Acadia National Park is the closest national park to Providence, RI. It lies a little more than 300 miles to the northeast in Maine. With 3.3 million visitors annually, it's one of the busiest national parks in the entire country. Visitors are drawn to the park for its nearly 160 miles of hiking trails, striking flora and fauna, and proximity to the ocean. Acadia National Park is also a renowned destination for birding as more than 300 species of birds frequent the park. Every spring, too, the Acadia Birding Festival takes place at Acadia National Park.
If you want a longer road trip, then you can head 475 miles south to Shenandoah National Park in Virginia. The park covers 300 square miles in the Blue Ridge Mountains, making it one of the best locations for hiking and climbing in the country. There are 332 graded climbs in the park, including a baker's dozen that are rated 5.12a or higher. These are climbs for true experts in top physical condition. There are 274 combined miles of hiking trails of all lengths and difficulties. The Appalachian Trail crosses through the park, and there are more than 90 mountain streams that contain more than 40 species of fish, so be sure to bring your rod and reel.
Drive further, 600 miles, and you will find Cuyahoga Valley National Park in Ohio. The main attraction at Cuyahoga Valley National Park is a collection of more than 100 waterfalls within the park. The park has more than 125 miles of hiking trails, and many of these passes by one or more of those waterfalls. Within Cuyahoga Valley National Park, there's also a 100-mile-long river that is great for fishing. Ohio fishing regulations are extensive, so it'd be a good idea to read them on the applicable national park website before fishing.
Lincoln Woods State Park is just six miles away. The park is popular for its dedicated bridle trails within the park's 627 acres. There are also multi-use trails that mountain bikers and hikers can enjoy. You can swim at or set forth in nonmotorized boats on the lake within the park. Lifeguards are on duty seasonally, generally from Memorial Day to Labor Day.
It's just 10 miles to the 1,000-acre Snake Den State Park. The park is intentionally underdeveloped, with only some hiking trails, along with a few administrative buildings. However, the flora and fauna are notable throughout the park, and you can photograph both wildflowers and wildlife therein.
Since 2014, Rocky Point State Park has been a passive-use park. You can fish from the beach, hike or bike the trails, and rollerblade on the boardwalk.
Rhode Island is one of 10 states that doesn't have a national forest. The closest national forest is White Mountain National Forest, which straddles the border of Maine and New Hampshire. As road trips go, it's not particularly long at 185 miles. White Mountain National Forest is well-known for its 575 well-marked hiking trails of all difficulty levels. You are allowed to fly drones within the forest for some terrific aerial photographs. Just pay close attention to the places where you're allowed to land or launch your drone because there are restrictions in place. The Appalachian Trail passes through, too, and the Hanover to Gorham section of the trail is one of the toughest climbs along its length.
The Touro Synagogue National Historic Site, which is only 34 miles from Providence, RI, was the first synagogue built in North America. It predates the Declaration of Independence by a dozen years. It's not only historically significant as a symbol of religious freedom but is a wonderful example of 18th-century architecture.
The Roger Williams National Memorial in the city is dedicated to the founder of Providence. Wander around the four-acre site, and learn about the English minister and his life and philosophy, including his strong belief in the separation of church and state. Parking at the site is free for two hours.
Travel five miles south of Providence to the Blackstone River Valley National Historical Park in Pawtucket. The site is a tribute to the birthplace of the Industrial Revolution in America. Sites within the park include the Captain Wilbur Kelly House Museum of Transportation and the Old Slater Mill.
Just a 15-mile trip from Providence, RI, you'll find the Holiday Acres Campground, which has full hookups at each of its 200 RV-specific campsites. Some of the campsites accommodate rigs up to 50 feet long. This campground has showers and restrooms in addition to playgrounds, sports fields, and through-the-year weekend activities.
Ashaway RV Resort is 41 miles from Providence, RI and has 260 RV campsites with full hookups. The campground also has a pool and a hot tub, not to mention showers and restrooms. This campground is unique for its racetrack of radio-controlled cars. During the right season, you can also take the family on hayrides around the area.
