If you travel to Maine, which is seven hours and 40 minutes northeast of Hudson Valley, you will discover Acadia National Park. Inside its perimeter, Cadillac Mountain towers above, reaching up to 1,530 feet. Visitors should anticipate varied terrain, including lakes, ocean shorelines, and forestry. Over 3.3 million people visit the nation's oldest national park east of the Mississippi River. Furthermore, the extensive carriage road network ushers many equine enthusiasts here. If you are an avid hiker, hit the 3.5-mile Gorham Mountain Loop, circling the granite hillsides.
Cuyahoga Valley National Park is seven hours and 25 minutes west of Hudson Valley in Ohio. Despite its relatively short history, the park's claim to fame is its plentiful waterfalls. Walkers will encounter lush forests, rolling hills, and narrow ravines once they enter the park's boundaries. Overall, the area's trail network encompasses more than 125 miles of blazed paths.
In Virginia, six hours southwest of Hudson Valley, Shenandoah National Park consists of more than 200,000 acres of protected lands that are home to songbirds, bears, and deer. You can go hiking on the park’s 500+ trails, biking on Skyline Drive and all paved areas, and fish in the park’s 90+ mountain streams.
Macedonia Brook State Park, which is in Connecticut, an hour and 10 minutes southeast of Mid-Hudson Valley, encircles 2,302 acres of pristine wilderness, forestland, and hillsides. Travelers will be enticed by natural water features, mountains, and woodsy environments. Inside the park, the Blue Trail is renowned for its fall foliage thanks to the radiant trees. Fishers can toss a lure into the lake and see what nibbles while wandering around the park.
An hour northeast of Mid-Hudson Valley, Taconic State Park contains more than 14,400 contiguous acres, making it one of the north's largest unfragmented forests. The Nature Conservancy designated it as one of the "Last Great Places" in the country. Wintertime voyagers will love blazing through snow-packed trails and walking on top of fresh powder.
Lake Taghkanic State Park, 42 minutes northeast of Mid-Hudson Valley, covers 1,569 acres, and its namesake lake comprises 168 miles of that. Visitors can relax, unwind and refresh at either the east or west beach. However, the park's western beach is the current reigning champion in terms of popularity. During the colder months, ice skating and ice fishing are popular local pastimes.
History lovers will want to travel to Pollepel Island off Mid-Hudson Valley and visit the remains of Bannerman Castle. The castle was built by a Northern Ireland emigrant to store munitions for the Spanish-American War. Now, it is mostly in ruins with only portions of the exterior walls still standing.
You may also want to visit the Stony Point Battlefield State Historic Site in Lower Hudson Valley. It is the site of one of the last Revolutionary War battles in the northeastern colonies. Here, you will find the Stony Point Lighthouse, which was built in 1826 and is the oldest lighthouse on the Hudson River. There is also a museum that contains exhibits on the lighthouse and the battle along with reenactments, musket and cannon firings, children’s activities, and cooking and blacksmith demonstrations.
Albany is home to the New York State Capitol building. It sits on top of State Street Hill and has been the seat of the New York government since the 1880s. It took 32 years to complete as it was built by hand from solid masonry. Tours are available Monday through Friday, and they take visitors through the Governor’s Reception room, Hall of Governors, the legislative chambers, and the Hall of New York.
Vacationers can park their RVs at Rip Van Winkle Campgrounds near Catskill. The park's 160-acre wooded expanse entertains newcomers and old-timers all the same. Doherty's Mountain View Campground, in the Catskill Mountains in Mid-Hudson Valley, only charges guests $40 per night. The hookups are limited to 30-amp models only, so make sure your RV is compatible before registering. Devil's Tombstone Campground, which is in the Catskill Forest Preserve, has daily rates as low as $16, but there are only 22 designated spots. Additionally, there aren’t any hookups, but it is adjacent to the ever-popular Devil's Path Trail.
Do I maintain or service the motorhome rental during my rental period?
No, it is the responsibility of the RVshare owner to ensure the motorhome is properly maintained and serviced before your rental period. Just take good care of your rental and keep it clean.
Are there any special driving considerations or techniques I should know when operating a motorhome rental in Hudson Valley, NY?
Yes, motorhomes are larger and heavier than most passenger vehicles, so it is important to allow for more time and space when turning, merging, or stopping. Additionally, it is recommended to drive slower than the posted speed limit and to use caution when driving in windy or wet conditions.
How do I properly level and stabilize a motorhome at my campsite or RV park?
Motorhomes typically have built-in leveling jacks or blocks that can be adjusted to ensure the RV is level and stable. Some RV parks may also provide leveling pads or blocks if needed. Discuss your campsite with the RV owner ahead of time and they can provide you guidance on stabilizing.
What kind of maintenance or upkeep do I need to perform on the interior and exterior during my rental period?
You should keep the interior clean and tidy, empty waste tanks as needed, and report any damages or malfunctions to the RVshare owner. Exterior maintenance such as checking tire pressure is also recommended.
Does my motorhome rental come with bedding, linens, or other items I would consider to be personal?
This varies by RVshare owner. Some owners may include bedding and linens, while others may require renters to bring their own. It is best to check with the owner prior to renting.
Should I bring entertainment equipment or appliances for the motorhome rental?
While some motorhomes may come equipped with entertainment options or appliances, it is always a good idea to bring your own if desired. However, be mindful of any limitations on power usage or space restrictions. Check the RV listing or ask the RV owner what kind of entertainment is included.
Are there any limitations on where I can park or store a motorhome rental in Hudson Valley, NY, such as zoning laws or homeowners' association regulations?
There may be restrictions on where motorhomes can be parked or stored in certain areas. It is best to research local laws and regulations or to ask the RVshare owner for guidance.
What fuel efficiency considerations do I need to consider when operating a motorhome rental?
Motorhomes are not typically known for their fuel efficiency, but there are steps you can take to improve gas mileage such as driving at a lower speed, avoiding excessive idling, and keeping tires properly inflated.
How do I properly operate and maintain the various systems in a motorhome rental?
The RVshare owner should provide you with detailed instructions and manuals for operating and maintaining the various systems in the motorhome. It is important to follow these instructions carefully to ensure proper use and prevent damage.
Are any unique features or amenities available in motorhome rentals that may not be found in other RVs in Hudson Valley, NY?
This varies by RV owner and motorhome class, but some motorhomes may have unique features such as slide-outs, outdoor kitchens, or luxury finishes that may not be found in other types of RVs.