Indiana Sand Dunes National Park was declared a national park in 2019, and it contains 15 miles of beautiful lakefront and 20 square miles of countryside. The park is convenient to visit due to its close proximity to major towns and cities, so there are plenty of options for dining, retail, and lodging nearby. The sand dunes, prairies, forests, and rivers of the park create a great environment for activities like hiking, biking, horseback riding, fishing, boating, and water sports.
Gateway Arch National Park is located in St. Louis, MO, and is primarily known for its famous 630-foot white arch that towers over the Mississippi River. The arch marks the starting point of the famous Lewis and Clark expedition of the early 19th century. Visitors can take a trolley ride to the top of the arch, where the view of the city is truly breathtaking. The park is also home to the Old St. Louis Courthouse, which can be explored and learned about via guided tours.
A few hours south of Oak Park, you'll find Kentucky's Mammoth Cave National Park. The fascinating park features the longest known cave system in the world; the area has more than 400 miles of explored caverns, and there are still more to be discovered. Visitors can explore the cave through guided tours, which will allow access to famous chambers like the Rotunda and Gothic Avenue, the latter of which features a ceiling covered in signatures from the 19th century.
Indiana Dunes State Park is most known for its 200-foot-high sand dunes, which tower above the marshes, swamps, and forests of the area. The park features a number of scenic hiking and biking trails, and the local bird-watching opportunities are renowned.
Kankakee River State Park is found in northern Illinois near the town of Bourbonnais. The park comprises a 4,000-acre stretch of land surrounding the beautiful Kankakee River, and the area is a popular destination for canoeing, fishing, camping, biking, and hiking. The park also offers two on-site campgrounds, one of which offers electrical hookups while both offer a handful of amenities.
One more popular nearby recreation area is Shabbona Lake State Park, where boating and fishing on the placid waters are both popular pastimes. The 1,550-acre stretch of land is relatively close to several significant towns and quality campgrounds, so finding convenient food, supplies, and lodging won't be an issue.
Many of Illinois' most spectacular landmarks and monuments are within a short distance of Oak Park. The Willis Tower in Chicago stands 1,729 feet above the city and held the title of the tallest building in the world for 15 years. As you'd guess, the view from the top is unforgettable.
Another recognizable Chicago landmark is Millennium Park, which is also the home to the fascinating Cloud Gate metallic sculpture. The park and sculpture have been cultural icons for nearly two decades, and they're worth taking a detour to visit if you're traveling near the city.
When you're ready to hunker down for the night, one solid option near Oak Park is Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park in Newark, IL. This campground offers sites with full hookups, and the location also features a pool, showers, horseshoes, mini-golf, and a playground.
Chicago Northwest KOA is another quality campground in the area. They offer both back-in and pull-through RV sites with electrical hookups, and they've also earned a reputation for being one of the more peaceful campgrounds in the region.
Another good option is Enchanted Shores in Peotone, IL, which charges $35 per night for their full hookup RV sites. The location also features a playground, basketball court, volleyball court, and horseshoes area. There are plenty of nearby opportunities for outdoor recreation, dining, and shopping as well.
How does RVshare classify a cheap RV rental?
RVshare defines an affordable RV rental as any rental that is priced under $100 per night. Renters can search for RVs in a range of budget-friendly options.
What is the average cost of renting a cheap RV in Oak Park, IL, and how do I save money on my rental?
The average cost of renting a cheap RV in a specific city or state varies based on factors such as RV type, rental duration, and location. Renters can save money by renting during off-season months or by splitting the cost with a group of friends or family members.
Are any discounts or promotions available for renting a cheap RV, such as off-season rates or group discounts?
RVshare does not offer discounts or promotions for cheap RV rentals. However, renters may find cheaper options during off-season months or by negotiating with the owner for a lower rental rate.
How do I find cheap RV rentals in Oak Park, IL that meet my safety and reliability standards?
All RVs on RVshare are vetted and considered safe to operate. Renters can also read reviews from past renters to ensure the RV meets their standards for safety and reliability.
Do I bring my bedding and linens to use in a budget-friendly RV rental, and what storage options are available for these items?
The RV owners determine what is available with the rental, such as bedding and utensils. Renters should review the RV listing description or ask the owner for more information. Storage options for personal items can vary by RV, so renters should check with the owner for available storage space.
How can I properly clean and sanitize an RV rental before and after my rental period?
Renters should clean up and leave the RV as they found it, or follow instructions provided by the RV owner. RVshare recommends using cleaning products and disinfectants that are safe for use on RV surfaces.
Are there any specific safety features or amenities I should prioritize when renting an affordable RV?
Renters should prioritize safety features such as smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors. Other amenities, such as air conditioning and kitchen appliances, depend on the renter's personal preferences and needs.
Do I bring my outdoor equipment or appliances to use with an cheap RV rental?
The RV owners determine what is available with the rental, such as outdoor equipment and appliances. Renters should review the RV listing description or ask the owner for more information.
How can I ensure that a cheap RV rental is adequately insured and meets all legal requirements in Oak Park, IL before leaving on my trip?
All RVshare rentals come with insurance, with three packages available to choose from.
Are there any specific areas or routes I should avoid when driving an cheap RV rental in Oak Park, IL to minimize my risk of accidents or damage?
Renters should check with the owner or do research on the best routes for RV travel in a specific city or state. They should also be aware of any specific driving laws or restrictions, such as low bridges or weight limits.
