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.
If I want to rent a travel trailer RV in Damascus, MD, how can I tell if my vehicle can tow the trailer?
To determine if your vehicle can tow a travel trailer RV, you will need to check its towing capacity. This information can usually be found in the owner's manual or by contacting the vehicle manufacturer. It's essential to ensure that your vehicle's towing capacity meets or exceeds the weight of the travel trailer you intend to rent.
Are there any special driving considerations or techniques I should know when towing a travel trailer RV rental in Damascus, MD?
When towing a travel trailer RV rental, it's crucial to be aware of its increased length and weight. Take wider turns, allow for extra braking distance, and maintain a safe and steady speed. Be cautious when changing lanes, as the trailer may affect your vehicle's stability. Familiarize yourself with local traffic laws and any specific regulations regarding towing trailers in your area.
What kind of amenities can I expect in a travel trailer RV rental, and how do they compare to other towable RV rentals in Damascus, MD?
Travel trailer RV rentals typically offer a variety of amenities to ensure a comfortable experience. These can include a fully equipped kitchen with a refrigerator, stove, microwave, and sink. Bathroom facilities such as a toilet and shower are also common. Other amenities may include air conditioning, heating, cozy sleeping areas, dining spaces, and entertainment options. Comparatively, travel trailers often provide ample space and amenities when compared to other towable RV rentals.
Do I bring my bedding and linens to use in the travel trailer RV rental, and what kind of storage options are available for these items?
Be sure to check the RV listing to find if bedding is included with the rental. Not all owners provide these items, so it's advisable to check with them beforehand. As for storage options, travel trailers offer various compartments and cabinets where you can neatly store your belongings throughout your rental period.
What kind of maintenance or upkeep do I need to perform on the exterior and interior of a travel trailer RV rental during my rental period?
During your rental period, you are not expected to perform maintenance. You should however keep the RV clean and tidy up after use. Keep the exterior free from dirt and debris and clean up spills or messes promptly.
Are there any limitations on where I can park or store a travel trailer RV rental in Damascus, MD, such as zoning laws or homeowners' association regulations?
Parking or storing a travel trailer RV rental may be subject to local regulations, such as zoning laws or homeowners' association rules. It's important to research and understand any limitations or restrictions that may apply in your specific area. This will help you find suitable parking or storage options for the duration of your rental.
Can I use a generator to power the travel trailer RV's electrical systems, or must I connect to a power source at a campground or RV park?
Travel trailer RV rentals generally have electrical systems that can be powered by either a generator or by connecting to a power source at a campground or RV park. Some rentals may include a generator, while others may require you to provide your own. It's important to discuss this with the RVshare owner to determine the specifics for your rental.
How do I properly level and stabilize a travel trailer RV rental at my campsite or RV park, and what equipment or tools do I need?
Discuss any leveling and stabilizing needs with the owner ahead of your trip. Sharing the details of where you plan to camp will allow them to provide the best guidance.
Are any unique features or amenities available in travel trailer RV rentals that may not be found in other RVs in Damascus, MD?
Travel trailer RV rentals often come with a range of unique features and amenities. Some trailers may offer slide-out sections that expand the living space when parked. You can expect amenities such as outdoor awnings, entertainment systems, outdoor kitchens, and additional storage compartments. These features enhance the overall comfort and convenience of your travel trailer rental experience.
