New River Gorge National Parkis a sprawling 70,000-acre recreational area just over 200 miles southeast of Orange. You can get there easily using I-64 and Route 19. The steel arch bridge at this park was the world's longest at one time, and it is still a heavily photographed landmark. Keep your eyes open if you've never seen a peregrine falcon or bald eagle because these beautiful birds call this park home! Some people call the New River the world's second oldest, and it has cut quite a path for itself over the millennia. Hiking trails connect it all, from points on the river where you can go canoeing, kayaking, and boating to mesmerizing overlooks where you can admire lush valleys filled with biodiversity and the remnants of coal mining settlements. Shenandoah National Park is only 45 miles north of Orange, and it is one of the most scenic drives Virginia has to offer. This park starts where the Blue Ridge Parkway ends. You can enter and drive Skyline Drive for 105 miles. This roadway connects scenic overlooks and panoramic views, but there is more to the park than that. Tumbling streams are home to brook trout, and the outcroppings of greenstone, granite, and quartz contrast the diverse species through the thick forest.
Lake Anna State Park is your chance to go swimming! The fishing pond is accessible to children and anyone with disabilities. Get dressed and clean in the bathhouse, or fuel up at the onsite concessions. Boat launch facilities are available to get your own vessel into the water, or you can schedule pontoon boat rides for your travel party. You can also pan for gold, hike, and enjoy a picnic off the water. If you want an unusual overnight experience, reserve one of the four yurts located at the park. Powhatan State Park sits on the James River. Campsites with water and electrical hookups are available for RVs as long as 60 feet. To observe the local wildlife and enjoy some quality time outdoors, hike, or canoe through terrain that ranges from open fields to hardwood forests. Bring your boat along, and use the slide to get in and out of the river. Shenandoah River State Park stretches over five miles of the South Fork of the namesake river. Picnic on the riverside, use the boat launch, go fishing, or take a canoe ride. Enjoy the view from a scenic overlook, or delve into the 1,600 surrounding acres. Over 15 miles of trails allow biking, hiking, and horseback riding. Seasonal guided rides are available.
Cedar Creek and Belle Grove National Historical Park is your chance to learn the history of Shenandoah Valley, starting with its initial settlement by Europeans. This park boasts approximately 3,500 acres and includes a National Heritage Area and battlefield. Enjoy the free podcast tour as you visit the Battle of Cedar Creek. Head to Belle Grove to learn about plantation life and see where they ran several mills and a distillery, grew wheat, and raised livestock. Potomac Heritage National Scenic Trail is 900 miles of hiking, and 137 of them cross Northern Virginia. The trail runs from the Allegheny Highlands of Pennsylvania to the mouth of the Potomac River in Maryland. In addition to hiking, you can also go biking on many parts of this trail, and paddling the Potomac is also an option. Skyline Drive heads up and down the crest of Virginia's Blue Ridge Mountains. Fall is a popular time to hit this road, as vibrant foliage in an array of colors appears. It starts at the highest elevations in late September, and the festival of colors continues slowly downhill until mid-November. Spring is another great time to visit, as anything from mountain laurel to blooming azaleas offer another bonanza of beauty and color. Keep your eyes open for wild turkeys, deer, and black bears. Ensure your Orange, Virginia RV rental has a 12'8" maximum clearance, or find another way around Mary's Rock Tunnel between mile markers 32 and 33.
Whether you're driving a fifth-wheel trailer, travel trailer, or toy hauler & popup camper, you will need places to park and set up camp every night. Two great options await you within 20 miles of Orange, Virginia. Small Country Campground can accommodate RVs up to 50 feet long and offers sites with full hookups. They also have a convenience store, three conveniently located bathhouses, and three dump stations that registered guests can use at no charge. Madison Vines RV Resort and Cottages in the nearby town of Madison has a playground, dog park, swimming pool, and a variety of scheduled weekend events, plus a nearby Bavarian restaurant. Both of these locations are close to multiple wineries and cideries. If you need more options, then head 25 miles out for Charlottesville campgrounds such as Pohick Bay Regional Park, AmeriCamps RV Resort, and Misty Mountain Camp Resort.
How do I properly navigate and park a Class A motorhome rental in urban areas or tight spaces in Orange, VA?
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 Orange, VA?
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 Orange, VA?
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 Orange, VA?
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.