Shenandoah National Park is about an hour and 20 minutes from Bethesda. This park, located in Virginia, is known for its stunning scenery. The park is 300 square miles, and visitors can hike, bike, horseback ride, rock climb, fish, boat, or swim. Shenandoah is beautiful at any time of the year, but visitors may want to come during the fall to view the spectacular foliage.
Located about four and a half hours from Bethesda, New River Gorge National Park in West Virginia offers stunning views and plenty of opportunities to spot wildlife. The park is 70,000 acres, and there are dozens of options for hiking, mountain biking, kayaking, swimming, and fishing.
Cuyahoga Valley National Park in Ohio is about five hours and 20 minutes from Bethesda. This gorgeous national park has plenty of things to see and do. The park encompasses 100 miles of river, 100 waterfalls, a scenic railroad, and more than 125 miles of hiking trails.
Patapsco Valley State Park is just under 40 minutes from Bethesda. This beautiful park offers scenic views of the local landscapes, including waterfalls and forests. Visitors can hike, bike, canoe, or horseback ride in the park, and swimming and fishing are also popular activities.
About an hour’s drive from Bethesda, Smallwood State Park offers gorgeous views, camping, wildlife viewing, photography opportunities, and plenty of recreational activities such as boating, fishing, and hiking. The plantation house in the park has also been restored so that visitors can tour through it.
Gambrill State Park is about 45 minutes from Bethesda. This 1,200-acre park offers plenty of hiking or mountain biking trails. Visitors can spot wildlife, take pictures, or simply enjoy the gorgeous scenery. Visit in the fall to see the best foliage colors.
Maryland is home to many historic landmarks and monuments. Antietam National Battlefield, the site of the famous Civil War battle, is only about an hour and 10 minutes from Bethesda. The Fort McHenry National Monument also opens up the area’s history to visitors. The Clara Barton House, which celebrates the woman who founded the Red Cross, is also only about 10 minutes from Bethesda.
There are many options for camping in and around Bethesda. The Hagerstown/Antietam Battlefield KOA is located right near the Antietam battlefield and several other historic sites, and the campground offers full hookups, showers, and a pool. Ramblin' Pines is centrally located near Washington, D.C., but it’s quiet and secluded. The campground offers 200 RV sites with full hooks, and there are showers, a pool, a hot tub, and mini-golf. The Bar Harbor RV Park and Marina offers stunning waterfront campsites and also has showers and a laundromat.
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 Bethesda, MD?
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 Bethesda, MD, 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 Bethesda, MD?
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.
