Indiana Dunes National Park is a newly minted national park along the shores of Lake Michigan in northern Indiana. This park was declared a national park in 2019, and visitors can find dunes, beaches, prairies, and forests ripe for exploration. The Indiana Dunes are mainly a summer destination — snow, wind, and ice are all common on the shores of Lake Michigan during the winter.
Isle Royale National Park is part of Michigan's Upper Peninsula, located in Lake Superior, just off the northern Wisconsin shores. This vehicle-free national park is overflowing with wildlife. Kayakers and canoers make their way to Isle Royale each summer to travel between the park's smaller islands.
Voyageurs National Park is in northern Minnesota. Sitting on over 200,000 acres, Voyageurs National Park is great for hiking, fishing, and boating. Voyageurs remains open in the winter and is a popular destination for ice fishing, snowshoeing, and snowmobiling. Guided ranger activities are held year-round, featuring landscape and wildlife tours. While the park is remote, there are several nearby gateway communities where you can visit restaurants, bars, and shops.
Big Foot Beach State Park is located about an hour from Waukesha and features a beach area, hiking, and camping. Big Foot Beach State Park is known as one of the best birdwatching sites in the area, attracting visitors from spring until fall. After you are done exploring the park, consider a visit to nearby Lake Geneva, Wisconsin.
Harrington Beach State Park is located about an hour north of Waukesha on the shores of Lake Michigan. Harrington Beach is one of the best Lake Michigan beaches in the area, composed of fine sand with few rocks. Unique to Harrington Beach State Park is the observatory, where an astronomy program teaches the public about the stars and planets.
Lake Kegonsa State Park is located just outside of Madison, Wisconsin. The park contains marsh and rolling prairie and is an ideal birdwatching and wildlife-viewing location. Lake Kegonsa is a popular destination for boating and fishing.
The Ice Age National Scenic Trail runs right past Waukesha, Wisconsin. The trail is just shy of 1,200 miles long and passes dozens of forests, canyons, lakes, and rivers.
The Pullman National Monument is dedicated to the endeavors of George Pullman, a businessman of the 1800s who helped to revolutionize the rail industry in the Chicago area.
Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore features vibrant views of Lake Michigan and the dunes surrounding the park. Hiking and wildlife viewing are available at Sleeping Bear Dunes, where you'll also find beaches.
For those venturing into the city, the Wisconsin State Fair RV Park offers a convenient option to park your RV. Don't expect stunning natural vistas — the State Fair RV Park is smack in the middle of the city. For a more rural option, consider Happy Acres Campground. Happy Acres is located about 35 miles outside of Milwaukee. For family-friendly adventures, consider Jellystone Park near Caledonia, Wisconsin, which features a plethora of activities for kids.
How do I properly pack and store my belongings inside a camper van rental, and what storage options are available?
When renting a Class B motorhome from an RVshare owner, there are typically several storage options available for your belongings. You can utilize overhead storage compartments, under-bench storage, and even cabinets for heavier items. When packing your belongings, it's best to use soft-sided luggage or collapsible containers to save on space. Keep items secure while driving by using bungee cords or tension rods to prevent shifting during travel.
Can I drive a camper van rental in Waukesha, WI without prior experience, and are there any special driving considerations I should know?
Driving a Class B motorhome rental is typically similar to driving a regular car, but there are a few things to keep in mind. Make sure to adjust your mirrors before setting off and be aware of the height and length of your vehicle. It's also advisable to take a test drive around the RVshare owner's neighborhood to familiarize yourself with the handling and braking of the vehicle before embarking on your trip.
What kind of maintenance or upkeep do I need to perform on the camper van rental during my rental period?
The owner of the RV is responsible for maintenance. Renters should keep the RV clean and handle with care to avoid any damages. You may need to empty the water tanks depending on your agreement with the RV owner.
Do I need to know any weight or height restrictions when driving a camper van motorhome rental in Waukesha, WI?
It's important to know the height and weight restrictions of your camper van rental in order to avoid accidents or getting stuck in low clearance areas, especially when traveling on highways or bridges. It's also advisable to check local regulations regarding weight limits when driving on certain roads.
Can I park or store a Class B motorhome rental in a regular parking spot or garage in Waukesha, WI, or are there specific requirements for parking and storage?
Parking a Class B motorhome rental in a regular spot or garage can be challenging due to the size of the vehicle. It's important to check local regulations and parking restrictions before setting off on your trip. RVshare owners may also provide guidance on where it is safe to park or store the vehicle.
What fuel efficiency considerations do I need to consider when driving a Class B motorhome rental, and how can I minimize the impact on my fuel costs?
Most Class B motorhomes are relatively fuel efficient, but it's important to be mindful of your driving habits in order to minimize fuel costs. Avoid idling the engine unnecessarily, accelerate smoothly, and avoid excessive speeding. It's also a good idea to plan your route before departing in order to avoid getting lost or taking unnecessary detours.
Are any particular features or amenities available in a camper van rental that may not be found in other RVs in Waukesha, WI?
Features and amenities vary depending on the model of the Class B motorhome rental, but some popular options include a built-in microwave, refrigerator, and TV/DVD player. Some models may also include a shower and toilet, while others may not. Check the listing details on RVshare for all of the available amenities for each rental.
How do I correctly set up and use the kitchen and bathroom facilities in a Class B motorhome rental?
Each RVshare owner may have different instructions for using the kitchen and bathroom facilities in their Class B motorhome rental. In the bathroom, there may be a shower and/or toilet that needs to be hooked up to water and sewage sources. RVshare owners will typically provide instruction manuals or walkthroughs of the rental vehicle's features.
Should I bring my entertainment equipment or appliances for the camper van rental, such as a portable grill or music player?
While some Class B motorhome rentals may include entertainment equipment or appliances, such as a grill or music player, it's always a good idea to double-check with the RVshare owner about what amenities are included in the rental. If you have specific entertainment preferences, you may want to bring your own equipment or devices.
Are any specific campgrounds or RV parks in Waukesha, WI particularly well-suited for a camper van and what amenities or features do they offer?
There are many campgrounds and RV parks in Waukesha, WI that are well-suited for Class B motorhome rentals. Some popular amenities include electrical hookups, dump stations for sewage, and picnic tables. It's important to research and reserve a spot in advance to ensure availability during your trip. RVshare owners may also have recommendations for great campsites or RV parks in the area.
