Everglades National Park is a scenic national park that's about 283 miles away from Crystal River, Florida. From December to March, the area is home to as many as 300 bird species for birdwatchers to observe.
Biscayne National Park is 344 miles away from Crystal River. This expansive national park encompasses over 172,000 acres of land. It's important to know that wide swaths of this national park are only accessible by boat, but when visiting, you're sure to see some amazing aquatic wildlife.
Dry Tortugas National Park is home to many aquatic and semi-aquatic species. Because it is spread over several small islands, it's best to go on a boat tour to really see everything it has to offer. While this park is one of the closest national parks to Crystal River, expect to drive almost 500 miles to get here.
Rainbow Springs State Park is a place to see lush green gardens and manufactured waterfalls. Birding, hiking, and geocaching are common activities enjoyed here. Swimming, tubing, and snorkeling can also be enjoyed in the Rainbow River, which has depths of up to 18 feet.
Silver Springs State Park is the gateway to Ocala National Forest, and it has great opportunities to see wildlife through a glass-bottomed boat. You can also take a boat out in the water on your own. If you prefer to stay on land, hiking tours are also available.
Paynes Prairie Preserve State Park is a park where you can see wild horses and bison roaming freely. If it has rained recently, the marshy area of the park becomes a lake that you can fish and explore via canoe. Biking and hiking are also enjoyable here.
Beyond its awesome weather and recreational beaches, Florida also has interesting landmarks. Fort King National Historic Landmark recognizes the Seminole War and is located about 43 miles from Crystal River. History lovers will want to attend educational events at the historic landmark. There are also gardens to explore and trails to walk while visiting.
Century Tower, which is 63 miles away, is a 157-foot tower that is located at the University of Florida. It serves as a memorial for students who perished during both World Wars. It was added to the National Registry of Historic Places in 1989.
Many RVers have thought about visiting the Fountain of Youth while in Florida. It is only 92 miles from Crystal River at Ponce de Leon's Fountain of Youth Archaeological Park in St. Augustine, Florida. There are various exhibits on site where you can learn the history of the spring or bathe in its waters.
When exploring Crystal River, Florida there are several RV campgrounds to rest and relax in. Three to consider are Ocala North RV Park, Rock Crusher Canyon RV Park, and Florilow RV Park. All three allow dogs, and Florilow actually has a dog park and dog bath facilities. All also feature full hookups, and each has strong cell reception. Ocala North RV Park is a good option for those looking for back-in and pull-through RV sites.
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 Crystal River, FL 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 Crystal River, FL?
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 Crystal River, FL, 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 Crystal River, FL?
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 Crystal River, FL particularly well-suited for a camper van and what amenities or features do they offer?
There are many campgrounds and RV parks in Crystal River, FL 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.