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.
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 Providence, RI 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 Providence, RI?
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 Providence, RI?
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 Providence, RI, 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 Providence, RI?
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.
