Almost 70 miles (113 km) west of Key West lies the remote Dry Tortugas National Park. This 100-square-mile park is mostly open water with seven small islands. Accessible only by boat or seaplane, the park is known the world over as the home of magnificent Fort Jefferson, picturesque blue waters, superlative coral reefs and marine life, and the vast assortment of bird life that frequents the area. Within sight of Miami, yet worlds away, Biscayne protects a rare combination of aquamarine waters, emerald islands, and fish-bejeweled coral reefs. Evidence of 10,000 years of human history is here too; from prehistoric tribes to shipwrecks, and pineapple farmers to presidents. For many, the park is a boating, fishing, and diving destination, while others enjoy a warm breeze and peaceful scenery. Everglades National Park protects an unparalleled landscape that provides important habitat for numerous rare and endangered species like the manatee, American crocodile, and the elusive Florida panther.
Located in central Florida, Hillsborough River State Park provides visitors with a variety of recreational opportunities including boating and fishing. The park is also home to several unique ecosystems including swamps, pine flatwoods, and sandhills. The park offers 74 campsites, a playground, and two boat ramps. A dam on the Alafia River creates East Lake Toho, a freshwater lake that covers an area of approx 7733 acres. The park is open year-round. Little Manatee River State Park is the perfect place for a fun weekend getaway. The park has everything you need to make the most of your visit, including a marina, hiking trails, and a playground. You can also enjoy canoeing and kayaking in the Little Manatee River as well as fishing. If you want to take it easy, take advantage of the park’s picnic areas or simply relax in one of the hammocks that are spread throughout the grounds.
The Osceola, Ocala, and Apalachicola National Forests are all popular destinations for camping in the Callahan area. They are all within a few hours' drive of Callahan and offer a variety of activities including hiking, kayaking, fishing, and much more. The Osceola National Forest is a peaceful place where people come to escape their busy lives and reconnect with the land. Flatwoods and swamps transport visitors back in time and provide a tranquil setting for first-rate hunting, fishing and swimming opportunities. Nestled between well-known theme parks and white, sandy beaches, the jewels of the Ocala National Forest attract visitors from around the world. A travel destination in its own right, the Ocala features more than 600 lakes and rivers where visitors enjoy swimming, fishing, snorkeling, canoeing and boating. The Apalachicola National Forest is home to some of the most unique animal and plant species in the world. Here, visitors can enjoy safe, family-friendly activities such as fishing, hunting, hiking and trail riding while surrounded by tranquil, diverse ecosystems.
Fort Matanzas National Monument is a great place to visit in East Lake, Florida. This monument commemorates the first European settlement in what is now the United States. It features a reconstructed fort and tells the story of Spanish exploration and colonization. De Soto National Memorial commemorates the landing site of the explorer Hernando de Soto in 1539. Visitors can learn about the history and culture of the Native Americans who lived in this region before European colonization. In May 1539, Conquistador Hernando de Soto’s army of soldiers mercenaries, craftsmen, and clergy made landfall in Tampa Bay. They were met with fierce resistance from indigenous people protecting their homelands. De Soto’s quest for glory and gold would be a four-year, four-thousand-mile odyssey of intrigue, warfare, disease, and discovery that would form the history of the United States.
East Lake is a popular destination for RV camping. Silver Dollar Golf, Trap Club and RV Resort and Caladesi RV Park are the two most popular places to stay in East Lake. Silver Dollar Golf, Trap Club and RV Resort offer convenience, as it's near the golf course and has free Wi-Fi. Caladesi RV Park also has free Wi-Fi, as well as a pool and boat ramp.
There are several RV dump stations in East Lake, Florida once can explore from. They include Silver Dollar RV Resort, Holiday Travel Park, Caladesi RV Park and Dunedin RV Resort. See RVshare’s guide to RV dump stations in East Lake, Florida for addresses and details.
How do I properly pack and store my belongings inside a camper van rental, and what storage options are available?
When renting a Class B motorhome from an RVshare owner, there are typically several storage options available for your belongings. You can utilize overhead storage compartments, under-bench storage, and even cabinets for heavier items. When packing your belongings, it's best to use soft-sided luggage or collapsible containers to save on space. Keep items secure while driving by using bungee cords or tension rods to prevent shifting during travel.
Can I drive a camper van rental in East Lake, FL without prior experience, and are there any special driving considerations I should know?
Driving a Class B motorhome rental is typically similar to driving a regular car, but there are a few things to keep in mind. Make sure to adjust your mirrors before setting off and be aware of the height and length of your vehicle. It's also advisable to take a test drive around the RVshare owner's neighborhood to familiarize yourself with the handling and braking of the vehicle before embarking on your trip.
What kind of maintenance or upkeep do I need to perform on the camper van rental during my rental period?
The owner of the RV is responsible for maintenance. Renters should keep the RV clean and handle with care to avoid any damages. You may need to empty the water tanks depending on your agreement with the RV owner.
Do I need to know any weight or height restrictions when driving a camper van motorhome rental in East Lake, FL?
It's important to know the height and weight restrictions of your camper van rental in order to avoid accidents or getting stuck in low clearance areas, especially when traveling on highways or bridges. It's also advisable to check local regulations regarding weight limits when driving on certain roads.
Can I park or store a Class B motorhome rental in a regular parking spot or garage in East Lake, FL, or are there specific requirements for parking and storage?
Parking a Class B motorhome rental in a regular spot or garage can be challenging due to the size of the vehicle. It's important to check local regulations and parking restrictions before setting off on your trip. RVshare owners may also provide guidance on where it is safe to park or store the vehicle.
What fuel efficiency considerations do I need to consider when driving a Class B motorhome rental, and how can I minimize the impact on my fuel costs?
Most Class B motorhomes are relatively fuel efficient, but it's important to be mindful of your driving habits in order to minimize fuel costs. Avoid idling the engine unnecessarily, accelerate smoothly, and avoid excessive speeding. It's also a good idea to plan your route before departing in order to avoid getting lost or taking unnecessary detours.
Are any particular features or amenities available in a camper van rental that may not be found in other RVs in East Lake, FL?
Features and amenities vary depending on the model of the Class B motorhome rental, but some popular options include a built-in microwave, refrigerator, and TV/DVD player. Some models may also include a shower and toilet, while others may not. Check the listing details on RVshare for all of the available amenities for each rental.
How do I correctly set up and use the kitchen and bathroom facilities in a Class B motorhome rental?
Each RVshare owner may have different instructions for using the kitchen and bathroom facilities in their Class B motorhome rental. In the bathroom, there may be a shower and/or toilet that needs to be hooked up to water and sewage sources. RVshare owners will typically provide instruction manuals or walkthroughs of the rental vehicle's features.
Should I bring my entertainment equipment or appliances for the camper van rental, such as a portable grill or music player?
While some Class B motorhome rentals may include entertainment equipment or appliances, such as a grill or music player, it's always a good idea to double-check with the RVshare owner about what amenities are included in the rental. If you have specific entertainment preferences, you may want to bring your own equipment or devices.
Are any specific campgrounds or RV parks in East Lake, FL particularly well-suited for a camper van and what amenities or features do they offer?
There are many campgrounds and RV parks in East Lake, FL that are well-suited for Class B motorhome rentals. Some popular amenities include electrical hookups, dump stations for sewage, and picnic tables. It's important to research and reserve a spot in advance to ensure availability during your trip. RVshare owners may also have recommendations for great campsites or RV parks in the area.
