The Skyline Drive at Shenandoah National Park, located only an hour and a half north of Damascus, is one of the most scenic drives in the country. The park offers eight different campgrounds, including Big Meadows and Lewis Mountain. Five hundred miles of trails, consisting of 101 miles of the Appalachian Trail, lead visitors to waterfalls, panoramic views, protected wilderness, and preserved human history in the Shenandoah valley. A park full of recreational opportunities for the entire family, Shenandoah is worth a repeat visit. New River Gorge National Park is located in the southwestern part of West Virginia, approximately 90 miles from Damascus, Maryland. The park offers visitors a chance to experience the New River Gorge, which runs through the gorge that gives the park its name. Tucked away in the mountains of West Virginia, the New River Gorge has largely been an underrated travel destination. A rugged, whitewater river flowing northward through deep canyons, the New River is among the oldest rivers on the continent.
Cunningham Falls State Park is a popular destination for campers in Damascus, Maryland. The park offers many activities, including fishing, hiking, and swimming. Patapsco Valley State Park is one of Maryland's most popular parks, covering over 6,900 acres. It has a variety of hiking trails, including the Billy Goat Trail and the 1.5-mile-long Grist Mill Trail, that lead to some of the park's most popular destinations. The park also has a large system of bridle trails that connect with several other state parks in the area. Gambrill State Park offers a variety of outdoor activities, including camping, hiking, fishing, and picnicking. The park is located in the Catoctin Mountains range and has 500 acres. Patapsco Valley State Park is one of Maryland's most popular parks. It's well-known for its hiking trails but contains numerous other activities. This park has six campgrounds with more than 600 campsites available for rent. Pets are welcome here as long as they are leashed outside the campsites. You can also visit the nearby Hollofield Area; it is perfect for a family gathering or a quick picnic lunch.
The George Washington and Jefferson National Forests, Monongahela National Forest, Allegheny National Forest, and Finger Lakes National Forest are all located within a few hours' drive of Damascus, Maryland. The George Washington and Jefferson National Forests offer a variety of recreational opportunities, including camping, hiking, fishing, and more. The Monongahela National Forest is a great place to spend a night amidst nature. The best part is that dispersed camping is allowed in the park, and there is no fee for it. Remember that they do not offer facilities such as a bathroom, water, etc. Allegheny National Forest is well-known for its wildlife species. Here you will be able to see a white-tailed deer, black bear, grey fox, wild turkey, squirrel, chipmunk, red-backed salamander, wood frog, beaver, raccoon, ruffed grouse, and many more such animals. Finger Lakes National Forest has much to offer to its visitors, including outdoor activities, spotting different wildlife species, and seeing various beautiful waterfalls.
Steamtown National Historic Site is a railroad museum and heritage railroad located on 62.48 acres in downtown Scranton, Pennsylvania, at the site of the former Scranton yards of the Delaware, Lackawanna, and Western Railroad. Steamtown, U.S.A., was a steam locomotive museum that ran steam excursions out of North Walpole, New Hampshire, and Bellows Falls, Vermont, from the 1960s to 1983. Steamtown National Historic Site is a great place to learn about the history of steam engines in America. This site features a collection of historic steam engines and information on the people who used them. Millionaire seafood industrialist F. Nelson Blount founded the museum. The only National Park solely dedicated to the history of steam railroading and the people who made it happen. Steamtown NHS showcases steam locomotives, restored cabooses, freight cars, and passenger coaches dating from the early 20th century. The 52-acre site boasts an active Locomotive Repair Shop and Roundhouse with an operational turntable and a museum complex that includes a Visitor Center, History and Technology museums, and a 250-seat HD Surround-Sound theater.
The campgrounds listed here offer RV and tent camping. Some of the best campgrounds in the area include Little Bennett Campground, Ramblin Pines, Ramblin Pines and Ramblin’ Pines Campground. For a quieter setting, you may prefer to rent a cabin or yurt from Ramblin' Pines Campground. Many of these campgrounds offer spacious RV sites with electric hookups. Some campgrounds even have free Wi-Fi!
There are various dump stations in Damascus, but there are several more in the surrounding area. You can find dump stations at Little Bennett Regional Campground, Ramblin Pines Campground, Lake Fairfax Park - Campgrounds and Gambrill State Park. See RVshare's guide to RV dump stations in Damascus, Maryland, for dump station addresses and details.
How does hitching and unhitching a 5th-wheel RV rental work, and is it challenging?
Hitching and unhitching a 5th-wheel RV rental requires proper positioning of the RV and truck and connecting the hitch. It can be challenging for first-time renters, but the owner usually provides a thorough explanation of the process.
Are there any special driving considerations or techniques when towing a 5th-wheel rental RV in Damascus, MD?
When towing a 5th-wheel rental RV in Damascus, MD, it is important to note the weight and size of the RV and follow all traffic laws. Drivers should also be cautious of wind conditions as they can affect stability.
Do I use a generator to power the electrical system on a 5th wheel RV, or do I need to connect to a power source at a campground or RV park?
Most 5th wheel RVs come with a built-in generator, but some may require being plugged into a power source at a campground or RV park. RV owners will provide information on the specifics of powering the RV.
Are there any limitations on where I can park or store a 5th wheel RV in Damascus, MD, such as zoning laws or homeowners' association regulations?
Renters should always check local regulations before parking a 5th wheel RV in Damascus, MD. Some areas have specific zoning laws or homeowners' association regulations regarding parking and storing RVs.
What kind of maintenance or upkeep do I need to perform on a 5th-wheel RV rental during my rental period?
Renters should keep the RV clean and make sure to report any damages. Regular maintenance such as oil changes and tire checks are the responsibility of the RV owner.
Are there any safety concerns I should know when towing a 5th-wheel rental RV, such as sway or brake issues?
Sway and brake issues can occur when towing a 5th-wheel rental RV. Renters should be mindful of weight distribution and proper hitching to prevent these issues.
How do I properly level and stabilize a 5th-wheel rental RV at my campsite or RV park?
Leveling and stabilizing a 5th-wheel rental RV requires proper positioning and use of RV leveling blocks. The owner should provide instructions or assistance if needed.
Do I need to bring my cooking appliances or equipment for use in the 5th wheel rental RV's kitchen?
Most 5th wheel rental RVs come with a equipped kitchen, check the listing details or ask the owner for specific items. Renters may choose to bring additional cooking appliances or equipment if they desire.
Are there any unique features or amenities available in 5th wheel RV rental that may not be found in other towable RVs in Damascus, MD?
5th wheel rental RVs may have additional features such as multiple bedrooms or bathrooms, larger living spaces, and better towing stability compared to other towable RVs in Damascus, MD. RVshare owners may offer additional amenities or features for a more comfortable stay.
