RV Rental Lynchburg, VA

Lynchburg, Virginia RV Rentals

Snug in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains, the historic and sleepy city of Lynchburg, Virginia, is an interesting and welcoming destination for your next RV road trip. Serving as a major storage depot and burial place for Civil War soldiers, the city is particularly known for its location to Appomattox, where the Civil War finally ended. Lynchburg was actually the only city in Virginia that wasn’t recaptured by the Union before the end of that war.

Today, the “City of Seven Hills” boasts an impressive five districts that are all listed on the National Register of Historic Districts. If you’re a history lover or an outdoor enthusiast, you’ll love all that Lynchburg has to offer. An RV rental in Lynchburg is a perfect way to explore this city and all its southern charm.

There are also plenty of well-appointed RV campgrounds to choose from during your time here. So take a look at just a small sampling of some of the great events and attractions that Lynchburg has to offer and get excited for your next RV vacation destination.

Popular RV Destinations in Lynchburg

Historic District Walking Tour

With a whopping seven historic districts, five of which are on the National Register of Historic Districts, Lynchburg is the perfect city for a leisurely and educational walking tour. If you have mobility issues or physical limitations, not to worry — you can definitely do the tour by car. These lavish neighborhoods date back to the early days of the city, during the 19th century.

Doctors, lawyers, tobacco tycoons, and entrepreneurs made Lynchburg a hub of wealth and prosperity. You can still see that today in the well-maintained neighborhoods with their regal homes and large, flowering tree-lined streets. The iconic Queen Anne and Federal architecture style abounds.

Take a self-guided tour brochure from the Lynchburg Visitor Information Center and enjoy one of the city’s best free attractions.

American Civil War Museum

The American Civil War Museum is located in Appomattox, a short 25-minute drive east of Lynchburg. An RV road trip is the ideal opportunity to check out this iconic piece of American history. The museum succinctly weaves the story of the Confederate States’ military, civilians, government, and Africa-American population.

The museum is home to more than 400 Civil War artifacts, documents, and photographs. Permanent exhibits detail the events before, during, and after the war. You can also see General Robert E. Lee’s sword and uniform.

Live the “Appomattox Moment,” a clash of the two warring parties at a rural crossroads in April of 1865. This sobering and in-depth look at a dark time in the Nation’s history will be one that will sit with you long after you leave this historic building. 

Peaks of Otter

The Peaks of Otter are another excellent place to take your RV exploring. The three peaks are called Sharp Top, Flat Top, and Harkening Hill. They stand as regal sentinels that have attracted people as far back as the region’s Native Americans, who used the region as a fertile hunting ground.

Both General Robert E. Lee and Thomas Jefferson, as well as other notable naturalists, have spent time on these peaks. For a truly awe-inspiring view, head to the summit of either Flat Top or Sharp Top to take your perfect selfie and soak in the vast panorama. If walking to the top of the summit isn’t your thing, there’s a convenient shuttle bus.

You can also peruse wildlife exhibits, self-guided wildflower tours, take part in interactive programs, or wander on the many walking trails. Feel free to grab some sustenance at the area’s restaurant, or bring a picnic to the well-maintained picnic area.

Natural Bridge State Park

One of the seven natural wonders of the world, Natural Bridge, is only 45 minutes away from Lynchburg. Don’t miss the opportunity to explore this 215-foot tall limestone bridge that has been carved over the eons by Cedar Creek. The park itself offers plenty of other great things to explore.

Seven miles of hiking trails meander throughout the park. Be sure to check out the Cedar Creek Trail which leads from the Visitor Center underneath the bridge to the 30-foot cascade of Lace Falls. It’s a breathtaking scene.

You can also tour the nearby Natural Bridge Wax Museum, Professor Cline’s Haunted Monster Museum, a 34-story commercial cavern, and more. The Visitor Center also offers seasonal living history programs, exhibits, and a gift shop.

Poplar Forest

Poplar Forest is a beloved plantation home and grounds that was designed and built by Thomas Jefferson. It served as his private residence during his twilight years. Today, it’s a National Historic Landmark and you can tour this house-cum-museum.

The home has been carefully and meticulously restored to express Jefferson’s original style and vision. In fact, Jefferson’s design and architectural accomplishment is considered by many to be his most perfect executed work. You will get a real feel for the life and activities of one of the most prominent people of the 19th century, as well as his creativity and spirit. 

The home hosts several special programs and events throughout the year. Attend special musical performances and fun and educational beer and wine tastings. For groups of 10 or more, they ask that you reserve your tour in advance.

