Top 10 RV Destinations

Answer the call of the open road. The RV road trip is a long-standing American tradition; traveling the nation’s (and our neighbors’) highways and byways and sleeping on the road. Whether it is a grand getaway for a few weeks or a short trip of a few days, settle into one of these Top 10 RV destinations:

1. Madison Arm Resort – West Yellowstone, Montana

Highlight: Located eight miles from Yellowstone National Park.

The campground itself lies on the shores of Hebgen Lake, home to trout-filled waters. Wildlife in the region is plentiful – day sightings of bison and elk are not uncommon. A trip to Big Sky country wouldn’t be complete without a trip to Yellowstone National Park and there are great Montana maps to help navigate the way. Madison Arm Resort offers a getaway from the often–overcrowded site of Yellowstone itself. Drive along Grand Loop Road, watch Old Faithful and gaze over the Grand Canyon of Yellowstone. The perfect road trip for couples, families and friends.

2. Tunnel Mountain Campground – Banff National Park, Canada

Highlight: Located at the top of Tunnel Mountain with views of the sprawling countryside.

Huddled at the top of a mountain sits Tunnel Mountain Campground in the heart of the Canadian Rockies. Winter adventures and activities abound at this RV resort and campground – or throw on some extra layers and head north to the Rockies and Banff National Park. The area’s powdered slopes will challenge skiers and snowmobilers, and hikers and cyclists will adore the glaciers, mineral hot springs and ice fields. The campground offers trolley service to the cozy town of Banff (a true winter wonderland) as well as food, laundry and a water slide close by.

3. Verde Valley – Cottonwood, Arizona

Highlight: Surrounded by the majestic beauty of the Red Rocks to the north, Mingus Mountains to the west and the Hackberry Mountains to the south.

This 300-acre oasis is located in the high desert of Arizona under the towering southwestern rim of the vast Colorado Plateau. The valley’s main city, Sedona, is blessed with four mild seasons marked by abundant sunshine and clean air.  Characterized by massive red-rock formations, as well as other amazing natural beauties, the area surrounding Sedona is considered to be as beautiful as many national parks. Verde Valley is situated on the Verde River and surrounded by rich geological and cultural history.

4. Pacific Dunes Ranch RV Resort – Oceano, California

Highlight: Nestled among the dunes of the beautiful Oceano Preserve, offering  breathtaking vistas and trails to the beach.

Pismo Beach Oceano is rich in geographic, archaeological and cultural history. Pacific Dunes Resort offers stunning views in a secluded and quiet – but not remote – location. Guests of the Ranch enjoy nearby off–road recreation, horse rentals and boarding facilities, large BBQ areas and magnificent Pacific Coast sunsets at Pismo Beach area’s most unique RV resort.

5. Boyd’s Key West Campground – Key West, Florida

Highlight: Ocean front campsites, saltwater fishing, on site Tiki Hut and a heated swimming pool.

Travel three hours down Route 1 from Miami to the tropical Florida Keys and find an RV island oasis. Offering oceanfront RV sites, campers will be drawn to the quiet, laid-back style of Boyd’s. Located near Duval Street, travelers can relax with a frothy margarita and enjoy Mallory Square’s sunset celebration, where tightrope walkers, jugglers and fire-eaters provide nightly entertainment.

6. Mt. Hood Village RV Resort – Welches, Oregon

Highlight: Timberline, located in Mt. Hood National Forest, is the only location in the United States to offer year-round skiing and snowboarding.

The Village has come to be known throughout the industry as the premier RV destination in the Northwest. Fun and adventure for all ages can be found within minutes of Mt. Hood Village. A 27-hole golf course, groomed hiking trails, rock climbing, mountain biking, miniature golf, fishing, campgrounds, lakes and streams, and the Alpine Slide are just a few of the activities found in Mt. Hood National Forest in the summertime. Within the Village, guests will find many amenities and activities, including the Huckleberry Festival, Wild Mushroom Festival and Salmon Bake Festival held each year at the resort.

