Chester is less than a day's drive from three national parks, each with its own distinct flavor and attractions. Just over an hour away down I-77 S is Congaree National Park. This protected wetland along the Congaree River features hardwood forests, and it's a great destination for bird-watchers. In fact, the National Audubon Society leads tours on the second Sunday of each month, and kids will love the Owl Prowl.
The drive from Chester to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park is a road trip you won't forget and offers some of the region's best scenery. Take a hike in the mountains, fish, or join one of the many organized events. You can reach this location in about three hours from Chester via I-26 W.
If you're more into outdoor adventures like rock climbing or white-water rafting, consider taking the five-hour drive north up I-77 to New River Gorge National Park. This mountainous setting in West Virginia offers a natural canyon to rival the Grand Canyon, panoramic views of the Appalachian Mountains, and miles of marked trails.
There are a number of state parks in the region, and some, like Chester State Park, are within minutes of the city of Chester. This is a great location for an impromptu picnic or fishing in the 160-acre lake.
Speaking of fun on the water, Andrew Jackson State Park is an idyllic 360-acre setting for boating, fishing, and waterskiing on its 20-acre lake.
Traveling the 41 miles to Blacksburg, SC up SC-97 N takes you to Kings Mountain State Park. This 6,886-acre mecca for outdoor adventure has a campground on-site. The central feature is the traditional 19th-century Piedmont farm with a working blacksmith's shop and cotton gin. There are also miles of hiking trails, or you can rent a canoe to explore the park from the water at your leisure.
One building that dominates the city skyline in Chester is the Romanesque City Hall and Opera House, built in 1891. The Aaron Burr Rock in downtown Chester marks the spot where the notorious figure made his famous proclamation. History buffs will enjoy a visit to the Chester County Courthouse, a fine example of Georgian architecture with an authentic Civil War cannon on the front lawn.
Combine your love of camping and NASCAR with a stay in nearby Charlotte at Charlotte Motor Speedway and Campground. In addition to races scheduled throughout the year, this campground has 380 campsites, with 30/50 amps and full hookups. Rates start at $31 per day, or you can call for weekly or monthly rates.
If you're looking for something a little quieter, consider Carowinds Camp Wilderness Resort. This family-friendly RV camping spot has 89 pull-through/back-in spots with full hookups and 30/50 amps. Features include organized events, and there's a grocery store on-site if you need food or supplies. Rates are available by phone.
The Lake Myers RV & Camping Resort is situated on 74 acres, and it has 444 camping sites on its wooded grounds. Pull-through/back-in sites are available with full hookups and 30/50 amps. There is a swimming pool, horseshoe pits, hiking trails, and an on-site grocery store and restaurant. Pricing is available online when you make your reservation.
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 Chester, SC 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 Chester, SC?
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 Chester, SC, 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 Chester, SC?
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 Chester, SC particularly well-suited for a camper van and what amenities or features do they offer?
There are many campgrounds and RV parks in Chester, SC 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.
