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?
How do I correctly set up and take down a popup camper rental, and what kind of tools or equipment do I need?
Setting up and taking down a popup camper rental typically requires a few basic tools, including a rubber mallet, wheel chocks, and a few different sized wrenches. The process will vary based on the specific model, but typically involves locating and extending the stabilizer jacks, popping up the roof, extending the sidewalls, and connecting any necessary hoses and cables. Be sure to follow any instructions provided by the owner and ask for assistance if you are unsure about any aspect of the setup.
Can I rent a popup camper in Opelika, AL without a vehicle capable of towing it, and if so, what are my options for renting a towing vehicle?
Standard passenger sedans typically able to tow popup campers that weigh less than 1,500 pounds. Heavier duty vehicles, such as 4x4 SUVs, can usually tow a heavier popup. If you are unable to tow, another option is to have the popup campered delivered to your campsite. The RVshare owner will bring it to the campground and set up for you, then tow it away after your trip is over.
Are there any special driving considerations or techniques I should know when towing a popup camper rental in Opelika, AL?
When towing a popup camper rental, it's important to practice safe driving techniques and be aware of your surroundings. You may need to adjust your driving speed and distance from other vehicles to account for the additional weight and length. It's also important to make sure the camper rental is properly secured and level before hitting the road.
What kind of amenities can I expect in a popup camper rental, and how do they compare to other RV rentals in Opelika, AL?
Popup camper rentals typically offer a range of amenities and features, including comfortable sleeping quarters, kitchen appliances and supplies, and on-board storage options. While they may be more compact than other RV rentals, they often offer a more affordable and flexible option for travelers who want to explore the outdoors.
Can I bring my bedding and linens to use in the popup camper rental, and what kind of storage options are available for these items?
Many RVshare owners will provide bedding and linens for the popup camper rental, but you can certainly bring your own if you prefer. There are typically storage compartments and cubbies located throughout the interior of the camper rental for storing personal items.
How do I properly level and stabilize a popup camper rental at my campsite or RV park, and what equipment or tools do I need for this?
Discuss your particular campsite with the RV owner to determine if leveling and stabilizing will be necessary. To properly level and stabilize a popup camper rental, you will need a few basic tools, including leveling blocks, wheel chocks, and a bubble level. The process will vary based on the specific model, but typically involves leveling the camper rental side-to-side using the leveling blocks and adjusting the front-to-back level using the tongue jack.
What weather conditions should I know when renting a popup camper in Opelika, AL, and how can I prepare for them?
Depending on where you are renting the popup camper, you may need to prepare for a range of different weather conditions. It's important to check the forecast before heading out and be prepared with appropriate clothing and gear for any potential weather events. You should also take steps to protect the camper rental from high winds, rain, and other elements by properly securing it and using any available window covers or awnings.
Can I bring my outdoor equipment or appliances to use with the popup camper rental, such as a portable grill or camping chairs?
Yes, you can certainly bring your own outdoor equipment and appliances to use with the popup camper rental. However, be sure to check with the RVshare owner beforehand to make sure there is enough space to store your items and that they are safe to use with the camper rental.
What kind of maintenance or upkeep do I need to perform on the exterior and interior of a popup camper rental during my rental period?
The maintenance and upkeep required for a popup camper is handled by the RV owner. Handle the camper with care and return it in the condition you received it.
Are there any unique features or amenities available in popup camper rentals that may not be found in other RVs in Opelika, AL?
Popup camper rentals are light and easier to tow than most other towable trailers, making them easier to bring along on your trips, and typically meaning your own vehicle should be able to tow them.
