To take advantage of national parks, RV travelers must venture outside the state where three are within a day’s drive. The nearest, Acadia National Park, is located near Portland, ME, less than a four-hour drive from Rutland. Acadia has the distinction of being the oldest national park east of the Mississippi. Inside its borders, visitors find ocean beaches, peaks, forests, lakes, and rivers. Cadillac Mountain, at 1,530 feet, is the highest peak on the East Coast of the United States, and six other mountains in the park stand over 1,000 feet. Most of the area is covered with dense hardwood forest that lights up the hillsides in the fall. Fishing, hiking, biking, and horseback riding are the favorite activities that draw over three million visitors per year.
Shenandoah National Park is an eight-hour drive southwest of Rutland. It is one of the most visited parks in the national park system. The park protects over 300 square miles of the Blue Ridge Mountains. Hiking, biking, and equestrian trails lead visitors to some of the most astonishing views of forest-covered mountains, deep valleys, and big sky found in the United States.
An eight-hour drive due west from Rutland gets visitors to Cuyahoga Valley National Park. Located south of Cleveland, OH, this park is one long gorge carved by the Cuyahoga River. The steep slopes hover above the river as it and its tributaries tumble down more than 100 waterfalls. Over 125 miles of hiking trails run through the valley, visiting the waterfalls, pools of water teeming with fish, and several whitewater rapids that lend their music to the breeze gently wafting through the trees overhead.
Amongst the top-ranking landmarks in Vermont, Mount Independence is the least disturbed major Revolutionary War structure in the nation. Built in 1776 to thwart an invasion of the American colonies from Canada, the fortifications still stand as a reminder of perilous times.
The Rock of Ages Quarry near Barre is the world's largest deep-hole dimension granite quarry. The granite from this site supplies the material for most of the gravestones and monuments in the United States. At over 600 feet deep, this quarry represents the efforts of granite workers since the discovery of the fine-grained granite rock in 1885.
Located 34 miles south of Rutland, Mount Equinox, with an elevation of over 3,000 feet, is one of the tallest mountains in Vermont. The views of the valley below from its peak are spectacular. A paved road, open from May through October, climbs the mountain at steep angles.
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 Vermont 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 Vermont?
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 Vermont?
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 Vermont, 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 Vermont?
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.