Take the boat tour at Voyageurs National Park near International Falls, Minnesota to learn more about this unique landscape and the natural forces forming it. The combination hiking and paddling trails at this park are a fun way to explore both the water and the land. Once the snow arrives, this park, which is three hours and eight minutes northeast of Deerwood, is an awesome place to go snowmobiling, ice-skating, and cross-country skiing. While there are no RV campgrounds at this park, there are several options for tent campers.
You will need a boat or a seaplane to visit Isle Royale National Park as it is on an island in the middle of Lake Superior, six hours and 32 minutes northeast of Deerwood. Anglers often catch lake and brook trout in Lake Superior. There are several inland lakes, which can be terrific places to fish for northern and yellow pike. This park, open from mid-April to early November, is a fantastic place to go backcountry camping.
While it is in North Dakota, seven hours and 18 minutes northwest of Deerwood, Theodore Roosevelt National Park is a fabulous place for a camping adventure. The National Park Service has divided this park into four units with three campgrounds. Many visitors start their visit at the Elkhorn Ranch Unit, where President Roosevelt lived quietly during his final years. While only his home's foundation remains, you will want to read what he wrote about this site as you follow the short hiking trail. Take a scenic drive at sunrise or sunset at the North Unit, and you will likely see mule deer and other wildlife. Join one or more of the ranger-led programs at the South Unit to learn more about this park.
Thirty-four minutes southwest of Deerwood, Crow Wing State Park is a terrific place to learn more about this area's history by visiting the Crow Wing Town Site and reading the informational signs posted there. Take the short climb up the stairs from the picnic area parking lot to the Chippewa Lookout, so you can enjoy the views of the Mississippi River from this vantage point.
Banning State Park, an hour and 16 minutes southeast of Deerwood, is home to part of the Kettle River, which is an outstanding location in which to shoot the rapids in a canoe or kayak in the spring. You will want to go for a hike, where you may see white-tailed deer, black bears, coyotes, foxes, raccoons, beavers, red and gray squirrels, snowshoe hares, and ruffed grouse.
International State Park near Taylor Falls, two hours and 14 minutes southeast of Deerwood, is a fantastic place to learn more about how glaciers impacted the state's geography by taking a hike in the Glacier Potholes Area. Over 200 bird species have been spotted in this park. This is one of the few parks in the United States where part of it lies in one state and another part in a different state.
In Wisconsin, two hours and 16 minutes southeast of Deerwood, the Saint Croix National Scenic Riverway is the largest river system west of the Mississippi River. There are over 200 miles of waterways between the St. Croix and Namekagon Rivers, and it is a fantastic place for a paddling adventure.
The Mississippi National River and Recreation Area is 72 miles long, and it is a terrific place to explore the Mississippi River near Saint Paul, two hours and 15 minutes southeast of Deerwood. You will love the views of the river from the St. Anthony Falls River Center. Stop at the Mississippi River Visitor Center to learn more about this waterway's historical role.
You can find many unique campgrounds near Brainerd. Shady Hollow Resort is on Hardy Lake's shores, 37 minutes southwest of Deerwood. Complimentary and low-cost canoes, kayaks, and other boats are available for campers. Each camping spot is under shade trees, where you can often spot various birds.
Crow Wing Lake Campground offers about 100 sites 10 miles south of Brainerd. This campground has a boat launch, a fish cleaning station, and fishing docks. There is no need to cook because there is a store where you can get pizza and other food.
Gull Lake Recreation Area Campground is on Gull Lake's shores, 38 minutes southwest of Deerwood. Gull River and Gull Lake meet very near this campground. You will love watching various wildlife, including deer, from this campground.
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 Deerwood, MN?
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 Deerwood, MN, 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 Deerwood, MN?
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.