Lynchburg Community Market

The Lynchburg Community Market is located right in downtown and is the third oldest farmers market in the nation. The market is a great gathering place and offers a diverse selection of local produce, meats, baked goods, crafts, artwork, and more. It has plenty of permanent vendors that sell everything from soup to nuts.

Looking for the perfect souvenir or gift to commemorate your trip to Lynchburg? You’re likely to find it at the Community Market. Hours vary recently, so be sure to check them before you head over. The best day is usually Saturday between 7am and 2pm, and on Wednesdays, they have a green market during the summer months that offers the freshest of fresh produce.

Events and Entertainment in Lynchburg

Get Downtown Street Festival

Each Autumn, the city of Lynchburg shuts down almost eight blocks surrounding Main Street to host its biggest event of the year. The Get Downtown Street Festival showcases downtown businesses, artists, vendors, crafters, live music, and various performances by street performers and dancers. You can see shows on multiple stages.

The festival is designed to provide a warm welcome and a sampling of that famed southern hospitality to the area’s new and returning students from six colleges and universities. More than 10,000 people turn out to celebrate. Be sure to get your fill of the local cuisines that are offered by the numerous food trucks and downtown restaurants. 

LOCK’N Music Festival

Usually held near the end of summer as a massive culmination, the LOCK’N Music Festival is three days of non-stop music and mountains. Launched in 2013, the event has grown to feature some of the nation’s most popular recording artists. Singers like Tom Petty, Phish, Carlos Santana, Zac Brown, Willie Nelson, and so many more have played this iconic venue.

This event is backed by a supportive and creative community which makes it one of the best outdoor concert festivals in the country. Some amazing once-in-a-lifetime artist collaborations have happened on its stage. You never know what you’ll see and hear, but it’s sure to be amazing.

One of the best parts of this festival? RVs are totally welcome, so you can stay right on site.

Virginia Wine and Garlic Festival

Okay, so pairing wine and garlic may seem like a weird combination, but it totally works at the Virginia Wine and Garlic Festival hosted by Rebec Winery. Each October, attendees revel in the sights, smells, and tastes of this interesting event. The festival showcases some of the best food, wine, arts, crafts, and live entertainment in the region.

This event is actually Virginia’s largest agricultural festival and was awarded first place for Lynchburg Living’s 2018-2019 Best Festival or Event. Five stages present continuous music and live performances during the weekend. More than 150 diverse booths feature all sorts of arts, crafts, and jewelry. 

James River Batteaux Festival

If you’re looking for a completely different type of event that you won’t see anywhere else, check out the James River Batteaux Festival. Held in June, participants start from Percival’s Island in Lynchburg and take an eight-day flatboat journey along the James River. You can either sign up to join, or just show up to give them a rowdy send-off.

The Batteaux is a flat-bottomed boat that was used to transport goods and passengers up and down the area rivers during the 1800s. You can bring your kayak or canoe to get up close to the action while cannons sound off to launch the crews. The full expedition is designed to preserve Virginia’s interesting heritage and promote historical education. 

FAQs

Q: What are RV rentals?

RV rentals work much like any other vehicle rentals. You pay a daily or weekly rate. You can expect these rates to fluctuate based on the time of year and the geographic location that you're renting. Naturally, rates tend to increase during peak seasons. You can get an RV for a certain period and enjoy all its benefits while traveling without the hassles and large cost of owning your RV. It’s also a great way to try out some different RV models if you’re considering purchasing your own.

Q: How much are RV rentals?

RV rentals in Lynchburg can range between $75 and $150 per night for most small- to medium-sized trailers and campervans. Larger RVs and travel trailers can cost from $100 to $250 per night, depending on the season and the RV’s year, make, and model. Some companies offer a discount if you rent for longer than a week.

Q: Do I need to be a certain age to rent an RV in Lynchburg?

While most states require you to be at least 25 years old to rent an RV, the legal age to rent one in Virginia is 21. This may not be the policy of your RV rental agency, however. Most companies require you to be at least 25 to rent.

Q: Do I need insurance when I rent an RV?

Yes, you'll need insurance to rent an RV in Lynchburg. It's meant to cover the vehicle in case of an accident and is mandatory in most states. Most rental companies will have RV-specific insurance that you can purchase.

Q: Do I need to return my rental RV with a full tank?

This policy varies among rental agencies, but most RV rental facilities in Lynchburg will expect you to return the vehicle with a full tank of gas. At the very least, the fuel should be at the same level as when you picked up the vehicle. 

Q: Are RVs pet-friendly in Lynchburg?

Many RV and camper rentals in Lynchburg are pet-friendly, and there are even vehicles specially designed for accommodating animals. Still, it’s important to double-check the policy with your chosen rental agency before renting a particular vehicle.