Thomas Mitchell Park is 18 miles from Des Moines. The dump station is free for guests of the park, but you can expect to pay a small fee if you're not staying overnight. While there, you can have a picnic in the park's woodland and enjoy the blooming wildflowers in season. The Ames Water Pollution Control Facility is 30 miles from Des Moines. You can only use this dump station if you are a resident of Ames. It's free to use, however. The hours of operation are Monday to Friday from 7 a.m. until 4 p.m. It's a 39-mile dive to Pattee City Park, and you can use the dump station there for free. The park has seasonal restrooms and horseshoe pits. There are also tennis courts there if you'd like to have a game after emptying your RV rental tanks.
Browse motorhome by RV Class in Des Moines, IA
Class A
Driver should be comfortable driving something as large as a busView all Class A rentals in Des Moines
Class B
Comparable to driving and maneuvering an oversized vanView all Class B rentals in Des Moines
Class C
Comparable to driving a truck and popular option for beginner RV driversView all Class C rentals in Des Moines
Browse towable by RV Class in Des Moines, IA
Travel Trailer
Trailer options exist for every kind of SUV or pickup tow vehicleView all Travel Trailer rentals in Des Moines
Popup
Can be towed by ordinary passenger vehiclesView all Popup rentals in Des Moines
Toy Hauler
Can be towed by many SUV or pickup tow vehiclesView all Toy Hauler rentals in Des Moines
Popular RV Searches in Des Moines, IA
Cheap
Under $100 per nightView all Cheap rentals in Des Moines
Affordable
$100 - $250 per nightView all Affordable rentals in Des Moines
Luxury
Above $250 per nightView all Luxury rentals in Des Moines
Delivery
Owners that deliverView all Delivery rentals in Des Moines
Pet Friendly
Bring your furry friendView all Pet Friendly rentals in Des Moines
Road Trips Starting from Des Moines, IA
Popular State Parks Near Des Moines, IA
Walnut Woods State Park is 9 miles from Des Moines. Birdwatching is the most popular activity at Walnut Woods State Park. About eight dozen species have been sighted in the park, and some of the notable examples include owls, hawks, flycatchers, and warblers. The 2 miles of easy hiking trails are just made for walking laps, and during the winter, you can cross-country ski on them as well. The drive to Ledges State Park is 41 miles. Stroll through 4 miles of hiking trails at this park or walk through the stream at Peas Creek. The campground at Ledges State Park has full hookups at some campsites, as well as restrooms, showers, and a dump station. About 40 miles from Des Moines you'll find Elk Rock State Park, which covers 50,000 acres and lies on the shore of the State of Iowa's largest body of water, Lake Red Rock. There are two boat ramps within the park. Anglers can bait a line for bluegill, crappie, bass, channel catfish, and walleye. There are three hiking trails within Elk Rock State Park, the longest of which is the Elk Rock Perimeter Loop. It's a 9-mile loop trail that gains about 500 feet of elevation.
Must-see Monuments and Landmarks Near Des Moines, IA
The Herbert Hoover National Historic Site is 123 miles from Des Moines. While there, you can experience a taste of President Hoover's Quaker upbringing. You can also visit the Herbert Hoover Presidential Library, tour a Quaker meeting house and blacksmith shop, and stroll along the site's 1-mile walking route. RV parking is available either across the street from the visitor center or next to the picnic areas adjacent to the gravesite. Parking is limited, so plan ahead. About 195 miles to the south is Harry S Truman National Historic Site. You can take tours of his home, which was once known as "The Summer White House." Tours are limited to eight people, and you must procure free tickets at the visitor center. You can also take walking tours of the city to see sites that are related to President Truman. The Harry S. Truman Presidential Library is also only a mile down the street. Parking is extremely limited at the site as there is only one lot earmarked for RVs which is to the west of the visitor center. The staff can also advise you on where you can legally park your RV on the street nearby.
RVshare’s Top Picks for Nearby RV Parks & Campgrounds
River Oaks RV Park is 21 miles from Des Moines. It's got 97 RV-specific campsites with full hookups. You can even fish in the stocked pond in the campground. If you have a larger rig, then the pull-through sites will be convenient for your visit. Adventureland Campground is just 11 miles from Des Moines, IA. The 110 campsites for RVs have full hookups, and after a day's adventuring, you can relax in the pool, hot tub, or both. The campground has public Wi-Fi access throughout. If you need a few essentials or an afternoon snack, then you can get them at one of the multiple campground stores. If you'd like a little solitude for your camping, then the Kellogg RV Park is just right. It's only got 38 campsites for RVs. However, you don't have to trade solitude for modern amenities because this campground, which is 42 miles from Des Moines, IA, has showers, restrooms, full hookups, and on-site laundry facilities. There is a single convenience store for those times when you need sundries.
