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 does hitching and unhitching a 5th-wheel RV rental work, and is it challenging?
Hitching and unhitching a 5th-wheel RV rental requires proper positioning of the RV and truck and connecting the hitch. It can be challenging for first-time renters, but the owner usually provides a thorough explanation of the process.
Are there any special driving considerations or techniques when towing a 5th-wheel rental RV in Orange, VA?
When towing a 5th-wheel rental RV in Orange, VA, it is important to note the weight and size of the RV and follow all traffic laws. Drivers should also be cautious of wind conditions as they can affect stability.
Do I use a generator to power the electrical system on a 5th wheel RV, or do I need to connect to a power source at a campground or RV park?
Most 5th wheel RVs come with a built-in generator, but some may require being plugged into a power source at a campground or RV park. RV owners will provide information on the specifics of powering the RV.
Are there any limitations on where I can park or store a 5th wheel RV in Orange, VA, such as zoning laws or homeowners' association regulations?
Renters should always check local regulations before parking a 5th wheel RV in Orange, VA. Some areas have specific zoning laws or homeowners' association regulations regarding parking and storing RVs.
What kind of maintenance or upkeep do I need to perform on a 5th-wheel RV rental during my rental period?
Renters should keep the RV clean and make sure to report any damages. Regular maintenance such as oil changes and tire checks are the responsibility of the RV owner.
Are there any safety concerns I should know when towing a 5th-wheel rental RV, such as sway or brake issues?
Sway and brake issues can occur when towing a 5th-wheel rental RV. Renters should be mindful of weight distribution and proper hitching to prevent these issues.
How do I properly level and stabilize a 5th-wheel rental RV at my campsite or RV park?
Leveling and stabilizing a 5th-wheel rental RV requires proper positioning and use of RV leveling blocks. The owner should provide instructions or assistance if needed.
Do I need to bring my cooking appliances or equipment for use in the 5th wheel rental RV's kitchen?
Most 5th wheel rental RVs come with a equipped kitchen, check the listing details or ask the owner for specific items. Renters may choose to bring additional cooking appliances or equipment if they desire.
Are there any unique features or amenities available in 5th wheel RV rental that may not be found in other towable RVs in Orange, VA?
5th wheel rental RVs may have additional features such as multiple bedrooms or bathrooms, larger living spaces, and better towing stability compared to other towable RVs in Orange, VA. RVshare owners may offer additional amenities or features for a more comfortable stay.