The Dry Tortugas National Park is a group of seven small islands, 70 miles west of Key West. The park has no fresh water, so it's not a good place to stay for long periods. However, snorkeling and diving are some of the best in the world. The on-site campground has 20 full hookups for RVs. The best national parks near Ellenton, Florida, are Everglades National Park and Biscayne National Park. The Everglades National Park is located approximately three hours south of Ellenton, Florida. It is the largest tropical wilderness in the United States, home to 239 species of birds and 53 reptiles. Everglades National Park contains a variety of wildlife and plants that are only found in this region. The park provides a great opportunity to view wildlife and offers a variety of activities, including canoeing, hiking, kayaking, snorkeling, fishing, and camping. Biscayne National Park is another option for those looking to spend some time outdoors in the area.
Lake Manatee State Park is a Florida state park located in Hernando County, Florida. It is located near Ellenton, off U.S. Highway 41, offering fishing, boating, golfing, and an RV campground with full hookups. Visitors to Little Manatee River State Park will enjoy the park’s two-mile nature trail and its beautiful scenery. There is also a boat ramp that provides access to the Little Manatee River for canoes and kayaks. Oscar Scherer State Park is a 4,811-acre park located on the shores of Lake Okeechobee. With more than 10 miles of trails to explore, visitors can hike through subtropical hardwood hammocks, pine flatwoods, and open prairies. The park also features a variety of endangered and threatened species. Visitors can also take advantage of the park's canoe and kayak launch site. A visitor center is available for those who want to learn more about the area's history. Several campsites are available for RVers at Oscar Scherer State Park; however, water hookups are not available. Pets are permitted in the campgrounds but must be leashed.
The Osceola National Forest is a 2,129,943-acre forest that is located in the northwestern part of Florida. It is one of the oldest forests in the United States. The Osceola National Forest has diverse wildlife and plant life. It’s also home to a variety of recreational opportunities, including camping, hiking, fishing, and more.  The Apalachicola National Forest is a 333,000-acre forest in southern Georgia and northern Florida. The Apalachicola National Forest has diverse wildlife and plant life, as well as plenty of recreational opportunities.  The Osceola and Apalachicola National Forests are within an hour’s drive of Ellenton and offer an easy opportunity to get away from it all for the weekend or longer. The Ocala National Forest has many fun activities; in this forest, you can swim in a cool spring, paddle a spring run, hike, and ride your own bike. There are several campgrounds in the Ocala National Forest. These campgrounds offer a range of amenities, from basic tent sites to RV hookups and cabins.
This part of the country is rich in history and culture, and plenty of national sites and monuments exist to explore. One of the most popular is De Soto National Memorial. The De Soto National Memorial is a must-see landmark near Ellenton, Florida. This memorial commemorates the landing of Hernando de Soto at the site of present-day Tampa Bay in 1539. It also pays tribute to the Native Americans that helped de Soto and his men survive during their journey. Visitors can learn about De Soto's expedition and Native American culture in the region.  The Fort Mose Historic State Park is another popular landmark in this area. This historic park commemorates the first free African-American town in North America, which was established by escaped slaves in 1738. Do you want to visit Ellenton, Florida, and want to save money on airfare and hotel rentals? Browse the RVshare website to learn more about the different kinds of RVs available for rent and how much they cost.
Ellenton, Florida, has several campgrounds near the city. Four popular campgrounds include Ellenton Gardens RV Resort, Winter Quarters Manatee RV Resort, The Surf RV Resort, and Fisherman's Cove RV Resort. They have amenities like laundry facilities, restrooms with showers, and Wi-Fi. Many sites can be reserved ahead of time, but some public spaces are free and available on a first-come, first-served basis.
There are four RV dump stations available in Ellenton, Florida, and additional nearby options in the surrounding areas. You’ll find dump stations at Terra Ceia Village RV Resort, Ellenton Gardens Travel Resort, North Manatee RV & Boat Storage, and Manatee RV Park. See RVshare’s guide to RV dump stations in Ellenton, Florida, for dump station addresses and details.
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 Ellenton, FL?
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 Ellenton, FL, 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 Ellenton, FL?
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.
