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 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 Damascus, 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 Damascus, 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.
