What are the requirements to rent an RV in Iowa?

Most Outdoorsy rentals require drivers to be at least 25 years old with a valid U.S. driver’s license. Some owners approve 21+ drivers with additional insurance and a clean driving record.

Do I need a special driver’s license to rent an RV in Iowa?

Nope! A standard Iowa Class C license covers RVs up to 26,000 lbs—more than enough for most vehicles listed on Outdoorsy.

How much does it cost to rent an RV in Iowa?

Rental rates usually range from $100–$225 per night, depending on RV type, size, and season. Summer weekends and the county fair season may bump rates slightly.

Are there mileage and generator usage limits when renting an RV?

Yes—most rentals include 100–150 miles per day and a limited number of generator hours. Extra usage may come with additional fees, so check your rental agreement before heading out.

Can I take a rented RV to parks or campgrounds in Iowa?

Absolutely. Iowa offers plenty of RV-friendly campgrounds, lakeside sites, and scenic drives. Just confirm size limits and book early during holidays and peak camping weekends.

RV rental Iowa: Motorhome rentals, camper van rentals and more

Discover Iowa RV rentals for memorable road trips

Framed by the Missouri and Mississippi rivers, Iowa is a state of rolling plains and whimsical cornfields in the Midwest. It centers around the capital of Des Moines, which is clustered with excellent museums and art galleries, while everything from horseback riding to fishing and hiking awaits in the state’s picturesque parks and reserves. Book an RV rental in Iowa and cruise quiet country roads on the way to your next destination.

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How to rent a RV in Iowa

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Tell us where in Iowa you want to pick up or have your RV delivered
2
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3
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Send a request directly to the host and start preparing for your adventure

The Iowa Outdoors

In the northeast region of the state, you'll find Iowa’s first state park. Backbone State Park is renowned for its trout fishing, rock climbing, cave exploration, and hiking. It was initially named “Devil’s Backbone” after the steep and narrow ridge of rock that’s carved by the Maquoketa River. Climbing the “Devil’s Staircase” is still a highlight of any visit. The park is divided into three historic districts; the Cabin-Bathing Area, the Picnicking, Hiking & Camping Area, and Richmond Springs. The Iowa Civilian Conservation Corps Museum details the activities of the organization. Backbone State Park features two fantastic Iowa RV campgrounds (the South Lake Campground and the Six Pine Campground), with both electric and non-electric sites.A short drive north of Des Moines is Ledges State Park, which offers sweeping views across the Des Moines River from its hiking trails. Walk past the iconic stone bridge and into Pea’s Creek Canyon. Its walls rise to 100 feet and date back 300 million years. While many of the hiking trails in the park are quite challenging, an easier stroll is available along the Lost Lake Trail. If you're here with an Iowa RV rental, there’s a large, shaded campground where you can bunk down for the night, with both electric and non-electric sites available.In the far southwest corner of Iowa near the city of Hamburg, you’ll find the Waubonsie State Park, which is located in the scenic Loess Hills. It’s a popular horseback riding destination, with several beautiful trails winding down along its ridges and into the valleys and gorges, as well as an equestrian campground with 32 sites. The views of the Missouri River are particularly spectacular within the Waubonsie State Park, and it’s on the Lewis and Clark National Historic Trail that commemorates this early 19th-century expedition.

Exploring Iowa’s Cities

Spend a day or two getting cultured in the capital of Iowa, Des Moines, which is home to the gold-domed Iowa State Capitol building. Browse the contemporary exhibitions at the outstanding Des Moines Art Center or coincide your visit with the Downtown Farmers' Market, where you can shop for fresh produce while listening to live music. Also of note are the State of Iowa Historical Museum and the Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden. Convenient Des Moines RV parks include the Iowa State Fair Campgrounds and the Adventureland Campground, both of which offer a large number of full-hookup sites.Overlooking the Mississippi River in eastern Iowa is the city of Dubuque, with scenic views on offer from the cable car that links to the surrounding bluffs. Take time to explore the National Mississippi River Museum and Aquarium, where native species are exhibited, then wander through the Japanese garden of the Dubuque Arboretum and Botanical Gardens. History buffs shouldn’t miss a visit to the Mathias Ham House, a beautifully furnished 19th-century mansion that’s complete with an 1833 log cabin. Riverfront RV sites are available at Miller Riverview Park, with electric hookups and an on-site dump station.Literature enthusiasts can make a beeline for Iowa City, which is a UNESCO-designated “City of Literature.” When you’re not attending a writing workshop or book festival, you can learn about the local history at the Old Capitol Building or visit the adjacent University of Iowa Museum of Natural History. If you’re interested in the life and legacy of the 31st president of the United States, head to the Herbert Hoover Presidential Library and Museum. When it’s time to park for the night, you can camp at the Tailwater West Campground, which features 22 full-hookup and electric-only campsites.