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 do I properly navigate and park a Class A motorhome rental in urban areas or tight spaces in Oak Park, IL?
Class A motorhomes can be large and require a bit of practice and patience to navigate and park in tight spaces. When driving in urban areas, it's important to be aware of your surroundings and plan your route ahead of time to avoid narrow streets, low overpasses, or weight restrictions. When parking, look for spacious lots that allow for easy entry and exit. It may also be helpful to have a spotter help guide you into your parking spot.
Are there any special licensing requirements or restrictions for operating a Class A motorhome rental in Oak Park, IL?
In most cases, a standard driver's license is required to operate a Class A motorhome rental.
What kind of maintenance or upkeep do I need to perform on a Class A motorhome rental during my rental period?
As an RVshare customer, the only maintenance required is keeping the motorhome clean and returning it in the same condition it was received.
Do I need to know any weight restrictions or bridge height limitations when operating a Class A motorhome rental in Oak Park, IL?
Yes, it's important to be aware of weight restrictions and bridge height limitations when operating a Class A motorhome rental. It's important to check with your RV owner or local authorities for any specific restrictions in your area.
Can I bring my bicycles or other outdoor equipment to use with the Class A motorhome rental, and what storage options are available for these items?
Yes, you can bring your bicycles or other outdoor equipment to use with the Class A motorhome rental. Many motorhomes come equipped with exterior storage compartments or bike racks for convenient storage. Check with the RV owner to see what storage is available to you.
How do I properly level and stabilize a Class A motorhome rental at my campsite or RV park, and what equipment or tools do I need for this?
Sometimes stabilizing a Class A motorhome is needed to ensure a comfortable and safe stay at your campsite or RV park. Confirm the type of campsite you’ll stay at and any stabilizing actions or equipment necessary with the RV owner.
What fuel efficiency considerations do I need to consider when operating a Class A motorhome rental, and how can I minimize the impact on my fuel costs?
Class A motorhomes typically have lower fuel efficiency due to their size and weight. However, there are ways to minimize fuel costs such as driving at a steady speed and avoiding abrupt stops and starts.
Do I need to bring entertainment equipment or appliances for the Class A motorhome rental, such as a home theater system or outdoor grill?
Most Class A motorhomes come equipped with basic entertainment equipment and appliances such as a TV, DVD player, and refrigerator. However, if you have specific entertainment needs or preferences, it's best to check with your RV owner to ensure these items are provided or if you should bring your own.
Are any unique features or amenities available in Class A motorhome rentals that may not be found in other RVs in Oak Park, IL?
Class A motorhomes often feature high-end amenities such as leather seating, residential-sized kitchens, and luxurious bedding. Some may also feature high-tech entertainment systems or outdoor kitchens. It's best to check with your RV owner for any specific unique features or amenities that may be available in your rental.
