Mammoth Cave National Park is less than two hours away from Somerset. Home to the longest known cave system in the world, this national park has more than 400 miles of explored caverns and countless more still waiting to be discovered. The park itself encompasses more than 50,000 acres of land and offers hiking, biking, camping, and fishing opportunities. Check the park's website for information on upcoming events and festivals.
173 miles south in Tennessee, the Great Smoky Mountains National Park covers more than 500,000 acres of land. Plan a beautiful hike through the lush forests and over the endless mountain ridges. Elevation in the park almost reaches 7,000 feet in some areas, so be sure to bring a jacket and warm clothes. Entrance to this park is free, but there may be additional fees if you plan to camp or rent a pavilion.
Take your pick of water-based activities at New River Gorge National Park. 287 miles away, this national park in West Virginia is home to the astounding New River, one of the oldest rivers on the continent. For thousands of years, it has carved its way deep into the rock. Visitors are welcome to swim, kayak, canoe, and whitewater raft. If you're not interested in getting wet, consider hiking, biking, or watching local wildlife and birds.
Cumberland Falls State Park has 17 miles of hiking trails along with paths that connect to the Daniel Boone National Forest. Anglers can try catching bass or catfish from the Cumberland River. Bring the whole family along to try gem mining at the Cumberland Falls Mining Company.
Encompassing 52,000 acres of water, Lake Cumberland State Park is the perfect place for swimming, boating, and fishing. The park also has two golf courses and exciting wildlife-watching tours. Bring your RV rental along to take advantage of the on-site dump station, fire rings, and picnic shelters.
Levi Jackson State Park is home to parts of a historic road that settlers once traveled to reach Kentucky. This park has several historically valuable areas like the Mountain Life Museum and McHargue’s Mill. You're welcome to ride horses, hike, bike, and fish. There's even an aerial adventure park with zip lines and suspended tunnels.
The beautiful Cumberland Falls is less than an hour away from Somerset. Often called “the Niagara of the South,” this recreational area is also home to the historic Pinnacle Knob Fire Tower. Plan an afternoon of hiking, biking, or taking a leisurely boat ride on the Rainbow Mist.
The Abraham Lincoln Birthplace National Historical Park is just outside of the city of Hodgenville. This ivory monument memorializes the site where the 16th president of the United States was born and lived for part of his life.
Visit the Mill Springs Battlefield National Monument to learn more about the 1862 battle. The nearby Mill Springs Battlefield & Museum often holds seasonal events like battle reenactments and ceremonies.
If you're interested in visiting Cumberland Falls State Park, the Corbin / Laurel Lake KOA is the closest RV park in the area. This family-friendly facility has an on-site swimming pool and modern showers. Renfro Valley KOA offers swimming, golfing, fishing, and regular seasonal events like hay ridges and pancake breakfasts. Singing Hills RV Park and Campground is the best option if you're planning to spend your time at Mammoth Cave National Park.
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 Somerset, KY 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 Somerset, KY?
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 Somerset, KY, 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 Somerset, KY?
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 Somerset, KY particularly well-suited for a camper van and what amenities or features do they offer?
There are many campgrounds and RV parks in Somerset, KY 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.