New River Gorge National Park is a 2-hour drive from Vinton, Virginia, in Glen Jean, West Virginia. Established in November 1978, this national park boasts a steel arch bridge that spans the New River Gorge and offers impressive views of the surrounding area. While there are no campgrounds within the park, several nearby RV camping options exist.Shenandoah National Park is just over an hour's drive from Vinton and stretches for 311.2 miles along the Blue Ridge Mountains in Virginia. Established in December 1935, it features Skyline Drive, a scenic route with stunning views of the mountains, and popular hiking trails such as Old Rag Mountain and Hawksbill Mountain. The park has several campgrounds with varying amenities, including electric and sewer hookups.Congaree National Park is about five hours from Vinton in Hopkins, South Carolina. Established in November 2003, it features a unique forest ecosystem with tall trees and diverse wildlife. The Weston Lake Loop Trail and Kingsnake Trail allow visitors to explore this pristine wilderness on foot. There are no designated campsites for RVs within Congaree National Park; however, nearby RV parks offer hookups and other amenities.
Moncove Lake State Park is a serene destination in West Virginia, just a 45-minute drive from Vinton. Established in 1990, this park offers camping facilities with electric hookups for RVs. The sites are first-come, first-served, with picnic tables, fire rings, and charcoal grills. There's also potable water and restrooms available on-site. While there are no sewer hookups at the campsites, there is a dump station in the park for your convenience. This park is famous for its fishing opportunities; you can catch bass, bluegill, catfish, and crappie in the lake.Fairy Stone State Park offers year-round camping facilities with electric and water hookups for RVs. Established in 1936, this park is just a 7-mile drive from Vinton. The campground features 50 campsites that include hot showers and flush toilets. You can even reserve your preferred campsite online before arriving at the park! Fairy Stone State Park also offers hiking trails through forests of oak and hickory trees.Smith Mountain Lake State Park is another must-visit destination near Vinton that offers camping facilities with electric and water hookups for RVs. Established in 1983, this state park boasts over 500 miles of shoreline along Smith Mountain Lake. You'll find plenty of recreational activities here, such as boating, fishing, hiking, or swimming at the beach. The campground features over 130 campsites with picnic tables and fire rings, while other amenities include hot showers and laundry facilities.
George Washington and Jefferson National Forests, Cherokee National Forest, and Monongahela National Forest are all within driving distance of Vinton, Virginia. These forests offer various outdoor activities, such as hiking, camping, birdwatching, stargazing, biking, geocaching, fishing, and sightseeing. George Washington and Jefferson National Forests are home to over 2,000 miles of trails that lead you through scenic mountains and valleys. The Cherokee National Forest in Tennessee offers several famous attractions, like Max Patch for panoramic views of the Appalachian Mountains or Ocoee Whitewater Center for water sports enthusiasts. Monongahela National Forest in West Virginia has stunning vistas like Dolly Sods Wilderness and Blackwater Falls State Park, where visitors can enjoy the beautiful scenery year-round. These national forests offer endless opportunities for RV travelers seeking adventure or quiet relaxation among nature's wonders.
The Red Hill Patrick Henry National Memorial is important to visit near Vinton. This historic site, covering 116 acres in Charlotte County, provides guided tours and walking trails for visitors to learn about the life of Patrick Henry, the famous American statesman. The Booker T. Washington National Monument is another landmark near Vinton. This 207-acre tobacco farm in Hardy, Virginia, was once the home of Booker T. Washington, an influential African-American educator and author. Visitors can enjoy guided tours, walk along the trails, and picnic at Hickory Hill Vineyards while exploring this historic site.
Dixie Caverns Campground is an excellent option for Vinton, Virginia, RV campgrounds. You can call them for pricing; they offer full hookups, back-in/pull-through sites, and Wi-Fi. Pets are also allowed at this campground.Otter Creek Campground offers daily rates of $20 (21-day maximum) and has 39 sites with full hookups. They have a pool or hot tub, showers, and allow pets. However, cell reception is limited, and no cable or Wi-Fi is available.Peaks of Otter Campground provides daily rates of $20 (with a 21-day limit) with 79 sites. They offer full hookups, back-in/pull-through sites, pool/hot tub access, showers, and allow pets. However, they do not have Wi-Fi or strong cell reception available.
