Take the 270-mile drive northeast of Helena to explore the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. The closest entrance to Helena is the Townsend, Tennessee entrance, which brings you into the park near Cades Cove, where you will want to stop and explore the historic buildings, including three churches, a working gristmill, barns, and log houses. If you love hiking, follow the Rocky Top option to the top of Thunderhead Mountain, which is especially beautiful in the late spring and early summer when the mountain laurel is blooming. Cades Cove Campground is open year-round and offers 159 camping spots. Then, head northeast to explore the Sugarlands area. Stop at the Sugarlands Visitors Center, and take the short hike to see Cataract Falls. Then, head out along the Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail to see more waterfalls. Watch as you drive as this can be a great place to see wildlife, including black bears. Continuing to the east brings you to Clingman's Dome, the highest point in the park. Take time to climb the observation tower, where you can often see over 100 miles on a clear day.
Oak Mountain State Park is Alabama’s largest state park. There are over 50 miles of hiking trails to explore. Mountain bikers love riding along the Red Trail, which has been listed as one of 52 must-ride trails worldwide. It runs by Beaver Lake, a fantastic place to take a break and play on the beach, before continuing through the forests along this course. You will also want to walk along the Tree Top Nature Trail to see the birds and mammals being rehabilitated by the Alabama Wildlife Center. Wind Creek State Park offers public access to Lake Martin. When workers finished constructing it in 1926, it was the largest man-made lake in the world. It is a great place to go swimming, boating, fishing, and waterskiing. This state park also contains one of the largest state-operated campgrounds in the U.S., with 566 campsites. Practice your bow-and-arrow skills at the archery range or challenge your camping companions to a game of golf on the putt-putt course. Guided horseback trail rides are available. Get a better view of the trees by playing on the zipline course. Cheaha State Park contains Island in the Sky, the highest point in Alabama. Consider starting your visit at the interpretative center to learn more about the local ecosystem. Spend the night in the campground so that you can play in the highest swimming pool in the state. Guests can swim, boat, and fish. The Cheaha Wilderness is an excellent place for a hike. You can follow a short connector trail in this park to hike along part of the Appalachian Trail. Follow the Rock Gardens and Pulpit Rock trails to reach excellent rock climbing and rappelling areas.
Birmingham Civil Rights National Monument consists of seven sites in Birmingham, Alabama, where the protests led by Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. took place leading up to the signing of the Civil Rights Act of 1964. Take a tour of the Historic Baptist Church and the Sixteenth Street Baptist Church. View the Children's March Sculpture at Kelly Ingram Park and see the A.G. Gaston Motel, where African Americans planned their strategy. Follow in the footsteps of the 1965 Voting Rights March in Alabama by traveling along the Selma to Montgomery National Historic Trail. Start your visit by touring the George Washington Carver neighborhood, where march organizers stayed with local families. See the Brown Chapel AME Church, where the march started, and Edmund Pettus Bridge, the site of Bloody Sunday. View the four campsites used on the way to the Alabama State Capital Building. Freedom Riders National Monument commemorates the Freedom Riders. Wander through the Downtown Anniston Historic District to see where different events occurred in May 1961.
Safe Harbor R.V. Park in Riverside features fishing and a boat launch onto the Coosa River, where fishing tournaments are often held. Furthermore, this campground is near Interstate 20, making it easy for campers to access. About half of the sites are pull-through sites, making it convenient for those with larger Class A motorhomes. Logan Landing Cabins and RV Resort, in a private gated community in Alpine, Alabama, features a fishing pond. You can rent paddleboats, and your children will love the playground. It has over 80 miles of trails open for hiking, biking, and golf cart riding. Grandstand RV Park is near the Talladega Motor Speedway in Lincoln, Alabama. The spacious sites at this campground each have full hookups. Join family-fun activities on holiday weekends.
If I want to rent a towable RV, how do I tell if my vehicle can handle the tow?
Before renting a towable RV, it is essential to ensure that your vehicle can handle the weight and hitch type of the trailer. You can find this information in your vehicle's owner's manual. You will also need to check the Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) of the trailer, which can usually be found on a sticker located on the trailer. It is recommended that you do not exceed 80% of your vehicle's maximum tow rating and make sure you have the proper hitch, brake controller, and sway control device.
Are there any limitations on the types of roads or terrain I can navigate with a towable RV rental in Helena, AL?
Yes, there are limitations on the types of roads and terrain that you can navigate with a towable RV rental. It is important to check the RVshare rental agreement to see what types of roads and terrain are permitted. In general, most towable RVs are suitable for paved roads and well-maintained campgrounds. However, some rentals may be equipped with off-road tires, making them suitable for moderate off-road terrain.
Are there any additional insurance considerations or requirements when towing a rental RV, and how can I ensure I am adequately covered?
When renting a towable RV, there are three insurance options in case of an accident or damage. RVshare offers different types of insurance coverage, including liability, collision, and comprehensive. It is recommended that you choose the coverage that best suits your needs.
Do I use a sway control device when towing a RV, and does RVshare provide it, or do I need to bring my own?
A sway control device is highly recommended when towing a RV, especially on highways or in windy conditions. Discuss with the RV owner if this is something you will need. RVshare does not provide sway control devices, but the individual owner might.
What kind of braking system do I need for a towable RV rental, and how do I ensure it is properly installed and functional?
All towable RV rentals require a functioning braking system. There are two types of braking systems: electric and surge. Electric brake systems require a brake controller to be installed in the towing vehicle, while surge braking systems are built into the trailer's hitch. It is important to ensure that the braking system is properly installed and functional before towing. RVshare recommends having a professional mechanic inspect the brakes before renting.
Are any unique features or amenities available in towable RV rentals that may not be found in other RVs in Helena, AL?
The features and amenities available in towable RV rentals vary depending on the unit and the owner's preferences. Some common features found in towable RVs include full kitchens, bathrooms, and sleeping areas. Unique features may include outdoor kitchens, fireplaces, and spacious living areas. It is recommended that you browse RVshare's inventory to find a rental unit that meets your specific needs.
How do I properly load and distribute weight within a towable RV rental to ensure safe and stable towing?
Proper weight distribution is crucial when towing a RV. It is recommended that you load heavier items towards the front of the trailer and distribute weight evenly from side to side. You should also avoid overloading the trailer and keep the weight under the GVWR. It is recommended that you use a weight distribution hitch, which can help balance the weight and provide more stability when towing.
What are the fuel efficiency considerations when towing a rental RV, and how can I minimize the impact on my fuel costs?
Towing a rental RV can have a significant impact on your vehicle's fuel efficiency. It is recommended that you use a towing vehicle with a fuel-efficient engine and avoid driving at high speeds. Additionally, removing any unnecessary weight from your vehicle and trailer can help maximize fuel efficiency. It is also recommended that you maintain a consistent speed and avoid sudden stops and starts.
What kind of maintenance or upkeep do I need on a towable RV rental during my rental period, and what kind of supplies or tools do I need to have on hand for this?
During your rental period you are not responsible for maintenance. Treat the RV with care and maintain cleanliness during your trip.