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 do I correctly load and secure my recreational equipment in the toy hauler rental, such as ATVs or dirt bikes, and are there any weight or size limitations I need to be aware of?
It is important to properly load and secure your recreational equipment in the toy hauler rental to ensure safety during travel. Most toy haulers come equipped with tie-downs and rails specifically designed for securing equipment. It is important to follow the manufacturer's guidelines for weight capacity and loading instructions. You should also check with the owner of the RVshare rental for any specific instructions or recommendations.
What kind of maintenance or upkeep do I need on the toy hauler rental's garage area, and what kind of tools or equipment do I need for this?
Proper maintenance of the toy hauler is handled by the RV owner. As the renter you are responsible for being cautious and following instructions to avoid damages, as well as keeping the trailer clean and in the condition you found it.
Are there any special insurance considerations or requirements when renting a toy hauler, particularly regarding the transport of recreational equipment?
RVshare rentals always come with insurance, with three options to choose from to best suit your needs.
How do I properly level and stabilize a toy hauler rental at my campsite or RV park, and what equipment or tools do I need?
Discuss your specific campsite with the RV owner to determine if leveling and stabilization of the toy hauler rental is needed for optimal comfort and safety.
Can I bring fuel and oil for my recreational equipment, or should I purchase these items after reaching my destination?
It is generally recommended to purchase fuel and oil for your recreational equipment after reaching your destination. Many RV parks and campgrounds have restrictions on fuel storage for safety reasons.
What kind of towing vehicle do I need to rent a toy hauler, and are there any special licensing or certification requirements for operating this vehicle in Mount Vernon, WA?
The type of towing vehicle needed for a toy hauler rental will depend on the weight and towing capacity of the toy hauler itself. It is important to check with the owner of the RVshare rental for any specific requirements or recommendations. Typically a standard driver’s license is required to tow a toy hauler.
Can I use the garage area of a toy hauler rental to store items other than recreational equipment, and what weight limitations exist for these items?
The garage area of a toy hauler rental can typically be used to store items other than recreational equipment, such as bicycles or camping gear. However, it is important to follow any weight capacity guidelines provided by the manufacturer or rental owner to ensure safe operation.
Are any particular features or amenities available in toy hauler rentals that may not be found in other RVs in Mount Vernon, WA?
Toy hauler rentals often come equipped with unique features and amenities not found in other types of RVs. These can include a garage area for storing and transporting recreational equipment, folding beds or bunks, and outdoor living spaces. Checking with the rental owner for specific features and amenities can help you choose the best option for your travel needs.