At 205 miles away, Shenandoah National Park is the nearest national park to Bethany Beach. The main road that travels through the park is called Skyline Drive. It runs 105 miles north and south along the crest of the gorgeous Blue Ridge Mountains and generally takes about three hours to drive on a clear day. As you travel along Skyline Drive, you will come to the largest developed area of the park, Big Meadows, at milepost 51. Shenandoah has well over 500 miles of hiking trails that offer adventurous rock scrambles, spectacular overlooks, and beautiful treks through the wilderness. Some trails have magnificent waterfall views that cascade along the mountain streams. This place is also excellent for fishing, rock climbing, biking, and birdwatching. Stop at the Dickey Ridge Visitor Center and look at the exhibits to learn why Shenandoah National Park is such an amazing place.
Delaware Seashore State Park boasts six miles of ocean and 20 miles of bay shoreline, making it the ideal water recreational oasis. Paddle the bay in a kayak from Savage Ditch to explore the vast marsh islands and see horseshoe crabs, diamondback terrapins, and nesting birds. Visitors also can enjoy hiking through Burton Island Nature Preserve and experience the ever-changing scenery as you stroll from salt marsh to maritime forest habitats. Swimming, surfing, sunbathing, and fishing are some of the most popular activities. Visitors can camp on either side of the Indian River Inlet, creating a more enjoyable way to explore Delaware's fantastic seashore. Cape Henlopen State Park sits at the mouth of Delaware Bay with over six miles of coastline. If you enjoy swimming, boating, clamming, kayaking, paddle boarding, and windsurfing, you will not want to miss out on visiting Cape Henlopen while in the area with a Bethany Beach, Delaware RV rental. While there, tour the Fort Miles Historical Area and learn how Cape Henlopen was once a World War II coastal defense site. Walk the fishing pier, built initially to support mine operations during World War II. Today, it provides access to fishing in the Delaware Bay. Visitors can stay longer by booking an overnight stay or more at the campground, which accommodates large rigs and more. The Nature Center lets visitors get close to native marine life in the touch tank and teaches them about the park's habitats and the living creatures. Assateague State Park sits on Assateague Island embarked by the Atlantic Ocean on the east and Sinepuxent Bay to the west. It has two miles of ocean beaches offering surfing, sunbathing, beachcombing, swimming, and fishing. The bayside area is ideal for exploring secluded coves by kayak or canoe. The park has 342 sites with electric hookups, each with a fire ring and wooden picnic table. Some of the sites are solely designed for visitors with a disability and their families or guest. During your visit to Assateague, you will likely encounter a few wild ponies, and it is advised only to observe them. Other wildlife that lives here includes over 200 species of birds, such as herons, ducks, shorebirds, sandpipers, and even endangered peregrine falcons. The nature center is the perfect place to see native animals up close, including sea stars, box turtles, flounder, sea trout, and bluefish.
One of the many national sites you can visit near the Delaware area is the Assateague Island National Seashore, which is cared for and managed by the National Park Service. You can take sightseeing cruises, kayak tours, or fish, crab, bike, hunt, and hang out at the beach at this site. If you enjoy visiting state parks, wildlife management areas, and country parks, then Great Egg Harbor National Scenic and Recreational River should be on your list. The river flows soundlessly through marshes and trees within the Pinelands National Preserve. Bring your fishing gear and try catching striped bass and alewife herring in the river, or try kayaking, camping, and nature walking. Another national site to see is the Harriet Tubman Underground Railroad National Historical Park. Stop at the visitor center to look at the exhibits and a film or talk to the staff for further information or guidance on other sites to visit. While there, you can experience Harriet Tubman's home, where she was born into slavery and grew into a determined young woman to gain freedom for herself and her friends and family.
Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park is in Lincoln, just minutes from Lewes, Dewey Beach, and Rehoboth Beach. The campsites are spacious enough to accommodate Class A and Class C motorhomes up to 45 feet. An alternative option to consider is Holly Lake Campsites in Millsboro, Delaware, just nine miles from the ocean. The campground is equipped to accommodate camper vans, motorhomes, and more. It has full hookups, free Wi-Fi, and a swimming pool. Another great place to stay is Tall Pines Campground Resort in Lewes, Delaware. This pet-friendly resort has many amenities, such as a splash park, swimming pool, an 18-hole mini golf course, and a playground.
Do I maintain or service the motorhome rental during my rental period?
No, it is the responsibility of the RVshare owner to ensure the motorhome is properly maintained and serviced before your rental period. Just take good care of your rental and keep it clean.
Are there any special driving considerations or techniques I should know when operating a motorhome rental in Bethany Beach, DE?
Yes, motorhomes are larger and heavier than most passenger vehicles, so it is important to allow for more time and space when turning, merging, or stopping. Additionally, it is recommended to drive slower than the posted speed limit and to use caution when driving in windy or wet conditions.
How do I properly level and stabilize a motorhome at my campsite or RV park?
Motorhomes typically have built-in leveling jacks or blocks that can be adjusted to ensure the RV is level and stable. Some RV parks may also provide leveling pads or blocks if needed. Discuss your campsite with the RV owner ahead of time and they can provide you guidance on stabilizing.
What kind of maintenance or upkeep do I need to perform on the interior and exterior during my rental period?
You should keep the interior clean and tidy, empty waste tanks as needed, and report any damages or malfunctions to the RVshare owner. Exterior maintenance such as checking tire pressure is also recommended.
Does my motorhome rental come with bedding, linens, or other items I would consider to be personal?
This varies by RVshare owner. Some owners may include bedding and linens, while others may require renters to bring their own. It is best to check with the owner prior to renting.
Should I bring entertainment equipment or appliances for the motorhome rental?
While some motorhomes may come equipped with entertainment options or appliances, it is always a good idea to bring your own if desired. However, be mindful of any limitations on power usage or space restrictions. Check the RV listing or ask the RV owner what kind of entertainment is included.
Are there any limitations on where I can park or store a motorhome rental in Bethany Beach, DE, such as zoning laws or homeowners' association regulations?
There may be restrictions on where motorhomes can be parked or stored in certain areas. It is best to research local laws and regulations or to ask the RVshare owner for guidance.
What fuel efficiency considerations do I need to consider when operating a motorhome rental?
Motorhomes are not typically known for their fuel efficiency, but there are steps you can take to improve gas mileage such as driving at a lower speed, avoiding excessive idling, and keeping tires properly inflated.
How do I properly operate and maintain the various systems in a motorhome rental?
The RVshare owner should provide you with detailed instructions and manuals for operating and maintaining the various systems in the motorhome. It is important to follow these instructions carefully to ensure proper use and prevent damage.
Are any unique features or amenities available in motorhome rentals that may not be found in other RVs in Bethany Beach, DE?
This varies by RV owner and motorhome class, but some motorhomes may have unique features such as slide-outs, outdoor kitchens, or luxury finishes that may not be found in other types of RVs.