At merely 46 miles away, Rocky Mountain National Park rises to the top of most travelers' lists of things to see near Fort Collins. It is filled with over 300 miles of hiking trails and is home to Longs Peak, which is one of Colorado's fourteeners. Cascade Falls trail snakes through seven miles of cragged terrain, gaining 410 feet of elevation. As you explore, set aside a few minutes to trek up to Adams Falls, which is only a 0.6-mile round trip.
Great Sand Dunes National Park is just under 300 miles to the south. There, you'll find 100,000 acres to explore, including North America's tallest sand dunes, reaching up to 750 feet in height. Sledding down the dune's sun-scorched face has attracted people from around the country.
At 315 miles away, Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park is a little further away than other options. However, its claim to fame is the deeply fissured Black Canyon, which was formed by the Gunnison River. You can trek through cliffs, canyons, and rivers while enjoying rock climbing and kayaking.
Boyd Lake State Park is a mere 13-mile voyage just outside the city's limits. Traveling explorers can swim, fish, boat, and ski while touring the park's outer bounds. During the winter, the lake's waters are frozen, so you can skate across them. Thanks to the area's enjoyable climate, it remains a hotspot for visitors year-round.
Only 65 miles to the north, Curt Gowdy State Park entices visitors to Wyoming regularly. Three reservoirs populate the park: Granite, Crystal, and North Crow. Horseback riding is enjoyed by many voyagers on the park's extensive 35-mile trail network. During your explorations, you can expect to see mule deer, white-tailed deer, and ground squirrels.
Drive southwest for 78 miles, and you will enter Golden Gate Canyon State Park. It covers a spacious 11,998 acres of territory, containing 36 miles of trails. Visitors can examine native fauna like the ponderosa pine and Douglas fir. Campers can register at one of the 100 campsites and stay inside park boundaries at night. Plus, rock climbers love hitting up the backcountry. Make sure to be equipped for temperature fluctuations as they can vary drastically.
Colorado's landmarks are incredible sightseeing opportunities. Red Rocks Amphitheater has hosted artists from nearly every genre imaginable. Its carved sandstone perimeter is notable for its clarity, poise, and grandeur. Even if there is not a show scheduled, it's still worth seeing.
The Stanley Hotel is another famous Colorado landmark in nearby Estes Park. It hosts visitors from all across the nation because of its famed status as the inspiration for Stephen King's novel "The Shining."
Fort Collins KOA Lakeside is a mere 10-minute trip from downtown. Be sure to experience the chuck wagon, where meals are served to guests. The facilities can accommodate motorhomes that are up to 75 feet in length.
Horsetooth Reservoir also features a gorgeous campground with both 30- and 50-amp hookups. A permit is less than $20 for individual campsites.
Lake John Resort has 30 spaces, and it features 30- and 50-amp connections. It even includes water, electricity, and trash pickup services for anyone staying on site.
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 Fort Collins, CO 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 Fort Collins, CO?
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 Fort Collins, CO, 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 Fort Collins, CO?
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 Fort Collins, CO particularly well-suited for a camper van and what amenities or features do they offer?
There are many campgrounds and RV parks in Fort Collins, CO 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.
