Living on campus is great and a very different college experience than living at home and commuting. Many people make their “friends for life” at college, and a lot of that social life starts in the dorms and being there for the social activities and on the weekends. It’s an amazing experience, in my opinion.
Rural vs city really depends on what you like. In a rural college, the social life will likely be more tied to the college, whereas in a city there will be more opportunities for outside activities, outings, etc. and possibly spreading out on weekends.
Can you attend an admitted student overnight at the rural college? That could give you a feel for it, and while it’s only one night, see how you like being away from home and immersed in the campus.
I think many kids don’t spend extended time away from home before college, and MOST do just fine. But most also feel ready by the end of senior year to get away from home a little bit. So keep thinking about it and researching. I personally think you should give it a try, and by a try I mean commit to one year, so you will really immerse, join activities, make friends, and then see how goes. If you go “half heartedly”, or go but head home every weekend, you won’t really know what a true, full on campus experience is.