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 correctly load and secure my recreational equipment in the toy hauler rental, such as ATVs or dirt bikes, and are there any weight or size limitations I need to be aware of?
It is important to properly load and secure your recreational equipment in the toy hauler rental to ensure safety during travel. Most toy haulers come equipped with tie-downs and rails specifically designed for securing equipment. It is important to follow the manufacturer's guidelines for weight capacity and loading instructions. You should also check with the owner of the RVshare rental for any specific instructions or recommendations.
What kind of maintenance or upkeep do I need on the toy hauler rental's garage area, and what kind of tools or equipment do I need for this?
Proper maintenance of the toy hauler is handled by the RV owner. As the renter you are responsible for being cautious and following instructions to avoid damages, as well as keeping the trailer clean and in the condition you found it.
Are there any special insurance considerations or requirements when renting a toy hauler, particularly regarding the transport of recreational equipment?
RVshare rentals always come with insurance, with three options to choose from to best suit your needs.
How do I properly level and stabilize a toy hauler rental at my campsite or RV park, and what equipment or tools do I need?
Discuss your specific campsite with the RV owner to determine if leveling and stabilization of the toy hauler rental is needed for optimal comfort and safety.
Can I bring fuel and oil for my recreational equipment, or should I purchase these items after reaching my destination?
It is generally recommended to purchase fuel and oil for your recreational equipment after reaching your destination. Many RV parks and campgrounds have restrictions on fuel storage for safety reasons.
What kind of towing vehicle do I need to rent a toy hauler, and are there any special licensing or certification requirements for operating this vehicle in Columbia, MD?
The type of towing vehicle needed for a toy hauler rental will depend on the weight and towing capacity of the toy hauler itself. It is important to check with the owner of the RVshare rental for any specific requirements or recommendations. Typically a standard driver’s license is required to tow a toy hauler.
Can I use the garage area of a toy hauler rental to store items other than recreational equipment, and what weight limitations exist for these items?
The garage area of a toy hauler rental can typically be used to store items other than recreational equipment, such as bicycles or camping gear. However, it is important to follow any weight capacity guidelines provided by the manufacturer or rental owner to ensure safe operation.
Are any particular features or amenities available in toy hauler rentals that may not be found in other RVs in Columbia, MD?
Toy hauler rentals often come equipped with unique features and amenities not found in other types of RVs. These can include a garage area for storing and transporting recreational equipment, folding beds or bunks, and outdoor living spaces. Checking with the rental owner for specific features and amenities can help you choose the best option for your travel needs.