7. Mt. Desert Narrows Camping Resort – Bar Harbor, Maine

Highlight: Lobster dinners, ice cream socials and pancake breakfasts!

The Narrows Campground offers panoramic ocean views and waterfront campsites. As New England’s only National Park, much of the regions most scenic views are found on Mt. Desert Island by driving Acadia National Park’s 27-mile “Park Loop Road.”  Take a hike in Acadia National Park, bike or stroll the carriage roads or go whale watching – the activities at Mt. Desert Narrows are endless. Don’t miss Maine lobster in July and August!

8. O’Connells Yogi Bear RV Resort – Amboy, Illinois

Highlight: The perfect RV trip for All-American families with young children.

Looking to experience a slice of true Americana? Point your wheels toward Northern Illinois, home of some of the finest fishing, hiking, golfing, natural scenic wonders, and wildlife America has to offer. O’Connells Yogi Bear RV Resort is perfectly located just 90 miles west of Chicago and offers heated swimming pools, kiddie pools, spas and beach swimming. With Yogi Bear appearances, Candy Bar Bingo and weekly evening events, it is the ideal escape for family fun.

9. Horse Thief Lake Campground – Black Hills National Forest, South Dakota

Highlight: Close proximity to Mt. Rushmore, with excellent views from the resort.

Horse Thief’s central location makes it easy to enjoy the best the Black Hills have to offer: Custer State Park, Needles Highway, Sylvan Lake, Mt Rushmore, Crazy Horse Monument and much more. Great location to partake in many activities such as rock climbing, photography, exploring ghost towns, mines and caves, biking, hiking, water sports, fishing and more.

10. Rivers Edge RV Park – Fairbanks, Alaska

Highlight: Located in Fairbanks, the geographic and population hub of Alaska, surrounded by beautiful scenery and in close proximity to all of Northern Alaska’s wonders.

Rivers Edge RV Park is located on the shores of the Chena River in Fairbanks, Alaska. Acclaimed as one of Alaska’s premier parks, the amenities offered by the park are nearly unparalleled. Rivers Edge offers a free shuttle service to Riverboat Discovery and the Alaska Salmon Bake, among other conveniences. Enjoy travels along the famous Alaska Highway and learn the history of this beautiful state through attractions such as Alaskaland, with fresh Alaskan salmon served up at the Salmon Bakes. Follow the Trans-Alaska Oil Pipeline on a motor coach excursion or take a paddle wheeler day cruise to capture a glimpse into the state’s past.

 

Road Trip: Ways to Save

Even in these tight economic times, a road trip is still the way to go! Recent research shows RVing is typically 27-61% less expensive than other vacations, according to studies comparing vacation costs.

With an increase in fuel prices, food and other necessities it is more important than ever to watch spending and cut back on unnecessary luxuries. Vacation doesn’t need to be one of them! With these tips for saving money and cutting costs you’ll be on the road and headed for a fabulous vacation in no time. Check out our guide to the Top 10 RV Destinations for RV trip ideas.

Before You Go

First, it is important to make the RV as efficient as possible. The following tips can assure safe and speedy travels, as well as save some money along the way:

The Driver: Planning trips ahead of time and using a GPS device while on the road can save unnecessary and unwanted time spent driving in search of an unknown destination. While driving, be sure to keep windows rolled up on highways and cut down on aggressive driving to preserve fuel economy. Also, be sure to research gas prices before the trip to know the best places to fill up to save time and money.

The Engine: Before you leave get the engine a tune-up to make sure everything is in proper, working order. A change of spark plugs, oil and replacement of the air filters can assure maximum motor efficiency.

Weight: Lighten your load. Empty holding tanks of any unneeded items and pack only the essentials.

