Less than an hour away from South Bend, Indiana Dunes National Park brings the fun of the beach to the Midwest. Visitors get to enjoy 15 miles of beach alongside Lake Michigan. The sand dunes are great for exercising or just having fun, depending on how you tackle them. The beauty of the beach and the boats on the lake is only amplified by the Chicago skyline on the other side of the water.
Cuyahoga Valley National Park takes visitors back in time to hike or bike the historic Ohio & Erie Canal Towpath Trail, which was established well before settlers arrived in the area. You'll see beautiful marshes, waterfalls, and meadows. You'll also see various wildlife in their natural habitat. Stop by one of the visitor centers to learn more about the history of the location and how you can help preserve this seemingly otherworldly natural phenomenon.
Mammoth Cave National Park in Kentucky takes people below the surface to explore the mysteries of one of the largest underground cave systems in the country. Tours range from beginner to expert so that everybody can find a tour suited to them. Once visitors come back above ground, there are numerous hiking trails and additional recreational activities to enjoy.
Potato Creek State Park is less than 30 minutes away from South Bend, making it a great place to start your journey. The park centers around Worster Lake. There are multiple boat docks and fishing piers. Of course, you can walk the hiking trails if you prefer to keep your feet on dry land. If you don't have a bike or boat with you, you can always rent one for the duration of your stay at Potato Creek State Park.
Starved Rock State Park in Illinois offers bounties when it comes to beautiful rock formations, canyons, waterfalls, and rivers. Walk the 13 miles of hiking trails or rent a boat to tour the park from the river.
Devil's Head Mountain at Devil's Head State Park in Wisconsin owns its reputation for rock climbers in the summer and skiers in the winter. Climbers can free climb up the rugged mountainside made up of boulders. Alternatively, they can take the hiking trail. In the winter, advanced skiers can glide down a steep 500 feet on one of the 10 black diamond slopes. Beginners and intermediate skiers can take on the other 20 slopes on the mountain. With all of the possibilities brought on by the mountain, it's hard to remember the aquatic adventures the lake offers, too.
Tour Notre Dame University to watch a Fighting Irish game and see the campus. You can't visit without touring the majestic Basilica of the Sacred Heart Cathedral, modeled after the Notre Dame Cathedral in Paris with intricate, gothic architecture and beautiful artwork.
The Pioneer Log Cabin Museum allows visitors to experience the modestly beautiful accommodations of people in the past. Originally built around 100 years ago, the cabin is larger than most log cabins, making it the perfect place to display artifacts from pioneer days. The cabin looks over the nearby Stone Lake. Roughly 25 minutes away, you can visit the Pears Mill while you're in the area.
Race to the Indianapolis Speedway to watch some of the fastest vehicles available circle the track to victory. While many people are familiar with the annual Indy 500 race, there are races throughout most of the year. You may even get the opportunity to meet one of your favorite racers or sit in the passenger seat of a racecar yourself.
Utilize one of the 120 sites at South Bend / Elkhart KOA RV park in northern South Bend. The sites come with access to Wi-Fi, a pool, a hot tub, laundry facilities, showers, power, and water.
Lakeside RV Resort in nearby New Carlisle, Indiana, offers similar accommodations. For a more intimate experience, try Cassidy Motel & RV Park in LaPorte, IN.
Maple Ridge Campground in nearby Lakeside has both tent and RV sites, clean restroom facilities and friendly staff.
How does hitching and unhitching a 5th-wheel RV rental work, and is it challenging?
Hitching and unhitching a 5th-wheel RV rental requires proper positioning of the RV and truck and connecting the hitch. It can be challenging for first-time renters, but the owner usually provides a thorough explanation of the process.
Are there any special driving considerations or techniques when towing a 5th-wheel rental RV in South Bend, IN?
When towing a 5th-wheel rental RV in South Bend, IN, it is important to note the weight and size of the RV and follow all traffic laws. Drivers should also be cautious of wind conditions as they can affect stability.
Do I use a generator to power the electrical system on a 5th wheel RV, or do I need to connect to a power source at a campground or RV park?
Most 5th wheel RVs come with a built-in generator, but some may require being plugged into a power source at a campground or RV park. RV owners will provide information on the specifics of powering the RV.
Are there any limitations on where I can park or store a 5th wheel RV in South Bend, IN, such as zoning laws or homeowners' association regulations?
Renters should always check local regulations before parking a 5th wheel RV in South Bend, IN. Some areas have specific zoning laws or homeowners' association regulations regarding parking and storing RVs.
What kind of maintenance or upkeep do I need to perform on a 5th-wheel RV rental during my rental period?
Renters should keep the RV clean and make sure to report any damages. Regular maintenance such as oil changes and tire checks are the responsibility of the RV owner.
Are there any safety concerns I should know when towing a 5th-wheel rental RV, such as sway or brake issues?
Sway and brake issues can occur when towing a 5th-wheel rental RV. Renters should be mindful of weight distribution and proper hitching to prevent these issues.
How do I properly level and stabilize a 5th-wheel rental RV at my campsite or RV park?
Leveling and stabilizing a 5th-wheel rental RV requires proper positioning and use of RV leveling blocks. The owner should provide instructions or assistance if needed.
Do I need to bring my cooking appliances or equipment for use in the 5th wheel rental RV's kitchen?
Most 5th wheel rental RVs come with a equipped kitchen, check the listing details or ask the owner for specific items. Renters may choose to bring additional cooking appliances or equipment if they desire.
Are there any unique features or amenities available in 5th wheel RV rental that may not be found in other towable RVs in South Bend, IN?
5th wheel rental RVs may have additional features such as multiple bedrooms or bathrooms, larger living spaces, and better towing stability compared to other towable RVs in South Bend, IN. RVshare owners may offer additional amenities or features for a more comfortable stay.