We’ve met many of our customers at RV rallies over the years, and each time has been a reminder of why these gatherings are such a special part of RV life. Rallies are an incredible way to connect with the RV community and form friendships that last long after the event ends.
Our very first rally was the Grand Design National Rally in 2023, and the atmosphere was electric—hundreds of rigs gathered together, instant new friendships, and a jam-packed schedule of activities that brought everyone closer. One of our favorite memories from that event? Brooke winning the salsa contest! That moment really drove home that we had found “our people,” and that rallies were a place where we could relax, laugh, and celebrate the RV lifestyle together.
If you’ve ever thought about attending an RV rally but aren’t quite sure what to expect, this guide will help you understand what they are, how they differ from RV shows, and how to find the right rally for you.
RV Rally vs. RV Show: What’s the Difference?
Before diving in, let’s clear up a common misconception: an RV rally is not the same thing as an RV show.
- RV Shows are large expos focused on shopping for RVs, parts, and accessories. Dealers, manufacturers, and suppliers showcase the latest rigs, gadgets, and technology. The focus is on exploring, learning, and maybe even buying your next RV.
- RV Rallies, on the other hand, are all about community and connection. These are gatherings of RV owners who come together to celebrate the lifestyle. Instead of endless sales booths, you’ll find potlucks, seminars, games, excursions, and plenty of opportunities to bond with fellow travelers. While there are often vendors at rallies, they support the event rather than define it.
In short: RV shows are about shopping; RV rallies are about belonging.
So, What Is an RV Rally?
An RV rally is essentially a gathering of RV owners who come together to socialize, learn, and celebrate their shared lifestyle. These events range from small and intimate (a few dozen rigs) to massive gatherings of hundreds of RVs.
Rallies are usually organized in one of two ways:
- Owner-Organized Rallies: Sometimes called “SOB” (Some Other Brand) rallies, these are hosted by RV owners for people who share the same brand or style of RV. They can be as simple as a few friends camping together or as large as a few hundred rigs.
- Factory or National Rallies: These are the big ones—often hosted by RV manufacturers. They’re typically located near the factory so owners can access warranty work, repairs, or recall service while they’re there. It’s not uncommon for these to draw 600 rigs or more, creating a temporary small town of RVers for a few days.
Most rallies last between three to six days and are scheduled annually at the same location. This creates traditions—many attendees return year after year, while new faces join for their first taste of rally life.
What Happens at an RV Rally?
Each rally has its own personality, but most include a mix of education, entertainment, and community:
- Seminars & Workshops: Learn about RV maintenance, solar setups, safety, and more. Great for both beginners and seasoned travelers.
- Community Activities: Games, friendly competitions, raffles, themed parties, and excursions to local attractions. At the Grand Design Rally, the contests and activities were what helped turn strangers into friends.
- Vendor Exhibits: Many rallies include vendors showcasing new products and services. Since we provide RV-related products and services ourselves, we attend as vendors—allowing us to meet RVers across different brands and backgrounds.
- On-Site Services: Larger rallies may offer mobile service teams for minor repairs or upgrades.
- Social Gatherings: Potlucks, live music, campfire meetups, and happy hours—these are what make rallies feel like one big family reunion.
Why Attend an RV Rally?
The appeal of rallies goes far beyond the schedule—they’re about the connections you make.
- Community & Friendship: Rallies are the best place to meet like-minded travelers and build friendships that last for years.
- Learning Opportunities: Workshops and vendor demos provide practical skills you can use immediately.
- Convenience & Support: Factory rallies often offer warranty or repair services right on site.
- Fun & Adventure: From excursions to entertainment, there’s always something exciting happening.
How to Find RV Rallies
Finding the right rally for you is easier than you might think. Many rallies are organized by RV manufacturers (like Brinkley, Grand Design, or Alliance) or by national RV organizations (like FCRV or Escapees).
Here are a few ways to find upcoming events:
- Manufacturer Websites: Most brands have an “Events” or “Owners” section that lists upcoming rallies.
- Facebook Groups: Search for your RV brand or general RV rally communities. These are great places to find regional or chapter events.
- Online Forums: Websites like RVLife, iRV2, or Escapees’ own forums often have rally calendars.
- Word of Mouth: Once you attend one rally, you’ll quickly hear about others from fellow attendees!
If you’re new to rallies, start with one close to home or one hosted by your RV manufacturer—it’s a comfortable, welcoming way to get started.
Our Takeaway
For us, rallies have been one of the best parts of RV life. We’ve made lifelong friends, learned valuable skills, and created memories we’ll never forget. Whether it’s a massive national rally or a smaller local event, the sense of community and shared adventure is unlike anything else.
If you’re an RV owner, we can’t recommend attending a rally enough. It’s a chance to celebrate your RV, connect with others who share your passion, and maybe even win a salsa contest or two!
If you’d like to connect with us at an upcoming rally, check out our “Where We’ll Be” on our website—we’d love to meet you there.
