Car Rental Near Sparta, WI
Riverside Auto Rental is about 25 minutes from Sparta — the nearest independent rental, with cars, minivans, and 15-passenger vans for Fort McCoy travel, Butterfest groups, and everyday needs.
Sparta is the Bicycling Capital of America, sitting at the junction of the Elroy-Sparta and La Crosse River trails — but it has no local independent car rental. The nearest option is Riverside Auto Rental in Black River Falls, about 23 miles away: take WI-27 North to I-90/I-94 East, roughly a 25-minute drive. We've served Monroe County and western Wisconsin since 1983 with cars, minivans, insurance replacement vehicles, and the 15-passenger vans no other independent provider in the area offers.
Serving Sparta, Fort McCoy & the Elroy-Sparta Trail
We've rented into the Sparta area for four decades. A few of the reasons Sparta drivers end up at our lot:
- Fort McCoy — Sparta is a bedroom community for the Fort McCoy military installation just east of town. Reservists, active-duty personnel on temporary duty, and visiting families regularly need a reliable vehicle — and our 15-passenger vans handle unit and group travel a sedan can't.
- Sparta Butterfest (June 11–14, 2026) — Sparta's signature festival fills Memorial Park each June, with a parade, carnival, softball tournament, and a Military Night. Groups coming in for the weekend often need a van — reserve early, they book fast.
- Elroy-Sparta State Trail — More than 60,000 cyclists a year ride the nation's first rail-trail through Sparta. Cycling clubs and groups traveling together use our vans to shuttle riders and gear.
- Deke Slayton Museum & historic downtown — Sparta's Space & Bicycle Museum and National Register four-corners district draw steady visitor traffic — travelers who sometimes need a vehicle while in the area.
- Body shops & adjusters — When a Sparta-area vehicle is in for collision repair, Monroe County adjusters know to send drivers our way for a fast replacement.
Fleet & Rates for Sparta-Area Renters
All vehicles pick up at N5856 WI-54, Black River Falls. Weekly rentals (7+ days) include unlimited mileage at a flat rate — no per-mile charges.
| Vehicle | Daily — Local (100 mi/day) | Daily — Unlimited | Weekly — Local (100 mi/day) | Weekly — Unlimited (no cap) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Intermediate Car | $55 | $75 | $330 | $450 |
| Full-Size Car | $65 | $85 | $390 | $510 |
| SUV (Ford Edge) | $80 | $100 | $480 | $600 |
| 7-Passenger Minivan | $78/day + $0.10/mi | $450 (7+ days, unl. mi) | ||
| 15-Passenger Van | $135/day + $0.10/mi | $750 (7+ days, unl. mi) | ||
Taxes and fees may apply. Rates subject to availability. View full fleet details →
Why Sparta Drivers Choose Riverside
- Nearest independent rental — No car rental company operates in Sparta — we're the closest independent option, about 25 minutes away, with more flexible terms than national chains.
- 15-passenger vans — One of the only providers in western Wisconsin offering large-capacity vans. Built for Fort McCoy unit travel, Butterfest groups, cycling clubs, church trips, and family reunions.
- Military & Fort McCoy travel — We regularly serve Fort McCoy personnel and visiting military families. Weekly rates keep longer stays affordable.
- Insurance replacement — We work directly with adjusters and body shops throughout Monroe County, including Sparta. Same-day replacement in most cases.
- Weekly rates save money — Renting for a week or more? Our flat weekly rate with unlimited mileage consistently beats daily rates at national chains.
- Family-owned since 1983 — You reach a person, not a call center. Same team, same accountability for over 40 years.
What Renters Are Saying
★★★★★ 5.0 on Google
"I rented a 15-passenger van for a family trip taking my daughters to a volleyball tournament in Kansas City. The entire rental process was completely seamless. Staff is super friendly, quick paperwork, and no hassle at all. The van was a perfect fit for our needs." Ben H. — 15-Passenger Van Rental
"My car broke down late at night on my way to a business meeting in Eau Claire. I called Riverside Auto Rental and was able to reach Tas after hours. She immediately arranged a reliable rental for early the next morning. They truly go above and beyond — saved the day." Jim — After-Hours Emergency Rental
"I had a state wrestling tournament and my dad's car broke down. They were lovely — they rushed to get us a car as fast as possible so I could get to my tournament. Great service. The car was clean and smelled good. I would definitely recommend it!" Maya T. — Sports Tournament Rescue
How to Get Here from Sparta
From Sparta, take WI-27 North to I-90 East, then continue on I-94 East to Exit 116 (Highway 54 / Black River Falls). Turn left (north) — we're at N5856 WI-54 on the right, sharing a building with Riverside Auto Sales. About 23 miles, roughly 25 minutes. Call 715-396-1466 if you need help.
Nearby pickup areas: we also serve drivers from car rental near Tomah, car rental near Warrens.
Ready to Reserve from Sparta?
Call to check availability. Open Monday–Friday 8am–5pm, Saturday 8am–noon.
Questions About Renting Near Sparta?
Is there a car rental in Sparta, WI?
Sparta does not have a local car rental company. The nearest independent option is Riverside Auto Rental in Black River Falls — about 25 minutes away via WI-27 North to I-90/I-94 East. Cars from $55/day. Call 715-396-1466 to reserve.
Where is the nearest car rental to Sparta, Wisconsin?
Riverside Auto Rental in Black River Falls is approximately 23 miles from Sparta — about a 25-minute drive via WI-27 North to I-90 East, then I-94 East to Exit 116 (Highway 54).
Do you rent to Fort McCoy personnel and families?
Yes. Fort McCoy is just east of Sparta, and we regularly serve reservists, active-duty personnel on temporary duty, and visiting military families. Our 15-passenger vans are well suited to unit travel and group pickups. Call 715-396-1466.
Can I rent a van near Sparta for Butterfest?
Yes — and we recommend booking early. Butterfest weekend (June 11–14, 2026) is a busy van rental period. Call 715-396-1466 as soon as you know your dates to guarantee availability.
Can I rent a 15-passenger van near Sparta, WI?
Yes. Riverside Auto Rental offers 15-passenger vans at $135/day + $0.10/mi or $750/week with unlimited mileage. We're about 25 minutes from Sparta. Call 715-396-1466 to reserve.
Do you handle insurance replacement rentals for Sparta residents?
Yes. We work with adjusters and body shops throughout Monroe County, including the Sparta area. Call 715-396-1466, or have your adjuster contact us directly.
What do I need to rent a vehicle?
Three things: a valid driver's license, a major credit card or bank-issued debit card linked to a checking account, and proof of auto insurance showing your policy number and expiration date.