RV Rentals Near Des Moines, IA
RVs are also great for taking road trips. Local trips can be to Walnut Woods or Wedges State Park. One great trip is the 333-mile jaunt from Des Moines to Chicago where you can attend Cubs games during the Major League Baseball season. Indiana Dunes National Park is only a few miles beyond the Windy City. It's 585 miles from Des Moines to Louisville, KY, which is a fun place to visit if you're a fan of Kentucky Bluegrass Music. At 663 miles, a trip to Cleveland is just 78 miles further away than Louisville, KY. While in Cleveland, you can attend Browns games during the National Football League season. Nearby parks include Big Creek State Park, Badger Creek State Park, and Margo Frankel Woods State Park, all of which are either within the city itself or within a 20-mile radius. There are some nearby RV campgrounds, as well, including Timberline Campground and the campgrounds at the Iowa State Fair, both of which are fewer than 10 miles from Des Moines.
Frequently Asked Questions About Renting a Towable RV Near Des Moines, IA
If I want to rent a towable RV, how do I tell if my vehicle can handle the tow?
Before renting a towable RV, it is essential to ensure that your vehicle can handle the weight and hitch type of the trailer. You can find this information in your vehicle's owner's manual. You will also need to check the Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) of the trailer, which can usually be found on a sticker located on the trailer. It is recommended that you do not exceed 80% of your vehicle's maximum tow rating and make sure you have the proper hitch, brake controller, and sway control device.
Are there any limitations on the types of roads or terrain I can navigate with a towable RV rental in Des Moines, IA?
Yes, there are limitations on the types of roads and terrain that you can navigate with a towable RV rental. It is important to check the RVshare rental agreement to see what types of roads and terrain are permitted. In general, most towable RVs are suitable for paved roads and well-maintained campgrounds. However, some rentals may be equipped with off-road tires, making them suitable for moderate off-road terrain.
Are there any additional insurance considerations or requirements when towing a rental RV, and how can I ensure I am adequately covered?
When renting a towable RV, there are three insurance options in case of an accident or damage. RVshare offers different types of insurance coverage, including liability, collision, and comprehensive. It is recommended that you choose the coverage that best suits your needs.
Do I use a sway control device when towing a RV, and does RVshare provide it, or do I need to bring my own?
A sway control device is highly recommended when towing a RV, especially on highways or in windy conditions. Discuss with the RV owner if this is something you will need. RVshare does not provide sway control devices, but the individual owner might.
What kind of braking system do I need for a towable RV rental, and how do I ensure it is properly installed and functional?
All towable RV rentals require a functioning braking system. There are two types of braking systems: electric and surge. Electric brake systems require a brake controller to be installed in the towing vehicle, while surge braking systems are built into the trailer's hitch. It is important to ensure that the braking system is properly installed and functional before towing. RVshare recommends having a professional mechanic inspect the brakes before renting.
Are any unique features or amenities available in towable RV rentals that may not be found in other RVs in Des Moines, IA?
The features and amenities available in towable RV rentals vary depending on the unit and the owner's preferences. Some common features found in towable RVs include full kitchens, bathrooms, and sleeping areas. Unique features may include outdoor kitchens, fireplaces, and spacious living areas. It is recommended that you browse RVshare's inventory to find a rental unit that meets your specific needs.
How do I properly load and distribute weight within a towable RV rental to ensure safe and stable towing?
Proper weight distribution is crucial when towing a RV. It is recommended that you load heavier items towards the front of the trailer and distribute weight evenly from side to side. You should also avoid overloading the trailer and keep the weight under the GVWR. It is recommended that you use a weight distribution hitch, which can help balance the weight and provide more stability when towing.
What are the fuel efficiency considerations when towing a rental RV, and how can I minimize the impact on my fuel costs?
Towing a rental RV can have a significant impact on your vehicle's fuel efficiency. It is recommended that you use a towing vehicle with a fuel-efficient engine and avoid driving at high speeds. Additionally, removing any unnecessary weight from your vehicle and trailer can help maximize fuel efficiency. It is also recommended that you maintain a consistent speed and avoid sudden stops and starts.
What kind of maintenance or upkeep do I need on a towable RV rental during my rental period, and what kind of supplies or tools do I need to have on hand for this?
During your rental period you are not responsible for maintenance. Treat the RV with care and maintain cleanliness during your trip.