Found in the magnificent Blue Ridge Mountains of Virginia three hours northwest of Chesapeake, Shenandoah National Park is a peaceful retreat from the stresses of city life. The park is home to a stretch of the well-known Appalachian Trail, which visitors can explore. The park is an excellent destination for hiking, backcountry camping, mountain biking, rock climbing, fishing and horseback riding.
Congaree National Park is in South Carolina six hours southwest of Chesapeake, surrounding the mighty Congaree River and featuring many of the tallest trees on the east coast. The park frequently holds educational hikes and tours, giving visitors a great chance to experience and learn about the park. There's also a regular Owl Prowl event, which teaches attendees about the fascinating owls and other nocturnal creatures inhabiting the park.
Cuyahoga Valley National Park has the distinction of being the only national park in Ohio. The diverse park, eight hours and 35 minutes northwest of Chesapeake, is home to 100 waterfalls, rolling hills, dense forests, rivers, wetlands and ravines. Many people visit the park every year to explore the 125 miles of scenic hiking trails; go kayaking, canoeing, or fishing in the river; or utilize the peaceful setting for picnicking or stargazing.
Located a half-hour northeast of Chesapeake, First Landing State Park lies on the shores of Chesapeake Bay and is the oldest and most popular state park in Virginia. The park is an amazing place to observe wildlife with creatures like herons, turtles, dolphins and foxes inhabiting the area. Visitors can also utilize the nearby bay for fishing, boating, swimming and kayaking.
Merchants Millpond State Park is found in the northeastern corner of North Carolina, 52 minutes southwest of Chesapeake, and comprises 3,296 acres of lush swamp forest. There are nine miles of beautiful trails in the park that are perfect for hiking and biking, and visitors may be able to spot alligators, bobcats, mink, otters and other cool creatures.
Known for its exceptional natural beauty, Chippokes Plantation State Park covers 1,947 acres on the banks of the majestic James River, an hour northwest of Chesapeake. The park is home to many unique features, including an antebellum mansion, formal gardens, the remains of the Jamestown colony and an active archaeological dig. In addition to checking out these sites, visitors can enjoy some quality fishing opportunities in the James River.
One very well-known Virginia landmark is Colonial Williamsburg, where you can get a chance to experience what life was like in the 1700s. The site, which is an hour northwest of Chesapeake, features over 300 acres of historic buildings with costumed reenactors and fascinating tours available.
While in the area, you should also visit the Jamestown Settlement, a living history museum with buildings recreated to replicate the original settlement from the 17th century. There are also reenactors and recreations of three ships that brought the colonists to America.
If you find yourself in Richmond, you should consider stopping by the Richmond National Battlefield Park Civil War Visitor's Center. Here, you can learn more about the Richmond area's fascinating history specifically regarding the American Civil War. If you're a history buff, it's a must-visit attraction.
Many quality campgrounds are in the Chesapeake area. One example is North Landing Beach RV Resort & Cottages, which boasts 160 RV campsites available for $51 per night. It is 40 minutes southeast of Chesapeake. Most of the sites have full hookups, and the campground's amenities include a pickleball court, a playground, an arts and crafts center, and a recreation hall.
Davis Lakes RV Park and Campground, a half-hour southwest of Chesapeake, has RV sites with 30- and 50-amp electrical hookups available. Guests can make use of a swimming lake, a fishing lake, a fish-cleaning station, a bathhouse, a kids' area and a laundromat.
If you're looking for affordable camping, Northwest River Park & Campground in Chesapeake is a perfect choice. You can rent one of the 66 full-hookup RV campsites for only $21 per night. The park offers conveniently close opportunities for boating, fishing, camping and hiking.
How do I properly pack and store my belongings inside a camper van rental, and what storage options are available?
When renting a Class B motorhome from an RVshare owner, there are typically several storage options available for your belongings. You can utilize overhead storage compartments, under-bench storage, and even cabinets for heavier items. When packing your belongings, it's best to use soft-sided luggage or collapsible containers to save on space. Keep items secure while driving by using bungee cords or tension rods to prevent shifting during travel.
Can I drive a camper van rental in Chesapeake, VA without prior experience, and are there any special driving considerations I should know?
Driving a Class B motorhome rental is typically similar to driving a regular car, but there are a few things to keep in mind. Make sure to adjust your mirrors before setting off and be aware of the height and length of your vehicle. It's also advisable to take a test drive around the RVshare owner's neighborhood to familiarize yourself with the handling and braking of the vehicle before embarking on your trip.
What kind of maintenance or upkeep do I need to perform on the camper van rental during my rental period?
The owner of the RV is responsible for maintenance. Renters should keep the RV clean and handle with care to avoid any damages. You may need to empty the water tanks depending on your agreement with the RV owner.
Do I need to know any weight or height restrictions when driving a camper van motorhome rental in Chesapeake, VA?
It's important to know the height and weight restrictions of your camper van rental in order to avoid accidents or getting stuck in low clearance areas, especially when traveling on highways or bridges. It's also advisable to check local regulations regarding weight limits when driving on certain roads.
Can I park or store a Class B motorhome rental in a regular parking spot or garage in Chesapeake, VA, or are there specific requirements for parking and storage?
Parking a Class B motorhome rental in a regular spot or garage can be challenging due to the size of the vehicle. It's important to check local regulations and parking restrictions before setting off on your trip. RVshare owners may also provide guidance on where it is safe to park or store the vehicle.
What fuel efficiency considerations do I need to consider when driving a Class B motorhome rental, and how can I minimize the impact on my fuel costs?
Most Class B motorhomes are relatively fuel efficient, but it's important to be mindful of your driving habits in order to minimize fuel costs. Avoid idling the engine unnecessarily, accelerate smoothly, and avoid excessive speeding. It's also a good idea to plan your route before departing in order to avoid getting lost or taking unnecessary detours.
Are any particular features or amenities available in a camper van rental that may not be found in other RVs in Chesapeake, VA?
Features and amenities vary depending on the model of the Class B motorhome rental, but some popular options include a built-in microwave, refrigerator, and TV/DVD player. Some models may also include a shower and toilet, while others may not. Check the listing details on RVshare for all of the available amenities for each rental.
How do I correctly set up and use the kitchen and bathroom facilities in a Class B motorhome rental?
Each RVshare owner may have different instructions for using the kitchen and bathroom facilities in their Class B motorhome rental. In the bathroom, there may be a shower and/or toilet that needs to be hooked up to water and sewage sources. RVshare owners will typically provide instruction manuals or walkthroughs of the rental vehicle's features.
Should I bring my entertainment equipment or appliances for the camper van rental, such as a portable grill or music player?
While some Class B motorhome rentals may include entertainment equipment or appliances, such as a grill or music player, it's always a good idea to double-check with the RVshare owner about what amenities are included in the rental. If you have specific entertainment preferences, you may want to bring your own equipment or devices.
Are any specific campgrounds or RV parks in Chesapeake, VA particularly well-suited for a camper van and what amenities or features do they offer?
There are many campgrounds and RV parks in Chesapeake, VA that are well-suited for Class B motorhome rentals. Some popular amenities include electrical hookups, dump stations for sewage, and picnic tables. It's important to research and reserve a spot in advance to ensure availability during your trip. RVshare owners may also have recommendations for great campsites or RV parks in the area.