Four hours southeast of Largo, Everglades National Park comprises one of the most unique landscapes in the country. Your visit to the 2,400-square mile park can include biking the 35 miles of paved and off-road trails, boating or kayaking the seemingly endless waterways, bird-watching, and salt or freshwater fishing. Bold explorers should take a Slough Slog, a ranger-led, off-trail tour through the park's cypress dome.
Stunning Dry Tortugas National Park is a group of seven islands covering a 100-square-mile area west of Key West, seven hours and 20 minutes south of Largo in the Gulf of Mexico. The park is home to Fort Jefferson, one of the largest surviving 19th-century forts. You can only access the park by seaplane or boat. Your excursion is rewarded with rustic tent camping, snorkeling above dazzling coral reefs, tours of the fort, historic dive sites, and excellent bird-watching.
Biscayne National Park, on Florida's Atlantic Coast, four hours and 40 minutes southeast of Largo, offers the chance to snorkel coral reefs, explore a shipwreck on the Maritime Heritage Trail and sail along picturesque Biscayne Bay. The park allows fishing and lobstering; camping on Boca Chita and Elliott Keys; and boating, canoeing, and kayaking opportunities across bays, streams, and lagoons.
An hour southeast of Largo via I-275, Little Manatee River State Park rests just across Tampa Bay. Little Manatee River, one of Florida's blackwater rivers, flows from swampland 4.5 miles through the park. There is a 6.5-mile stacked loop hiking trail through the wilderness and a one-mile loop across the Oxbow wetland. There are 15 miles of equestrian trails. The park offers multiple riverside picnic sites.
Hillsborough River State Park, 50 minutes northeast of Largo, contains the Fort Foster Historic site, a recreation of the original 1836 fort that stood on the same ground. The park has seven miles of nature trails, paved and unpaved biking trails, and picnic pavilions dating back to the 1930s.
Lake Manatee State Park in nearby Bradenton, an hour southeast of Largo, surrounds the three-mile shore of the man-made Lake Manatee. The park welcomes boats under 20 horsepower, canoes, and kayaks. There is excellent freshwater fishing from your vessel or off one of the many docks. Hiking trails wind through pine flatwoods and sand pine scrub among low-lying marshes and a hardwood forest.
The De Soto National Memorial, 55 minutes south of Largo, commemorates the site of Conquistador Hernando de Soto's May 1539 landing. The park has fishing, hiking, and historical reenactments.
The Henry B. Plant Museum in Tampa is a converted 19th-century hotel that houses exhibits on Florida tourism during the Gilded Age and the Spanish-American War. The hotel is a National Historic Landmark and features historical furnishings from the hotel's heydays.
The American Victory Ship & Museum, on the opposite side of Tampa Bay as Largo, is home to the SS American Victory, one of four surviving operational World War II ships. The museum features naval exhibits and allows you to tour the entire ship.
Camping in Largo and the surrounding area places you close to the beach, the city of Tampa, and the interstate, so you can explore up and down the coast. Vacation Village RV Resort outside downtown Largo has full-hookup sites and offers Wi-Fi, laundry facilities, showers, and a pool. The centrally located campground has restaurants, shops, and attractions within walking distance. Clearwater RV Resort on Clearwater Bay has back-in and pull-through sites with full hookups. It provides outdoor lawn games, a family activity center, and complimentary cable and Wi-Fi. Bay Bayou RV Resort is in Tampa and features 300 full-size, full-hookup lots with a patio, picnic table, and free HBO and Wi-Fi.
How does hitching and unhitching a 5th-wheel RV rental work, and is it challenging?
Hitching and unhitching a 5th-wheel RV rental requires proper positioning of the RV and truck and connecting the hitch. It can be challenging for first-time renters, but the owner usually provides a thorough explanation of the process.
Are there any special driving considerations or techniques when towing a 5th-wheel rental RV in Largo, FL?
When towing a 5th-wheel rental RV in Largo, FL, it is important to note the weight and size of the RV and follow all traffic laws. Drivers should also be cautious of wind conditions as they can affect stability.
Do I use a generator to power the electrical system on a 5th wheel RV, or do I need to connect to a power source at a campground or RV park?
Most 5th wheel RVs come with a built-in generator, but some may require being plugged into a power source at a campground or RV park. RV owners will provide information on the specifics of powering the RV.
Are there any limitations on where I can park or store a 5th wheel RV in Largo, FL, such as zoning laws or homeowners' association regulations?
Renters should always check local regulations before parking a 5th wheel RV in Largo, FL. Some areas have specific zoning laws or homeowners' association regulations regarding parking and storing RVs.
What kind of maintenance or upkeep do I need to perform on a 5th-wheel RV rental during my rental period?
Renters should keep the RV clean and make sure to report any damages. Regular maintenance such as oil changes and tire checks are the responsibility of the RV owner.
Are there any safety concerns I should know when towing a 5th-wheel rental RV, such as sway or brake issues?
Sway and brake issues can occur when towing a 5th-wheel rental RV. Renters should be mindful of weight distribution and proper hitching to prevent these issues.
How do I properly level and stabilize a 5th-wheel rental RV at my campsite or RV park?
Leveling and stabilizing a 5th-wheel rental RV requires proper positioning and use of RV leveling blocks. The owner should provide instructions or assistance if needed.
Do I need to bring my cooking appliances or equipment for use in the 5th wheel rental RV's kitchen?
Most 5th wheel rental RVs come with a equipped kitchen, check the listing details or ask the owner for specific items. Renters may choose to bring additional cooking appliances or equipment if they desire.
Are there any unique features or amenities available in 5th wheel RV rental that may not be found in other towable RVs in Largo, FL?
5th wheel rental RVs may have additional features such as multiple bedrooms or bathrooms, larger living spaces, and better towing stability compared to other towable RVs in Largo, FL. RVshare owners may offer additional amenities or features for a more comfortable stay.
