Great Sand Dunes National Park is 86 miles southeast of Salida. It showcases the tallest dunes in North America, some of which reach 750 feet in height. There is more to this 100,000-plus acre park than the 30-square-mile field of dunes, however, as it also encompasses alpine lakes, conifer forests, grasslands, tundra, and wetlands. A favorite activity at the Great Sand Dunes National Park is to slide down the dunes on a sandboard or sled. You can backpack or hike the area even though there are no designated trails here, and the remote location offers good dark sky conditions for stargazing. The weather at the park varies by season, and the altitude plays a role in the temperatures. May and June are usually the peak season for visitors.
Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park sits 126 miles west of town. This park showcases the deep Black Canyon carved over the millennia by the Gunnison River. The 12-mile canyon has some of the oldest exposed rocks in North America. Fishing and kayaking are popular water activities here, and you'll also find plenty of opportunities for hiking and rock climbing. During your visit, you can follow the scenic Rim Drive in your RV, stopping at overlooks to take in the views and snap photos. The North Rim and South Rim campsites are fully developed for overnight stays, with the southern facility offering electrical hookups. July temperatures can reach 91 degrees but can drop as low as 18 degrees Fahrenheit in the winter months.
A 186-mile road trip north from Salida places you at Rocky Mountain National Park. It showcases Longs Peak, one of Colorado's 14ers. You will find four developed campgrounds to choose from, though you'll have to make reservations in advance. The park also offers one tent-only campground that is available without reservations. You can explore over 300 miles of trails at the park or drive along Trail Ridge Road. Scenic overlooks, mountain views with wildflowers, and wildlife like black bears and moose make great photo opportunities. Don't forget to visit the series of cabins at the Holzwarth Historic Site at Grand Lake. The best time to visit Rocky Mountain National Park is between Memorial Day and Labor Day. The weather here can change quickly, and snow during the summer is not an impossibility.
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 Salida, CO 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 Salida, CO?
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 Salida, CO, 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 Salida, CO?
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 Salida, CO particularly well-suited for a camper van and what amenities or features do they offer?
There are many campgrounds and RV parks in Salida, CO 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.
