North Cascades National Park is around an hour and 15 minutes northeast of Mount Vernon. This park doesn't allow dispersed camping, so you'll need to make a reservation for one of its campgrounds to stay there. Most of the spots are for tent campers. Lower Goodell Creek Campground does have room for RVs, but there aren't any hookups or drinking water. However, it's worth "roughing it" to experience all the beauty and wonder the North Cascades have to offer. They're called the "American Alps" because of their towering peaks, glaciers, and waterfalls. The best way to enjoy the wilderness here is by backpacking and hiking.
There are two main ways to travel from Mount Vernon to Olympic National Park. The fastest route covers about 101 miles and will take you three hours. It requires taking a ferry part of the way. If you prefer to drive your RV the entire distance, you'll head south through Seattle. This route covers 172 miles and will take about 20 minutes longer than going by ferry. There are a million acres in Olympic National Park to explore. There are beaches, a rainforest, and even glaciers. Most of the campgrounds here have limited space for RVs. Only a few spots are available for rigs longer than 21 feet. In the park itself, there are no campgrounds with hookups, showers, or water.
Three hours south of Mount Vernon, you'll find Mount Rainier National Park, one of the oldest national parks in the United States. Mount Rainier itself, with its iconic snow-capped peaks, looms 14,410 feet in the air. It's also an active volcano. Surrounding Mount Rainier, you'll find acres of meadows, deep valleys, and forests. Three park campgrounds have spaces for RVs, although none of them have water or electrical hookups. One has a dump station, but it isn't always open. Check with the park to see if it's in service. You can stay for up to 14 days.
Bay View State Park is less than 10 miles from Mount Vernon. On the banks of Padilla Bay, it has a view of the San Juan Islands...and perhaps a whale or two. Fishing, skiing, and other water sports abound. The park's campground has 46 sites, 30 of which have partial hookups. There are restrooms and showers.
Another state park, Deception Pass, is 25 minutes southwest of Mount Vernon. The jagged cliffs, rocky shores, and scenic Deception Pass Bridge create a romantic, picturesque backdrop. There are three lakes to fish or swim in, or you can stroll the Puget Sound shore. Thirty-five miles of hiking trails crisscross the park. There are 134 RV sites with partial hookups.
Larrabee State Park, 27 minutes northwest of Mount Vernon, has the distinction of being Washington’s first state park. You can camp here as well as indulge in various water-based activities, such as fishing, boating, shellfish harvesting and exploring tidepools, as it contains 8,100 feet of shoreline along Samish Bay.
The Space Needle is one of the world's most famous observation towers and definitely Washington State’s most identifiable landmark. Built for the 1962 World's Fair, the Space Needle is a symbol of Seattle. It went through a renovation in 2017 and now houses a lounge, a cafe, and a wine bar.
Snoqualmie Falls, which is an hour and a half southeast of Mount Vernon, hosts almost 2 million visitors each year. In addition to the 27-foot waterfall, you'll find a park, gift shop, and free parking. The observation decks for viewing the falls are open year-round.
The Arthur Foss is thought to be the oldest wooden tugboat that's still floating. It's been in the water since 1889. Now you can explore it via public tours at the Historic Ships Wharf in Seattle.
Bellingham RV Park, 34 minutes north of Mount Vernon, has 56 sites with full hookups and free Wi-Fi, and there also are private showers. Larrabee State Park, also in Bellingham, has 50 RV-friendly spots with full hookups. It puts you right by all the boating, hiking, and fishing in the park. Mount Vernon RV Campground is near downtown Mount Vernon. Its 81 RV-friendly campsites have full hookups and power. There's a clubhouse, pool, and even a miniature golf course.
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 Mount Vernon, WA?
When towing a 5th-wheel rental RV in Mount Vernon, WA, 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 Mount Vernon, WA, such as zoning laws or homeowners' association regulations?
Renters should always check local regulations before parking a 5th wheel RV in Mount Vernon, WA. 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 Mount Vernon, WA?
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 Mount Vernon, WA. RVshare owners may offer additional amenities or features for a more comfortable stay.