Lynchburg is a large city located east of Virginia's Blue Ridge Mountains. Five colleges and universities, including Randolph College, the University of Lynchburg, Central Virginia Community College, Liberty University, and the Virginia University of Lynchburg, are located within the community. Lynchburg is home to over 79,000 people.
The swath of land that makes up modern-day Lynchburg was occupied by Seneca people until the early 1700s. In 1757, English settlers claimed the land as their own. They named the area after John Lynch, the city's founding father. John Lynch established a ferry service along a short stretch of James River. Thanks to the ferry service, the city was easily able to transport goods and passengers to Richmond. This quickly made it one of the state's main industrial hubs. Its industrial growth was matched by a swelling population. In the early 1850s, Lynchburg was incorporated as a city. During that time, it was one of the wealthiest towns per capita in the United States.
During the years that followed, tobacco factories, iron and steel manufacturing plants, and the railroad expanded in the area. During the American Civil War, the city of Lynchburg became a hub of confederate activity. During World War I, the area's factories were pumping out goods for a different cause. Pharmaceuticals, hydroelectric power, shoes, and cotton were just a few of the products produced in Lynchburg during the first world war.
Today, colleges and universities have helped breathe new life into this dynamic Virginia community. Many of the city's downtown factories have been converted into high-end apartments and condos for students and faculty. Other major revitalization projects include Bluffwalk, the Virginian Hotel, the Academy Center of the Arts, and the Amazement Square Children's Museum. Must-see area attractions include the Appomattox Courthouse, Crabtree Falls, and the Miller-Clayton House.
Paradise Lake Family Campground is a family-friendly camping spot situated in Appomattox County, Virginia. The campground offers full hookup campsites year-round. Their rates range between $52 and $55 per night. The facility's long list of onsite amenities includes a swimming pool, a fishing lake, a camp store, and a game room. The campground also boasts well-groomed hiking trails, clean public restrooms, covered picnic areas, and a dump station. It's the closest campground to downtown Lynchburg.
Lynchburg RV Campground is a 223-site facility located nearby in Gladys, Virginia. This RV park is open seasonally from May to October. The property features a swimming area, sand beaches, a clubhouse, bike trails, and more. All of the park's RV sites boast full hookups and 30-amp electricity. The park offers planned activities, such as movie nights, canoe trips, and ping pong tournaments.
Otter Creek is a rugged campground located at milepost 61 in Virginia's Blue Ridge Mountains. The campground's sites are rather primitive. However, water is available at all campsites. Campers can easily access the James River from within the park. Several of the park's large, level sites can accommodate big rigs.
James River State Park is a 1,500-acre space situated along a particularly scenic stretch of the James River in Gladstone, Virginia. The day-use area is open from dawn to dusk. It boasts a visitor center, a gift shop, and public restrooms. Cabins and campsites are also available for overnight stays. The facility features a natural playground, picnic shelters, multi-use trails, boat launches, and a camp store.
Holliday Lake State Park's swimming beach, picnic areas, and campgrounds attract thousands of water lovers during the summer. Located within the Appomattox-Buckingham State Forest, the park is also home to six hiking trails and a 4-H Educational Center. The park's Sunfish Aquatic Trail is a self-guided boating adventure. Visitors can bring their boats or rent them from the camp store. Swimming is permitted. However, the park does not boast lifeguards. The park's snack shack, restrooms, and bathhouse are only open seasonally during the summer.
Smith Mountain Lake State Park near the town of Huddleston is home to the second-largest freshwater lake in the state of Virginia. This outdoor paradise is a popular spot for swimming, fishing, hiking, and camping. The park's waterside campus is home to a boat ramp, a fishing pier, a visitor center, a theater, and a picnic area. Visitors can spend time at the swimming lake, rent boats, and more. The lake also offers plenty of fishing opportunities.
Appomattox Court House National Historic Park is the site of the surrender of the Army of Northern Virginia, the event that arguably ended the Civil War. Park visitors are welcome to meander around the park's grounds, trails, and visitor center. The McLean House and other historic buildings are also open to the public. Ranger-led tours and presentations are offered year-round. The park is also home to an extensive collection of original artifacts, including military gadgets and uniforms.
Red Hill Patrick Henry National Memorial near the town of Brookneal in Charlotte County is the burial site and last home of American attorney and politician Patrick Henry. Learn about the American Revolution and American Colonialism at this impressive living history museum. Quarter Place invites visitors to delve into the history of American slavery. It's the site of the oldest African American cemetery of enslaved people. The park's gift shop is an excellent place to stock up on history books and unique memorabilia.
The Booker T. Washington National Memorial is on the grounds of the 207-acre farm where Booker T. Washinton was born a slave. The park's visitor center boasts several exhibits on African American history. The .25-mile Plantation Trail takes walkers to several reconstructed farm buildings. The park is also home to a working farm. The sheep, pigs, horses, and other animals are a reminder of what the park was like when Washington lived there.
