Located a mere 40 minutes southwest of Durango, you'll find Mesa Verde National Park. It consists of 52,000 acres with over 4,3000 archaeological sites and well-preserved Puebloan ruins that date back to 7500 B.C. You can visit this national park year-round, but be prepared for heavy thunderstorms during the region's monsoon season in the summer. You can also expect snowy weather during the winter. However, if you enjoy exploring cliff dwellings and learning about ancient civilizations, you'll get several days' worth of exploration out of this park. If you want to stay nearby, check out Morefield Campground, where you'll find ample RV sites to park your travel trailer. Drive your camper van two hours and 45 minutes north of Durango, and you'll find yourself at Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park, which draws hundreds of thousands of tourists each year. The main feature of this national park is Black Canyon, a 12-mile canyon carved by the Gunnison River over a thousand years. If you want to camp in the area, you'll find two campsites in the park. One is located along the North Rim, and the other on the South Rim. The South Rim campground is ideal for RVers who need electric hookups. Popular activities at the park include rock climbing, hiking through the canyon, and spending a day on the water kayaking. If you like to explore national parks in desert climates, check out Arches National Park near Moab, Utah, approximately three hours northwest of Durango. There are multiple miles of trails to hike and explore throughout the park, which is dotted with stunning arches formed over hundreds of years, such as Landscape Arch, Balanced Rock, and Delicate Arch. The best time to visit Arches National Park is during the spring and fall when the temperatures are pleasant, and there are fewer crowds. However, no matter when you visit, be prepared for wild temperature changes that can vary by 40 degrees Fahrenheit.
If you enjoy water activities like kayaking, sailing, and boating, you'll enjoy Navajo State Park. The state park is 50 minutes southeast of Durango and includes Navajo Lake, a 24-acre lake that's popular among houseboaters. If you're not into water sports, the park also has several miles of trails suitable for hiking and biking. You can stay in the park at one of the 188 campsites and take in nature's beauty while bird-watching. The campsites at the state park's campground include water, electric, and sewer hookups for Class A RVs. Mancos State Park is 40 minutes northwest of Durango near the Four Corners region where Arizona, Colorado, Utah, and New Mexico meet. Year-round mild temperatures make this park delightful to visit at any time of the year with summer temperatures reaching into the high 80s and winter daytime temperatures rarely dipping below the 50-degree Fahrenheit mark. If you're a bicyclist, you'll enjoy multiple biking trails, including the popular Denver-to-Durango Colorado Trail. The park is also home to Jackson Gulch, a draw for water sports enthusiasts who enjoy activities like kayaking and wakeless boating. Jackson Gulch also offers ample fishing opportunities. For stunning views that could be straight from the pages of a magazine, make the two-hour drive north of Durango to reach Ridgway State Park. The park features craggy, snow-capped mountain peaks that rise high above the serene waters of the Ridgway Reservoir. Bring your kayak or paddleboard and spend hours floating on the park's picturesque lake. If you prefer to stay on dry land, spend time hiking or biking in the park's wilderness. Stay in your fifth-wheel trailer at Ridgway State Park Campground for multi-day enjoyment.
Over 900 years ago, northern New Mexico was home to the thriving Pueblo community. Today, the Ancient Pueblo's existence is preserved at the Aztec Ruins National Monumentin New Mexico, 45 minutes southwest of Durango. The monument is home to stone buildings nearly a thousand years old and a visitor's center that provides visitors with information about the Pueblo's history in the region through artifact displays and a documentary video. While visiting the monument, put on your hiking boots and explore one of the three trails that are easily accessible for people of all ages. Although you'll find plenty of Ancient Pueblo ruins throughout the region near Durango, the Yucca House National Monument is exceptional because nearly all its ruins are in pristine condition. Visitors to the monument get a rare glimpse into what life was like in the region before explorers arrived. Not only are the ruins untouched, but the site isn't visited as frequently as others. If you like to hike, the monument has several easy-rated hiking trails perfect for families that allow you to check out sites like the Great Kiva and West Complex. The monument is a 65-minute drive west of Durango in your Durango, Colorado RV rental. Head an hour and 45 minutes northwest of Durango into Utah and discover a Pueblo mesa over 10,000 years old at the Hovenweep National Monument. The ruins at this site, once home to about 2,500 Pueblo people, are over 800 years old. There's a campground at the monument that many campers choose to use as their home base for a day or two while hiking and exploring the area. If you're looking for a place that offers solitude, Hovenweep National Monument is idyllic since the site rarely hosts large crowds.
If you're looking for pull-through sites with full RV hookups, check out Alpen Rose RV Park in Durango. The pet-friendly park has 100 sites with nightly rates beginning at $51 per night. The park offers free Wi-Fi and strong cell reception. If you have a big rig, you'll find this park highly convenient. Although smaller, Westerly RV Park, also in Durango, provides full RV hookups with 30- and-50-amp power. Daily rates start at $37 a day, but there are only 26 pull-through sites, which means you'll want to book early to ensure a spot for your toy hauler & pop-up camper. The park doesn't have on-site bathrooms or showers. If you need on-site shower facilities, check out Molas Lake Campground in Silverton, 55 minutes northeast of Durango. Starting at $20 a night, you'll have 58 pull-through sites to choose from to park your Class C rig that have fire rings and picnic tables. It's important to note that this RV park has very limited cell reception.
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 Durango, CO?
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 Durango, CO, 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 Durango, CO?
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.