Tires: Check tire pressure and wheel alignment. One of the most overlooked opportunities to save money is properly inflating tires. Adequately inflated tires help save gas mileage, prevent accidents and increase the life of tires.

Shopping: When shopping on the road, stop and shop at local discount stores. The best way to save money is to stock up on essential items in bulk before you go. Have meal fixings on the road with you, to save from stopping for fast food and other restaurant meals while on the go.

While On The Road

Don’t Go So Far: Some of the best RV destinations may be closer to home than you’d think. Aim to visit a destination on one tank of gas or in your home state.

Take Games: Take your own games on the trip to save money on entertainment. Pack board games, play cards and classic road trip games like the “license plate game” for a free way to entertain the entire family.

Camp Smart: To save on propane costs, consider using Resort and Campground facilities for hot water and during cold weather camping or cold summer nights use an extra blanket instead of extra heat. Save money camping as well. Join an RV Club – many offer discounts for various campgrounds across the nation (up to 50%!)

Leave the Extra Vehicle At Home: Save money on extra transportation costs by leaving a spare vehicle at home. Not only will this save fuel economy by not having a heavy item to tow behind the RV, it will save extra transportation gas money.

RV vacations continue to be affordable based on savings in the areas of hotel, airfare and restaurant costs. These savings together, offset the cost of fuel. Shorter RV vacations are also more economical.

 

Prepare For Spring & Summer RV Travels

Spring is quickly approaching – is your RV ready for the first trip of the season? Preseason preparation is key to making sure your first road trip of the season goes smoothly. The following information, advice and tips will hopefully help you prepare early for a season filled with seamless RV adventures.

Tire Safety:

Make sure your tires are road-ready. The first, and one of the most important things to check, is tire pressure. Maintaining manufacturer specified tire pressure increases safety and saves money by improving gas mileage. Next, check tire tread. Confirm that there is 1/32” tread left on the tire and check all sides for cracks, extensive wearing or cuts. While you’re at it, don’t forget to check the spare.

Propane System:

Preseason is the perfect time to fill bottles or tanks and check for leaks. You can spray a leak detector (available at most hardware stores) or soapy water around the connections and regulator. It is important to remember never to overfill propane tanks. Propane expands and contracts drastically with temperature changes. Any vessel holding propane should not be filled more than 80% to allow for expansion.

Annual Services:

It would be a good idea to have a certified technician perform essential annual services of the system and appliances. Have the battery system checked; replace dead batteries and have electrolyte levels checked and topped off as needed. Have the generator serviced with an oil and filter change. Have your wheel bearings repacked and brake system checked for proper working operation.

Roof Care:

Regular cleaning and maintenance of your recreational vehicle’s roof will help prevent leaks and water damage. On your own, inspect the roof for overall condition and check for any places in need of repair. Check all seals, seems, vents, skylights, roof top antennas and other accessories. Contact a professional for necessary repairs before heading out on the open road with a worn roof.

Awning:

On a sunny, early spring day extend your RV’s awning to check for mold and mildew. Trapped water over the course of the winter may cause mildew which can damage and stain the awning fabric. Mild dish detergent works as a cleaning agent for vinyl fabric, for canvas or cloth an RV dealer can provide an appropriate cleaner. Be sure to allow the awning to fully dry before retracting.

A/C Units:

An important part of comfort during warm spring and hot summer months travel is air conditioning. Preseason is a great time to check A/C units and restore all to proper working order. On the roof, visually inspect the condition of the cover and the fins on the back side of the air conditioner. If you have a good power supply, turn on the air conditioner and run it for 10 or 15 minutes to ensure that it is cooling.

Framework Checks:

Check for needed structure services. Check engine oil, coolant, power steering, brake and transmission fluid levels, top off the windshield washing fluid reservoir and replace windshield wiper blades as needed.

Emergency Alarms:

An important working part of your RV is the emergency alarm. Regularly check the batteries in smoke, carbon monoxide and propane detectors. Double check that your fire extinguisher is fully charged and ready to use in case of emergency.