Wawaloam Campground is 27 miles from Providence, RI. This is a large RV resort that features 300 campsites with full hookups. The chief attraction at this campground is the water park and hot tub. Wawaloam Campground schedules activities throughout the year, mostly on weekends.
The Arlington RV Supercenter is 14 miles from Providence, RI. IT has a repair center as well as a dump station, which costs $10 to use.
It's 30 miles to the Melville Ponds Campground, which can accommodate RVs of any size. It is a great choice as a dumping station for large rigs. The cost is $20 for both visitors and registered guests.
At RVshare, you'll find the ideal RV rental for your adventure in Providence, RI. Exploring New England, especially Rhode Island, is fun with a rented RV. There are all types of RVs, from travel trailers to Class A motorhomes, for your trip through Rhode Island. Renting an RV is generally much less expensive than staying in a hotel, and some Class A motorhomes can fit eight adults comfortably.
If you have a smaller family, a campervan would be a good choice. Thor, Gulf Stream, and Forest River are three excellent RV brands that offer a wide variety of vehicles from which to choose. You could pick a motorhome, fifth-wheel trailer, or any other RV you like that'll fit your needs. One thing to consider each time you rent an RV is the maximum RV length permitted at the RV resorts or campgrounds you plan to visit.
When you visit Providence, RI, you will be near many places that make worthy road trips. It's only 50 miles to Boston, MA, for example. A trip to Newport, RI, which is steeped in sailing history, is just 34 miles. Then, to go to Mystic, CT, its 49 miles. A little more than 100 miles outside of Cape Cod, you'll come to Provincetown, MA.
Do I maintain or service the motorhome rental during my rental period?
No, it is the responsibility of the RVshare owner to ensure the motorhome is properly maintained and serviced before your rental period. Just take good care of your rental and keep it clean.
Are there any special driving considerations or techniques I should know when operating a motorhome rental in Providence, RI?
Yes, motorhomes are larger and heavier than most passenger vehicles, so it is important to allow for more time and space when turning, merging, or stopping. Additionally, it is recommended to drive slower than the posted speed limit and to use caution when driving in windy or wet conditions.
How do I properly level and stabilize a motorhome at my campsite or RV park?
Motorhomes typically have built-in leveling jacks or blocks that can be adjusted to ensure the RV is level and stable. Some RV parks may also provide leveling pads or blocks if needed. Discuss your campsite with the RV owner ahead of time and they can provide you guidance on stabilizing.
What kind of maintenance or upkeep do I need to perform on the interior and exterior during my rental period?
You should keep the interior clean and tidy, empty waste tanks as needed, and report any damages or malfunctions to the RVshare owner. Exterior maintenance such as checking tire pressure is also recommended.
Does my motorhome rental come with bedding, linens, or other items I would consider to be personal?
This varies by RVshare owner. Some owners may include bedding and linens, while others may require renters to bring their own. It is best to check with the owner prior to renting.
Should I bring entertainment equipment or appliances for the motorhome rental?
While some motorhomes may come equipped with entertainment options or appliances, it is always a good idea to bring your own if desired. However, be mindful of any limitations on power usage or space restrictions. Check the RV listing or ask the RV owner what kind of entertainment is included.
Are there any limitations on where I can park or store a motorhome rental in Providence, RI, such as zoning laws or homeowners' association regulations?
There may be restrictions on where motorhomes can be parked or stored in certain areas. It is best to research local laws and regulations or to ask the RVshare owner for guidance.
What fuel efficiency considerations do I need to consider when operating a motorhome rental?
Motorhomes are not typically known for their fuel efficiency, but there are steps you can take to improve gas mileage such as driving at a lower speed, avoiding excessive idling, and keeping tires properly inflated.
How do I properly operate and maintain the various systems in a motorhome rental?
The RVshare owner should provide you with detailed instructions and manuals for operating and maintaining the various systems in the motorhome. It is important to follow these instructions carefully to ensure proper use and prevent damage.
Are any unique features or amenities available in motorhome rentals that may not be found in other RVs in Providence, RI?
This varies by RV owner and motorhome class, but some motorhomes may have unique features such as slide-outs, outdoor kitchens, or luxury finishes that may not be found in other types of RVs.
