There are no national parks in Massachusetts, but three are within a day’s drive. The nearest is Acadia National Park, located 106 miles north of Boston near Portland, ME. The oldest national park east of the Mississippi, Acadia consists of ocean shores, peaks, forests, lakes, and rivers. It hosts the highest peak on the East Coast — Cadillac Mountain at 1,530 feet — and six other mountains over 1,000 feet. Dense forests of deciduous trees add splendor to the hillsides during the fall. Fishing, hiking, and biking are among the favorite activities that draw visitors to this park.
Shenandoah National Park is the next nearest national park to Massachusetts. It is less than an eight-hour drive to visit this park, one of the most popular parks in the system. Located in the Blue Ridge Mountains of Virginia, the park protects over 300 square miles of mountains, deep valleys, forested hillsides, rivers, and brooks full of fish. The park offers incredible hiking and biking trails leading to amazing viewpoints.
Taking an eight-hour journey from western Massachusetts through northern New York to Cleveland gets a traveler to Cuyahoga Valley National Park. The park features a deep valley cut by the Cuyahoga River over millennia with steep sides and incredible views. Over 125 miles of trails run through the park past 100 spectacular waterfalls.
The Veteran’s War Memorial appropriately ranks first on the list of landmarks in Massachusetts. It sits atop Mount Greylock, the highest point in Massachusetts. On a clear day, the view from the memorial goes for 100 miles or more. Initially intended as a salute to the veterans of WWI, the tower continues to stand in memory of all those who served the United States in combat.
Minute Man National Historical Park occupies 1,000 acres of some of the most historically significant land in American history. Re-enactments occur each year, letting visitors experience a bit of the fear, anxiety, and bravery of the inexperienced farmers and plow boys of the Continental Militia forces that took on the professional British Army.
Initially, the Old State House hosted the Massachusetts Colonial government. It was then transformed to be the capital of the new state of Massachusetts until larger structures were created to house an expanding government. In the 1800s, it served as Boston’s Town Hall before being abandoned by the government. Today, it is a reminder of the significant events that took place in the building.
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 Massachusetts 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 Massachusetts?
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 Massachusetts, 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 Massachusetts?
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 Massachusetts particularly well-suited for a camper van and what amenities or features do they offer?
There are many campgrounds and RV parks in Massachusetts 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.