Road Trip with RVshare Chicago to Des Moines

While a Chicago to Des Moines road trip may be short, it will take you through many different types of landscapes. You'll begin your route in Chicago, a large urban city on the shores of Lake Michigan. From this Great Lakes region, your journey will take you through the western portion of Illinois and into the state of Iowa. This area of the Midwest is distinguished by flat plains and gently rolling hills, and it used to be covered by tall prairie grasslands. Today, this heartland of America is a large center of cultivated farmlands and livestock farms. However, Des Moines is a growing urban area known for being the third-largest "insurance capital" of the world.

Road Trip Planner: Stops Along Your Route

Sterling

Sterling is the first main city you'll encounter on your road trip from Chicago to Des Moines. It's close to Sinnissippi Park, which preserves the history of the Hopewell Native Americans who were indigenous to the area. While in the city, you can visit the Dillon Home, which is an Italian Renaissance-style building, and the adjoining museum. The Anderson Japanese Gardens is a peaceful place, and the Burpee Museum of Natural History has a large collection of fossils that include a juvenile T-Rex. If you're looking for a nice local RV park, Lake Louise Campground lies between Rockford and Sterling and has a 13-acre lake and beach area. The surrounding Rockford area is also home to many convenient dump stations.

Davenport

Located next to the Mississippi River, Davenport is an exciting urban city with a large number of city parks. You can also view museums, visit local markets, and take a river cruise on the Mississippi River. If you have time, you must visit the Chocolate Manor, which is a chocolate store that's dedicated to the culture and manufacture of all things chocolate. Wildcat Den State Park is a great place to stay during your Chicago to Des Moines RV road trip, and it offers plenty of recreational respite from the road. There are various dump stations in these areas as well.

Iowa City

Located near the Iowa River, Iowa City was formerly the Hawkeye State's capital. Today, the city is home to the University of Iowa, which has a large collection of taxidermy and prehistoric stone tools in their Museum of Natural History. There are parks and plenty of eateries if you're stopping for a needed break from the road. Sleepy Hollow RV Park & Campground is a nice RV park in the area with family-friendly amenities, and you'll appreciate the outside play activities. Iowa City is at a midpoint along your route, and you may want to utilize one of the available dump stations in this area. You'll find options at the Hickory Haven Campground, Davis County Fairgrounds, and West Liberty RV Park.

National Parks

Indiana Dunes National Park

After years of being a designated national lakeshore, Indiana Dunes National Park was designated as a national park in 2019. Today, this preserve serves to protect and showcase the tall sand dunes on Lake Michigan, for which the park is named. These sand dunes can reach upwards of 200 feet, and visitors will relish the opportunities to ascend and descend these towering cliffs of sand. Besides the dunes, you can enjoy the other types of landscapes, such as bogs, marshes, rivers, woods, and prairies. The park contains 15 miles of beaches along Lake Michigan, and visitors can partake in all the resident activities afforded on this Great Lake. There are also several National Natural and Historical Landmarks in the park. If you have the time to add any additional destinations to your Chicago to Des Moines road trip, then this national park is an excellent option. You'll have to travel an hour out of your way from the Windy City to get to Indiana Dunes, but it's definitely worth the drive. 

Nearby State Parks

Starved Rock State Park

Starved Rock State Park is located on the Illinois River and is just a few miles southwest of Chicago. The park is home to many scenic waterfalls, which are especially nice to view in the spring during the increased rainy season. You can hike along the 13 miles of nature trails and view these waterfalls along with the numerous canyons that cut through the sandstone cliffs. Visitors can fish and swim in the Illinois River, and you can also ice fish in the river during the winter months. 

Wildcat Den State Park

Wildcat Den State Park offers nature lovers great opportunities to see interesting rock formations and bluffs via the nature trail system that leads to sites like Steamboat Rock, Fat Man's Squeeze, and Devil's Punch Bowl. Visitors can tour the Pine Creek Grist Mill, which is on the National Register of Historic Places. You can also visit Melpine Schoolhouse.

Rock Creek State Park

Rock Creek State Park is a 1,697-acre park that is situated on Rock Creek Lake and is close to the city of Kellogg. The park has multiple boat launches and docks on the lake. When you're on the water, you can fish for bass, crappie, bluegill, bullhead, and saugeye. During the winter season, visitors can ice fish, snowshoe, and snow ski. There are lots of multi-use trails for hiking and horseback riding. The park store offers boat and other types of equipment rentals. 

Along the Way

Navy Pier

The Navy Pier is a popular attraction known for being one of the most visited sites in Chicago. The pier extends 3,300 feet into Lake Michigan and covers a total area of more than 50 acres. There are numerous shops, gardens, eateries, and fun venues. And you can bear witness to the Centennial Wheel Ferris wheel, which soars 200 feet into the sky for a spectacular vantage point to view the city and Lake Michigan below. The pier has been in operation for more than 100 years and has served as both a military and civilian institution. Today, the pier is a mecca of entertainment attractions both on the pier and via cruises that depart from the pier. 

Crystal Lake Cave

Crystal Lake Cave is close to the city of Davenport in Iowa and is a prime example of a pristine cave system. The cave was discovered in 1868 and was opened to the public in 1932. When touring the caves, visitors can view beautiful crystals of calcareous spar, argonite, travertine, and stalactite. The caves feature formations of helictites, stalagmites, and also anthodites, which are rare groups of needle-like crystals that radiate outward like feathers. Visitors can tour the caves, explore the gem mine areas for the kids, and shop at the gift shop for souvenirs.

Herbert Hoover Historical Park

The Herbert Hoover Historical Park celebrates the life and legacy of the 31st president of the U.S., Herbert Hoover. Located in West Branch, Iowa, the park is the birthplace of Herbert Hoover and today contains a Presidential Library and Museum and the gravesites of the Hoovers. While in the park, visitors can also hike on the nature trails that run alongside Hoover Creek and through the prairie grass. If it's winter when you visit, then you'll be able to ski cross-country and snowshoe around the park. 

State Historical Building

The State Historical Building in Des Moines serves to present educational displays and exhibits on the history of Iowa. Visitors can view antiques and period documents that showcase the history of Des Moines and the state of Iowa. There are many interesting displays, such as the Wings Over Iowa exhibit, which features the Bleriot aircraft that was the first airplane to cross the English Channel. Other exhibits include the Hollywood in the Heartland movie industry exhibit and the Riding Through History bicycle display. Visitors can take a one-hour guided tour or explore on a self-guided tour of the museum. 

When you follow this road trip itinerary from Chicago to Des Moines, you will enjoy historic locations and beautiful scenery along the way. If you want to travel in comfort and style, consider an RV rental from RVshare. From large motorhomes to compact campervans, there is a rig that will meet your travel and budget needs. Once you hit the road, you are protected by our renter guarantee and 24/7 roadside assistance. Find the perfect vehicle for your travel needs in Chicago to Des Moines.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

To plan an RV road trip from Chicago to Des Moines, 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 Des Moines 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 Des Moines. 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!