Indiana Dunes National Park is located only a short drive northeast of Homer Glen on the southern shores of Lake Michigan. The park, which has long been considered a sacred site by both modern residents and Native Americans of the past, features a diverse landscape. In addition to 15 miles of beautiful lakefront, the area contains rugged dunes, rivers, forests, prairies, and wetlands. The park is a perfect destination to enjoy activities like hiking, biking, horseback riding, fishing, boating, and watersports.
Located in the heart of St. Louis, Gateway Arch National Park is an iconic urban park featuring one of the most recognizable landmarks in the country. The park's famous 630-foot arch commemorates the beginning of the famous Lewis and Clark expedition of the early 19th century. During your visit, you can journey to the top of the arch to enjoy a once-in-a-lifetime view. Before you leave, it's also worth exploring the Old St. Louis Courthouse and a few of the park's other historical buildings.
If you're interested in underground wonders, you should visit Mammoth Cave National Park, which is located in central Kentucky. The park's namesake cave is the longest known cave system in the world, boasting over 400 miles of incredible caverns. If you take a guided tour of the caves, you can check out famous chambers like the Rotunda, Gothic Avenue, and the Frozen Niagara area. There's fun to be had outside the caves as well, with nearby opportunities for activities like hiking, biking, horseback riding, fishing, and boating.
Kankakee River State Park is located in northeastern Illinois near the town of Bourbonnais, IL. Situated along the Kankakee River, the park comprises 4,000 acres and is known as a wonderful spot for fishing, canoeing, camping, hiking, and biking.
Indiana Dunes State Park is a unique natural haven boasting towering sand dunes, hardwood forests, marshes, and swamps in northern Indiana. The area features 16.5 miles of scenic hiking and biking trails and offers top-notch opportunities for bird watching and wildlife viewing. Additionally, nearby Lake Michigan is a popular destination for fishing, boating, and sunbathing on the beach.
Located on the southern bank of the Illinois River, Illini State Park covers 510 acres of picturesque nature. Many visitors make their way to the park every year to enjoy activities like hiking, fishing, swimming, and boating in a beautiful setting.
Everywhere you turn in Chicago, you see Willis Tower, one of the many monuments and landmarks around Illinois. The building towers 1,729 feet above the beautiful city and was at one point the tallest building in the world. If you head to the famous Skydeck, you can see four states: Illinois, Indiana, Wisconsin, and Michigan.
Another popular Chicago landmark is the Navy Pier, which was constructed and opened over 100 years ago and offers a wide variety of family-friendly activities. The pier features green spaces, restaurants, carnival attractions, gardens, a Ferris wheel, and much more.
If you find yourself in the Peoria area, you should definitely check out Wildlife Prairie Park. The unique park is basically a zoo without cages, covering 1,800 acres and featuring over 150 fascinating animals. You can hike or mountain bike through the park to get a firsthand look at the 60+ species inhabiting the area.
There are many excellent campgrounds in the greater Homer Glen area. One perfect example is the Hollywood Casino Joliet RV Park, which has 80 RV campsites available. In addition to the on-site casino, guests can enjoy the garden, bar, restaurant, and other amenities.
Another lovely place to stay is the Yogi Bear’s Jellystone Park, where you can rent one of the 409 RV campsites for between $48 and $71 per night. There are full-hookup sites available, and the park offers activities like arts and crafts, dancing, volleyball, and special-themed weekends.
For something more affordable, you could go with Camp Bullfrog Lake. There, you can stay at one of the 26 RV campsites for as little as $25 per night. Some sites offer electrical hookups, and the nearby lake is perfect for fishing and boating.
How do I correctly set up and take down a popup camper rental, and what kind of tools or equipment do I need?
Setting up and taking down a popup camper rental typically requires a few basic tools, including a rubber mallet, wheel chocks, and a few different sized wrenches. The process will vary based on the specific model, but typically involves locating and extending the stabilizer jacks, popping up the roof, extending the sidewalls, and connecting any necessary hoses and cables. Be sure to follow any instructions provided by the owner and ask for assistance if you are unsure about any aspect of the setup.
Can I rent a popup camper in Homer Glen, IL without a vehicle capable of towing it, and if so, what are my options for renting a towing vehicle?
Standard passenger sedans typically able to tow popup campers that weigh less than 1,500 pounds. Heavier duty vehicles, such as 4x4 SUVs, can usually tow a heavier popup. If you are unable to tow, another option is to have the popup campered delivered to your campsite. The RVshare owner will bring it to the campground and set up for you, then tow it away after your trip is over.
Are there any special driving considerations or techniques I should know when towing a popup camper rental in Homer Glen, IL?
When towing a popup camper rental, it's important to practice safe driving techniques and be aware of your surroundings. You may need to adjust your driving speed and distance from other vehicles to account for the additional weight and length. It's also important to make sure the camper rental is properly secured and level before hitting the road.
What kind of amenities can I expect in a popup camper rental, and how do they compare to other RV rentals in Homer Glen, IL?
Popup camper rentals typically offer a range of amenities and features, including comfortable sleeping quarters, kitchen appliances and supplies, and on-board storage options. While they may be more compact than other RV rentals, they often offer a more affordable and flexible option for travelers who want to explore the outdoors.
Can I bring my bedding and linens to use in the popup camper rental, and what kind of storage options are available for these items?
Many RVshare owners will provide bedding and linens for the popup camper rental, but you can certainly bring your own if you prefer. There are typically storage compartments and cubbies located throughout the interior of the camper rental for storing personal items.
How do I properly level and stabilize a popup camper rental at my campsite or RV park, and what equipment or tools do I need for this?
Discuss your particular campsite with the RV owner to determine if leveling and stabilizing will be necessary. To properly level and stabilize a popup camper rental, you will need a few basic tools, including leveling blocks, wheel chocks, and a bubble level. The process will vary based on the specific model, but typically involves leveling the camper rental side-to-side using the leveling blocks and adjusting the front-to-back level using the tongue jack.
What weather conditions should I know when renting a popup camper in Homer Glen, IL, and how can I prepare for them?
Depending on where you are renting the popup camper, you may need to prepare for a range of different weather conditions. It's important to check the forecast before heading out and be prepared with appropriate clothing and gear for any potential weather events. You should also take steps to protect the camper rental from high winds, rain, and other elements by properly securing it and using any available window covers or awnings.
Can I bring my outdoor equipment or appliances to use with the popup camper rental, such as a portable grill or camping chairs?
Yes, you can certainly bring your own outdoor equipment and appliances to use with the popup camper rental. However, be sure to check with the RVshare owner beforehand to make sure there is enough space to store your items and that they are safe to use with the camper rental.
What kind of maintenance or upkeep do I need to perform on the exterior and interior of a popup camper rental during my rental period?
The maintenance and upkeep required for a popup camper is handled by the RV owner. Handle the camper with care and return it in the condition you received it.
Are there any unique features or amenities available in popup camper rentals that may not be found in other RVs in Homer Glen, IL?
Popup camper rentals are light and easier to tow than most other towable trailers, making them easier to bring along on your trips, and typically meaning your own vehicle should be able to tow them.
