The New River and the gorge it has carved through the Appalachian Mountains are the main attraction at the New River Gorge National Park. The park is located about a two-hour drive from Big Stone Gap, Virginia. The park's main attraction is whitewater rafting down the New River. The campground at New River Gorge National Park has 56 campsites with electric and water hookups for RVs. The closest national park to Big Stone Gap is the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. The most visited national park, which is known for its beautiful waterfalls and abundant wildlife, is about a 3-hour drive from Big Stone Gap. Visitor can tour Cades Cove on a historic wagon ride or walk along trails to waterfalls and historic buildings. The park offers more than 800 miles of trails for hiking and horseback riding. Mammoth Cave National Park is the largest known cave system in the world. It's estimated that some 400 miles of subterranean passages are still to be explored. The park has two campgrounds with a total of 137 campsites. The campgrounds offer a variety of amenities including full hookups for RVs.
Located just a few miles from Big Stone Gap, this park offers hiking trails, fishing, swimming, boating and more. David Crockett was born in what is now Big Stone Gap, Virginia. He would grow up to become one of the most famous figures in American history. Today, the David Crockett Birthplace State Park is a historic site that features the reconstructed cabin where he was born. Natural Tunnel State Park is one of Virginia’s most popular parks. Natural Tunnel is a large cave that was formed by the action of water on the limestone, creating a tunnel through which Big Stone Gap's U.S. Highway 23 passes. The park also has a campground with more than 200 campsites and 20 cabins available for rent. The park has many attractions such as hiking trails, picnic areas, and even an old railroad tunnel that has been carved out by nature.
The Cherokee National Forest, Pisgah National Forest, Daniel Boone National Forest, and Nantahala National Forest are all located within a few hours' drive of Big Stone Gap. These forests offer a variety of recreational opportunities, including camping, hiking, fishing, and more. About 650,000 acres in size, the Cherokee National Forest in eastern Tennessee is home to the well-known Ocoee River, which provides kayaking and whitewater rafting possibilities for tourists. The woodland is renowned for its beautiful driving and trekking routes. Around 500,000 acres make up the Pisgah National Forest, which is situated in western North Carolina. The Appalachian Trail and a number of other well-known hiking paths, like Linville Gorge and Looking Glass Rock, can be found there. The woodland is renowned for its beautiful waterfalls, which include the well-known Sliding Rock. The Daniel Boone National Forest, which spans over 700,000 acres in eastern Kentucky, is renowned for its untamed landscape, soaring cliffs, and natural arches.  The Nantahala National Forest, which spans more than 530,000 acres in western North Carolina, is well-known for its rafting and kayaking options on the Nantahala River. The Appalachian Trail as well as the Bartram Trail are just a couple of the well-known hiking routes that pass through the woodland.
The Andrew Johnson National Cemetery is a must-see landmark near Big Stone Gap. This cemetery commemorates the life of Andrew Johnson, who was the 17th president of the United States. Cumberland Gap National Historical Park is another important landmark nearby. This park commemorates the famous mountain pass that played an important role in American history. Visitors can explore the park's rich history, including the role it played in the westward expansion of the United States. The Blue Ridge Parkway and Bluestone National Scenic River are two beautiful natural areas to visit near Big Stone Gap. The Blue Ridge Parkway is a scenic drive that winds through the mountains of Virginia and North Carolina, offering visitors breathtaking views and opportunities for camping and hiking. The Bluestone National Scenic River, located in West Virginia, offers visitors opportunities for fishing, kayaking, and hiking, with stunning views of the river and surrounding mountains.
Big Stone Gap is a popular area for RV camping in Virginia. The Warrior's Path State Park Campground, Rocky Top Campground and RV Park and the Bristol/Kingsport KOA campgrounds are some of the top choices. Some of these options offer electric hookups, as well as showers and laundry facilities.
There are four RV dump stations available in Big Stone Gap, Virginia, and additional nearby options in the surrounding areas. You’ll find dump stations at German Bridge Camping Area, Wilson's Riverfront RV Park, KOA - Asheville East KOA Campground, and Mama Gertie's Hideaway Campground. See RVshare’s guide to RV dump stations in Big Stone Gap, Virginia, for dump station addresses and details.
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 Big Stone Gap, VA 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 Big Stone Gap, VA?
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 Big Stone Gap, VA?
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 Big Stone Gap, VA, 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 Big Stone Gap, VA?
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.
