The Great Smoky Mountains National Park is the most-visited national park in the country, with about 14 million visitors in the year 2020. And it's not hard to see why. The park offers more than 500,000 acres of lush forest and meadows with a wide variety of wildlife, including black bears, white-tailed deer, elk, wild turkeys, and raccoons. The nearby campground has 59 sites with full hookups for RVs. If you plan to camp in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, do note that there is a permanent ban on campfires. Similarly, permits and reservations are required for all of the shelters and backcountry campsites. Another popular activity you can try here is fly fishing.
Florence Marina State Park is a great place to unwind after a day of work. It is located at the northern end of 45,000-acre Lake Walter F. George and is a treat for water sports lovers. It has an accessible fishing pier, boat ramp, and boat slips. Guests can choose from an assortment of accommodations like small efficiency units, fully equipped cottages, and a modern campground for staying overnight. If you are looking for an adventure in the great outdoors, Chewacla State Park is also a great choice. The park is spread across 696 acres and offers multiple options for relaxing and recreation. You can enjoy horseback riding, mountain biking, and hiking trails. It is a must-see on your trip to Opelika. It is a short drive from the Auburn-Opelika area. The park offers numerous trails for hiking and mountain biking. You can also enjoy watersports at the park.
The Bankhead, Conecuh, Talladega, and Tuskegee National Forests are all located near Opelika, Alabama. Bankhead National Forest is located in northwest Alabama, in the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains. It is named after John H. Bankhead Sr., a former United States Senator from Alabama. The forest covers over 603,000 acres (2,430 sq km) and is the largest National Forest in Alabama. It is also the second-oldest National Forest in the United States, being established in 1907. It is located 250 miles north of Florence Marina State Park. Tuskegee National Forest, Alabama, is a beautiful place to visit and hike. The forest offers many different trails to explore, each with its own unique scenery and views. Whether you're looking for a short or long hike, Tuskegee National Forest has something for everyone.
There are several national sites and monuments near Opelika, Alabama. These sites are easily accessible and close to the Florence Marina State Park. Some of the sites include the Auburn Players Theater, Ebenezer Missionary Baptist Church, Old Rotation, and the Pepperell Mill and Mill Village Historic District, to name a few. The Auburn Players Theater, also known as the Auburn University Chapel, was built in 1851 as a Presbyterian Church. It served as a Confederate hospital for wounded soldiers during the Civil War. Currently, it serves as an interdenominational, multipurpose building. The Old Rotation was established in 1896 by Professor J.F. Duggar as a soil fertility experiment. It is currently ongoing and is the oldest continuous cotton experiment in the world. It is carried out on a one-acre plot of land on the Auburn University campus.
The city of Opelika, Alabama offers a wide variety of campgrounds and RV parks. Some of the most popular RV parks and campgrounds include Baker’s Trailer Park and Campground, Lakeside RV Park, Spring Villa Park, and Spring Villa Campground. Many offer electric hookups and free dump stations. You can choose one based on your needs and budget.
There are a few dump stations in Opelika, Alabama, and additional nearby options in the surrounding areas. You'll find dump stations at Capital City RV Park, Fort Toulouse – Jackson Park, The Woods RV Park & Campground, and US Army Corps of Engineers – Gunter Hill Campground. See RVshare’s guide to RV dump stations in Opelika, Alabama, for complete details of dump stations.
If you're looking to explore the area around Opelika, Alabama, a great way to do so is with an RV rental. You can rent a toy hauler, travel trailer, a towable or driveable motorhome. RVshare has a variety of vehicles and price points waiting for you! Ready to book your next adventure?
Do I maintain or service the motorhome rental during my rental period?
No, it is the responsibility of the RVshare owner to ensure the motorhome is properly maintained and serviced before your rental period. Just take good care of your rental and keep it clean.
Are there any special driving considerations or techniques I should know when operating a motorhome rental in Opelika, AL?
Yes, motorhomes are larger and heavier than most passenger vehicles, so it is important to allow for more time and space when turning, merging, or stopping. Additionally, it is recommended to drive slower than the posted speed limit and to use caution when driving in windy or wet conditions.
How do I properly level and stabilize a motorhome at my campsite or RV park?
Motorhomes typically have built-in leveling jacks or blocks that can be adjusted to ensure the RV is level and stable. Some RV parks may also provide leveling pads or blocks if needed. Discuss your campsite with the RV owner ahead of time and they can provide you guidance on stabilizing.
What kind of maintenance or upkeep do I need to perform on the interior and exterior during my rental period?
You should keep the interior clean and tidy, empty waste tanks as needed, and report any damages or malfunctions to the RVshare owner. Exterior maintenance such as checking tire pressure is also recommended.
Does my motorhome rental come with bedding, linens, or other items I would consider to be personal?
This varies by RVshare owner. Some owners may include bedding and linens, while others may require renters to bring their own. It is best to check with the owner prior to renting.
Should I bring entertainment equipment or appliances for the motorhome rental?
While some motorhomes may come equipped with entertainment options or appliances, it is always a good idea to bring your own if desired. However, be mindful of any limitations on power usage or space restrictions. Check the RV listing or ask the RV owner what kind of entertainment is included.
Are there any limitations on where I can park or store a motorhome rental in Opelika, AL, such as zoning laws or homeowners' association regulations?
There may be restrictions on where motorhomes can be parked or stored in certain areas. It is best to research local laws and regulations or to ask the RVshare owner for guidance.
What fuel efficiency considerations do I need to consider when operating a motorhome rental?
Motorhomes are not typically known for their fuel efficiency, but there are steps you can take to improve gas mileage such as driving at a lower speed, avoiding excessive idling, and keeping tires properly inflated.
How do I properly operate and maintain the various systems in a motorhome rental?
The RVshare owner should provide you with detailed instructions and manuals for operating and maintaining the various systems in the motorhome. It is important to follow these instructions carefully to ensure proper use and prevent damage.
Are any unique features or amenities available in motorhome rentals that may not be found in other RVs in Opelika, AL?
This varies by RV owner and motorhome class, but some motorhomes may have unique features such as slide-outs, outdoor kitchens, or luxury finishes that may not be found in other types of RVs.
