You’ve been sitting on the sidelines, waiting for your chance to dip your toes in the RV world. Now, you’re ready to wade in deeper. You want to find…
- What RV fits your travel needs the best?
- What layouts do you like?
- What level of comfort do you want to travel in?
- What style of RV do you prefer? Motorhome? Travel trailer?
- What should go on your list of “must-haves” in an RV?
- Should you DIY your own camper?
- What can you expect to pay for your dream RV?
That’s why you’re looking for RV shows in California. You’re ready to get off the sidelines and experience life in the driver’s seat.
Here are some of California’s best (and most highly-attended RV shows).
Northern California RV Shows
Some of the state’s most esteemed RV shows in Northern California include The Annual Manufacturers’ RV Show and Sale, The Real RV Show, and the NorCal Boat, Sport, and RV Show.
The 35th Annual Manufacturers’ RV Show
You don’t want to miss the Annual Manufacturers’ RV Show. Set against the backdrop of the scenic green hills and San Francisco Bay views of the Alameda County Fairgrounds, this show is a spectacle of the latest and greatest RV models on the market.
If you would like to be the first to see the RV industry’s newest models and technologies, this is the show for you.
When: End of January (Missed this year’s event? Check their website for information on updated dates and times for 2025.)
Where: Alameda County Fairgrounds, Pleasanton, CA
Cost: $20 per adult, $17 for seniors, Kids 10 and under are free
NorCal Boat, Sport, and RV Show
The NorCal Boat, Sport, and RV Show offers more than RVs. It’s a day of family entertainment, including the debut of JetShark – a semi-submersible watercraft that maneuvers like a giant sea monster – and falconry shows. There’s also the latest in tiny home design and vendors for all sportsmen from fishing to hunting and jet skiing.
If you want to enjoy a day with the family while exploring vacation options, NorCal has what you’re looking for.
When: End of January (Missed it? Check their website for updated dates and times for 2025).
Where: Shasta District Fair, Anderson, CA
Cost: $8 per adult, $5 for seniors, $3 for children (children under 6 are free)
CampNation Expo
The CampNation Expo at Casa de Fruta RV Park in Hollister, CA, is a unique show geared toward DIY RVers and travel enthusiasts. Expect to see carefully crafted RVs from smaller manufacturers and other RVers who’ve done their own conversions.
Get inspired by other campers’ creative solutions and learn how to properly care for your RV at complimentary workshops.
If you’re seriously considering going all in on DIY van life, then check this one out.
When: August 11-12, 2024, 9:00am – 5:00pm (Check their website for updated dates and times.)
Where: Casa de Fruta RV Park, Hollister, CA
Cost: $10 per person
Southern California RV Shows
Southern California offers a menu of must-visit RV shows. The Mega RV Show and the Real RV Show are two options that take place every year.
The Mega RV Show in San Diego
Blue Compass RV of San Marcos and Santee hosts the Mega RV Show in February. Here, you can expect to find deals on new and used RVs. You can also get your RV appraised to determine its trade-in value.
If you’re looking to trade up to a newer RV, the Mega RV show makes it easy.
When: Beginning of February (Check their website for updated dates and times. If you missed this year’s, plan to attend the 2025 show)
Where: Snapdragon Stadium, San Diego, CA
Cost: Free
The REAL RV Show
Sure, there are lots of RV shows. But the Real RV Show prides itself on its competitive atmosphere, which breeds a buyers’ market for its attendees. The Real RV Show brings dealers from around the state to compete for your business.
So if you’re a buyer and you’re looking for a highly motivated seller, this is the show you don’t want to miss.
When: Mid-February (Check their website for updated dates and times. If you couldn’t make it to this year’s, look for more information on 2025’s dates)
Where: Cal Expo, Pasadena, CA
Cost: $15 per person. Kids 12 and under are free
RV Shows Close to California
A lot of shows in California happen during the first part of the year. But there are a few in nearby states like Nevada that are worth seeing.
Vegas RV Super Show
The Vegas RV Super Show is just a few hours from the California border in Las Vegas, NV. With seven of the largest RV dealers vying for your attention, you’ll find the best selection of the years’ RVs and salesmen who are more motivated to sell.
This show is great if you’re looking to find a deal on a new RV.
When: Beginning of October (Check their website for updated dates and times.)
Where: South Point Hotel and Casino Las Vegas, NV
Cost: Refer to the website for updated pricing.
The Spring RV Show
For van lifers everywhere! The Spring RV Show, sponsored by Van City RV, grants you a rare opportunity to tour the most luxurious travel vans. From off-road wonders to glamping vehicles full of modern amenities, this show has an RV for any first-time van-lifer.
When: Beginning of May (Check their website for updated dates and times.)
Where: Van City RV of Las Vegas, NV
Cost: No price listed
Tips for Attending RV Shows for First-Time RV Buyers
Now that we’ve shared the best California RV shows for you to explore, here’s how to get the most out of these shows.
These events are a hub for RV show enthusiasts and the best RV dealers who will be willing to answer your questions and offer their insider advice. Plus, you’ll have a chance of winning a free RV. Besides networking, RV shows are perfect for:
- Exploring makes and models from local dealers, manufacturers, and vendors
- Experiencing the latest technology
- Getting inspiration for your own dream camper
For first-time RV buyers, an RV show is a unique opportunity to compare different models and talk to experts. But it’s also a lot to take in. So do yourself a favor and follow these tips to get the most out of the show.
Tip #1: Narrow Down Your Search Before You Go
It’s not every day that you get to walk through a two-million-dollar toy hauler, so take the chance while you can! But remember: that’s probably not what you came for. So use the map to find the RVs you’re most interested in and start there.
Tip #2: Take Pictures
When you find a camper you like, snap a photo of the outside AND a photo of the information sheet, so you have them together. Also, take pictures of amenities or configurations you like, so you can add them to your “wish list.”
Tip #3: Weed Out the Options (This Is the Step That Most People Skip)
After you’ve thoroughly consumed plenty of insider information, sit down over dinner and go through the pictures. Talk about why you liked each RV and weed out the ones that aren’t a practical fit for your RVing style.
Tip #4: Compare What You Liked Versus Things You Didn’t Like
While going through your pictures, you’ll start to develop your own “grading scale” of what you like vs. don’t like and why. Some people trend toward minimalism, while others like space to entertain.
Tip #5: Finally, Wear Comfortable Shoes
RV shows cover acres of space, so be prepared to do a lot of walking.
Summary
Congratulations! You survived your first RV show.
And maybe you’re going home with a brand-new camper. More likely, you’re still working through the details of owning that Colorado Teardrop you’ve had your eye on.
You’re wondering how often you’d use it? What kind of maintenance does it require? And where should you store it?
You don’t want to spend hundreds of dollars on RV storage every month, but you also learned that if you want your RV to last, you shouldn’t store it outside in your backyard, either.
Well, Neighbor can help you with that.
Neighbor is a peer-to-peer RV storage marketplace that offers RV storage up to 50% less expensive than traditional options. Neighbor has storage options in all 50 states, so you could find storage spaces in your neighborhood.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can You Live Full-Time in a Travel Trailer in California?
Yes, you can live full-time in an RV in California, but you need to follow local ordinances regarding where you can park and live in the RV. Be sure to research and comply with local laws and regulations.
Where Is the Largest RV Expo?
The largest RV show is held in Hershey, Pennsylvania. It features over 1,300 toy haulers, travel trailers, and fifth wheels from more than 45 manufacturers, all spread across an area of over one million square feet.
