None of Florida's national parks are close to Tallahassee, but you can explore these areas if you take your RV to the state's southern half. However, only one of these parks allows RV camping.
Everglades National Park is 500 miles southeast of Tallahassee and attracts visitors from all over the world. The main entrance is in Homestead, which is the one to take if you are interested in camping. There are two RV campgrounds: Long Pine Key has no facilities and closes during the summer, and Flamingo, which is at the southern tip of the park and has rental boats, bikes, and kayaks. There are also two marvelous boat tours. One explores the backcountry, and the other goes out into the bay. This park allows RVs 35 feet or less. The camp store in Flamingo sells ice and other goods. You may spot a black bear, manatee, alligator, Florida panther, and exotic birds in the Everglades. You might even be lucky enough to spot an American Bald Eagle's nest.
Biscayne National Park is a little bit further, 512 miles from Tallahassee. This park is predominately a saltwater marine park most suitable for boaters, snorkelers, and scuba divers. Underwater photography enthusiasts appreciate the clear, calm waters. Visitors are apt to see dolphins and manatees here. The Biscayne National Park Walk is a 10-mile trail over beaches and boardwalks, which provides an alternate activity if you don't feel like getting in the water. There is no RV camping here.
A visit to Dry Tortugas National Park is possible if you plan a Key West Trip. This park is 641 miles from Tallahassee, and there is no RV camping available because the park is only reachable by seaplane, boat, or a two-hour ferry from Key West. Visitors marvel at the variety of tropical reef fish they encounter while snorkeling.
The beautiful Torreya State Park is a mere 47 miles west of Tallahassee. Sixteen miles of interesting trails cover the bluffs, steep ravines, and riverbanks. The Apalachicola River flows through the park, providing ample opportunities for fishing, swimming, and paddling. This park has 26 RV sites with excellent amenities, including hot showers and full hookups.
Lake Jackson State Park is just seven miles north of Tallahassee. Lake Jackson is a 4,000-acre natural sinkhole lake that drains every 25 years. Visitors can still go boating and fishing on the lake when the water level is high enough. You can hike a .75-mile interpretive trail to view a grist mill from the 1800s on Butler Mill Creek along with a 2.2-mile nature trail where you can view turtles, deer, and foxes. There are no camping opportunities at this state park.
Ochlockonee River State Park is 37 miles south of Tallahassee, just a short distance from the Gulf. Swimming, biking, fishing, and paddling will keep you busy in the peaceful getaway. The Ochlockonee River is the park's heart, and rental canoes and kayaks are available. There are partial hookups for RVs with a maximum length of 40 feet.
The Apalachicola National Forest lies 50 miles south of Tallahassee. It is the largest Florida national forest, encompassing 632,890 acres of water, forests, rivers, and lakes. Hikers can choose from trails that wind through forests, swamps, or along the banks of a lake. During the spring, wildflowers erupt throughout the park. Favored RV parks are the Hickory Landing Campground, with 10 sites by the Apalachicola River, and Wright Lake Campground, with great water views and 18 sites. There are no hookups at either site. Be careful while you're out exploring. You may come across a black bear or an alligator.
Ocala National Forest is 202 miles southeast of Tallahassee and is definitely black bear country, so pay attention to any instructions you receive from the Park Rangers. Its 387,000 acres are part of four separate wilderness areas: Alexander Springs Wilderness, Billies Bay Wilderness, Juniper Prairie Wilderness, and Little Lake George Wilderness. There are over 600 lakes, ponds, and two rivers, so water activities are a big calling card here. Fishing, swimming, boating, snorkeling, and paddling are popular activities. There are numerous hiking trails as well. Wherever there are bodies of fresh water in Florida, there might be alligators. They are generally not aggressive toward humans, but keep your dog on a leash. Silver Springs Campground has full hookups.
Osceola National Forest provides water sports, hiking, and wildlife-watching opportunities. The Ocean Pond Campground has 67 waterfront sites with partial hookups, hot showers, and flush toilets. It is 118 miles east of Tallahassee.
The Andersonville National Historic Site preserves the remains of a large Confederate prisoner-of-war camp. It is near Andersonville, GA and is 137 miles north of Tallahassee. The visitor's center has videos explaining the prisoners' hardships, and men dressed in Union soldiers' uniforms mingle with the visitors, shedding further light on the miseries suffered by the captured soldiers.
The Tuskegee Institute National Historic Site in Alabama, located 188 miles north of Tallahassee, is a testament to the accomplishments of Booker T. Washington, a former slave who built, taught, and recruited professors to teach at this African American College in Alabama. George Washington Carver, an inventor and teacher, was one of his recruits. Within the park are two buildings owned by the National Park Service: The Oaks, home of Booker T. Washington, and the Washington Carver Museum. Tuskegee University grounds comprise the remainder of the site.
Castillo de San Marcos National Monument is a convenient side trip if you visit St. Augustine. This masonry fort, constructed in 1695 by Spanish soldiers, helped protect the Spanish colony of St. Augustine's trade routes across the Atlantic Ocean from pirates.
Stone's Throw RV Park is in Lamont, 28 miles east of Tallahassee. It's conveniently located at the intersection of I-10 and U.S. Highway 19. There are 20 sites here that have full hookups and can accommodate big rigs. There are restaurants in the area.
Newport Park Campground is 31 miles south of Tallahassee on the banks of the St. Marks River within Newport Park. This campsite is a great place to stay because it is close to the St. Marks National Wildlife Refuge, which has more than 83,000 acres of preserved land. Visitors to the wildlife refuge may see various birds, black bears, alligators, deer, and bobcats. The RV Park has full hookups for 28 sites.
Tallahassee East Campground is 25 miles east of Tallahassee in Monticello and has a nice collection of amenities and a beautiful lake. The swimming pool is open during the summer, and there's a playground, laundry room, lounge, and convenience store. There are 116 full hookup sites.
There are many choices for RV dump stations near Tallahassee. Pilot Flying J Travel Plaza on Blue Star Highway in Tallahassee charges $10 to use the dump station.
Rocky's Convenience Store and Campground, located 52 miles east of Tallahassee in Perry, allows non-registered guests to pay $10 to use the dump station.
You can find another dump station at Love's Travel Stop in Lee, about 58 miles from Tallahassee. The cost to use the dump station at Love's Travel Stop is $10.
Tallahassee is a popular gathering spot for adventurous people of all ages, and its Panhandle location makes day trips to Gulf Coast beaches, Florida parks, and Georgia and Alabama attractions feasible. When you're in the mood for a camping trip, RVshare has over 300 RV rental listings to choose from.
A toy trailer is an excellent option for active campers who want to bring their own gear. The attached storage space includes a loading ramp and is large enough for kayaks, inner tubes, dirt bikes, and other fun sports equipment. If you don't want to tow an RV, consider renting a luxurious Class A motorhome with laundry, a shower, and a full kitchen. Some even have a fireplace and a garage space. A fifth-wheel RV resembles a Class A motorhome, except it is towable.
If you don't need many amenities, consider a smaller Class B campervan. Whatever you want, RVshare has it. Many owners discount the nightly rate for more extended stays, and some allow pets to travel with you. However, if you're going to bring a pet, some RV parks don't accept them, so call to check if you're not sure.
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 Tallahassee, FL?
When towing a 5th-wheel rental RV in Tallahassee, FL, 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 Tallahassee, FL, such as zoning laws or homeowners' association regulations?
Renters should always check local regulations before parking a 5th wheel RV in Tallahassee, FL. 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 Tallahassee, FL?
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 Tallahassee, FL. RVshare owners may offer additional amenities or features for a more comfortable stay.