Vinton, Virginia, has several dump stations to help you care for your RV's waste. At these locations, you can find RV dump sites for black and gray water, fresh water for filling your tank, and a hose for flushing tanks.Some popular options include Bluestone State Park, Pipestem State Park, Blue Jay Camping Area, and Camp Creek State Park. Most locations offer additional amenities such as a trash bin and waste disposal services.
If I want to rent a towable RV, how do I tell if my vehicle can handle the tow?
Before renting a towable RV, it is essential to ensure that your vehicle can handle the weight and hitch type of the trailer. You can find this information in your vehicle's owner's manual. You will also need to check the Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) of the trailer, which can usually be found on a sticker located on the trailer. It is recommended that you do not exceed 80% of your vehicle's maximum tow rating and make sure you have the proper hitch, brake controller, and sway control device.
Are there any limitations on the types of roads or terrain I can navigate with a towable RV rental in Vinton, VA?
Yes, there are limitations on the types of roads and terrain that you can navigate with a towable RV rental. It is important to check the RVshare rental agreement to see what types of roads and terrain are permitted. In general, most towable RVs are suitable for paved roads and well-maintained campgrounds. However, some rentals may be equipped with off-road tires, making them suitable for moderate off-road terrain.
Are there any additional insurance considerations or requirements when towing a rental RV, and how can I ensure I am adequately covered?
When renting a towable RV, there are three insurance options in case of an accident or damage. RVshare offers different types of insurance coverage, including liability, collision, and comprehensive. It is recommended that you choose the coverage that best suits your needs.
Do I use a sway control device when towing a RV, and does RVshare provide it, or do I need to bring my own?
A sway control device is highly recommended when towing a RV, especially on highways or in windy conditions. Discuss with the RV owner if this is something you will need. RVshare does not provide sway control devices, but the individual owner might.
What kind of braking system do I need for a towable RV rental, and how do I ensure it is properly installed and functional?
All towable RV rentals require a functioning braking system. There are two types of braking systems: electric and surge. Electric brake systems require a brake controller to be installed in the towing vehicle, while surge braking systems are built into the trailer's hitch. It is important to ensure that the braking system is properly installed and functional before towing. RVshare recommends having a professional mechanic inspect the brakes before renting.
Are any unique features or amenities available in towable RV rentals that may not be found in other RVs in Vinton, VA?
The features and amenities available in towable RV rentals vary depending on the unit and the owner's preferences. Some common features found in towable RVs include full kitchens, bathrooms, and sleeping areas. Unique features may include outdoor kitchens, fireplaces, and spacious living areas. It is recommended that you browse RVshare's inventory to find a rental unit that meets your specific needs.
How do I properly load and distribute weight within a towable RV rental to ensure safe and stable towing?
Proper weight distribution is crucial when towing a RV. It is recommended that you load heavier items towards the front of the trailer and distribute weight evenly from side to side. You should also avoid overloading the trailer and keep the weight under the GVWR. It is recommended that you use a weight distribution hitch, which can help balance the weight and provide more stability when towing.
What are the fuel efficiency considerations when towing a rental RV, and how can I minimize the impact on my fuel costs?
Towing a rental RV can have a significant impact on your vehicle's fuel efficiency. It is recommended that you use a towing vehicle with a fuel-efficient engine and avoid driving at high speeds. Additionally, removing any unnecessary weight from your vehicle and trailer can help maximize fuel efficiency. It is also recommended that you maintain a consistent speed and avoid sudden stops and starts.
What kind of maintenance or upkeep do I need on a towable RV rental during my rental period, and what kind of supplies or tools do I need to have on hand for this?
During your rental period you are not responsible for maintenance. Treat the RV with care and maintain cleanliness during your trip.
