If you are looking for the best National Parks near Jacksonville, Illinois, then you might consider visiting Gateway Arch National Park. This park is one of the best places to visit in Missouri and it is a great place to visit if you are from the area or if you are planning a road trip to this region. The Gateway Arch reflects St. Louis' role in the Westward Expansion of the United States during the nineteenth century. The park is a memorial to Thomas Jefferson's role in opening the West, to the pioneers who helped shape its history, and to Dred Scott who sued for his freedom in the Old Courthouse. The Indiana Dunes National Park is known for its beaches, forests, swamps and lakes. The dunes are also a great place to camp during the summer months. There are two campgrounds available at the park: Pines Campground and Lakefront Campground. The dunes are the highest freshwater dunes in the world and this park has a six-mile-long beach for swimming, sunbathing, and strolling.
Located in the beautiful Shawnee National Forest in southern Illinois, Beaver Dam State Park is a great place to bring your RV for a camping trip or to enjoy the many activities available in the area. Peck State Park offers a variety of activities for all types of visitors. It's popular with bird watchers, and its lake is one of the best fishing spots in Illinois. The park also has picnic areas and a playground. Visitors can rent boats at the marina, or they can fish off the pier. There are rental cabins available on-site that include air conditioning, fireplaces, and kitchens. The cabins are just a short walk from the beach, making them an ideal choice for families who want to be close to all the action.
Spanning 289,000 acres, Shawnee National Forest is nestled in Southern Illinois between the Ohio and Mississippi rivers. It features strikingly beautiful oak-hickory forests, flourishing wetlands, lush canyons, razorback ridges and unique geological features. The Mark Twain National Forest is located in southern and central Missouri. It extends from the St. Francois Mountains in the southeast to dry rocky glades in the southwest, from the prairie lands along the Missouri River to the nation's most ancient mountains in the south. The Forest is characterized by large permanent springs, caves, rocky barren glades, old volcanic mountains and nationally-recognized streams. Covering 170,000 acres of undeveloped forests, wetlands and open lands, Land Between the Lakes National Recreation Area is a natural playground for explorers, outdoor enthusiasts and anyone who needs a break from their urban landscapes. Hoosier National Forest, in the hills of south central Indiana, provides a wide mix of opportunities and resources for people to enjoy. Hoosier National Forest, in the hills of south central Indiana, provides a wide mix of opportunities and resources for people to enjoy. Rolling hills, back-country trails, and rural crossroad communities make this small but beautiful 204,000-acre Forest a local treasure.
Ulysses S. Grant National Historic Site is a must-see landmark near Jacksonville, Illinois. This site commemorates the life of Ulysses S. Grant, one of the most famous generals in American history. Ulysses S. Grant is known as the victorious Civil War general who saved the Union and the 18th President of the United States. He first met Julia Dent, his future wife, at her family home, named White Haven. From 1854 to 1859 the Dents, Grants and an enslaved African-American workforce lived on the property. The Lincoln Home National Historic Site is another great place to visit near Jacksonville. This house was once the home of Abraham Lincoln, and it features many original artifacts from the period. Lincoln’s unpretentious house at Eighth and Jackson streets has been restored. This home, along with the four-block area surrounding it, was designated a national historic site in 1972.
Jacksonville, Illinois is a popular place for RV parks and campgrounds. There are many RV parks and campgrounds to choose from, including Buena Vista Farms, Crazy Horse Campground, and Jim Edgar Panther Creek. The Crazy Horse Campground is right on the Mississippi riverfront and offers full hookups with 50 amp electric service, a pool with a slide, a game room with a foosball table and arcade games. The Buena Vista Farms offers a large area to explore on foot or by bike. It also has picnic facilities, shower facilities, a dump station, a swimming pool and playgrounds.
Dump stations are available in Illinois at Crazy Horse Campground, Beaver Dam State Park, and Auburn Travel Center. The city of Jacksonville has several dump station options for RVers. All of the RV dump stations in Jacksonville are near popular landmarks and amenities. See RVshare’s guide to RV dump stations in Jacksonville, Illinios for dump station addresses and details.
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 Jacksonville, IL?
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 Jacksonville, IL?
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.
