Road Trip with RVshare Chicago to Denver

Driving an RV from Chicago to Denver lets you take your time between two great American cities instead of just flying over the middle of the country. Along the way, you'll watch the landscape shift from Illinois cornfields to the wide-open plains of Iowa and Nebraska and then finally up into the foothills of Colorado. The route is straightforward (mostly I-80 and I-76), and you’ll never be far from a place to camp in your RV. It’s a relaxed, classic cross-country trip that feels like an adventure without being complicated.

Road Trip Planner: Stops Along Your Route

If you enjoy visiting national parks, your Chicago to Denver road trip is sure to be a blast. There are several parks along the way that offer hiking, wildlife viewing, and other RV-friendly outdoor activities that turn any trip into a memorable adventure.

Indiana Sand Dunes National Park, Indiana

Starting your trip with a stop at the Indiana Sand Dunes National Park is great for stretching your legs and enjoying nature. This park sits about one hour away from the start of your trip. There's so much to see and do, like hiking at West Beach or swimming at Lake Michigan. If you want to stay overnight at the park, make sure to visit the Dunewood Campground. Coming here during spring or fall usually gives you better access to popular trails since there are fewer people.

RV Info & Tips: 

• Campgrounds: Dunewood Campground has shaded sites and paved pads suitable for RVs. Indiana Dunes State Park also offers RV-friendly sites.

• Roads: You'll enjoy easy access to the area's main roads, including U.S. Highway 12 and U.S. Highway 20, making it simple to explore nearby towns like Chesterton or Porter.

• How Long to Stay: Staying here for one or two nights will give you time to discover the lakeshore trails and visit the Lake Michigan beach areas if you want to.

Herbert Hoover National Historic Site, Iowa

Discover the early background of the 31st president at the Herbert Hoover National Historic Site in West Branch, Iowa. Travelers can see the tallgrass prairie that surrounds Hoover's boyhood home, stroll around the historic town, and more. There are interesting displays on Herbert Hoover's life and legacy in the Herbert Hoover Presidential Library and Museum, which is part of the site. Anyone looking for a peaceful getaway just off I-80 with beautiful scenery should definitely pay it a visit.

RV Info & Tips: 

• Campgrounds: There aren't any campgrounds located at the site, but there are some nearby, including the Tailwater West Campground and Lake Macbride State Park Campground. 

• Roads: You won't have to travel far off I-80 to visit this attraction. 

• How Long to Stay: Spending one to two hours here gives you time to explore the museum and check out the historic buildings.

The Archway, Nebraska

An iconic Nebraska rest stop, the Archway is a one-of-a-kind museum that spans Interstate 80 in Kearney. The museum's interactive displays trace the history of the United States' westward expansion, its pioneers, and the development of cross-country travel. To give yourself a break before continuing on your journey, there is a walking track and picnic places. Stopping here will give you time to relax, refuel, and gain knowledge before you continue on your journey into Denver.

RV Info & Tips: 

• Campgrounds: The city of Kearney has several RV-friendly campgrounds where you can stay overnight.

• Roads: With the Archway sitting directly over I-80, you don’t have to make any detours to visit it.

• How Long to Stay: The attraction itself takes about one to two hours to fully explore.

Pro Tips to Make the Most of Your Trip

Your trip from Chicago to Denver follows I-80 for nearly the entire drive. It's a simple ride that takes you by more than a few exciting attractions that are worth visiting. Here are some tips you can use to keep your travels RV-friendly and enjoyable from start to finish.

Take the Scenic Route Back

On your journey back from Denver, consider taking another route. It will give you the chance to view diverse scenery, such as peaceful river valleys, rolling plains, and parts of Nebraska or Kansas that you missed when traveling west. For different viewpoints and small-town attractions, you can deviate from Interstate 80 and go south toward Interstate 70 or north toward Interstate 90. Another benefit of this route is that it keeps you off the major interstate corridor, where there may be a lot of construction.

Timing & Logistics

Since it usually takes 14 to 16 hours to travel from Chicago to Denver, it's usually best to plan the trip over several days. Rapid changes in weather are possible throughout the route; for example, the Front Range of Colorado is prone to unexpected cold snaps and strong gusts of wind while thunderstorms often hit Nebraska and Iowa. Make sure you have a dependable spot to park every night by reserving RV parks in advance.

