One of Washington's crown jewels is Mount Rainier National Park, which is located within an hour or so of Kirkland. The park is most known as the home of its namesake peak, which is one of the most stunning sights in the state at 14,410 feet tall. The mountain is an active volcano, and you can even climb to the summit if you have a permit and a proper guide. The park also features Crystal Mountain, the largest ski resort in the state. Visitors can enjoy hiking, bird-watching, and wildlife viewing among the area's lush forests and colorful wildflowers.
Olympic National Park comprises 922,000 acres of rainforests, glaciated mountains, and rugged coastline on Washington's Olympic Peninsula. The park is an exceptional hiking destination, boasting thousands of miles of scenic trails to explore. Additionally, the park is home to over 650 unique archaeological sites and provides opportunities for activities like biking, kayaking, swimming, and wildlife viewing.
Situated near the Washington-Canada border, North Cascades National Park is a remote, picturesque natural haven known as the home of the majestic Cascades Mountains. The beautiful area also features turquoise lakes, stunning glaciers, lush woodlands, and beautiful wildflowers. The park boasts an amazing 312 glaciers, and if you have a backcountry permit, you can even get a close look at some of them. During your visit, you can also hike through the scenic park and observe wildlife such as bears, mountain goats, gray wolves, and deer.
Located near Seattle, Saltwater State Park is a peaceful beach and the only state park featuring an artificial underwater reef for scuba diving. The beach is also a popular destination for activities like hiking, fishing, tide-pooling, and sunbathing.
Originally constructed as a U.S. artillery defense post, Manchester State Park covers 111 acres and contains a 3,400-foot stretch of beautiful shoreline. The park is a popular spot for weddings and other events, and the area also boasts fantastic camping areas and scenic hiking trails. Bird-watching is a frequent activity for visitors to the park as well.
Illahee State Park is situated between Bremerton and Bainbridge Island, WA, and comprises 86 acres beside Port Orchard Bay. The park is home to beautiful hiking trails, serene camping areas, and some of the country's largest yew trees. Visitors can enjoy a variety of activities, including shellfish harvesting, swimming, diving, fishing, and waterskiing.
There are many interesting monuments and landmarks that you may want to visit while you're exploring Washington. In Seattle, you should take some time to stop by the Space Needle, which is perhaps the most famous landmark in the state. The breathtaking observation tower offers unforgettable views of the region, and there's even a restaurant at the top!
You could also head about 30 minutes from Seattle to visit the magnificent Snoqualmie Falls. The 268-foot waterfall cascades into the Snoqualmie River and is surrounded by observation decks and gorgeous hiking trails.
Another unique Seattle landmark is the Arthur Foss Tugboat, which is believed to be the oldest wooden tugboat that's still floating. The boat was first built in 1889 and has seen use during the Klondike Gold Rush and World War II. During summer, the historic tugboat is available for public tours.
One pleasant place to stay in the Kirkland area is Manchester State Park, which offers 50 full-hookup RV campsites for upwards of $25 per night. The campground offers boating, diving, and fishing opportunities and features showers, restrooms, a dump station, horseshoe pits, and a volleyball court.
Another quality camping option is the Lake Pleasant RV Park. The campground is home to 196 RV campsites starting at $44 per night. There are full hookups available, and the park's amenities include a large playground and laundromat. There are also several great shops and restaurants located nearby.
You could also stay at the Issaquah Village RV Park, which boasts large RV campsites capable of accommodating most sizes of rigs. The campground's offerings include free cable TV, Wi-Fi hotspots, clean and modern restrooms and showers, 24-hour laundry, and many other activities and amenities.
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 Kirkland, WA 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 Kirkland, WA?
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 Kirkland, WA, 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 Kirkland, WA?
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 Kirkland, WA particularly well-suited for a camper van and what amenities or features do they offer?
There are many campgrounds and RV parks in Kirkland, WA 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.
