Indiana Dunes National Park is at the south end of Lake Michigan and about an hour south of Wilmette. This park offers a diverse ecosystem of dunes, wetlands, prairies, and an old-growth forest for you to explore. If you are interested in bathing in the sun or swimming, 15 miles of sandy beach along the shore of Lake Michigan await you. Hikers will find plenty of options, such as the Cowles Bog Trail, which treks through an area with so much plant diversity that it was designated a National Natural Landmark. After dinner, you may want to head to West Beach to see the sun set over Chicago.
Cuyahoga Valley National Park is in Ohio. With over 125 miles of hiking trails, rivers, and a scenic railroad within the park, it is no mystery why this park is one of the most visited in the United States. The park also includes dense forests, narrow canyons, wetlands, and an astonishing 100 waterfalls. Hiking is the most popular activity in this recreation area. However, you will also find plenty of birding, boating, fishing, and biking opportunities.
Mammoth Cave National Park is in a rural part of Kentucky, but there are small towns nearby where you can get gas and food. The park has the longest cave system in the world. Scientists have already explored 400 miles of caverns and believe there may be more than 600 miles of tunnels left to discover. Beyond taking a tour of some caves, the park abounds with opportunities for you to hike, fish, bird, and bike.
Big Foot Beach State Park is 70 miles northwest of Wilmette and gets its name from Chief Big Foot, who was a well-known Potawatomi leader. The park is on Lake Geneva's shorelines, and hikers will enjoy exploring numerous trails through the hardwood landscape. The many woodland birds make this park popular for bird-watching. Visitors also flock to the beach to sunbathe, swim and boat.
Kankakee River State Park is in Bourbonnais, Illinois 76 miles south of Wilmette. The Kankakee River runs through the center of this park and is popular with anglers interested in smallmouth bass, channel catfish, walleye, and northern pike. Hiking, canoeing, biking, and birding are also popular in this park's peaceful setting.
Moraine Hills State Park is 36 miles northwest of Wilmette, and about half of the park's 2,200 acres are wetlands and lakes. Lake Defiance, near the park's center, is one of the few glacial lakes in Illinois that has remained largely undeveloped. Fishing and boating are popular at the lake and on the Fox River. Photographers will appreciate the opportunity to snap shots of animals and birds in this recreation area's watery landscape. More than 10 miles of trails make Moraine Hills accessible to hikers and bikers who don't mind getting muddy.
About a half-hour drive south of Wilmette, Chicago is home to several Illinois landmarks. Willis Tower has stood vigil over Chicago since 1973. The building held the title of the world's tallest skyscraper until 1988, when workers finalized the construction of Petronas Twin Towers in Malaysia. A Skydeck allows bold visitors to see the city below through a glass floor.
Millenium Park is also in Chicago and is home to interactive fountains, tranquil gardens, and lots of green space. This space is often used for free events and to display public art. The park also houses the massive Cloud Gate, a bean-shaped sculpture that mesmerizes viewers with its reflective surface.
A short walk from Millenium Park, Navy Pier was originally built for military purposes. Since then, the area has become a popular tourist destination featuring a Ferris wheel and good eats at local restaurants.
Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park near Chicago made the top 10 list of all the Yogi Bear Parks in the country. The campground has everything you need to make your stay comfortable and features family-friendly weekend activities. At Chicago Northwest KOA enjoy gem mining, disc golf, and a playground. The sites here come with picnic tables, fire rings, and full hookups. Lastly, Camp Reinberg is a small, quiet campground near Wilmette. RV sites have electricity, a picnic table, and a fire ring.
How does hitching and unhitching a 5th-wheel RV rental work, and is it challenging?
Hitching and unhitching a 5th-wheel RV rental requires proper positioning of the RV and truck and connecting the hitch. It can be challenging for first-time renters, but the owner usually provides a thorough explanation of the process.
Are there any special driving considerations or techniques when towing a 5th-wheel rental RV in Wilmette, IL?
When towing a 5th-wheel rental RV in Wilmette, IL, it is important to note the weight and size of the RV and follow all traffic laws. Drivers should also be cautious of wind conditions as they can affect stability.
Do I use a generator to power the electrical system on a 5th wheel RV, or do I need to connect to a power source at a campground or RV park?
Most 5th wheel RVs come with a built-in generator, but some may require being plugged into a power source at a campground or RV park. RV owners will provide information on the specifics of powering the RV.
Are there any limitations on where I can park or store a 5th wheel RV in Wilmette, IL, such as zoning laws or homeowners' association regulations?
Renters should always check local regulations before parking a 5th wheel RV in Wilmette, IL. Some areas have specific zoning laws or homeowners' association regulations regarding parking and storing RVs.
What kind of maintenance or upkeep do I need to perform on a 5th-wheel RV rental during my rental period?
Renters should keep the RV clean and make sure to report any damages. Regular maintenance such as oil changes and tire checks are the responsibility of the RV owner.
Are there any safety concerns I should know when towing a 5th-wheel rental RV, such as sway or brake issues?
Sway and brake issues can occur when towing a 5th-wheel rental RV. Renters should be mindful of weight distribution and proper hitching to prevent these issues.
How do I properly level and stabilize a 5th-wheel rental RV at my campsite or RV park?
Leveling and stabilizing a 5th-wheel rental RV requires proper positioning and use of RV leveling blocks. The owner should provide instructions or assistance if needed.
Do I need to bring my cooking appliances or equipment for use in the 5th wheel rental RV's kitchen?
Most 5th wheel rental RVs come with a equipped kitchen, check the listing details or ask the owner for specific items. Renters may choose to bring additional cooking appliances or equipment if they desire.
Are there any unique features or amenities available in 5th wheel RV rental that may not be found in other towable RVs in Wilmette, IL?
5th wheel rental RVs may have additional features such as multiple bedrooms or bathrooms, larger living spaces, and better towing stability compared to other towable RVs in Wilmette, IL. RVshare owners may offer additional amenities or features for a more comfortable stay.
