The closest national park to Orland, California, is Lassen Volcanic National Park. It's just an 80-mile drive away in your fifth-wheel trailer. The park is home to mud pots, small volcanoes, and fumaroles. There are also small mountain lakes, and you can swim in the cool water before a hot mud bath at the Drakesbad Guest Ranch. Before retiring to your Class A RV or camper van in the evening, take advantage of the stargazing in the park. Almost to the Oregon border, 230 miles north of Orland, you will find Redwood National Park. The park covers 139,000 acres and contains nearly half of the remaining coastal redwood trees in the world. Of course, the trees are the park's main draw, and some are nearly 400 feet tall. The park has three official hiking trails, none of which are extremely difficult. The toughest of the three is the Mill Creek Horse Loop trail, which makes an 8-mile circle across fairly rough terrain. The Simpson-Reed loop trail is just a mile long and is quite flat. It's also wheelchair-accessible. Crater Lake National Park is in Oregon and lies a bit more than 240 miles from Orland. The lake sits in the crater of a dormant volcano. If you have a combination toy hauler and popup camper, then you can bring all sorts of other equipment with you to enjoy the many activities you might not expect at a national park. These include snowmobiling, snowshoeing, and mountain biking. The park has 90 miles of hiking trails and a single 33-mile-long bike trail. The temperature can drop to 40 F even during the summer, so bring warm clothes if you plan a summer trip.
After picking up your Orland, California, RV rental, take a drive to the Woodson Bridge State Recreation Area, which is just 18 miles away. The Sacramento River flows through the area, and the fishing there is famous. You can ride Jet Skis on the river, too, or swim along the sandy beach that is part of one of California's last truly pristine riparian areas. The park is home to more than 100 species of plants, and bald eagles regularly ride the updrafts in the area. The Colusa-Sacramento River State Recreation Area is 47 miles south of Orland. As parks go, it's tiny at only 63 acres, but the land near the riverbank is just right for campers. Many wildlife species either make their home in the park or travel through it. These include muskrats, raccoons, deer, and foxes. There is also a 5-acre picnic and barbecue area for gatherings of family and friends. The fishing is great for big fish like king salmon and striped bass. Malakoff Diggins State Park is about a two-hour drive to the east. There is a famous gold mine at the park, and you can hike to the mine and through the chaparral to enjoy the unusual setting and the plants that grow in it. The hiking trails total 20 miles. As you hike through the area, you will see many relics from the days of the Gold Rush, such as sluices and former gold veins.
About 71 miles north of Orland, you will come to the Whiskeytown National Recreation Area. The area is renowned for the fishing and boating on Whiskeytown Lake and the diverse hiking opportunities. For example, the Brandy Creek Falls Trail is a moderately difficult trail that is 2.9 miles long and has recently been revamped with rock steps and metal railings to improve safety. The Mill Creek Trail is 12.6 miles of difficult terrain, and the Crystal Creek Falls Trail is an easy 0.9 miles. The California Historic Trail isn't just one site; it's a collection of many sites along the trail that prospectors traveled after the discovery of gold at Sutter's Mill in 1848. As the site is basically part of a giant hiking trail, the abundant hiking opportunities are easy, moderate, and difficult. There are also exhibits of original wagons and tools that date from the Gold Rush period. Large sections of the trail are wide enough for RVs of any size, so it's a terrific choice for anyone with a motorhome. The Port Chicago Naval Magazine National Memorial is about 140 miles from Orland. The memorial is for the more than 300 people from the armed services who perished in an explosion of two ships on July 17, 1944. This event was important for racial progress in the United States, as the outcry after the explosion, which killed mostly Black Americans, was seminal in the process of desegregation in the United States. This memorial is an incredibly popular place to visit. If you'd like to take the free tours offered by the park service, you'll have to call at least two weeks ahead.
If I want to rent a towable RV, how do I tell if my vehicle can handle the tow?
Before renting a towable RV, it is essential to ensure that your vehicle can handle the weight and hitch type of the trailer. You can find this information in your vehicle's owner's manual. You will also need to check the Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) of the trailer, which can usually be found on a sticker located on the trailer. It is recommended that you do not exceed 80% of your vehicle's maximum tow rating and make sure you have the proper hitch, brake controller, and sway control device.
Are there any limitations on the types of roads or terrain I can navigate with a towable RV rental in Orland, CA?
Yes, there are limitations on the types of roads and terrain that you can navigate with a towable RV rental. It is important to check the RVshare rental agreement to see what types of roads and terrain are permitted. In general, most towable RVs are suitable for paved roads and well-maintained campgrounds. However, some rentals may be equipped with off-road tires, making them suitable for moderate off-road terrain.
Are there any additional insurance considerations or requirements when towing a rental RV, and how can I ensure I am adequately covered?
When renting a towable RV, there are three insurance options in case of an accident or damage. RVshare offers different types of insurance coverage, including liability, collision, and comprehensive. It is recommended that you choose the coverage that best suits your needs.
Do I use a sway control device when towing a RV, and does RVshare provide it, or do I need to bring my own?
A sway control device is highly recommended when towing a RV, especially on highways or in windy conditions. Discuss with the RV owner if this is something you will need. RVshare does not provide sway control devices, but the individual owner might.
What kind of braking system do I need for a towable RV rental, and how do I ensure it is properly installed and functional?
All towable RV rentals require a functioning braking system. There are two types of braking systems: electric and surge. Electric brake systems require a brake controller to be installed in the towing vehicle, while surge braking systems are built into the trailer's hitch. It is important to ensure that the braking system is properly installed and functional before towing. RVshare recommends having a professional mechanic inspect the brakes before renting.
Are any unique features or amenities available in towable RV rentals that may not be found in other RVs in Orland, CA?
The features and amenities available in towable RV rentals vary depending on the unit and the owner's preferences. Some common features found in towable RVs include full kitchens, bathrooms, and sleeping areas. Unique features may include outdoor kitchens, fireplaces, and spacious living areas. It is recommended that you browse RVshare's inventory to find a rental unit that meets your specific needs.
How do I properly load and distribute weight within a towable RV rental to ensure safe and stable towing?
Proper weight distribution is crucial when towing a RV. It is recommended that you load heavier items towards the front of the trailer and distribute weight evenly from side to side. You should also avoid overloading the trailer and keep the weight under the GVWR. It is recommended that you use a weight distribution hitch, which can help balance the weight and provide more stability when towing.
What are the fuel efficiency considerations when towing a rental RV, and how can I minimize the impact on my fuel costs?
Towing a rental RV can have a significant impact on your vehicle's fuel efficiency. It is recommended that you use a towing vehicle with a fuel-efficient engine and avoid driving at high speeds. Additionally, removing any unnecessary weight from your vehicle and trailer can help maximize fuel efficiency. It is also recommended that you maintain a consistent speed and avoid sudden stops and starts.
What kind of maintenance or upkeep do I need on a towable RV rental during my rental period, and what kind of supplies or tools do I need to have on hand for this?
During your rental period you are not responsible for maintenance. Treat the RV with care and maintain cleanliness during your trip.