Indiana Dunes National Park is less than 30 minutes away from Gary. This area was once a national lakeshore before becoming a national park in 2019. It's home to 20 square miles of countryside as well as 15 miles right along Lake Michigan. Take your time hiking and exploring the dunes, forests, rivers, prairies and wetlands. Feel free to fish, hike, camp, bike, ride horses, stargaze or enjoy the bustling wildlife. The effortless access to Lake Michigan allows you to swim, lounge, sunbathe and enjoy a variety of water sports.
About 302 miles southwest in Missouri, you'll find Gateway Arch National Park. This park is famous for its 630-foot, stainless steel arch that marks where Lewis and Clark started their journey in the 19th century. Make your way to the top of the arch for breathtaking vistas of St. Louis. The park spans 91 acres along the Mississippi River and includes modern-day museums as well as historic buildings. Take a tour of the Old Courthouse where the Dred Scott case was heard in the mid-1800s. The National Park Service also offers riverboat cruises throughout the year. It's best to reserve your tickets well in advance as many events and programs here book up fast.
Ohio's Cuyahoga Valley National Park is one of the country's most-visited national parks. Millions of people stop by every year to see the park's 100 gorgeous waterfalls. One of the most prominent sites is the 65-foot Brandywine Falls, the tallest waterfall in Northeast Ohio. If you're not interested in walking the 125 miles of trails, consider taking a ride on the park's scenic railroad. Other fun things to try include stargazing, golfing, kayaking, bird watching, horse riding, and picnicking.
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 Gary, IN 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 Gary, IN?
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 Gary, IN, 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 Gary, IN?
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 Gary, IN particularly well-suited for a camper van and what amenities or features do they offer?
There are many campgrounds and RV parks in Gary, IN 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.