Olympic National Park is a vast outdoor haven covering a huge portion of Washington's Olympic Peninsula. The park contains majestic mountains complete with hot springs, lush temperate rainforests, and a stretch of breathtaking coastline. Additionally, the area boasts hundreds of fascinating archaeological sites, which date back over 12,000 years. The park is a hiker's paradise, featuring thousands of miles of scenic trails. There are also top-notch opportunities for biking, kayaking, swimming, wildlife viewing, and more.
Located near the Washington-Canada border, North Cascades National Park is most known for its stunning beauty. The picturesque area is home to the towering Cascade Mountains as well as crystal-clear lakes, colorful wildflowers, and incredible glaciers. In total, the park is home to 312 glaciers, accounting for roughly one-third of the glaciers in the continental United States. Popular activities in the park include hiking, fishing, camping, kayaking, bird watching, and wildlife viewing.
Mount Rainier National Park is one of the most famous places in Washington, most known as the home of the majestic Mount Rainier itself. The iconic peak, which is actually an active volcano, stands an amazing 14,410 feet tall. In the mountain's shadow, you'll find old-growth forests and serene meadows to explore. During the spring and summer, the park is one of the state's most popular hiking destinations. During the winter, however, many visitors head to the Crystal Mountain ski resort to have some fun hitting the slopes.
Sequim Bay State Park is located only a short distance from Port Angeles and is home to the scenic Olympic Discovery Trail. Visitors can hike the popular trail, take part in guided wildlife tours, or go kayaking, canoeing, or boating in the nearby bay.
Fort Ebey State Park is known mainly as a historical site, featuring a fortress that dates back to the 1940s. The park also features a lovely beach, where visitors can enjoy a swim or do some sunbathing. The Pacific Northwest National Scenic Trail passes through the area, making the park a popular destination for avid hikers.
Another awesome historical site is Fort Flagler State Park, which is a former U.S. Army coastal artillery fort. Popular activities for visitors include hiking, biking, picnicking, boating, and taking part in guided tours of the historical buildings.
Washington is home to a spectacular selection of monuments and landmarks, and if you intend to visit a few of them, Seattle's iconic Space Needle is an excellent starting point. The world-famous spire is both an observation tower and a restaurant, and if you take the trip to the top, you'll enjoy incredible views of the Seattle skyline, the Puget Sound, and several stunning mountain ranges.
While you're in Seattle, consider also checking out the Arthur Foss Tugboat. Most likely the oldest wooden tugboat that's still floating, the boat was built in 1889 and has a storied history. The boat is docked at the Historic Ships Wharf at Seattle’s Lake Union Park, and guided tours are available to explore it.
If you travel to the small town of Snoqualmie, Washington, you can visit the amazing Snoqualmie Falls. The powerful 268-foot waterfall is surrounded by multiple observation decks and scenic hiking trails that visitors can explore.
The Port Angeles area is home to many quality campgrounds, and one excellent example is Skokomish Park At Lake Cushman. The campground boasts 30 RV campsites available for $42 to $54 per night, and full hookups are provided. The park offers many amenities and nearby opportunities for swimming, boating, fishing, and hiking.
Another great place to stay is the Gilgal Oasis RV Park, which features 28 full-hookup RV campsites for $35 per night. Each campsite is equipped with level pads and a firepit, and guests will have access to a game room, a kitchen, various amenities, and a friendly staff.
You could also rent one of the 42 RV campsites at the Point Hudson Marina & RV Park, which are available for $30-$56 per night. The campground boasts a cocktail bar, an on-site restaurant, various amenities, and plenty of local stores.
How do I properly pack and store my belongings inside a camper van rental, and what storage options are available?
When renting a Class B motorhome from an RVshare owner, there are typically several storage options available for your belongings. You can utilize overhead storage compartments, under-bench storage, and even cabinets for heavier items. When packing your belongings, it's best to use soft-sided luggage or collapsible containers to save on space. Keep items secure while driving by using bungee cords or tension rods to prevent shifting during travel.
Can I drive a camper van rental in Port Angeles, WA without prior experience, and are there any special driving considerations I should know?
Driving a Class B motorhome rental is typically similar to driving a regular car, but there are a few things to keep in mind. Make sure to adjust your mirrors before setting off and be aware of the height and length of your vehicle. It's also advisable to take a test drive around the RVshare owner's neighborhood to familiarize yourself with the handling and braking of the vehicle before embarking on your trip.
What kind of maintenance or upkeep do I need to perform on the camper van rental during my rental period?
The owner of the RV is responsible for maintenance. Renters should keep the RV clean and handle with care to avoid any damages. You may need to empty the water tanks depending on your agreement with the RV owner.
Do I need to know any weight or height restrictions when driving a camper van motorhome rental in Port Angeles, WA?
It's important to know the height and weight restrictions of your camper van rental in order to avoid accidents or getting stuck in low clearance areas, especially when traveling on highways or bridges. It's also advisable to check local regulations regarding weight limits when driving on certain roads.
Can I park or store a Class B motorhome rental in a regular parking spot or garage in Port Angeles, WA, or are there specific requirements for parking and storage?
Parking a Class B motorhome rental in a regular spot or garage can be challenging due to the size of the vehicle. It's important to check local regulations and parking restrictions before setting off on your trip. RVshare owners may also provide guidance on where it is safe to park or store the vehicle.
What fuel efficiency considerations do I need to consider when driving a Class B motorhome rental, and how can I minimize the impact on my fuel costs?
Most Class B motorhomes are relatively fuel efficient, but it's important to be mindful of your driving habits in order to minimize fuel costs. Avoid idling the engine unnecessarily, accelerate smoothly, and avoid excessive speeding. It's also a good idea to plan your route before departing in order to avoid getting lost or taking unnecessary detours.
Are any particular features or amenities available in a camper van rental that may not be found in other RVs in Port Angeles, WA?
Features and amenities vary depending on the model of the Class B motorhome rental, but some popular options include a built-in microwave, refrigerator, and TV/DVD player. Some models may also include a shower and toilet, while others may not. Check the listing details on RVshare for all of the available amenities for each rental.
How do I correctly set up and use the kitchen and bathroom facilities in a Class B motorhome rental?
Each RVshare owner may have different instructions for using the kitchen and bathroom facilities in their Class B motorhome rental. In the bathroom, there may be a shower and/or toilet that needs to be hooked up to water and sewage sources. RVshare owners will typically provide instruction manuals or walkthroughs of the rental vehicle's features.
Should I bring my entertainment equipment or appliances for the camper van rental, such as a portable grill or music player?
While some Class B motorhome rentals may include entertainment equipment or appliances, such as a grill or music player, it's always a good idea to double-check with the RVshare owner about what amenities are included in the rental. If you have specific entertainment preferences, you may want to bring your own equipment or devices.
Are any specific campgrounds or RV parks in Port Angeles, WA particularly well-suited for a camper van and what amenities or features do they offer?
There are many campgrounds and RV parks in Port Angeles, WA that are well-suited for Class B motorhome rentals. Some popular amenities include electrical hookups, dump stations for sewage, and picnic tables. It's important to research and reserve a spot in advance to ensure availability during your trip. RVshare owners may also have recommendations for great campsites or RV parks in the area.
