Parsons, West Virginia, has three popular national parks within a few hours' drive offering various outdoor activities and stunning natural landscapes. Cuyahoga Valley National Park is located approximately 3.5 hours north of Parsons and is a unique destination that preserves the rural landscape of the Cuyahoga River Valley. This park is a popular spot for kayaking, biking, and hiking, and it also features several historic sites and cultural events. New River Gorge National Park, located about 2 hours east of Parsons, is well-known for its rugged Appalachian Mountains and the New River, one of North America's oldest rivers. The park is popular for rock climbing, whitewater rafting, and hiking and also offers scenic drives and overlooks. About 3 hours southeast of Parsons is Shenandoah National Park, a beautiful destination that includes the Blue Ridge Mountains and the Shenandoah River. This park is a favorite among hikers, campers, and wildlife enthusiasts alike and offers a network of trails with stunning views of the surrounding landscape. Whether you enjoy exploring the great outdoors, camping, or hiking, each national park near Parsons offers a unique and unforgettable experience worth checking out.
Blackwater Falls State Park is one of the most popular parks in West Virginia and is located just across the border from Maryland. With a main lodge, cabins, and camping sites available, Blackwater Falls State Park provides a relaxing retreat for families, outdoor enthusiasts, and nature lovers. Canaan Valley Resort State Park is one of the most popular parks in West Virginia. This park is known for its unique sandstone formations, which the river has carved. The grasslands are home to a variety of wildlife, including deer. Canaan Valley Resort State Park features an 18-hole golf course and a variety of cabins and lodges for rent. Audra State Park is one of the most popular parks in West Virginia. The park features a lake for fishing and swimming. It also has a campground with RV hookups, tent sites, and cabins available. Other amenities include a boat launch and marina, picnic areas, restrooms, and showers. Audra State Park is open year-round.
Here are four popular national forests near Parsons that are worth visiting: Monongahela National Forest: Nestled in the heart of West Virginia, Monongahela National Forest covers over 900,000 acres of natural beauty. It features lush forests, cascading waterfalls, and stunning mountain views, making it a popular destination. George Washington and Jefferson National Forests: These vast forests cover over 1.8 million acres and are about 3 hours south of Parsons. The forests offer diverse recreational activities, providing picturesque views of the surrounding landscape. Wayne National Forest: Located about 3 hours west of Parsons, Wayne National Forest covers over 240,000 acres in southeastern Ohio, offers many outdoor activities. Camping is also allowed in this park for specific months; thus, check the guidelines before visiting.  Allegheny National Forest: Located about 3 hours north of Parsons, Allegheny National Forest is a massive area covering over 500,000 acres in northwestern Pennsylvania and provides many options for recreational activities.  These national forests near Parsons are great destinations for those exploring the great outdoors. Each offers a unique and unforgettable experience, and all are within a few hours' drive of the town. All these forests are famous for hiking, camping, and fishing and feature several scenic drives and overlooks where visitors can admire the breathtaking scenery.
Parsons, West Virginia, is great for anyone interested in American history. The first site is Friendship Hill National Historic Site. This site commemorates the life and work of American diplomat and statesman Albert Gallatin. Gallatin was born in Switzerland and came to America in 1780. He later served as Secretary of the Treasury under President Thomas Jefferson. Friendship Hill was Gallatin's home from 1813 until he died in 1849. Today, visitors can tour the restored house and grounds and learn about Gallatin's life and legacy. The second national site in Parsons is the Flight 93 National Memorial. This memorial honors the passengers and crew of United Flight 93, who were killed when the plane crashed into a field on September 11, 2001. The memorial is located at the crash site and includes a visitor's center with exhibits about the events of that day. Parsons's third and final national site is the James A. Garfield National Historic Site. This site commemorates the life of President James Garfield, who was born in Ohio in 1831. Garfield became a Republican politician and was elected president in 1880. He was assassinated four months into his term. Today, visitors can tour the Garfield home and learn about his life and Presidency.
You can choose many options if you're looking for an RV park or campground in Parsons, West Virginia. Some of the great choices near Parsons include the Pegasus Farm Campground and Tygart Lake State Park Most public RV parks and campgrounds have facilities like electric hookups, free showers, free Wi-Fi, and a dump station.
There are many RV dump stations in Parsons, West Virginia, and additional nearby options in the surrounding areasYou’ll find dump stations at Blackwater Falls State Park, Canaan Valley Resort Park, Big Bear Lake Family Campgrounds, and Chestnut Ridge Park and Campground. See RVshare’s guide to RV dump stations in Parsons, WV, for dump station addresses and details.
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 Parsons, WV 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 Parsons, WV?
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 Parsons, WV?
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 Parsons, WV, 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 Parsons, WV?
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.
