Located about two and a half hours from Fort Smith, Hot Springs National Park is Arkansas’s only national park. The park offers beautiful sights, nearby camping, and many options for wildlife viewing and hiking. Most visitors come to bathe in the many natural hot springs for which the park is named.
Great Smoky Mountains National Park in North Carolina is about 10 and a half hours from Fort Smith. This incredible park covers 500,000 acres, and it’s home to a diverse collection of plants and animals. Nature enthusiasts can view wildflowers, hike through meadows and forests, or spot wildlife such as bears, deer, birds, chipmunks, groundhogs, and bats. There are also many opportunities for rafting, paddling, swimming, fishing, mountain biking, and camping.
Guadalupe Mountains National Park is about 11 hours and 15 minutes from Fort Smith. The park is worth the drive, however, thanks to its stunning scenery and wide range of recreational activity options. Many people come to the park to scale Guadalupe Mountain, Texas’s highest peak, but there are also opportunities for more gentle hiking, photography, rock climbing, camping, and paddling.
Lake Fort Smith State Park is only about 40 minutes from Fort Smith itself. The park surrounds Lake Fort Smith, which is about 1,400 acres in size. Visitors to the park can camp, hike, boat, or fish. Swimming isn’t allowed in the lake, but there is a large swimming pool so visitors can cool off during the warm summer months.
Tenkiller State Park in Oklahoma is less than an hour’s drive from Fort Smith. The park spans 1,190 acres along Tenkiller Ferry Lake. Many people enjoy visiting the area during the spring and fall when the wildflower and foliage colors are at their peaks. Visitors can enjoy boating, tubing, and hiking throughout the warmer seasons, however, and there are many nearby camping options.
Located about an hour and 20 minutes from Fort Smith, Queen Wilhelmina State Park covers about 460 acres. This beautiful park is a wonderful place to spot wildlife or enjoy the area’s dramatic landscapes. Visitors can also stop at the Queen Wilhelmina Lodge to relax or learn more about the history of the area.
One of the most amazing landmarks in Arkansas is the Turpentine Creek Wildlife Refuge. The refuge is a haven for abandoned and abused big cats, and it’s home to more than 100 animals on 450 acres. Visitors can see lions, tigers, and other animals while learning about wildlife conservation.
Christ of the Ozarks is another stunning monument in Arkansas. This 65-foot-tall statue was erected in the 1960s and is part of an outdoor drama performed seasonally in a 4,100-seat nearby amphitheater.
Mount Magazine is the tallest peak in Arkansas, and this incredible landmark is located inside Mount Magazine State Park. Visitors can enjoy the area’s stunning views, hike, or have a picnic on the mountain’s flat top.
The William O. Darby RV Community is a great option for RV camping. This community has 38 sites and offers daily rates starting at only $20. Full hookups are available, and there are showers, a laundry area, and picnic tables. Another option is the pet-friendly Park Ridge RV Campground, which offers full hookups, showers, and a dump station. Cloud Nine RV Park has 45 sites with either partial or full hookups. The sites are pull-through, and daily rates start at $33 for two people. There is also an exercise room and a laundry area.
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 Fort Smith, AR?
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 Fort Smith, AR, 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 Fort Smith, AR?
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.