For ease and accuracy, taking your RV to the dealership or other certified technician is a great way to get a thorough preseason check. By performing these assessments in March or April you will allow yourself a full and trouble-free spring and summer RVing.

 

Guide To Towing Behind Your RV

Ofen times, enjoying the thrill of the open road traveling by RV includes towing another vehicle, boat or off-road toys behind you. This is often called “dinghy towing” and is very popular among RVers today. Motorhomes continue to grow in size, stature and luxury and life on the road has never been more comfortable. Follow this complete guide to towing behind your motorhome for seamless travel while towing.

Traveling with an extra vehicle, or “dinghy,” is practically a given in today’s age of large motorcoaches. Admittedly, parking at the grocery store or turning around in the parking lot isn’t fun in a 40-footer. A dinghy simplifies such tasks and alleviates the need to break camp for a jug of milk. Dinghy’s also provide an extra vehicle in case of emergency and extra storage space if you fill the RV storage.

Towing a dinghy does come at a cost. Towing will affect acceleration, fuel economy and braking of any RV to a certain degree. Proper selection of a dinghy and the correct equipment will allow you to safely and efficiently enjoy the benefits of a supplementary vehicle.

The first step in selecting a dinghy to tow is to check that the manufacturer has approved the vehicle for flat towing. Most passenger cars and light trucks can be used as a dinghy with the proper tow packages.

Proper dinghy preparation, from auxiliary braking systems to lights, are essential for safe RV travel. It is crucially important to prepare your dinghy with the proper equipment for towing, this can be done yourself or with the help of a certified towing equipment dealer. One of the most important
aspects of dinghy prep involves connecting the wiring between the two vehicles. Tail, brake and turn signals on the back of the dinghy are required in all 50 states and all Canadian provinces, so this isn’t a step that you can overlook.

The equipment used to tow small passenger vehicles, light trucks or boats behind motorhomes typically does not need extensive maintenance. Grease on the hitch ball will usually meet your needs when a tow bar is used. Wheel bearings should be repacked every year on a tow dolly, and if the dolly has brakes, they should be inspected annually. The most important aspects for safe towing are the necessary equipment, installed and used properly, along with vigilance.

 

Go Green – Making RV Travel Eco Friendly

RVers have a responsibility to protect and preserve the environment while on the road. With this Guide to Green RVing, you’ll find products, practices and conservation tips to help you do your part to preserve the great outdoors on your next road trip.

Green RV Products:

Solar Panels on the roof of your RV can generate enough electricity to run many RV appliances when paired with an inverter and your motorhome battery. Utilize solar panels to maximize efficiency while on the road and parked at camp.

Enzyme-based and bacterial formula toilet chemicals use natural composting action instead of formaldehyde, which can have many damaging effects, to break down solids in holding tanks.

Awnings and window coverings help to deflect sunlight from streaming into your RV on hot days, thus requiring less energy to keep the coach cool.

Ceiling fan/vent combinations can be used in two ways: on cooler days, turn off the air conditioner and use the 12 volt/fan combination to move air into and around the RV’s living space and sleeping areas; and use the combination to help circulate warm or cool air throughout the RV, both greatly reduce costly energy needs.

Install a water-saving shower head in your RV bathroom. Typically, these shower heads use 30-70% less water than standard heads and produce less gray water (thereby, less need for disposal!)

Minimize water-use when washing the exterior of the motorhome by purchasing a no-rinse cleaner.

Use a rechargeable lantern instead of gasoline, propane or other carbon-based fuel powered versions. To increase its eco friendly potential even further, keep batteries charged using portable solar power.

Green RVing Tips:

Dry laundry in the fresh air. Set up a campground clothesline or bumper-mounted clothesline instead of using the dry cycle on your RV washer/dryer or the campground facilities’.

