Mammoth Cave National Park, located about 4 hours south of Mattoon, is home to the world's longest-known cave system, with over 400 miles of explored underground passageways. One popular trail for hiking and exploring is the Green River Bluffs Trail. While there are no RV hookups within the park, visitors can find numerous options for RV camping and hookups just outside the park.Indiana Dunes National Park lies about 2 hours northeast of Mattoon and boasts 15 miles of sandy beaches along Lake Michigan. The park also includes diverse habitats like wetlands, prairies, and forests. Visitors can enjoy attractions such as Deep River Waterpark and Mount Baldy. There are several RV campgrounds with full hookups available near the park.Gateway Arch National Park in St. Louis, Missouri, was established in February 2018 and covers an area of 91 acres around the Gateway Arch monument. Visitors can take a tram ride to the top for stunning city views or explore museums on-site. Although there are no RV campsites within the park, there are many options for nearby RV camping with full hookups.Whether you're interested in exploring underground caves or relaxing on sandy beaches along Lake Michigan, these national parks near Mattoon offer something for everyone.When exploring these places, RV travel can make the experience more enjoyable. Rent a budget-friendly RV with RVshare, and have all the perks of RV ownership without owning an RV.
Wolf Creek State Park is a serene park in the heart of Shelby County, Illinois. This park is an excellent choice for RVers looking to experience nature at its finest. It offers 10 full hookup campsites, including electric, water, and sewer hookups. The campground also has restrooms and showers available for guests to use. In addition to camping, Wolf Creek State Park provides visitors with opportunities to fish and boat on Lake Shelbyville.Walnut Point State Park is a picturesque destination in Douglas County, Illinois. This park features a beautiful lake that RVers can admire while enjoying the peaceful surroundings. Ths famous spot offers 34 campsites with electric hookups and access to restrooms and showers.Fox Ridge State Park is a hidden gem in Coles County, Illinois. RVers who love hiking will enjoy exploring the park's trails that wind through the lush forested areas of the park. This state park campground has six campsites with electrical hookups, restrooms, and showers.Lincoln Trail State Park is another great option for outdoor adventures near Mattoon. This park boasts over 1,000 acres of land with plenty of hiking, fishing, boating, and swimming opportunities. The campground at Lincoln Trail has 240 sites available with electrical hookups, restrooms, and shower facilities.No matter which state park you choose near Mattoon, you're sure to have an unforgettable experience exploring the natural beauty of Illinois in your RV rental.
Hoosier National Forest and Shawnee National Forest are great options for exploring nature near Mattoon, Illinois. The Hoosier National Forest is located in Indiana, just a few hours' drive from Mattoon, and spans over 202,814 acres. Established in October 1961, the forest offers a variety of recreational activities such as hiking, camping, fishing, boating, and more. Marengo Cave U.S. National Landmark, Paoli Peaks, and Patoka Lake are popular attractions in the area that you can visit during your stay.The Shawnee National Forest is located within Illinois' boundaries, spanning over 265,616 acres, and was established in August 1933. This forest offers various activities, including stargazing, geocaching, sightseeing, and more. With its stunning sandstone rock formations, Giant City State Park is a must-see attraction in the region, along with Garden of the Gods and Ferne Clyffe State Park.Both forests offer ample opportunities for RV travelers to explore nature's beauty while enjoying outdoor recreational activities.
The Ulysses S. Grant National Historic Site is a fascinating landmark near Mattoon. Located in St. Louis, MO, this site covers 9.9 acres and features the historic White Haven estate, where Grant lived for several years with his family. Visitors can take a guided tour of the property and learn about the life of the Civil War general who became the 18th President of the United States. Another must-see destination for history buffs is Lincoln Boyhood National Memorial, located in Lincoln City, IN. Covering an area of 200 acres and built in 1816, this site is managed by the National Park Service and commemorates the early life of Abraham Lincoln. Visitors can explore exhibits at the visitor center or opt for outdoor activities like swimming, boating, or fishing at nearby attractions like Lincoln State Park or Holiday World & Splashin' Safari.These sites offer a unique perspective on American history that RV travelers will surely appreciate!
Sullivan Marina & Campground is a popular RV park near Mattoon, Illinois, offering 232 sites with full hookups. Back-in and pull-through sites are available. The campground features a pool, restrooms, showers, a dump station, Wi-Fi, and laundry facilities. Cell reception is strong throughout the area. Plus, this site allows your furry friends to enter, however they should be on leash. Another option for RV camping in Mattoon is Fox Ridge State Park which offers 43 sites with 30/50 Amp electric service. The park has back-in sites only and provides showers, hunting, fishing opportunities, and nature trails. Pets are allowed on the premises, and cell reception is strong throughout the area. Daily/Weekly/Monthly rates can be viewed online upon making reservations.
Robin Hood Woods Campground & Cottage Resort provides an RV dump station for travelers passing through Mattoon, Illinois. Ouabache (Wabash) Trails Park is another option for dumping the black and grey water and refilling your fresh water tank. Pilot Travel Center also offers a dump station, a hose for flushing tanks, and a trash bin for waste disposal. Auburn Travel Center is another convenient location to access a dump station in the Mattoon area.
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 Mattoon, IL?
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 Mattoon, IL, 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 Mattoon, IL?
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.
