Congaree National Park, which is located off of the main highway between Charleston and Columbia, was established in 1976 to protect the largest tract of old-growth bottomland hardwood forest remaining in the southeastern United States. The Congaree River runs through the park and provides opportunities for canoeing, fishing, and hiking. The park's tallest tree is a cypress that measures over 100 feet tall and almost 12 feet around. Shenandoah National Park is a wonderful place to visit if you are interested in hiking, biking, horseback riding and camping. The Skyline Drive runs through the park, allowing for spectacular views of the Blue Ridge Mountains. It is one of the most visited national parks in the United States. It has more than 300 species of birds and 25,000 flowering plants. The Skyline Drive is a 105-mile long scenic road that runs through the entire length of the park. New River Gorge National Park is located about 2 hours north of Salem. The New River Gorge in southern West Virginia's Appalachian Mountains is protected and preserved by the New River Gorge National Park and Preserve, a division of the United States National Park Service.
The Smith Mountain Lake State Park is an RVshare favorite. Located on the shores of the Smith Mountain Lake, the park features a swimming beach, boat rentals and marina, fishing pier, hiking trails and a campground with full hookups. Fairy Stone State Park is located in Patrick County, Virginia. The park has a campground with 20 campsites, picnic tables, and fire rings. RVers can fill up their water tanks at the on-site well. Pets are welcome at this park, but they must be leashed. The park features a historic Fairy Stone that was used by Native Americans for ceremonial purposes. Moncove Lake State Park is a popular destination for boating, fishing, swimming and picnicking. Amenities include boat ramps, picnic areas with tables and grills, restrooms with showers, a playground and a swimming beach. A marina on nearby Deep Creek Lake offers boat rentals. You can also rent paddle boats at the park.
Salem is a great jumping-off point for exploring some of the most important landmarks in American history. The Friendship Hill National Historic Site is where James Monroe, the fifth president of the United States, once lived. Albert Gallatin, an early American statesman and politician, lived on Friendship Hill. Gallatin served as the longest serving Treasury secretary for two presidents. The Johnstown Flood National Memorial commemorates the Great Flood of 1889, which killed thousands of people. The United States National Park Service is in charge for the Johnstown Flood National Monument. It was created in 1964 as a result of legislation signed by President Lyndon B. Johnson. The Flight 93 National Memorial tells the story of the plane that was hijacked by terrorists on September 11, 2001 and crashed in Shanksville, Pennsylvania. The crew and passengers of Flight 93, who fought the hijackers and prevented the terrorists from achieving their destination, are commemorated at a national memorial. A temporary memorial for the 40 victims was constructed soon the tragedy.
Salem, Virginia is a great place to take an RV vacation. Campgrounds in the area include Dixie Caverns Campground, Chantilly Farm Campground and RV Park and Otter Creek Campground. Each campground offers its own unique amenities and activities. Most RV parks will allow pets, making them a great option for families with four legged family members.
There are three RV dump stations available in Salem, Virginia, and additional nearby options in the surrounding areas. You’ll find dump stations at Bluestone State Park, Pipestem State Park, Blue Jay Camping Area, and Camp Creek State Park. See RVshare’s guide to RV dump stations in Salem, Virginia, 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 Salem, VA 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 Salem, VA?
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 Salem, VA?
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 Salem, VA, 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 Salem, VA?
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.
