After signing an 1818 treaty with local native Americans, the United States hired a merchant ship captain named James Riley to survey the area that would become the city of Van Wert. Early inhabitants had to deal with the Great Black Swamp. This massive wetland was full of swampy mud and led to diseases like malaria. After draining the swamp, the land was used for agriculture and homes. Van Wert was incorporated as a town in 1848 before being formally chartered as a city in the early 1900s.
The city is named after Isaac Van Wart, a militiaman in the American Revolutionary War. Van Wert has always been known for its amazing dairy products and native wildflowers. At one point in history, Van Wert was the only city in the world making Liederkranz cheese. This particularly odorous cheese was produced at the Borden company, which has since gone defunct.
Van Wert is home to the Brumback Library, the first county library in the country. After the Van Wert Library Association spent years collecting books, John Sanford Brumback left a large sum to build the library. Built in 1899, the library went on to expand and circulate thousands of books throughout the community.
The Van Wert Civic Theatre has been providing live performances since it opened in 1958. This organization is entirely run by volunteers and puts on five shows each season, as well as additional youth programs. Don't forget to check out their scheduled events before starting your RV trip to Van Wert.
Van Wert Peony Festival – Visit Van Wert on the first Sunday in June for free family-friendly entertainment, contests, food, and more.
Van Wert County Fair – This September festival promises rides, food, local vendors, and musical performances.
Easter Egg Hunt – Help your kids find eggs at Smiley Park this April. Eggs are provided, but participants will need their own baskets.
One popular option for nearby RV storage is Gossard Self Storage in Lima, which provides customers with a variety of storage options and constant RV access. They're also in a great location near the Allen County Fairgrounds. Load & Lock Mini Storage in Findlay has both outdoor and indoor units to fit your storage needs. Load & Lock is close to Findlay Airport and has indoor options up to 40 feet.
Cuyahoga Valley National Park has 100 waterfalls and more than 125 miles of hiking trails. This is the only national park in Ohio, and millions of people visit every year to enjoy the majestic forest and gorgeous land. Stop by the Canal Exploration Center or the visitor center to learn more about the area. You're welcome to hike, bike, kayak, picnic, and more as you visit. Admission to the park is free, but some special events or festivals may have a cost.
The Indiana Dunes National Park is about 197 miles to the east of Van Wert. With 15 miles on Lake Michigan and 20 miles of adjacent land, this park has everything you need for a fulfilling RV adventure. Take a peaceful walk through the gorgeous maple, beech, and oak trees nearby. The sandy beaches are perfect for swimming and lounging out under the sun. There's a campground in the park, which gives you great access to the hiking trails and the Indiana Dunes Visitor Center.
Consider stopping by the Mammoth Cave National Park down in Kentucky. About five hours away, this national park is home to more than 400 miles of explored caves and caverns. Take a tour of the exciting underground structures and see signatures left behind hundreds of years ago. There are cave tours available that suit every fitness level. If you'd prefer to stay aboveground, feel free to hike, bike, fish, or view the local wildlife.
The Independence Dam State Park sits on the Maumee River near the city of Defiance. Take a boat out on the water or stick to the shores for some afternoon fishing. Bird-watching, picnicking, and cross-country skiing are all popular activities in the area.
Stop by Lake Loramie State Park during any season for amazing recreational opportunities. Plan time to swim, hike, hunt, or fish when the weather is warm and comfortable. You can also visit in the winter if you're interested in sledding, ice skating, and skiing.
Once part of an indigenous trade route, Indian Lake State Park is now used recreationally by locals and visitors. Swimming is allowed at both Fox Island Beach and Old Field Beach. More adventurous campers can try their hand at water-skiing. The park is surrounded by lush woods and active wildlife, guaranteeing an amazing camping experience.
The current Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception in Fort Wayne was built in 1860. It's home to the oldest parish in the city. This gorgeous cathedral became a nationally recognized historic site in 1980.
Engine House No. 3 was built in 1893 and currently houses the Fort Wayne Firefighters Museum. This two-story, red brick building was built in the Romanesque Revival style.
You should also tour the Robert M. Feustel House, which was constructed by a successful local entrepreneur in the 1920s. This popular landmark is a historic Tudor-style home that is well-known for its uniquely irregular roof and building design.
There are several excellent RV campgrounds to choose from near Van Wert. Johnny Appleseed Park in nearby Fort Wayne, Indiana provides visitors with the ideal rustic camping environment without skimping on amenities. Bask in the peaceful atmosphere while having access to hot showers, a playground, laundry facilities, and electricity. Fireside Resort RV Park in Auburn, Indiana is easy to get to via I-69. This campground has a recreational hall, showers, and laundry facilities. You should also look into the Bluffton/Fort Wayne South KOA. Plan to hike the local trails and take part in seasonal, family-friendly events.
Motorhomes are divided into Class A, B, and C vehicles. On average expect to pay $185 per night for Class A, $149 per night for Class B and $179 per night for Class C. Towable RVs include 5th Wheel, Travel Trailers, Popups, and Toy Hauler. On average, in Van Wert, OH, the 5th Wheel trailer starts at $70 per night. Pricing for the Travel Trailer begins at $60 per night, and the Popup Trailer starts at $65 per night.
Do you need to be a certain age to rent an RV in Van Wert?Yes. The minimum age is 25 to be eligible to get an RV Rental in Van Wert from RVshare.
Does RVshare have emergency roadside assistance?Yes. Every RV rental booked through RVshare receives 24/7 emergency roadside assistance.
Does RVshare offer one way RV rentals in Van Wert?Yes. Prior to renting any RV, check with the owner since not all will offer this particular option.