Shenandoah National Park is about 206 miles away near Charlottesville. This national park includes 300 square miles of the picturesque Blue Ridge Mountains. Take your time hiking, climbing, or backpacking through the surrounding forests and peaks. The 105-mile Skyline Drive provides exceptional views of the mountains and nearby valleys. Be sure to keep an eye on the weather if you plan to climb or spend time at high elevations.
Head southwest for 378 miles to find Congaree National Park in South Carolina. The hardwood forest in this park has some of the tallest trees on the East Coast. All of the park's hiking trails start at the Harry Hampton Visitor Center. Feel free to get a permit to backcountry camp or stay at one of the two established campgrounds. The best time to visit is in the spring when you can hike, canoe, and explore without being overwhelmed by bugs.
Great Smoky Mountains National Park is 479 miles west in Tennessee. Encompassing more than 500,000 acres, this national park is home to mountain streams, forest ridges, and an abundance of thriving wildlife. You'll find plenty of ranger-led programs and events here throughout the year. You can also hike, bike, fish, camp, and ride horses. There are 800 miles of nature trails available with the longest reaching around 70 miles.
Merchants Millpond State Park in North Carolina spans thousands of acres of swamp forest. There are nine miles of trails here open for biking and hiking. Visitors also often enjoy kayaking on the shallow waters. Common local wildlife includes alligators, otters, and bobcats.
The 1,947-acre Chippokes Plantation State Park sits on the James River. Make sure to tour the two 19th-century mansions in the area. There's also a swimming beach, 12 miles of trails, and a museum with an open-air interactive display great for kids and adults of all ages.
First Landing State Park sees more than a million visitors every year. Take advantage of the gorgeous waters by planning some fishing, boating, or crabbing. Swimming, kayaking, and canoeing are popular on the hottest summer days. Don't forget to take some time to explore the forest trails and breathtaking natural habitats.
Visit Colonial Williamsburg, a classic Virginia landmark to experience American life in the 1700s. This site is the world's largest living history museum with more than 300 acres of recreated or restored buildings.
First Landing State Park in Virginia Beach is where English settlers first arrived in 1607. This park has more than 19 miles of nature trails as well as more than a mile of sandy beach.
Learn more about the first settlers in the country by exploring Historic Jamestowne and the Jamestown Settlement. Take the time to tour the original 1600s settlement before watching the nearby living history museum bring that time period to life.
Stay at North Landing Beach RV Resort & Cottages in Virginia Beach for great shopping opportunities. This pet-friendly campground hosts regular seasonal celebrations and is in a great location near North Landing Beach. Suffolk's Davis Lakes RV Park and Campground offers low rates and plenty of essential amenities. They have three on-site lakes, a bathhouse, a fish-cleaning station, and stunning views of the water. If you're looking for a quiet and authentic camping experience, book a few nights at Northwest River Park & Campground in Chesapeake. This 763-acre campground is renowned for its fishing, hiking, horseback riding, and geocaching.
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 Suffolk, VA 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 Suffolk, VA?
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 Suffolk, VA, 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 Suffolk, VA?
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 Suffolk, VA particularly well-suited for a camper van and what amenities or features do they offer?
There are many campgrounds and RV parks in Suffolk, VA 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.