Indiana Dunes National Park is found in northern Indiana, situated on the southern shores of Lake Michigan. The park features beautiful lakefront land as well as sprawling countryside, and visitors can enjoy a wide variety of activities, including hiking, biking, horseback riding, fishing, and water sports. While you're visiting, you can explore the area's lush forests, rugged dunes, wetlands, and prairies.
If you head into the beautiful city of St. Louis, Missouri, you can visit the unique Gateway Arch National Park. The park, which was previously called Jefferson National Expansion Memorial, is home to the towering arch that marks the beginning location of Lewis and Clark's famous journey. While you're there, you can explore some of the 91-acre park's historical buildings, tour the Old St. Louis Courthouse, and take a trolley ride up to the top of the arch, where you'll enjoy a spectacular view.
Mammoth Cave National Park is an incredible natural wonder found beneath Kentucky's rolling green hills. The park contains more than 400 miles of explored caverns, making it the world's longest known cave system. While you can't explore the caves on your own, there are guided tours available that will take you through all of the coolest areas, including the Frozen Niagara area, the Rotunda chamber, and the Gothic Avenue tunnel. Many recreational opportunities are available outside of the caverns as well, including hiking, horseback riding, biking, boating, and fishing.
Shabbona Lake State Park is a picturesque natural haven located on the shores of Shabbona Lake. The man-made lake is a popular fishing destination, and there are also rowboats and motorboats available for rent at the park. Alternatively, if you prefer to stay on land, you can hike through the mystic nature trails or grab a bite at Pokanoka’s Cafe.
Another gorgeous waterfront park is Wisconsin's Big Foot Beach State Park, nestled onto the shores of Lake Geneva. Visitors can relax on the beach, go swimming, fishing, or boating in the lake, or explore the scenic hiking trails. The park is a wonderful spot for wildlife viewing as well, inhabited by coyotes, foxes, white-tailed deer, and other cool creatures.
Kankakee River State Park comprises 4,000 acres of lush natural space, including an 11-mile stretch of the Kankakee River. The park is a popular destination for all kinds of outdoor activities, including hiking, biking, camping, fishing, and canoeing.
You'll find lots of unique monuments and landmarks around Illinois, and one awesome one to check out is Chicago's spectacular Willis Tower. The tower stands an incredible 1,729 feet over the bustling city, and from 1973 to 1988, it was the tallest building in the world. If you head up to the Skydeck, you can stare down through a glass floor and enjoy the unbelievable views.
Another iconic Chicago landmark is Millennium Park, which is home to the amazing Cloud Gate sculpture. The park covers 24.5 acres right in the heart of downtown Chicago, and while you're there, you can take advantage of a fantastic photo opportunity in front of the unique sculpture.
If you head down to the greater Peoria, Illinois area, you can visit the Wildlife Prairie Park. The park is sort of like a zoo without any cages, comprising over 1,800 acres and housing more than 150 animals and 60 different species. You can walk, hike, or mountain bike through the park and observe the amazing creatures.
One top-notch camping area near Carol Stream is the Paul Wolff Campground, which offers 89 RV full-hookup campsites for $35 per night. Guests at the campground have access to water and fire rings, and there are local opportunities for activities like hiking, fishing, and horseback riding.
Another affordable, well-maintained campground is the Big Rock Campground, where you can rent one of the 109 RV sites for $35 per night. Full hookups are available, and during your stay, you can enjoy catch-and-release fishing, hiking, and horseback riding. You can also have a pleasant picnic in the on-site shelter.
You could also enjoy a serene stay at the Grass Lake Marina and RV Park. The campground is home to 123 RV campsites, which are available for $50 per night. The campsites are nice and spacious, and the park features a swimming pond and an on-site restaurant.
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 Carol Stream, IL 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 Carol Stream, IL?
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 Carol Stream, IL?
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 Carol Stream, IL, 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 Carol Stream, IL?
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.
