Glacier National Park is one of the most glaciated places in the United States. You can see some of those glaciers during a scenic drive along the 50-mile Going to the Sun Road. If you drive an RV or pull your trailer, you will have to take the free park shuttle on this road. If you are entering from the east, the first part of the road goes beside Lake MacDonald. You will want to stop at Agar to explore the historic buildings and enjoy the lake’s views. Take a hike on the four-mile Avalanche Trail to see the West Glacier. Then, follow the Trail of Cedars to experience the old-growth trees in this national park.
West Shore/Flathead Lake State Park is a terrific place to play for a day on Flathead Lake. The rocky beach is a great place for landscape photography. It is easy to launch a kayak or canoe from the beach for a day of paddling fun. The water near the beach is shallow, making it an ideal place for families to go for a swim.
Salmon Lake State Park provides easy access to the Clearwater River chain of lakes, so it is an excellent place for anglers to start a fishing adventure. This lake, about 100 miles south of Lakeside, is a fantastic place for sailing and waterskiing. Book a campsite here so that you can enjoy the views of Mission and Swan Mountain Ranges.
Head to Whitefish Mountain Resort to see the 12-foot statue of Jesus. This statue put in place in 1954 by the local Knights of Columbus has been the subject of a federal lawsuit because it is within the Flathead National Forest. Couples often choose to get married in front of this statue. Many routinely try to give the outstretched hands of Jesus a high five while others have routinely dressed Jesus in ski garb over his white robe. There are also a number of other famous Montana landmarks near Lakeside.
To take advantage of Montana's great outdoors, you may want to consider camping near Kalispell. Rocky Mountain ‘Hi’ RV Park and Campground sits about 15 minutes from the downtown area, and it is only about 30 minutes to Glacier National Park. Another option is West Glacier KOA Resort, which is only 2.5 miles from the west entrance to Glacier National Park. KOA named this their campground of the year, and it is easy to see why when you experience its amenities, like its restaurant, ice cream shop, and espresso bar. You may also want to consider Edgewater Resort in Lakeside, which offers chartered fishing expeditions and Jet Skis, boats, and kayaks for rent.
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 Lakeside, MT 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 Lakeside, MT?
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 Lakeside, MT, 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 Lakeside, MT?
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 Lakeside, MT particularly well-suited for a camper van and what amenities or features do they offer?
There are many campgrounds and RV parks in Lakeside, MT 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.
