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 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 Columbia, MD 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 Columbia, MD?
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 Columbia, MD, 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 Columbia, MD?
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 Columbia, MD particularly well-suited for a camper van and what amenities or features do they offer?
There are many campgrounds and RV parks in Columbia, MD 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.
