multiple rides, live theater, and a ropes course.
Linville Falls is a short drive from Banner Elk, North Carolina. These majestic falls drop over 100 feet as they lead into the Linville Gorge. Visitors can access the top, middle, and bottom of the falls through the many hiking trails.
Flintlock Campground is conveniently located on the edge of Boone, North Carolina. Within five minutes, you can be walking the streets of Downtown Boone or, in the other direction, heading out on an epic hike.
As its name suggests, Grandfather Campground is located on Grandfather Mountain. This one-of-a-kind RV campground features open meadows, deep forests, and hiking trails that lead to the summit.
Julian Price Campground features multiple RV sites and sits on the banks of Price Lake. The lake offers a launch ramp for canoeing and has a hiking trail that loops around the lake. Best of all, the campground is on the Blue Ridge Parkway.
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 Banner Elk, NC 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 Banner Elk, NC?
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 Banner Elk, NC?
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 Banner Elk, NC, 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 Banner Elk, NC?
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.
