Road Trip with RVshare Chicago to Pierre

When you head out on your Chicago to Pierre road trip, your journey takes you from the big city to open land. Chicago is known as the Second City, and it is home to world-class museums, fantastic restaurants and thrilling attractions. You'll head north through Wisconsin, but you should make sure to check out the historical sites along the way. As you continue to Minnesota and South Dakota, you'll pass through Rochester and Sioux City. Once you reach the finish line on your road trip itinerary from Chicago to Pierre, make sure to spend some extra time learning about this fascinating city's history. 

Road Trip Planner: Stops Along Your Route

While on your Chicago to Pierre road trip itinerary, you can stop at one or more of these cities in order to find quiet campgrounds and clean dump stations along the route. 

Rockford, IL

Rockford is located in northern Illinois. If you have any dinosaur fans with you on your trek, they'll want to visit the Burpee Museum of Natural History. The Tinker Swiss Cottage Museum presents rotating exhibits in a Victorian home, and you can see several art collections of American artists at the Rockford Art Museum. At the end of the day, there are a couple of quiet campgrounds that can meet your travel and budget needs. 

Janesville, WI

Janesville is a sleepy little town located across the Illinois-Wisconsin border. As you travel through town, you can visit the Rotary Botanical Gardens, a 20-acre oasis that features themed gardens. If you want to take in a little bit of history, be sure to stop by the Lincoln-Tallman House, which was once visited by Abraham Lincoln. You can also find a great campground in Janesville to set up your RV for the night. 

Rochester, MN

Located on the Zumbro River, Rochester is a beautiful city. You'll find plenty of art and culture in this part of Minnesota. During the First on Thursday event, you can sample the local restaurants' fare or pick up an artist's masterpiece. On your road trip from Chicago to Pierre, you may need to stop for the night to take a break from the road. Luckily, there are several campgrounds located near the Rochester area.

National Parks

As you head out West, you'll want to stop by a few national parks. These locations are the perfect way to take a break and relax in the great outdoors with beautiful scenery all around. 

Indiana Sand Dunes National Park

When you're in Chicago, Indiana Sand Dunes National Park is only a short drive from the city. This spot is a relatively new entry in the U.S. National Park System. The Indiana Sand Dunes National Park includes over 15 miles of Lake Michigan lakefront. While you're there, you can explore over 20 square miles of wetlands, rivers, forests and prairies. There are plenty of recreational activities to enjoy in the park, such as fishing, biking, hiking, and horseback riding. If you want to see the native trees and wildlife, make sure to head out on the hiking trails. 

Badlands National Park

As you travel over the flatlands of the plains, you'll see the Badlands National Park rising up over the horizon. This national park covers over 370 square miles of land in South Dakota. Many visitors head to the park to look at the unique landscape; you'll find plenty of vistas with eroded pinnacles and buttes. If you're an animal lover, you can view bison, prairie dogs, and bighorn sheep roaming through the park. Some of the available activities in the area include backcountry camping, bicycling, and hiking. Since the park does not have much light pollution, the annual Astronomy Festival is held in the area. Throughout the year, the park rangers host interpretative and educational talks. You can even sign up for a guided hike to learn more about the wilderness of the Badlands. 

Wind Cave National Park

Wind Cave National Park is one of the oldest national parks. This park is an excellent place to watch wildlife, hike, and camp. It's also known for being home to the Wind Cave. This cave is the most complex cavern in the world, so if you're looking to do some exploring, this park should be at the top of your road trip itinerary. Along with that, Wind Cave National Park includes the largest natural mixed-grass prairie in the country. There are also 28,295 acres of wildlife sanctuary space for elk, bison, and other animals. For those who want to appreciate nature, this is the perfect park for you to visit. 

Nearby State Parks

As you head out from Illinois to South Dakota, there are several state parks that you should visit. You can enjoy the beauty of nature as you visit the following locations. 

Starved Rock State Park

Starved Rock State Park might be the most popular state park in Illinois. This spot is only 100 miles from Chicago, and while you're there, you can hike over 13 miles of trails. If you want to see some impressive natural elements, there are 18 canyons in the park, and they are all accessible from the trails. Water sports are also some of the park's most popular activities. Along the river, you will see many people navigating their boats on the water. 

Glacial Lakes State Park

Glacial Lakes State Park was founded in 1963, and it was designated to protect the remaining rolling prairie in the state of Minnesota. Signalness Lake is the largest lake in the park. At this spot, there are 1.42 miles of shoreline and 56 acres of water. There's even a fishing pier near the beach where you can cast your line to catch northern pike, yellow perch, or sunfish. The beach area is also a great place to have a picnic lunch or swim in the spring-fed waters. If you want to take in some scenic views, grab your boots and go for a hike on Mardy's Trail. This pathway travels around the entire lake. 

Custer State Park

Custer State Park is located in the Black Hills of South Dakota. With over 71,000 acres, it is the largest park in the state. Among other features, it is widely known for its bison herds. You can also see elk and bighorn sheep in the park. If you're hoping to spot some big cats, make sure to look out for the bobcats and mountain lions. You'll also want to take a few moments to enjoy the stunning landscapes as the park contains pristine lakes, granite spires, and bubbling streams. You can enjoy a wide range of activities at Custer State Park, including picnicking, hiking, camping, and fishing.

Along the Way

As you make your way through this Chicago to Pierre road trip, there are several points of interest. You should make time to visit these exciting locations that will add some fun and history to your trip. 

Willis Tower

The Willis Tower was once known as the Sears Tower. When it was completed in 1973, this 1,450-foot skyscraper was the tallest building in the world, and it remained so for almost 25 years. The Willis Tower is one of the most popular tourist attractions in the city. You can buy a ticket and head to the observation deck to get a magnificent view of Chicago. 

Millennium Park

If you want to take a bit of a breather in Chicago, take a moment to visit Millennium Park, located right in the middle of the Chicago Loop. It's home to many of the city's festivals and events. While you're there, you can visit several of the public art installations. 

South Dakota State Capitol

While in Pierre, you'll want to set aside some time to visit this building. The State Capitol Building is home to the South Dakota State Legislature. It's also home to the offices of the Governor of South Dakota. If you want to learn more about the history, there are guided tours of the building.

When you follow this road trip itinerary from Chicago to Pierre, 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 or Pierre.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

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