Water resource management in rural areas of Iran faces multiple challenges, including weak governance, climate change, pressure on limited resources, and population growth. These factors have intensified water stress, particularly in the villages of Zanjan County. The present study aims to examine the factors influencing water resource management in rural areas, with an emphasis on the role of good governance. This applied research adopts a descriptive-analytical approach, and data were collected through library research and field surveys using questionnaires. Data analysis was performed using one-sample t-tests and factor analysis. The validity of the indicators was confirmed by ten experts, and their reliability was assessed using a Cronbach’s alpha of 0.75. The statistical population included rural households in Zanjan County. Out of 248 inhabited villages, 54 were selected using stratified random sampling, and 451 households were surveyed based on Cochran’s formula. The results indicate that factors such as climate change, patterns of resource utilization, legal and policy frameworks, the status of water resources, and local participation significantly influence water management in rural areas. The findings highlight the need for a transformation in water governance, with an emphasis on participatory approaches. Therefore, strengthening local participation through the establishment of local water councils and revising policies based on local contexts should be prioritized to improve water governance in rural areas.