Monongahela National Forest encompasses over 919,000 acres in West Virginia's Potomac Highland Region. This stunning space boasts a discovery center, a lookout tower, and multiple campgrounds. Top attractions include Spruce Knob, Seneca Rock, and Cranberry Glades. The park is home to a stunning section of the Allegheny Mountains and there are plenty of trails for hikers to choose from.
George Washington and Jefferson National Forests encompass over 1.8 million acres of Appalachian Forests. The park is stretched across state lines and includes parts of Virginia, West Virginia, and Kentucky. The area offers an abundance of outdoor recreation opportunities. It's home to over 200 recreation sites, including numerous campgrounds and scenic overlooks. There are over 2,200 miles of trails woven throughout the park. Popular hikes include the Guest River Gorge, Elk Garden, and Dragons Tooth.
Cherokee National Forest is a 650,000-acre space within the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. This stunning outdoor space is home to two scenic roads, the Ocoee Scenic Byway and the Cherohala Skyway. The park also encompasses multiple trailheads, trails, and recreation areas. It's also home to several natural wonders, including but not limited to the Ocoee River, the Tellico River, Unaka Mountain, and Watauga Lake. The park presents visitors with plenty of opportunities for fishing, hiking, swimming, camping, and boating. Camp out along the shores of Laurel Fork Creek or Backbone Rock. Climb to the scenic lookout area atop Bald Mountain Ridge. Check out the incredible cascading falls at the Holston Mountain Recreation Area.
Shenandoah National Park encompasses a breathtaking section of Virginia's Blue Ridge Mountains. The area's best-known attraction is Skyline Drive, a 105-mile scenic road that runs along the crest of the mountains. The park is also home to a 101-mile stretch of the Appalachian Trail along with many other trails for hikers to choose from. There are also five established campgrounds scattered throughout the park. Popular area attractions include Bearfence Mountain Trailhead, the Dickey Ridge Visitor Center, and Old Rag Mountain.
New River Gorge National Park is a stunning 70,000-acre space along New River in West Virginia. The park encompasses a particularly wild stretch of land between Hinton and Fayetteville. The park's many alpine lookouts offer impressive panoramic views. Don't miss Fayette Station Road, Hawk's Nest State Park, and the Royal Gorge Bridge. The park is a hub for all types of outdoor recreation. Bring a picnic, go for a hike, try white water rafting, or simply enjoy the views.
Smoky Mountains National Park is a stunning area sandwiched between the borders of Tennessee and North Carolina. The 816-square-mile wilderness is home to a diverse population of plants and animals. Enjoy the views from some of the area's tallest peaks, including Clingmans Dome, Mount Le Conte, and Mount Buckley. Laurel, Grotto, and Abrams Falls are just a few of the park's most gorgeous waterways. There are also 10 distinct campgrounds situated within the park. Favorites include Elkmont, Cades Cove, and Cosby.
In most areas, the price to rent a motorhome is around $200 a night and the price to rent a towable trailer is around $120 a night.
What does RVshare Protection cover with my Lynchburg, VA RV rental?RVshare's protection plan standard package covers up to $300,000 in comprehensive and collision coverage based on the value of the RV. It also includes free 24/7 roadside assistance and free towing and tire service. For more information on RVshare insurance, click here.
What do I need to know before renting an RV in Lynchburg, VA?Lynchburg has plenty of highway access to make RV driving a breeze. The city also has ample parks and open spaces to visit. Be sure to include time in your plans to explore the Anne Spencer House & Garden Museum, the Amazement Square Children’s Museum, or the Old Sandusky and South River Meeting House.
What are the RV rental requirements in Lynchburg, VA?There is no special license needed to rent an RV, but it never hurts to check state websites. if you are unsure about traveling there and any regulations they may have, double-checking with the state will provide some peace of mind!
What are some tips for first-time RV renters in Lynchburg, VA?Renting an RV in Lynchburg, VA means endless blue skies and wide open roads. With all the wide open space between destinations, make sure you have a full tank of gas and plenty of food before you hit the road. You'll find RV campgrounds with showers, laundry, and other amenities. Busy season is in the summer so book early to get your spot, or visit off-season to avoid crowds.
What are the minimum age requirements for renting an RV in Lynchburg, VA?The minimum age requirement for renting an RV is 25.
What is included in my Lynchburg, VA RV rental?You should find any amenities that are included with your rental in the listing details. But it never hurts to check in with the owner before you arrive at the RV or have it delivered to ensure you have everything that is needed to have a fun and enjoyable trip!
Are there pet friendly RVs for rent in Lynchburg, VA?Looking for a pet friendly RV rental? Use the pet-friendly filter when searching on RVshare.com to find the perfect one for you!
Can I have my Lynchburg, VA RV rental delivered to a specified location?Many owners on RVshare.com offer delivery, and will even set it up for you at the campsite. Choose the 'Delivery' filter to narrow down your search results to RVs that can be brought to your home or destination. Check the listing details for any information regarding extra fees for delivery, or ask the owner if you are unsure.
Are there one way rental options from Lynchburg, VA?One way rentals can add flexibility to your trip, but there are typically costs associated with returning the RV back to the owner. Learn more about one way rental options at rvshare.com/one-way-rv-rentals.
