Hot Springs National Park is about 320 miles south of Independence. This park opened in 1832 to protect the 47 thermal hot springs from Hot Springs Mountain. Bathhouse Row is a fantastic place to start exploring this park. Workers constructed it between 1892 and 1935 because of the popularity of bathing in mineral-rich waters. You can bathe, see the artwork, get a drink, and visit the museum when you explore these buildings. You will also want to head to Arlington Lawn to see the hot water cascade and the Stonebridge Area to see historical artifacts from the Fordyce-Ricks estate. Still, one view you will not want to miss is the view from the Hot Springs Mountain Tower, where you can see over 140 square miles on a bright day. This park's Gulpha Gorge Campground is a terrific place to camp in a toy hauler and a popup camper because you are on all three of the park's largest hiking trails, giving you easy access to the park's many miles of interconnecting hiking trails.
Consider renting a motorhome and heading to Cross Timbers State Park, located in the Chautauqua Hills region. Once home to Osage Native Americans, you will love exploring the multi-use trails at this rugged park. Many of the courses continue into the adjacent Toronto Wildlife Area, where you may see deer, wild turkeys, quail, squirrels, rabbits and raccoons in the forested flood plains. Be sure to follow the Ancient Trees of the Cross Timbers Trail, starting near the park's main entrance, to see some of the oldest trees in Kansas. Toronto Reservoir is a terrific place for a day of fishing and water fun. There's plenty of parking for your Independence, Kansas RV rental. Covering over 1,000 acres, Osage Hills State Park offers lush forests, rocky bluffs and serene waters, making it a terrific place for campers to explore. While the water in Lookout Lake and Sand Creek makes this a fun summer camping location, you will love visiting this Oklahoma state park in the fall when the leaves are putting on their glorious colors. Consider packing your bike in your toy hauler to enjoy them at a slower pace. Beautiful restrooms with showers in the campground make it a good place for camper van campers. Oklahoma's Honey Creek State Park is part of Grand Lake State Park. Anglers love catching bass, catfish, bluegill and crappie in Grand Lake, whether they use the Honey Creek boat ramp or fish from the shoreline. This area is terrific for a summer picnic as breezes off the lake will help you stay cooler. Visit this park in October during the Pelican Festival to ride the carnival rides, visit with artisans and eat food-truck treats.
Follow in the footsteps of the Peanut Man by visiting George Washington Carver National Monument. See where he raised his first garden that sparked his interest in agriculture as a child. The park-like setting of this monument is home to various festivals throughout the year, including storytelling, music, art and pioneer activities. Covering almost 11,000 acres in Kansas' Flint Hills, the Tallgrass National Preserve is one of the few remaining tallgrass prairies. Hike along old gravel ranch roads and mowed paths to see the growing grass that reaches its maximum height in the fall, when it grows up to 5 feet tall in the bottomland. See the three-story limestone barn built into a hillside while exploring historic Spring Hill Farm and Stock Ranch. This preserve's Fox Creek and small ponds are terrific places for catch-and-release fishing. Spot bison while biking along the 12-mile bike path at the preserve's north end or hiking along the Scenic Overlook Trail through the Windmill Pasture. Learn about the courage exhibited by common people by visiting the Brown v. Board of Education National Historic Site. Strolling through the Topeka school, where the Topeka School Board denied Linda Brown entry to kindergarten, led to the filing of this case that eventually made it to the Supreme Court and the desegregation of schools. Play on the historic playground, as students did in the early 1950s. Hike or bike along the pet-friendly 38-mile-long Landon Nature Trail, the only trail connecting the Santa Fe and Oregon trails.
Primitive camping is available on Spring Creek's shores at Rockin K Farm near Tahlequah, Oklahoma. This may be the perfect option for popup campers because there is no room for larger travel trailers. Fish in the creek and hike across this farm. The countryside setting of Eagle View RV Park near Sand Springs, Oklahoma, makes this a fantastic place to unhook from a fifth-wheel trailer. Especially in the winter, eagles fly over this campground located about 15 minutes west of downtown Tulsa. Wide paved roads make this an awesome campground for Class A motorhomes
True Warrior RV Park in southeast Tulsa, Oklahoma, is an ideal place to camp in your toy hauler as it is close to Tulsa Raceway Park. Each site features full hookups and complimentary Wi-Fi. Easily reach this campground from I-44 and Highway 75.
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 Independence, KS?
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 Independence, KS, 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 Independence, KS?
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.
