Congaree National Park is among the most recent additions to the National Park Service's program. Nevertheless, its mangroves, swampy grounds, and guided tours are sights to behold. Traditionally, the wooded enclave sheltered ancient Native American tribes. Some of the Southeast's tallest trees still reside within the park's boundaries. Hardcore hiking enthusiasts can tackle the 10.4-mile trail to the river.
Great Smoky Mountains National Park is 421 miles to the west, but the mountain scenery is worth the drive. Elevations range from a low of 876 feet to a high of 6,643 feet inside the park. There are more than 2,100 miles of streams, rivers, and wildlife on well-maintained networks of trails. Take the Rainbow Falls Trail to the summit of Mount Le Conte, climbing to 1,700 feet overall. On the other hand, you could traverse the Laurel Falls Trail, which only goes on for 2.6 miles.
Shenandoah National Park is merely a 340-mile drive to the north, and it features some of the Blue Ridge Mountains' best views. Cruise along the aptly named Skyline Drive, or blaze a path along the copious trails. At the end of the day, you can spend the night in one of the lodges at the summit.
Cliffs of the Neuse State Park is popular with visitors wanting to see its expansive 1,097 acres of pristine countryside. The park's riverbanks have been a local icon for centuries, and they also offer a swimming lake, boat rentals, and a visitor's center. Get a close-up look at the cliff's naturally eroded face, and snap a couple of pictures before departing.
Carolina Beach State Park is an attractive coastal beach, so pack your swimwear. If you wander around the inland portion of the park, you might catch a Venus flytrap in the wild. During the winter, temperatures can drop down into the 30s, so this may be better left for the summer.
Pettigrew State Park is made up of 1,600 acres next to Lake Phelps, and it contains abundant outdoor adventures. Boating and kayaking are some of the zone's most frequently enjoyed outings. In addition to waterborne enjoyment, the park also provides a tour-worthy 1830s-era plantation.
North Carolina features dozens of worthwhile landmarks, but you definitely need to visit Clingman's Dome. This is the highest peak in the Smokies and is located just inside Tennessee's border with North Carolina. The peak stands at 6,643 feet in altitude.
Mount Mitchell is another place worth stopping, which happens to be even taller despite being outside the park.
Finally, Looking Glass Falls attracts tons of people to the Asheville area. It is located just off the Blue Ridge Parkway.
North Carolina is filled with many RV parks, such as Lanier's Campground. Lanier's Campground charges between $40 and $65 per day, depending on the size of your rig. Cabin Creek Campground offers weekly rates, ranging from $195 to $234, and they feature both 30- and 50-amp hookups. The Raleigh Oaks RV Resort has monthly discounts, dropping rates to as low as $450 for 30 days.
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 Swansboro, NC 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 Swansboro, NC?
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 Swansboro, NC, 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 Swansboro, NC?
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 Swansboro, NC particularly well-suited for a camper van and what amenities or features do they offer?
There are many campgrounds and RV parks in Swansboro, NC 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.
