One of the oldest and most famous national parks in the country, Mammoth Cave National Park is situated four to five hours southeast of Bethalto. This park is home to the longest-known cave system in the world, Mammoth Cave. So, if you want to tour this mysterious and unique cave, the site offers guided tours to various underground parts. Filled with more than 50 miles of scenic trails within sand dunes, woodlands, and even lush wetlands, Indiana Sand Dunes National Park is great fun if you are a hiking enthusiast. Over the years, this 15,000-acre park has developed with some interesting landforms as well as a plethora of bird and animal species. Located northeast of Bethalto, this is a great place to visit with your rental RV! Much closer to the city, Gateway Arch National Park was built to commemorate the beautiful Gateway Ark in St. Louis. Housing this 630 feet monument, the park is a significant historical site and while it may be quite small, is one of the premier attractions in the city!
About 30 miles west of Bethalto, Illinois and you'll find yourself at Pere Marquette State Park. This state park sits along Bundy Lake and offers great fishing, boating, and swimming. The campground also has a large wooded area developed for camping with tens of campsites that can support RVs. So, you can enjoy the lake without any trouble! Beaver Dam State Park is a 750-acre park located in Macoupin County. The park is primarily known for its enjoyable fishing in the artificial reservoir, Beaver Dam Lake. Here you can find largemouth bass, sunfish, bluegill, and more. Castlewood State Park offers many different recreational opportunities. If you’re looking for a place to hike, bike, or horseback ride, this is the park for you. Castlewood has over 17 miles of trails and is a great place to test your mountain biking ability. Its proximity to the Meramec River makes it an ideal place for fishing and boating, too!
Located near Bethalto, Illinois are two beautiful national forests that many tourists visit each year. These are the Shawnee National Forest and the Mark Twain National Forest. The Shawnee National Forests spans an impressive 289,000 acres and is located in Southern Illinois. Sitting near the Ohio and Mississippi rivers, you can find a wide range of landforms, flora, and fauna within this park. For example, the park is home to many endangered species such as the Indiana Bat which are being protected here! If you decide to take your RV here, Shawnee National Forest has campgrounds with camping loops and electric sites that allow RVs up to 40 feet. The Mark Twain National Forest offers numerous recreational opportunities for visitors, including mountain biking, camping, fishing, and more. This national forest has some of the best hiking trails and scenic byways that adventurers will enjoy. Furthermore, the park has a variety of campgrounds with specialised RV camping sites, so you can bring your rental RV here with ease!
Only a short drive from Bethalto, the Ulysses S. Grant National Historic Site is a fascinating destination for anybody interested in American history. This national site features a tour of Ulysses S. Grant's home as well as exhibits about the famous Civil War general and president. The Lincoln Home National Historic Site commemorates the home where Abraham Lincoln resided as a child and later as an adult. The home, which has largely been preserved in the same state as it was during Lincoln's time there, is open to visitors for tours. Although it is a little further from Lemay, George Rogers Clark National Historical Park is unquestionably worthwhile for a historic trip. This is a wonderful monument to behold, with stunning artwork and architecture commemorating historical events. The Ozark National Scenic Riverways, which offers beautiful scenery along the Current and Jacks Fork Rivers, is one of Missouri's most beautiful natural areas. Located in the southern end of the state, this area offers a variety of outdoor recreation activities as well as various campgrounds near the rivers. Moreover, you can check out the many caves such as the Devils Well Sink located throughout the region.
Many Americans love the idea of getting out into nature and enjoying the great outdoors. Thanks to this, renting and camping in RVs is growing in popularity across the nation. Thanks to this, there are multiple campgrounds, RV parks and RV resorts near Bethalto, Illinois where you can park your RV and relax. Many of these even have a range of facilities nearby such as dump stations, showers, and more.
There are 5 dump stations available in Bethalto, Illinois, and additional nearby options in the surrounding areas. You’ll find dump stations at Pilot Flying J Travel Plazas #645, MGM Lakeside Campground, Love's - Travel Stops & Country Stores, and TA-Petro Stopping Center of Troy. See RVshare’s guide to RV dump stations in Bethalto Illinois, for dump station addresses and details.
If I want to rent a travel trailer RV in Bethalto, IL, how can I tell if my vehicle can tow the trailer?
To determine if your vehicle can tow a travel trailer RV, you will need to check its towing capacity. This information can usually be found in the owner's manual or by contacting the vehicle manufacturer. It's essential to ensure that your vehicle's towing capacity meets or exceeds the weight of the travel trailer you intend to rent.
Are there any special driving considerations or techniques I should know when towing a travel trailer RV rental in Bethalto, IL?
When towing a travel trailer RV rental, it's crucial to be aware of its increased length and weight. Take wider turns, allow for extra braking distance, and maintain a safe and steady speed. Be cautious when changing lanes, as the trailer may affect your vehicle's stability. Familiarize yourself with local traffic laws and any specific regulations regarding towing trailers in your area.
What kind of amenities can I expect in a travel trailer RV rental, and how do they compare to other towable RV rentals in Bethalto, IL?
Travel trailer RV rentals typically offer a variety of amenities to ensure a comfortable experience. These can include a fully equipped kitchen with a refrigerator, stove, microwave, and sink. Bathroom facilities such as a toilet and shower are also common. Other amenities may include air conditioning, heating, cozy sleeping areas, dining spaces, and entertainment options. Comparatively, travel trailers often provide ample space and amenities when compared to other towable RV rentals.
Do I bring my bedding and linens to use in the travel trailer RV rental, and what kind of storage options are available for these items?
Be sure to check the RV listing to find if bedding is included with the rental. Not all owners provide these items, so it's advisable to check with them beforehand. As for storage options, travel trailers offer various compartments and cabinets where you can neatly store your belongings throughout your rental period.
What kind of maintenance or upkeep do I need to perform on the exterior and interior of a travel trailer RV rental during my rental period?
During your rental period, you are not expected to perform maintenance. You should however keep the RV clean and tidy up after use. Keep the exterior free from dirt and debris and clean up spills or messes promptly.
Are there any limitations on where I can park or store a travel trailer RV rental in Bethalto, IL, such as zoning laws or homeowners' association regulations?
Parking or storing a travel trailer RV rental may be subject to local regulations, such as zoning laws or homeowners' association rules. It's important to research and understand any limitations or restrictions that may apply in your specific area. This will help you find suitable parking or storage options for the duration of your rental.
Can I use a generator to power the travel trailer RV's electrical systems, or must I connect to a power source at a campground or RV park?
Travel trailer RV rentals generally have electrical systems that can be powered by either a generator or by connecting to a power source at a campground or RV park. Some rentals may include a generator, while others may require you to provide your own. It's important to discuss this with the RVshare owner to determine the specifics for your rental.
How do I properly level and stabilize a travel trailer RV rental at my campsite or RV park, and what equipment or tools do I need?
Discuss any leveling and stabilizing needs with the owner ahead of your trip. Sharing the details of where you plan to camp will allow them to provide the best guidance.
Are any unique features or amenities available in travel trailer RV rentals that may not be found in other RVs in Bethalto, IL?
Travel trailer RV rentals often come with a range of unique features and amenities. Some trailers may offer slide-out sections that expand the living space when parked. You can expect amenities such as outdoor awnings, entertainment systems, outdoor kitchens, and additional storage compartments. These features enhance the overall comfort and convenience of your travel trailer rental experience.