Detour Options for Extra Exploring

For a change of scenery, try taking a detour via the Sandhills area of Nebraska. Here, scenic roads meander through wide grasslands and peaceful lakes, making for a very unique travel experience. Just north of the main road in South Dakota lies the Badlands region, which is worth checking out if you're interested in beautiful rock formations and wildlife spotting. Monument Rocks in Kansas is a convenient pit stop for travelers traveling south; the site has spectacular limestone structures that rise out of flat farmland. It also has several solid RV campgrounds nearby.

Trip Logistics

• Ideal duration: Three to six days is a reasonable amount of time to divide the 1,000-mile travel from Chicago to Denver in an RV. 

• Tunnels or bridge height considerations: The majority of the major highways between Chicago and Denver, particularly interstates 80 and 76, do not have any tunnels or bridges with low clearance that RVs find problematic. However, if you take detours through mountain backroads or head toward smaller historic towns, you may come across narrow passes or older bridges. 

• Seasonal driving conditions: The weather along the Chicago–Denver route can change drastically with the seasons. The Midwest and eastern Colorado are prone to heavy snowfall and icy conditions in the winter, which may cause travel delays or even route adjustments. Heavy rain and thunderstorms are typical in the summer, so RVers should keep an eye on the weather forecast and make plans accordingly.

Using this itinerary for your Chicago to Denver road trip will simplify your planning as you prepare for the drive. Booking an RV rental through RVshare is one of the best ways to ensure a smoother trip. You'll have lots of models and sizes to choose from, including Class A motorhomes and Class C RVs. Just pick a vehicle that matches your travel plans and enjoy the freedom of the open road without the stress of complicated logistics.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I plan an RV road trip from Chicago to Denver?

To plan an RV road trip from Chicago to Denver, start by mapping your route using Google Maps or a trip planner that supports RV navigation. Consider road types, fuel stops, campgrounds, and attractions along the way. Our RV rental specialists can help you choose the best vehicle and route based on your travel dates and preferences.

What type of RV should I rent for my trip?

The ideal RV depends on your travel style, group size, and destination. For couples, a camper van or Class B RV offers flexibility and easy driving. Families often prefer Class C motorhomes for more space and amenities. If you’re staying longer or need extra comfort, a Class A RV might be your best choice. Learn more about the different RV classes.

How much does it cost to rent an RV for a road trip?

RV rental prices vary based on vehicle size, rental duration, season, and mileage. On average, RV rentals range from $100–$300 per night, with discounts for weekly or monthly bookings. We also offer one-way rentals if you’re traveling from Chicago to Denver without returning to the starting point.

Can I pick up my RV in one city and drop it off in another?

Yes! Many travelers love our one-way RV rental option. If the inventory is available for your route, you can pick up your RV in one location and drop it off in another, which is perfect for cross-country adventures or long-distance road trips.

What should I pack for an RV trip?

Pack essentials like bedding, toiletries, cooking supplies, and outdoor gear. Most of our RVs come equipped with kitchenware and basic amenities. Don’t forget to bring a first-aid kit, maps, and camping chairs for your outdoor setup. Keep this packing list handy to ensure you don’t leave anything behind!

Do I need a special license to drive an RV?

A standard driver’s license is all you need to rent and drive an RV. Keep in mind that you must be 25 to rent an RV.

Where can I park or stay overnight during my road trip?

You can stay at RV parks, national park campgrounds, or designated boondocking areas. Our team can recommend safe and scenic stops along your route from Chicago to Denver. Be sure to reserve campgrounds in advance during peak travel seasons.

How do I handle fuel and hookups during my trip?

Most RVshare RVs are equipped for electric, water, and sewer hookups at most campgrounds. Keep track of your fuel stops and learn how to connect utilities before you hit the road. We provide a full orientation before departure to make setup easy.

Is insurance included in my RV rental?

Yes, basic insurance coverage is included with every rental. You can also purchase additional protection plans for peace of mind during your journey. We’ll explain all coverage options when you book your RV.

Can I travel with pets in my RV rental?

Absolutely! Many of our RVs are pet-friendly, so your furry friends can enjoy the adventure too. Use the filters to search for RVs that welcome pets on board.

What are the best road trip routes for RV travelers?

Popular RV routes include scenic coastal drives, national park loops, and cross-country highways. For beginners, you may want to try a long weekend trip where you don’t have to drive quite as far. Just remember to follow the 3-3-3 rule of RVing!