Let laundry collect in the hamper longer. Wait longer between wash loads and let enough laundry collect to have full loads of whites, darks and brights to run fewer loads and save energy and water.

Install a patio light timer so lights come on only at dusk, or dark even, and turn off automatically in case you forget to switch them off before turning in for the night.

Keep RV and tow vehicle engines well tuned to conserve energy and reduce emissions. See our Spring Preparation article for more details about annual services to keep your RV in the best possible working condition.

Recycle as you travel. It is important to keep in mind that while you are on the road, and on vacation, recycling doesn’t take a backseat. Separate garbage from recyclables while on board and take note of campground recycling categories to assure proper use of the campground’s system.

To reduce the amount of air pollution and ash from spreading, keep campfires small. Do not place anything in a campfire that will not burn, such as plastics, foils or metals.

These simple and easy-to-follow tips for “greening” your RV travels can help reduce your carbon footprint and preserve your favorite road trip destinations for generations to come.

 

RVing: Weekend Getaways

RVing doesn’t have to always be in the form of a grand getaway. Enjoy your RV all year long by taking weekend trips whenever you have the free time. Plan excursions with friends, as a couple or with the kids to nearby locales; try a local festival, a close by lake, sporting event or explore a neighboring city.

Any Time is the Perfect Time

Summer isn’t the only season for RVing. Spring, Fall and even Winter can be great RV travel seasons. If your RV is winterized it can handle the elements in any location, during any season. Prepare your RV early to enjoy the blooming flowers and early sunshine of Spring on the road; and take a trip toward trees to enjoy the changing colors and falling leaves in Autumn.

Book Tickets to an Out-of-Town Show or Event

For a weekend concert, show or other event in a near by city, pack up the RV and hit the pavement. Enjoy the festivities at night, go sightseeing during the day and enjoy a relaxing weekend away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Best of all, you won’t pay for two nights in a hotel and you’ll be back in the swing of things by Monday morning.

Family Getaway

One of the best ways to bring a family closer is to travel the open road together. Pack up the family and spend a great weekend at your favorite campground. Or make the trip an adventure and spend the weekend somewhere new. Spend a relaxing weekend with campfires by the lake or make it an activity-filled weekend of miniature golf, bike riding and fishing together.

Lodge-On-Wheels

Your RV is your very own lodge-on-wheels. Pick a lake, river or forest location and experience it just as you would from a bungalow, but through the glass window panes of your very own motor home. Choose a new destination every weekend; you will have all of the luxuries of a cottage, but in a new setting each time and without the lodge fees.

Nothing clears the mind quite like a weekend getaway. Pack up the RV, pick a destination and leave your troubles behind!

 

Does Your RV Need a Digital Converter Box?Does Your RV Need a Digital Converter Box?

The switch to digital television has been post-poned until June due to federal regulations, but now is the time to figure out whether or not new equipment is needed for your RV.

Many RVers have expressed confusion regarding the switch to Digital TV; wondering whether the Digital TV conversion will affect them or not and whether or not they need a Converter Box to receive TV using their RV’s antenna. Excel’s goal is to make the miles you travel more enjoyable and television can certainly be a part of this enjoyment. The following article addresses the issues surrounding the switch to Digital TV for RVers.

If you currently do not have a TV with a digital tuner in your RV, after the Digital TV conversion you will not be able to receive any stations when using an antenna, all you will receive is static (snow) on the screen.

If you are at a campground with cable TV, you will be able to receive TV, whether your TV has a digital tuner or an analog tuner.

The government required that all TVs sold after March 1, 2007 have digital tuners. An RV model manufactured and purchased before March 1, 2007 more than likely will have televisions manufactured before then, thus without a digital tuner and unable to receive a digital signal after June, 2009.

Many RVers are confused by their RV being classified as, “cable and internet ready.” If your RV is said to be “cable and internet ready” this does not necessarily mean it is Digital TV ready. It simply means that the cable and wiring to hook up television and internet were pre-wired into the RV when the unit was constructed.

