Are you in the winter doldrums and anxiously waiting for camping season to start? If you live in a cold climate like I do and the idea of winter camping in the snow is not appealing, then you may be dreaming of warm summer evenings sitting around a campfire enjoying s’mores (yum!).
Instead of sitting at home waiting for camping season to start, head out to a local camping show to check out the latest in campers and camping gear, and to chat with fellow campers. It’s a great “one stop” place to find your next dream camping unit, get some great deals, find new gear, get info on campgrounds, check out towing vehicles, and get tips and ideas from camping enthusiasts just like you while strolling though the exhitibition buildings and arenas where many of the shows are being held.
Just like January, February and March are the prime times for people to head south for a winter vacation, those are the same months that are prime time for camper shows. I go to at least one show every year and always come home feeling excited about the upcoming camping season because I always find a new piece of gear to try out or get a great tip from someone I met at the show.
Did you know that many of the people working at the shows are not the regular staff salespeople for the camping companies but are their customers who are very knowledgeable about camping and who are helping out during the show because extra people are needed to help the thousands of people who go through their camping units or who stop at their booths each day during a show? They give practical advice and honest feedback about the camping unit or gear they are assigned to because it’s something they already own and use.
And if you haven’t yet experienced the fun and joy of camping, it’s a great place to go and look around to help you decide if it’s something you want to do (and I highly encourage you try camping at least once or twice; it’s truly hard to describe and is something best experienced).
To find a camping show in your area check local newspapers, watch for ads on television, use Google to do a search such as “Wisconsin camping show,” or check out the websites below that have listings of numerous upcoming camper and RV shows.
Great Lakes.org website which lists rv, boating, outdoor and sport fishing shows around the worldÂ
While almost all the big shows charge an admission fee, many have discount coupons on their show websites; some offer free admission on certain days with a donation to a local food pantry; and some offer discounted coupons through local radio and television stations (call and ask or check out the “deals” or “marketplace” section of their websites).
