Gulf Island National Park Reserve, in British Columbia, three hours and 15 minutes southwest of Custer, spans 15 islands, each offering unique attractions and landmarks. Enjoy the stunning landform of the picturesque Sidney Spit that extends out into the Salish Sea and is accessible by boat or ferry. Visitors can enjoy hiking, picnicking, swimming and beachcombing on the spit, making it a favorite spot for families and solo travelers. The 1,320-foot Mount Warburton Pike offers breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding area. RVers can choose from several hiking trails to reach the top and explore the summit to enjoy the stunning vistas. You can travel an hour and 45 minutes southeast of Custer with a toy hauler to reach the magnificent North Cascades National Park. The park boasts awe-inspiring mountain ranges, cascading waterfalls and over 300 glaciers. The iconic Mount Shuksan in the area is often featured in photographs and paintings. Several beautiful lakes, including Lake Chelan, Ross Lake and Diablo Lake, are perfect for fishing, kayaking and other water sports. North Cascades National Park has several campgrounds that accommodate all RVs, including camper vans. Enjoy the park's ranger-led programs and educational tours, which can teach you more about the park's unique ecology and history.
Visit Olympic National Park, which is three hours and 40 minutes southwest of Custer, and explore Hurricane Ridge, which features gorgeous views of the Olympic Mountains. It is also an excellent spot for hiking, skiing and wildlife watching. RVers can access Hurricane Ridge via a scenic drive up a 17-mile road that is open year-round, weather permitting. The moss-covered Hoh Rainforest is filled with breathtaking waterfalls, old-growth trees and wildlife, making it one of the most popular destinations in the park. There also is the rugged coastline of Ruby Beach with its stunning sea stacks and driftwood-strewn beaches. Sol Duc Hot Springs is a developed area with a heated pool, soaking tubs and a rustic lodge. For a more primitive option, you can go to Olympic Hot Springs, which requires a short hike through the forest.
If you have a Class A or a Class C motorhome, Birch Bay State Park is an excellent camping spot with several benefits. The park, which is just 10 minutes southwest of Custer, has over 120 campgrounds designed explicitly for RVs with hookups for water and electricity. Birch Bay's incredible saltwater inlet provides access to diverse water activities, including fishing, boating, swimming, crabbing and clamming. You will love the park's oceanfront views and the stunning sunsets. Visit Drayton Harbor, which offers a haven for many migratory birds and marine life species. You can take an oyster harvesting excursion, capture the panoramic views of the San Juan Islands, or rent paddleboats and kayaks to explore the natural beauty. Nestled between the Chuckanut Mountains and the sparkling waters of the Salish Sea a mere half-hour south of Custer is Larrabee State Park. The Chuckanut Mountains provide a magnificent backdrop for a relaxing hike and a thrilling mountain bike adventure. One of the park's most recognizable landmarks is Clayton Beach, which provides glorious views of the Olympic Mountains and the San Juan Islands. The beach also provides access to a mile-long trail that leads to the stunning Fragrance Lake. Visit Chuckanut Bay Gallery and Sculpture Garden and the nearby Fairhaven Historic District, which offers various shopping and dining options. Moran State Park is a beautiful, natural paradise two hours and 45 minutes southwest of Custer. This state park has everything for nature lovers from hiking and biking to fishing and swimming. With over 38 miles of trails, visitors can enjoy the scenic views and natural beauty of Orcas Island. Mount Constitution offers breathtaking sights of the San Juan Islands and surrounding areas. At an elevation of 2,400 feet, Mount Constitution is the park's highest point, and visitors can access it by travel trailer, bike or foot.
Explore one of the two military camps from the Pig War era between the U.S. and the U.K. at San Juan Island National Historical Park, two hours and 50 minutes southwest of Custer. This site is perfect for history buffs as it showcases preserved barracks, officers' houses and parade grounds that transport visitors back in time. Visit the English Camp, which offers a glimpse into the past through numerous exhibits, including the restored historic buildings, garden, ceremony ring and mass grave of a British Royal Marine. Travel an hour and a half to the south in your Custer, Washington RV rental to explore Ebey's Landing National Historical Reserve. Discover the history of the first European settlers who arrived in the Pacific Northwest, and explore the dramatic bluffs, beaches and tide flats of Admiralty Inlet. The Bluff Trail provides a scenic hike with scenic vistas of Puget Sound and the Olympic Mountains. Visit the Ferry House, an iconic attraction that has been a fixture on the island since 1860. The reserve features a variety of recreational activities such as bird-watching, hiking and beachcombing. Visitors can also enjoy scenic drives along the reserve's winding roads. Klondike Gold Rush National Historical Park is about an hour and a half south of Custer and features several historical attractions. This park tells the story of the thousands of gold miners who set off on their journey to Alaska in search of riches and adventure. Tour the historic buildings from the gold rush days, and watch historical film presentations at the Chilkoot Trail Center. Hike through the native Alaskan landscape, or take a boat tour of the Yukon River to see where miners once made their fortune.