To find out for sure, locate your RV owner’s manual or owner’s manual for the TV or TVs in the unit; the manual will tell you specifically whether or not your motorhome television is equipped with a digital tuner. If there is nothing in the manual regarding a digital tuner you will need to install a Digital Converter Box.

Digital Converter Boxes are available for purchase at many electronics stores, and super stores that sell electronics, with a price ranging from $40.00 to over $100.00 depending on added extra features.

Digital TV Conversion doesn’t have to be a hassle and the sooner you get your RV squared away with a Digital Conversion Box or determine if your RV is currently equipped for Digital television the sooner you can enjoy RV travels worry-free.

 

RV Tailgating: The Ultimate Parking Lot Party

Football season is a great time to pack the burgers, beer, fire up the RV and head for the game… But, football season isn’t the only time for the perfect tailgate party. NASCAR races, BBQ competitions, concert festivals and rodeo competitions are a few other (season-spanning) events at which to host a grand tailgate party – RV style.

Sometimes the best seats aren’t even necessarily “in” the house. These days the party begins in the parking lot, with the ultimate tailgater. Elaborate food spreads, flowing drinks, brewing excitement and the joy of never having to stand in a public restroom line have inspired more and more RVers to turn their motorhome into the parking lot’s next party stop.

A few pointers for throwing the ultimate parking lot party, RV style:

Think Food First

All you really need is a barbecue or smoker. That is what tailgating is all about, after all. Adjust the menu to compliment the event you will be attending. Hot dogs and hamburgers can work just fine for some events, or add some excitement to the menu by barbecuing ribs or steak with corn on the cob for night games or a treat before the big race. The microwave, oven and stovetop inside the RV make side dishes, appetizers and proper food storage a cinch.

If you’ll be in the sun all day at an outdoor concert festival, be sure to keep lots of water on hand and snacks, such as watermelon and shrimp cocktail, around the RV to stay fueled throughout the day and night.

Jazz up your spread by serving food and drinks on plates and cups in your team’s colors, style with a cowboy theme for rodeos or support your driver with his or her color and number on display at the party!

Scope Out Your Spot

The best parking lot parties happen in the best parking spots! Many professional and college football team stadiums have pre-assigned parking spaces, but if you can help it, get there early and snag a spot up front to attract more high-fives from passersby and closer access to the entrance gate so you can spend as long as possible pre-partying before the big event.

Entertain In Style

Be sure to decorate your RV and surrounding area appropriately; wouldn’t want any confusion about which team you’re rooting for or which driver you support! Colorful balloons, banners, posters, flags and face paint showcase your spirit well.

Tailgate Before, During & After

The party doesn’t have to end just because the game/rodeo/concert begins! For those without tickets, or those having too much fun to want to go in to the stadium, keep the party going during the event with the television (featuring the event, if possible) on and the food and drinks still flowing. After the big show, watch highlights or postgame interviews on the TV or listen to an event recap on the radio while continuing the tailgating fun.

Leave Your Parking Area Clean

Be sure to clean up any debris, pack up all your equipment, say good-bye to tailgating neighbors and make plans for the next event of ultimate RV parking lot partying!

 

Spring Into RV Season: Upcoming RV Shows & Events This Spring (February through May 2009):

RV shows and expositions take place all around the country with various retailers showcasing the latest and greatest in RV models, equipment and accessories. Tips, tricks and tools related to RVing are abundant at these shows and events, so even if you don’t plan to purchase an RV make a stop for some helpful information. Visit our Ways to Save article for a guide to saving time and money on your next road trip!

RV Shows

19th Annual North Carolina RV & Camping Show
February 13-15, 2009
Location: Charlotte, North Carolina

The annual North Carolina RV Camping Shows have grown to become the largest RV shows in the Mid-Atlantic States and definitely one you won’t want to miss. Each show fills over 300,000 square feet of space and features millions of dollars worth of inventory, hundreds of national brands of RVs, over 75 exhibitors, informative seminars and various product demonstrations.

