Gateway Arch National Park, located in St. Louis, Missouri, is a significant landmark symbolizing the westward expansion of the United States. Standing 630 feet tall, the iconic Gateway Arch represents the gateway to the West. The area surrounding the arch has a rich indigenous history and was once home to Native American tribes such as the Osage and Missouri. Visitors can explore this history through exhibits and interpretive programs at the park.Outdoor enthusiasts will find plenty to do at Gateway Arch National Park. Hiking, biking, and picnicking are popular activities in this scenic area. While camping is not available within the park itself, there are several campgrounds nearby that cater to RV enthusiasts and campers. Klondike Park, just outside St. Louis, offers RV camping with full hookups and beautiful views of the Missouri River. Mammoth Cave National Park in Kentucky is home to the largest known cave system in the world, spanning over 400 miles. The park offers various options for RV camping, including developed campgrounds with amenities like restrooms, showers, and electrical hookups.Outdoor enthusiasts will enjoy exploring over 80 miles of hiking trails that traverse diverse landscapes including forests, hills, and river valleys. Horseback riding is also available with designated trails and an overnight horse camp for visitors who bring their own horses.
Located near the town of Carlyle in Illinois, Eldon Hazlet State Park offers a scenic getaway on the eastern shore of Carlyle Lake, the largest man-made lake in the state. With over 300 campsites available, including some with electric hookups, RV camping is a popular option here. Reservations can be made online or by phone. The park provides ample opportunities for outdoor activities such as fishing, boating, swimming, and hiking. Situated on more than 900 acres of land in Illinois, Washington County State Park Recreation Area offers a serene location for RV enthusiasts. The park features a beautiful lake where visitors can go fishing, boating, and swimming. Hiking trails allow for exploration of the surrounding woodlands and wildlife observation. The campground provides spacious RV sites with electric hookups, picnic tables, fire rings, restroom facilities, and a dump station. Birdwatchers will delight in spotting woodpeckers and herons among other bird species. The park also offers winter activities such as cross-country skiing and ice fishing.Just 20 miles west of St. Louis in Ballwin, Missouri lies Castlewood State Park offering stunning views of the Meramec River. Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy hiking along scenic trails that wind through river valleys and woodlands or indulge their passion for mountain biking on challenging trails spanning over 13 miles including the popular River Scene Trail along the riverbank. Nestled in Nevada, Beaver Dam State Park provides a serene natural setting for RV camping. RV campsites offer electric hookups, picnic tables, fire rings, and access to restroom facilities (reservations recommended). Hiking enthusiasts can explore scenic trails like the Beaver Dam Wash Trail which winds through riparian habitats and offers views of a picturesque reservoir.
Shiloh, Illinois is surrounded by several national forests that offer RV travelers a chance to explore nature and engage in outdoor activities.Shawnee National Forest is located in southern Illinois and spans over 280,000 acres. The forest provides opportunities for hiking, fishing, boating, and wildlife viewing. It boasts unique geological formations like the Garden of the Gods, where massive sandstone rock formations create a stunning landscape. Campers can choose from various campgrounds within the forest, including Pine Hills and Johnson Creek campgrounds.Mark Twain National Forest is Missouri's largest public land, covering 1.5 million acres. It offers a variety of camping options and over 750 miles of trails for hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding. Wildlife enthusiasts will find white-tailed deer, wild turkeys, black bears, and numerous bird species. Fishing enthusiasts can enjoy streams and rivers teeming with bass, trout, and catfish.Land Between the Lakes National Recreation Area in Kentucky features beautiful lakes perfect for fishing and boating. Hikers can explore scenic trails while wildlife enthusiasts spot over 240 bird species. History buffs can visit Homeplace 1850s Working Farm to experience mid-19th-century farm life.Hoosier National Forest in Indiana covers over 200,000 acres and offers camping facilities for RV enthusiasts. Hiking trails provide scenic views while anglers can fish in lakes and streams within the forest.These national forests near Shiloh provide a range of recreational activities amidst breathtaking natural beauty.
Explore the Ulysses S. Grant National Historic Site in Missouri, a significant location showcasing the life and history of the 18th President of the United States. Immerse yourself in the rich history of Ulysses S. Grant, a revered military figure and statesman who played a crucial role in the Civil War. Visit the historic White Haven estate, the former home of Ulysses S. Grant and his wife, Julia Dent Grant. Take a guided tour of the meticulously restored Grant's Farmhouse where he spent his childhood.Immerse yourself in the rich history of Abraham Lincoln by visiting the Lincoln Home National Historic Site in Illinois. Take a guided tour of the only house Abraham Lincoln ever owned and explore the neighborhood surrounding it. Learn about Lincoln's life and political career through exhibits at the visitor center.Discover Ozark National Scenic Riverways with its crystal-clear waters and scenic landscapes offering kayaking, canoeing, tubing, and camping opportunities with multiple campgrounds available for RVs.Explore George Rogers Clark National Historical Park in Indiana to learn about Revolutionary War hero George Rogers Clark's life and exploits. Be sure to take a guided tour and stroll along the Riverwalk for beautiful views of the Wabash River.
The Red Barn Rendezvous: This RV campground in Shiloh, Illinois offers 29 back-in/pull-through sites with full hookups available for 30/50 Amp. You'll find showers, laundry facilities, picnic tables, fire rings, and bike trails here. Pets are welcome. Additional amenities include a dump station and wifi.Casino Queen RV Park: Located in East St. Louis near Shiloh, this RV park provides 132 back-in/pull-through sites with full hookups for 30/50 Amp. Showers are available, and pets are allowed. There's also a convenience store on-site along with public transportation options to explore the nearby casino, dining options, and entertainment.Cahokia RV Parque: Just a short drive from Shiloh in East St. Louis, Cahokia RV Parque offers 45 back-in/pull-through sites with full hookups available for 30/50 Amp. This pet-friendly park features a pool, showers, wifi access, and shuttles to attractions like private tours of Cahokia Mounds State Historic Site and downtown St. Louis.St. Louis NE/Granite City KOA: Situated in Granite City near Shiloh, this KOA campground has 74 back-in/pull-through sites with full hookups for 30/50 Amp. Enjoy the pool and hot tub facilities as well as amenities like showers and a dog park. Additional services include wifi access, cable TV hookup, playgrounds for kids, horseshoe pits, and propane availability.
Shiloh, Illinois offers several convenient options for RV dumping.You can find dump stations at Military Park - Scott AFB FamCamp, Eddies Travel Center / Roady's, TA-Petro Stopping Center of Troy, and Pilot Flying J Travel Plazas #642.These dump stations provide facilities for dumping black water and gray water, as well as access to fresh water and a hose for flushing tanks.Additionally, most of these locations have an RV trash bin for easy waste disposal.
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 Washington, DC?
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 Washington, DC?
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.
