Crater Lake National Park is two hours and 35 minutes southwest of Bend via U.S. Route 97 and then Oregon Highway 62. The geologic feature of interest here is the lake created by the collapse of Mount Mazama over 7,000 years ago. Crater Lake is the deepest lake in the United States and, perhaps, also one of the most pristine. The terrain around the collapsed volcano includes caves, forests, lakes, and several mountain peaks that receive the most visitors between July and September. Summers are warm and dry, while the winters are very snowy (the park headquarters gets about 42 feet of snow annually). This park covers 183,224 acres that facilitate camping, fishing, and hiking during the summer and ranger-led snowshoeing tours, snowmobiling, and cross-country skiing in winter.
You can visit Mount Rainier National Park using I-5 and other major roadways to get into Washington state. The park, which is about five hours and 20 minutes north of Bend, is open year-round. Mount Rainer gets around 670 inches of annual snowfall, keeping the mountaintop covered throughout the year. Small towns are scattered outside the park, offering basic amenities like gas and food. Sites like Cougar Rock and White River Campgrounds provide RV or tent camping, but they get busy during the dry and warm months of July and August. Sightseeing is the top activity here, and you can enjoy ranger-led activities throughout most of the year. Miles of hiking trails are available to explore, and climbers come from around the world to ascend the 14,410-foot volcanic peak of Mount Rainer.
Lassen Volcanic National Park is five hours and five minutes south of Bend, north of Mineral, California. Visitors come here to see the numerous volcanoes, bubbling mud pots, geysers, and steaming fumaroles. Popular activities in and around the volcanic terrain include backpacking, boating, bird-watching, hiking, fishing, horseback riding, and stargazing. Many sections of the park are closed during the winter. Several campgrounds take reservations, while the Juniper Lake, Warner Valley, and Southwest Walk-in Campgrounds are first come, first served.
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 Bend, OR 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 Bend, OR?
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 Bend, OR?
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 Bend, OR, 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 Bend, OR?
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.