Surf & Turf Sports, Boat & RV Show
February 13-16, 2009
Location: Cal Expo/Fairgrounds – Sacramento, California

The Sports, Boat and RV Show brings the best of the motorized outdoors to one location with boats, recreational vehicles, motorcycles, all-terrain-vehicles, personal watercraft, adventure travel options and outdoor recreation gear. Now in its 56th year, Surf & Turf is returning to Cal Expo in Sacramento over President’s Day weekend, with RV driving seminars and hundreds of dealers presenting the newest and highest quality equipment.

5th Annual Virginia RV Show
March 13-15, 2009
Location: Hampton Roads Convention – Center Hampton, Virginia

Get ready for spring and summer at the Virginia RV Show. The show will feature great deals on tent campers, travel trailers, 5th wheels, motorhomes, hi-line motorcoaches, park models, truck campers and conversion vans in a variety of floor plans and onsite financing will be available. The show will offer accessories, campgrounds and RV resort information, maintenance and service plans, insurance and financing.

Southeastern RV Supershow
April 17-19, 2009
Location: Atlanta Motor Speedway

The very popular Southeaster RV Supershow features dealers from across the state of Atlanta and beyond converging on Atlanta Motor Speedway’s infield to display hundreds of motor homes, travel trailers, trucks, SUVs, boats and other outdoor motor vehicles. The Supershow offers more than just RVs, fun for the whole family is in store with seminars, monster truck rides, outdoor movies, music and more!

21st Annual RV Manufacturers Show
May 15-24, 2009
Location: Alameda County Fairgrounds – Pleasanton, California

The event features hundreds of RVs and boats on display and has grown to be the largest of its kind on the West Coast. The show will feature many dealers, from all over the west to display the very latest models, accessories and services in the RV and boating industries and put you in touch with all the places and people to make your outdoor lifestyle the best it can be!

RV Events

FMCA’s 81st International Convention
March 16-19, 2009
Location: Georgia National Fairgrounds and Agricenter – Perry, Georgia

“The Great Georgia Getaway” will feature daytime and nighttime entertainment sure to please RVers of all ages. From magic, dancing, ventriloquism, and bluegrass music during the day to comedy skits, a Cetlic variety show and live country music at night this Convention is chalk full of four days of fun! The Convention also offers sightseeing tours, guides to local attractions and companionship with other RVers.

The 10th Annual Rally
April 17-20, 2009
Location: Albuquerque, New Mexico

Plan to RV west in April 2009 and get your kicks at the 10th anniversary of the “Greatest RV Rally in the World!” The Rally is the industry’s biggest event of the year, featuring the newest RV technologies, the latest RV gadgets and the most creative RV tech tips. This year The Rally will host the “First Annual GO Green Ideas Contest!” Highlights of The Rally include seminars, exhibits, activities, entertainment, fellowship and fun!

Great Lakes Area Spring Spree (G.L.A.S.S.) Rally
May 21-24, 2009
Location: Berrien Springs, Michigan

The GLASS Rally offers four nights of camping filled with entertainment. The Rally is all about fun and friendship featuring snack gatherings, breakfasts, evening entertainment, ice cream socials, RV exhibits, seminars and crafts, car shows and more.

 

Upcoming RV Shows & Events: Fall 2009

Fall RV shows and expositions can be the best shows of the year. Not only can visitors get a sneak-peak at next year’s model designs and technology trends, but this is an ideal time of year to find the best sales on current-year models, trade-ins and used RVs.

Also, don’t forget this is football season! Are you ready for the RV tailgate party of the year?

