Shenandoah National Park is just a short drive from Columbia, and it offers visitors 300 square miles of untouched terrain to explore. It is home to mountain peaks that extend up to 4,000 feet high, and part of the lengthy Appalachian Trail can also be hiked or biked at the park.
Nestled in West Virginia, you can find New River Gorge National Park, which is home to the often-overlooked New River Gorge. This gorge, which was carved over thousands of years by natural forces, is comparable to the Grand Canyon, although it's covered in a scenic forest landscape. At New River Gorge National Park, visitors can hike through 70,000 acres of countryside, go fishing, or ride horseback on the trails.
In northern Ohio sits Cuyahoga Valley National Park, a park known for being home to over 100 unique waterfalls. This park offers plenty of opportunities for hiking, biking, fishing, and even kayaking or canoeing. A historic railroad is also located inside the park, and photography opportunities exist around every corner.
Maryland's Patapsco Valley State Park is the perfect destination for anglers and historians alike. At this park, you'll be able to access over 32 miles of the Patapsco River, and you can see artifacts of Maryland's first mills and factories plus the world's first submerged hydroelectric plant.
Codorus State Park is in Pennsylvania and is home to 3,500 lakeside acres. In the summer, hiking and water skiing are popular activities at the park, while ice skating and cross-country skiing are popular in the winter.
Another Maryland state park, Gambrill State Park is located just outside the city of Frederick. This 1,000-plus-acre park is most popular in the fall months when the park's forests are lush with orange and red hues, making it great for hikers and photographers to enjoy.
Maryland's Fort McHenry National Monument and Historic Shrine is a must-see landmark for those who want to see the place where the United States National Anthem was first penned. The fort at this monument site was started during the American Revolutionary War, and it remained open until World War I.
The Star-Spangled Banner National Historic Trail passes through the Fort McHenry National Monument, and it extends 290 miles from Maryland to Virginia. The trail itself marks locations where British troops fought against American soldiers during the American Revolution, and there are plenty of museums and small landmarks to see along the route.
In Baltimore, Maryland, you can find the Washington Monument at Mount Vernon Place. This monument, which is considered to be the first built in honor of President George Washington, sits just outside a free museum.
When you want to park your RV near Columbia, consider using a campground in and around the Baltimore Inner Harbor. You could stay at a public campground, such as the one at Patapsco Valley State Park, for simple, inexpensive camping with level parking spots and plenty of shade. You could also check out the Washington DC Capitol KOA for more extensive amenities, like full hookups, sightseeing tours, and access to miles of walking trails. When you want to stay along the Atlantic Coast, consider staying at Bayshore Campgrounds, which has full hookups right on a private beach for campers to enjoy.
How do I properly navigate and park a Class A motorhome rental in urban areas or tight spaces in Columbia, MD?
Class A motorhomes can be large and require a bit of practice and patience to navigate and park in tight spaces. When driving in urban areas, it's important to be aware of your surroundings and plan your route ahead of time to avoid narrow streets, low overpasses, or weight restrictions. When parking, look for spacious lots that allow for easy entry and exit. It may also be helpful to have a spotter help guide you into your parking spot.
Are there any special licensing requirements or restrictions for operating a Class A motorhome rental in Columbia, MD?
In most cases, a standard driver's license is required to operate a Class A motorhome rental.
What kind of maintenance or upkeep do I need to perform on a Class A motorhome rental during my rental period?
As an RVshare customer, the only maintenance required is keeping the motorhome clean and returning it in the same condition it was received.
Do I need to know any weight restrictions or bridge height limitations when operating a Class A motorhome rental in Columbia, MD?
Yes, it's important to be aware of weight restrictions and bridge height limitations when operating a Class A motorhome rental. It's important to check with your RV owner or local authorities for any specific restrictions in your area.
Can I bring my bicycles or other outdoor equipment to use with the Class A motorhome rental, and what storage options are available for these items?
Yes, you can bring your bicycles or other outdoor equipment to use with the Class A motorhome rental. Many motorhomes come equipped with exterior storage compartments or bike racks for convenient storage. Check with the RV owner to see what storage is available to you.
How do I properly level and stabilize a Class A motorhome rental at my campsite or RV park, and what equipment or tools do I need for this?
Sometimes stabilizing a Class A motorhome is needed to ensure a comfortable and safe stay at your campsite or RV park. Confirm the type of campsite you’ll stay at and any stabilizing actions or equipment necessary with the RV owner.
What fuel efficiency considerations do I need to consider when operating a Class A motorhome rental, and how can I minimize the impact on my fuel costs?
Class A motorhomes typically have lower fuel efficiency due to their size and weight. However, there are ways to minimize fuel costs such as driving at a steady speed and avoiding abrupt stops and starts.
Do I need to bring entertainment equipment or appliances for the Class A motorhome rental, such as a home theater system or outdoor grill?
Most Class A motorhomes come equipped with basic entertainment equipment and appliances such as a TV, DVD player, and refrigerator. However, if you have specific entertainment needs or preferences, it's best to check with your RV owner to ensure these items are provided or if you should bring your own.
Are any unique features or amenities available in Class A motorhome rentals that may not be found in other RVs in Columbia, MD?
Class A motorhomes often feature high-end amenities such as leather seating, residential-sized kitchens, and luxurious bedding. Some may also feature high-tech entertainment systems or outdoor kitchens. It's best to check with your RV owner for any specific unique features or amenities that may be available in your rental.
