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 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 Oak Park, IL?
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 Oak Park, IL?
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.