September through November

23rd Annual Indianapolis Fall Boat & RV Show
September 11-13, 2009
Indiana State Fairgrounds, Indianapolis, IN

The 23rd Annual Indianapolis Fall Boat & RV Show sails into the Indiana State Fairgrounds on September 11-13, 2009. Fall savings will be at their hottest during this four-day event. Climb aboard unbeatable savings on the largest selection and variety of new, used and year-end model boats and recreational vehicles under one roof.

8th Annual North Carolina Fall RV Show & Sale Extravaganza
September 11 – 13, 2009
Greensboro Coliseum, Greensboro, NC

Outdoor enthusiasts – get ready! Be prepared to enjoy a fun-filled and exciting sales event before winter sets in. The Extravaganza is where you want to shop for great deals on a wide variety of RVs and camping supplies and information. This is the best time of year to purchase an RV!

41st Annual Pennsylvania Recreation Vehicle & Camping Show
September 16 – 20, 2009
Hershey Entertainment & Resorts, Hershey, PA

This is the first show in the nation to feature 2010 vendor models — with free daily parking and shuttle services, come see America’s largest RV show. Check site for details and advanced ticket sales and coupons.

Fall Maryland RV Show
September 17 – 20, 2009
Maryland State Fairgrounds, Timonium, MD

Come to Maryland Recreational Vehicle Dealer’s Association, Inc.’s Annual Fall RV Show and Sale. With plenty of free parking, come explore the fleet from over 25 different vendors and the best prices around.

Southwest RV Super Show
September 17 – 20, 2009
Dallas Market Hall, Dallas, TX

Come see a large collection of RVs to find your next home away from home. Don’t forget that your Texas RV Association membership allows you a discount at this show, be sure to check online or call for details.

2009 Fall RV Show
September 24 – 27, 2009
California State Fairgrounds, Cal Expo, Sacramento, CA

On-site financing and factory representatives to help you find and take home your new RV.

Atlanta Camping & RV Show
September 25 – 27, 2009
Atlanta Exposition Center South, Atlanta, GA

Come see the largest RV show in Georgia and millions of dollars of RVs on sale at the supermarket of RV values. See site for hours, admission, where to stay and discount coupons.

26th Annual Northeast RV Shows Fall RV Marketplace 2009
October 2 – 4, 2009
Suffern, NY

With over 25 dealers, come see motor-homes, travel trailers, 5th wheels, pop-ups, camper vans and more than 200 new, used and demonstration RVs on display.

12th Annual Fall Rhode Island RV Show
October 2 – 4, 2009
Providence, RI

The Fall Rhode Island RV Show in Providence is the place for RVers to purchase a new motor-home (Class A or C), travel trailer, fifth wheel, folding trailer and more. Hundreds of rigs representing over 40 different RV makes and models will be available from the leading dealers in the region.

21st Annual Fall New Jersey RV Show
October 9 – 11, 2009
Edison, NJ

NJ and NY metro area’s largest RV show, here you’ll find the best names in the business. Featured are luxurious high-line coaches to travel trailers and everything in between.

57th Annual California RV Show
October 16 – 25, 2009
Pomona Fairplex, Pomona, CA

Once a year – the most RVs in one place! Find the RV you need for family fun and see all the new 2010 models. Bring your trade-in and take a new RV home with incredible deals on remaining 2008/2009 models.

16th Annual Fall Atlantic City RV Show
October 30 – November 1, 2009
Atlantic City, NJ

Begin planning your camping vacations for the next season at the 16th Annual Fall Atlantic City RV Show. Trade-up to your dream RV, see the latest RVs or just learn about the joys of travel in a recreational vehicle.

2nd Annual Chantilly Fall RV & Boat Super Sale
November 6 – 8, 2009
Chantilly, VA

For you RVers there will be motor-homes, mini-homes, travel trailers, folding campers, truck campers, and fifth wheels. For you boaters, there will be saltwater fishing boats, ski boats, runabouts, motor yachts, jet boats, jon-boats, PWC, bass boats, inflatables, deck boats and pontoons.