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.
Do I maintain or service the motorhome rental during my rental period?
No, it is the responsibility of the RVshare owner to ensure the motorhome is properly maintained and serviced before your rental period. Just take good care of your rental and keep it clean.
Are there any special driving considerations or techniques I should know when operating a motorhome rental in Damascus, MD?
Yes, motorhomes are larger and heavier than most passenger vehicles, so it is important to allow for more time and space when turning, merging, or stopping. Additionally, it is recommended to drive slower than the posted speed limit and to use caution when driving in windy or wet conditions.
How do I properly level and stabilize a motorhome at my campsite or RV park?
Motorhomes typically have built-in leveling jacks or blocks that can be adjusted to ensure the RV is level and stable. Some RV parks may also provide leveling pads or blocks if needed. Discuss your campsite with the RV owner ahead of time and they can provide you guidance on stabilizing.
What kind of maintenance or upkeep do I need to perform on the interior and exterior during my rental period?
You should keep the interior clean and tidy, empty waste tanks as needed, and report any damages or malfunctions to the RVshare owner. Exterior maintenance such as checking tire pressure is also recommended.
Does my motorhome rental come with bedding, linens, or other items I would consider to be personal?
This varies by RVshare owner. Some owners may include bedding and linens, while others may require renters to bring their own. It is best to check with the owner prior to renting.
Should I bring entertainment equipment or appliances for the motorhome rental?
While some motorhomes may come equipped with entertainment options or appliances, it is always a good idea to bring your own if desired. However, be mindful of any limitations on power usage or space restrictions. Check the RV listing or ask the RV owner what kind of entertainment is included.
Are there any limitations on where I can park or store a motorhome rental in Damascus, MD, such as zoning laws or homeowners' association regulations?
There may be restrictions on where motorhomes can be parked or stored in certain areas. It is best to research local laws and regulations or to ask the RVshare owner for guidance.
What fuel efficiency considerations do I need to consider when operating a motorhome rental?
Motorhomes are not typically known for their fuel efficiency, but there are steps you can take to improve gas mileage such as driving at a lower speed, avoiding excessive idling, and keeping tires properly inflated.
How do I properly operate and maintain the various systems in a motorhome rental?
The RVshare owner should provide you with detailed instructions and manuals for operating and maintaining the various systems in the motorhome. It is important to follow these instructions carefully to ensure proper use and prevent damage.
Are any unique features or amenities available in motorhome rentals that may not be found in other RVs in Damascus, MD?
This varies by RV owner and motorhome class, but some motorhomes may have unique features such as slide-outs, outdoor kitchens, or luxury finishes that may not be found in other types of RVs.
