The Dry Tortugas National Park is a group of seven small islands, 70 miles west of Key West. The park has no fresh water, so it's not a good place to stay for long periods. However, snorkeling and diving are some of the best in the world. The on-site campground has 20 full hookups for RVs. The best national parks near Ellenton, Florida, are Everglades National Park and Biscayne National Park. The Everglades National Park is located approximately three hours south of Ellenton, Florida. It is the largest tropical wilderness in the United States, home to 239 species of birds and 53 reptiles. Everglades National Park contains a variety of wildlife and plants that are only found in this region. The park provides a great opportunity to view wildlife and offers a variety of activities, including canoeing, hiking, kayaking, snorkeling, fishing, and camping. Biscayne National Park is another option for those looking to spend some time outdoors in the area.
Lake Manatee State Park is a Florida state park located in Hernando County, Florida. It is located near Ellenton, off U.S. Highway 41, offering fishing, boating, golfing, and an RV campground with full hookups. Visitors to Little Manatee River State Park will enjoy the park’s two-mile nature trail and its beautiful scenery. There is also a boat ramp that provides access to the Little Manatee River for canoes and kayaks. Oscar Scherer State Park is a 4,811-acre park located on the shores of Lake Okeechobee. With more than 10 miles of trails to explore, visitors can hike through subtropical hardwood hammocks, pine flatwoods, and open prairies. The park also features a variety of endangered and threatened species. Visitors can also take advantage of the park's canoe and kayak launch site. A visitor center is available for those who want to learn more about the area's history. Several campsites are available for RVers at Oscar Scherer State Park; however, water hookups are not available. Pets are permitted in the campgrounds but must be leashed.
The Osceola National Forest is a 2,129,943-acre forest that is located in the northwestern part of Florida. It is one of the oldest forests in the United States. The Osceola National Forest has diverse wildlife and plant life. It’s also home to a variety of recreational opportunities, including camping, hiking, fishing, and more.  The Apalachicola National Forest is a 333,000-acre forest in southern Georgia and northern Florida. The Apalachicola National Forest has diverse wildlife and plant life, as well as plenty of recreational opportunities.  The Osceola and Apalachicola National Forests are within an hour’s drive of Ellenton and offer an easy opportunity to get away from it all for the weekend or longer. The Ocala National Forest has many fun activities; in this forest, you can swim in a cool spring, paddle a spring run, hike, and ride your own bike. There are several campgrounds in the Ocala National Forest. These campgrounds offer a range of amenities, from basic tent sites to RV hookups and cabins.
This part of the country is rich in history and culture, and plenty of national sites and monuments exist to explore. One of the most popular is De Soto National Memorial. The De Soto National Memorial is a must-see landmark near Ellenton, Florida. This memorial commemorates the landing of Hernando de Soto at the site of present-day Tampa Bay in 1539. It also pays tribute to the Native Americans that helped de Soto and his men survive during their journey. Visitors can learn about De Soto's expedition and Native American culture in the region.  The Fort Mose Historic State Park is another popular landmark in this area. This historic park commemorates the first free African-American town in North America, which was established by escaped slaves in 1738. Do you want to visit Ellenton, Florida, and want to save money on airfare and hotel rentals? Browse the RVshare website to learn more about the different kinds of RVs available for rent and how much they cost.
Ellenton, Florida, has several campgrounds near the city. Four popular campgrounds include Ellenton Gardens RV Resort, Winter Quarters Manatee RV Resort, The Surf RV Resort, and Fisherman's Cove RV Resort. They have amenities like laundry facilities, restrooms with showers, and Wi-Fi. Many sites can be reserved ahead of time, but some public spaces are free and available on a first-come, first-served basis.
There are four RV dump stations available in Ellenton, Florida, and additional nearby options in the surrounding areas. You’ll find dump stations at Terra Ceia Village RV Resort, Ellenton Gardens Travel Resort, North Manatee RV & Boat Storage, and Manatee RV Park. See RVshare’s guide to RV dump stations in Ellenton, Florida, for dump station addresses and details.
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 Ellenton, 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 Ellenton, 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 Ellenton, 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 Ellenton, 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 Ellenton, FL particularly well-suited for a camper van and what amenities or features do they offer?
There are many campgrounds and RV parks in Ellenton, 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.
