Arkansas is known for its diverse natural beauty and sweeping landscapes. In the west lie the Ozark and Ouachita Mountains. Between them flow the strong currents of the Arkansas River, which runs parallel to I-40 before bending south toward the Mississippi River. The southern part of the state is home to the lush Arkansas Timberlands and the Delta Lowlands. From the peaks of the northwestern mountains to the dense forests of the Timberlands, Arkansas is a must-see for many RVers.
There are two RV shows in Arkansas and a handful of notable attractions. Each year, these events bring RVers, boaters, and tourists who want to experience the beauty of The Natural State. We’ve gathered some information about the best RV shows and tourist attractions in the state. Whether you’re looking for RV rentals in Arkansas or you already have an RV, don’t miss these events on your next trip!
1. The Annual Arkansas RV Show
The Arkansas Annual RV Show is the largest RV show in the state with an annual attendance of 6,000 people. The event takes place at Little Rock’s Statehouse Convention Center. Located right downtown, on the shores of the Arkansas River, the Statehouse is just steps away from the River Market and dozens of places to shop, eat, and hang out. Take a break from the show to catch some live music and grab a delicious homestyle southern meal.
Why You’ll Love the Annual Arkansas RV Show
There are roughly 100,000 square feet of RV exhibits to explore, including new rigs and technology from some of the biggest manufacturers in the country. You can also find out about the best new RV resorts and campgrounds, camping gear, gadgets, and just about everything RV-related. Factory and sales reps can show you the around more than 125 different types of RVs on-site.
Arkansas Annual RV Show Information:
- Location: Statehouse Convention Center 101 East Markham St. Little Rock, AR 72201
- Dates: February 16th-18th, 2024
- Contact: 501-765-1423
- Tickets: Adults are $10 and Children (under 13) are free
2. Hot Springs Boat, Tackle & RV Show
The Hot Springs Boat & RV Show is a premier show in a premier destination. Thousands of RV and boat enthusiasts flood the Summit Arena to visit this show each year. Hot Springs is nestled among the beautiful Ouachita Mountains. The Convention Center sits on the border of the Hot Springs National Park and is just around the corner from the famous Bathhouse Row. Here, eight 20th-century bathhouses welcome visitors for an afternoon soak in the relaxing mineral waters – don’t miss the opportunity to check out the bathhouses between convention exhibits!
Why You’ll Love the Hot Springs Boat, Tackle & RV Show
This show is the best place to go for all things outdoors. It’s the largest convention in Arkansas and features hundreds of boats, RVs, and camping exhibits. Kids can enter to compete in the Casting Kids Contest and win prizes, or check out the Game and Fish Tank. There are several scouting programs, including US Army Corps and Coast Guard. Be prepared to spend a few days at the show – there are more than 100,000 square feet of exhibits and food booths to visit!
Hot Springs Boat, Tackle & RV Show Information
- Location: 134 Convention Blvd. Hot Spring, AR 71901
- Dates: February 23rd- 25th, 2024
- Contact: 501-765-1423
- Tickets: Adults are $10 and Children (under 13) are free
3. Arkansas State RV Rally
The Arkansas State RV Rally takes place every April in the city of Texarkana. The city is right on the border of Texas, and thus, the State Rally draws many visitors from just over the state line. Each April, the State Rally is held at the Four States Fairgrounds, just outside of downtown. There’s a peaceful park across the street – the Bobby F. Ferguson Park – which offers a quiet respite from the crowded RV show.
What You’ll Love About the Arkansas State RV Rally
Formerly known as the Arkansas Samboree, this event brings together the best and latest in RVs and RV technology. You’ll find brand-new models of motorhomes, travel trailers, fifth wheels, and even pop-up campers. Please note: it’s a Good Sam event, so you’ll need to be a member to participate. With your membership, you’ll receive discounts at nearby campgrounds and be able to mingle with fellow members.
Information About the Arkansas State RV Rally
- Location: Four States Fairgrounds 3700 E. 50th ST Texarkana, AR 71854
- Dates: April 18th-24th, 2024
- Contact: 501-327-3613
- Tickets: TBA
Other Notable Places to Stop in Arkansas
Arkansas RV shows may bring large crowds, but sometimes you just need to relax and unwind away from the throngs of tourists. There are several noteworthy outdoor attractions in Arkansas, ranging from mountain forests to riverside retreats. Check out these attractions on the way to the next Arkansas RV show.
- The Ouachita National Forest is a dense, expansive woodland covering about 1.8 million acres of central Arkansas and Oklahoma. It’s one of the oldest and largest National Forests in the South and is home to a series of unique hot springs. There’s lots to do here, including fishing, hiking, boating, and of course, relaxing in the hot springs. Visit the National Forest Service website for camping information.
- The Saint Francis National Forest lies on the eastern border of Arkansas adjacent to the Mississippi River. The forest covers 22,600 acres and includes a diverse array of flora and fauna. There are multiple campgrounds and landmarks throughout the area, offering opportunities for fishing, hiking, boating, hunting, and more. Bear Creek Lake is one of the more popular areas of the park, and there are five recreation sites along its shoreline. Learn more here.
- The Ozark St. Francis Forest is a separate forest in the western region of Arkansas. Though both St. Francis Forests are part of the National Forest System, they’re each entirely different in their topography and wildlife. At more than 1.2 million acres, the Ozark Forest is much larger than its eastern sister. One of the biggest tourist attractions is Blanchard Spring Caverns, a three-level active cave system with miles of underground trails to explore.
- The Dale Bumpers White River Wildlife Refuge is also in eastern Arkansas, just a few miles west of the Mississippi River. The refuge is home to several protected animal species, including black bears and several types of waterfowl. Being in the White River floodplain, the refuge has miles of meandering streams and bayous. It attracts over 400,000 visitors each year who want to explore the hardwood forests and observe local wildlife. Visit the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service site to learn more about the refuge.
Add Arkansas to Your RV Show Itinerary
Arkansas is full of beautiful natural wonders that are begging to be explored. From the towering peaks and deep caves of the Ozark Forest to the swampy wetlands of the Arkansas Delta, there’s sure to be something of interest for everyone in your family. What Arkansas lacks in the quantity of RV shows it surely makes up for in quality – its most popular RV shows are in some of the most interesting cities in the state.
RV shows are a great way to get to know the RV lifestyle, especially if you’re new to it. You’ll have a chance to check out new RV models and gear, which is perfect if you’re thinking about buying an RV. In the meantime, head over to our rental inventory to find cheap rates on RV rentals in Arkansas. Happy trails, and enjoy the show!
Psst — want to double down on your adventure? Check out some of the following RV road trip destinations and guides for Arkansas!
- The Ultimate Guide to RV Camping in Arkansas
- Top 27 Bucket List Destinations in Arkansas
- Boondocking in Arkansas
- Top 10 Landmarks in Arkansas
Another way to try an RV before you buy? Renting with RVshare! Choose from thousands of RVs to find the perfect option for your trip or family.
