The history of Bellingham, Washington dates back to the early 19th century. Before the arrival of settlers, the region was home to the indigenous Coast Salish people. The first European settler in the area was American pioneer George Pickett, who claimed land in the region in 1854. Soon after, many settlers began setting up homesteads and businesses in the area. Three railroad lines were constructed in the area in the 1890s, leading to immense economic and population growth, and the city was officially incorporated in 1903.
During the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Bellingham developed as a center for the lumber and fishing industries. It also became known as a hub for the socialist and anarchist movements. In the 1920s and 1930s, Bellingham was home to a large number of Italian immigrants. After World War II, the city's economy shifted to a focus on technology and education.
Today, the city is home to several tech companies and is a center for higher education in the region. It is also a significant transport city with organizations like Amtrak Train Service, the Bellingham International Airport, and commuter ferries connecting the mainland to the San Juan Islands and other areas.
Bellingham currently spreads over 30.5 square miles and has a population of around 90,800 people. Popular tourist destinations in the city include Whatcom Falls Park, Fairhaven Historic District, and Boulevard Park. During your visit to the area in your RV, be sure to check out a few of Bellingham's fantastic restaurants, pubs, retail centers, and museums.
Bellingham Beer and Music Festival – Join thousands of people at this one-day event at the Bellingham Golf Course. This June festival often features the best local music and beer.
Bellingham Oktoberfest – Attend this Bavarian-themed festival to enjoy food, beer, and live music. This event occurs every year in October.
Bellingham Sea Fest – This is a waterfront and seafood festival set for September every year. It celebrates the area's culture, heritage, and maritime history.
North Cascades National Park is the nearest national park to Bellingham at 71 miles away. Carry a camera to take photos of the wildlife in this park, including bears, deer, gray wolves, and mountain goats. You may want to time your visit to attend various annual events organized by the park, such as National Park Week and the Skagit Eagle Festival.
The distance between Mount Rainier National Park and Bellingham is 161 miles. Challenge yourself by climbing Mount Rainier's 14,410-foot peak. You can hike the various other trails available in the park, including the 17-mile Carbon Glacier Trail and the 5.5-mile Skyline Trail. Hiking and wildlife viewing are also common at the park. You can camp a day or two in the designated campgrounds.
Olympic National Park is 198 miles from Bellingham. This national park has some of the best hiking trails ranging from easy to difficult paths. You can visit this park during winter if you want to go ice skating and cross-country skiing. It has over 650 archaeological sites worth exploring throughout the year.
Larrabee State Park is the first state park established in Washington. This park has two freshwater lakes and a saltwater lake, where you can engage in boating, crabbing, and fishing. You can take advantage of its 18 miles of trails to boat, hike, or ride a horse. Enjoy the spectacular views of Samish Bay and the San Juan Islands.
Bay View State Park in Mount Vernon is a great place for outdoor recreation. Its proximity to Padilla makes it a boating, swimming, and fishing paradise. You will love seeing a multitude of marine creatures along the bay. Don't leave without stretching your legs on the Padilla Bay Shore Trail.
Birch Bay State Park has plenty of activities to try, including boating and kayaking. Keep an eye out for some wildlife, and enjoy picnicking in the peaceful environment at the park.
Visit Ebey's Landing National Historical Reserve, honoring the Ebey Family, the first permanent European settlers in the region. This reserve is ideal for hiking, photography, sightseeing, and beachcombing.
San Juan Island National Historical Park is a landmark once claimed by both the United States and Great Britain for 12 years. It has amazing trails and fields for outdoor recreation.
Tour Klondike Gold Rush National Historical Park to learn more about the Klondike Gold Rush story. You will enjoy exploring this landmark's visitor center and trails.
RVshare's top pick is Bellingham RV Park, which is a small-sized campground with 56 RV sites, a store, free Wi-Fi, and private showers. This facility has full hookups and costs $44 per day or $550 per month. Hidden Village RV Park and Campground has a playground, a fitness center, a recreation room, a pool, and showers. It is a stone's throw away from Wiser Lake, making it ideal for RVers who love water-based activities. The Cedars RV Resort is a large facility with 167 RV sites. It boasts a playground, a general store, and full hookups.
Motorhomes are divided into Class A, B, and C vehicles. On average expect to pay $185 per night for Class A, $149 per night for Class B and $179 per night for Class C. Towable RVs include 5th Wheel, Travel Trailers, Popups, and Toy Hauler. On average, in Bellingham, WA, the 5th Wheel trailer starts at $70 per night. Pricing for the Travel Trailer begins at $60 per night, and the Popup Trailer starts at $65 per night.
Do you need to be a certain age to rent an RV in Bellingham?Yes. The minimum age is 25 to be eligible to get an RV Rental in Bellingham from RVshare.
Does RVshare have emergency roadside assistance?Yes. Every RV rental booked through RVshare receives 24/7 emergency roadside assistance.
Does RVshare offer one way RV rentals in Bellingham?Yes. Prior to renting any RV, check with the owner since not all will offer this particular option.
