Located along the Cuyahoga River just south of Cleveland, Cuyahoga Valley National Park is a gorgeous outdoor haven with a ton to offer its visitors. The diverse park features 100 waterfalls, over 125 miles of hiking trails, a mighty river, and a scenic railroad. Many visitors make a point to check out Brandywine Falls, which stands 65 feet tall and is the largest waterfall in the region. Other popular recreational activities include canoeing, kayaking, or fishing in the river, horseback riding, biking, bird watching, and stargazing.
Another national park within a relatively short drive of Toledo is Indiana Sand Dunes National Park. The park is named for its rugged dunes, but it also features lakefront land and a large stretch of countryside. Located on the shores of Lake Michigan, the park offers excellent opportunities for fishing, boating, and watersports. There are also some peaceful trails perfect for hiking, biking, or horseback riding.
New River Gorge National Park has only been an official national park since 2020, but it has certainly earned the distinction. Located within the West Virginia wilderness, the gorgeous park comprises 70,000 acres of countryside, lush forests, and beautiful bodies of water. The most notable feature of the site is the incredible New River Gorge itself, and visitors can get a variety of breathtaking perspectives by exploring the scenic trails.
Maumee Bay State Park is found in Northern Ohio, only 11 miles east of Toledo. The park, which overlooks Lake Erie, features serene campgrounds, lovely hiking trails, a placid lake, and even an 18-hole golf course. The area is also inhabited by a variety of cool animals, including the painted turtle, northern water snake, and spotted salamander.
Another wonderful park found near Toledo is Mary Jane Thurston State Park, which covers 105 acres and features fantastic stream-fishing opportunities. If you cast your line in the Maumee River, you'll have a great chance of reeling in northern pike, white bass, smallmouth bass, and catfish. The park also features two boat ramps, and during winter it's a popular destination for skiing, sledding, ice fishing, and ice skating.
If you enjoy kayaking, one spot you should be sure to visit is South Bass Island State Park. Nestled into the cliffs of South Bass Island, the 33-acre park is visited by hundreds of kayakers every year to celebrate the Kayak Rendezvous on Lake Erie. Visitors can also spend the day swimming or enjoying a relaxing picnic while overlooking the water.
While you're traveling in the Toledo region, it's worth taking a detour or two to stop by some of Ohio's most notable monuments and landmarks. One possibility is Johnson’s Island Civil War Prison, which is located on an island in the waters of Sandusky Bay. The historical landmark was used for 40 months to hold Civil War prisoners and is now home to a fascinating museum.
The famous inventor Thomas Edison was born in Milan, Ohio, and you can visit his birthplace. His childhood home has been transformed into a museum, and you can learn all about his life and inventions while you're there.
If you travel to the outskirts of Cleveland, you can check out the amazing Zero Gravity Research Facility at the Glenn Research Center. The facility, which has a place on the National Register of Historic Places, is still in use for the purpose of helping scientists understand zero-gravity environments.
You shouldn't have to look too hard to find a peaceful camping area near Toledo, and one lovely option is Big Sandy Campground. The quiet campground features 18 sites that come with grills, fire rings, and picnic tables, and you can rent one for only $23.62 per night.
Another great place to stay is the Wild Wings Campground & Marina, which boasts a whopping 388 campsites with a variety of prices and services. All sites have hookups of some kind, and many have full hookups. During your stay, you'll have access to a playground, shower house, activity pavilion, and several ponds with fishing and paddling opportunities.
You could also camp at the Twin Acres Campground. The family-owned park features full-hookup pull-through sites for $52 per night, and guests also can enjoy a wide variety of modern amenities and conveniences.
How do I correctly set up and take down a popup camper rental, and what kind of tools or equipment do I need?
Setting up and taking down a popup camper rental typically requires a few basic tools, including a rubber mallet, wheel chocks, and a few different sized wrenches. The process will vary based on the specific model, but typically involves locating and extending the stabilizer jacks, popping up the roof, extending the sidewalls, and connecting any necessary hoses and cables. Be sure to follow any instructions provided by the owner and ask for assistance if you are unsure about any aspect of the setup.
Can I rent a popup camper in Toledo, OH without a vehicle capable of towing it, and if so, what are my options for renting a towing vehicle?
Standard passenger sedans typically able to tow popup campers that weigh less than 1,500 pounds. Heavier duty vehicles, such as 4x4 SUVs, can usually tow a heavier popup. If you are unable to tow, another option is to have the popup campered delivered to your campsite. The RVshare owner will bring it to the campground and set up for you, then tow it away after your trip is over.
Are there any special driving considerations or techniques I should know when towing a popup camper rental in Toledo, OH?
When towing a popup camper rental, it's important to practice safe driving techniques and be aware of your surroundings. You may need to adjust your driving speed and distance from other vehicles to account for the additional weight and length. It's also important to make sure the camper rental is properly secured and level before hitting the road.
What kind of amenities can I expect in a popup camper rental, and how do they compare to other RV rentals in Toledo, OH?
Popup camper rentals typically offer a range of amenities and features, including comfortable sleeping quarters, kitchen appliances and supplies, and on-board storage options. While they may be more compact than other RV rentals, they often offer a more affordable and flexible option for travelers who want to explore the outdoors.
Can I bring my bedding and linens to use in the popup camper rental, and what kind of storage options are available for these items?
Many RVshare owners will provide bedding and linens for the popup camper rental, but you can certainly bring your own if you prefer. There are typically storage compartments and cubbies located throughout the interior of the camper rental for storing personal items.
How do I properly level and stabilize a popup camper rental at my campsite or RV park, and what equipment or tools do I need for this?
Discuss your particular campsite with the RV owner to determine if leveling and stabilizing will be necessary. To properly level and stabilize a popup camper rental, you will need a few basic tools, including leveling blocks, wheel chocks, and a bubble level. The process will vary based on the specific model, but typically involves leveling the camper rental side-to-side using the leveling blocks and adjusting the front-to-back level using the tongue jack.
What weather conditions should I know when renting a popup camper in Toledo, OH, and how can I prepare for them?
Depending on where you are renting the popup camper, you may need to prepare for a range of different weather conditions. It's important to check the forecast before heading out and be prepared with appropriate clothing and gear for any potential weather events. You should also take steps to protect the camper rental from high winds, rain, and other elements by properly securing it and using any available window covers or awnings.
Can I bring my outdoor equipment or appliances to use with the popup camper rental, such as a portable grill or camping chairs?
Yes, you can certainly bring your own outdoor equipment and appliances to use with the popup camper rental. However, be sure to check with the RVshare owner beforehand to make sure there is enough space to store your items and that they are safe to use with the camper rental.
What kind of maintenance or upkeep do I need to perform on the exterior and interior of a popup camper rental during my rental period?
The maintenance and upkeep required for a popup camper is handled by the RV owner. Handle the camper with care and return it in the condition you received it.
Are there any unique features or amenities available in popup camper rentals that may not be found in other RVs in Toledo, OH?
Popup camper rentals are light and easier to tow than most other towable trailers, making them easier to bring along on your trips, and typically meaning your own vehicle should be able to tow them.