Just 15 minutes southeast of Custer, Bellingham RV Park provides 56 sites with full hookups with a daily charge of $44. It is a pet-friendly campground with strong cell reception. You can also stay at Lighthouse by the Bay RV Resort just 10 minutes west of Custer. Daily rates start at $38, and there are showers and Wi-Fi. Beachside RV Park, only 10 minutes west of Custer, has weekly rates of $200 with 72 back-in and pull-through sites.
If I want to rent a towable RV, how do I tell if my vehicle can handle the tow?
Before renting a towable RV, it is essential to ensure that your vehicle can handle the weight and hitch type of the trailer. You can find this information in your vehicle's owner's manual. You will also need to check the Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) of the trailer, which can usually be found on a sticker located on the trailer. It is recommended that you do not exceed 80% of your vehicle's maximum tow rating and make sure you have the proper hitch, brake controller, and sway control device.
Are there any limitations on the types of roads or terrain I can navigate with a towable RV rental in Custer, WA?
Yes, there are limitations on the types of roads and terrain that you can navigate with a towable RV rental. It is important to check the RVshare rental agreement to see what types of roads and terrain are permitted. In general, most towable RVs are suitable for paved roads and well-maintained campgrounds. However, some rentals may be equipped with off-road tires, making them suitable for moderate off-road terrain.
Are there any additional insurance considerations or requirements when towing a rental RV, and how can I ensure I am adequately covered?
When renting a towable RV, there are three insurance options in case of an accident or damage. RVshare offers different types of insurance coverage, including liability, collision, and comprehensive. It is recommended that you choose the coverage that best suits your needs.
Do I use a sway control device when towing a RV, and does RVshare provide it, or do I need to bring my own?
A sway control device is highly recommended when towing a RV, especially on highways or in windy conditions. Discuss with the RV owner if this is something you will need. RVshare does not provide sway control devices, but the individual owner might.
What kind of braking system do I need for a towable RV rental, and how do I ensure it is properly installed and functional?
All towable RV rentals require a functioning braking system. There are two types of braking systems: electric and surge. Electric brake systems require a brake controller to be installed in the towing vehicle, while surge braking systems are built into the trailer's hitch. It is important to ensure that the braking system is properly installed and functional before towing. RVshare recommends having a professional mechanic inspect the brakes before renting.
Are any unique features or amenities available in towable RV rentals that may not be found in other RVs in Custer, WA?
The features and amenities available in towable RV rentals vary depending on the unit and the owner's preferences. Some common features found in towable RVs include full kitchens, bathrooms, and sleeping areas. Unique features may include outdoor kitchens, fireplaces, and spacious living areas. It is recommended that you browse RVshare's inventory to find a rental unit that meets your specific needs.
How do I properly load and distribute weight within a towable RV rental to ensure safe and stable towing?
Proper weight distribution is crucial when towing a RV. It is recommended that you load heavier items towards the front of the trailer and distribute weight evenly from side to side. You should also avoid overloading the trailer and keep the weight under the GVWR. It is recommended that you use a weight distribution hitch, which can help balance the weight and provide more stability when towing.
What are the fuel efficiency considerations when towing a rental RV, and how can I minimize the impact on my fuel costs?
Towing a rental RV can have a significant impact on your vehicle's fuel efficiency. It is recommended that you use a towing vehicle with a fuel-efficient engine and avoid driving at high speeds. Additionally, removing any unnecessary weight from your vehicle and trailer can help maximize fuel efficiency. It is also recommended that you maintain a consistent speed and avoid sudden stops and starts.
What kind of maintenance or upkeep do I need on a towable RV rental during my rental period, and what kind of supplies or tools do I need to have on hand for this?
During your rental period you are not responsible for maintenance. Treat the RV with care and maintain cleanliness during your trip.