Everglades National Park is one of the largest national parks in the United States. It is home to unusual species like Florida panthers, manatees, and American crocodiles. The 1.5 million-acre tropical wilderness consists of sawgrass marshes, coastal mangroves, and pine flatwoods. It provides much opportunity for outdoor exploration, which is advantageous for birdwatching, airboat tours, backcountry camping, educational activities, and boating that are enjoyed by the approximately one million visitors that the park attracts annually. Florida summer temperatures can reach more than 90 degrees; however, summer also sees much rainfall, and hurricane season.
With many unique attributes that can only be seen by boat, Biscayne National Park is a distinct park enjoyed by thousands year-round. There are lots of activities both below water and above including snorkeling, SCUBA diving, guided tours, and an art gallery. With as much sunshine and humidity as Florida is known for, thunderstorms often happen in the summer.
Dry Tortugas National Park boasts seven islands with coral reefs, a lighthouse, a multitude of sea turtles, and a fortress that originated in the 19th century. Only accessible by seaplane or boat, it is visited by fewer explorers than Everglades National Park, seeing just 63,000 people yearly. Those who brave the journey are treated to plenty of outdoor recreation, including swimming, boating, fishing, and paddling. There are activities for scuba divers and snorkelers alike, with the Windjammer Wreck conveniently accessible with and without tanks and many coral reefs for exploration.
Lake Kissimmee State Park invites you to learn some cowboy history in Florida. Its cow camp living history site allows you to explore 13 miles of their previous domain, which is partially accessible by horseback or boat.
At Colt Creek State Park, you are likely to come across multiple bird species, white-tailed deer, and otters. It is also home to winding creeks, open vistas, longleaf pine flatwoods, cypress domes, and lakes among its 5,000 acres.
Suitable for family adventures, Lake Louisa State Park has two streams and five lakes perfect for fishing, kayaking, and swimming. Equestrians, bikers, and hikers are also welcome to enjoy its 20 miles of trails filled with native wildlife.
Winter Haven is situated near many Florida landmarks, including Kennedy Space Center. Its visitor complex features exhibits like the history of space exploration and an astronaut training circuit. Tampa Zoo is a short drive away, with more than 60 acres filled with over 1,300 animals. The Dali is also nearby, which is home to the largest single collection of Dali's paintings. There is a mixture of community programs like live music, yoga, and lectures.
Cypress Campground & RV Park is located 2.3 miles from Legoland. Occupied by mostly long-term or permanent rentals, there are spaces available for overnight stays as well. It is a pet-friendly park. East Haven RV Park features a pool and a recreation hall. It sits on 8 acres and is only four miles from Legoland. Located on almost 600 acres of land is Sanlan RV & Golf Resort, which features heated swimming pools, four recreation halls, a golf course, and more.
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 Winter Haven, FL 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 Winter Haven, FL?
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 Winter Haven, FL, 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 Winter Haven, FL?
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 Winter Haven, FL particularly well-suited for a camper van and what amenities or features do they offer?
There are many campgrounds and RV parks in Winter Haven, FL 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.
