Sandwiched between the Mississippi River on the east and the Missouri and Big Sioux Rivers on the west is one of the finest states in the nation. Aside from being responsible for a significant portion of the food on American tables, it’s also the birthplace of such celebrated figures as President Herbert Hoover and actors Ashton Kutcher and Elijah Wood.
Do you know which state we’re talking about?
That’s right, it’s Iowa — and aside from all those claims to fame, it’s also a fantastic place to go camping.
You can choose from a huge array of Iowa state and RV parks, which offer everything from hiking and wildlife watching to hunting and fishing. Or drop by one of the state’s famed cities, such as Des Moines or Cedar Rapids, to discover incredible restaurants and world-class cultural exhibitions.
And hey, while you’re there — you might also want to participate in one of Iowa’s many RV shows! These giant gatherings of RVers, campers, and outdoorsy types offer a great way to network with other travelers like you, and also to shop for new camping equipment and gear… including even a new camper, if it’s time! But if you’re a traveler wondering, “Where are the RV shows near me?” — well, we’ve got the answer!
So, which Iowa RV shows should you not miss? Here are a few of our favorites.
1. Iowa Boat, RV and Vacation Show
2024 will be the 36th year in the running for the Iowa Boat, RV and Vacation show, which brings together all the best names and brands in vacation and adventure equipment under one roof. You’ll be able to browse hundreds of new and pre-owned RVs available for sale from a scope of Iowa RV dealers, as well as get to network and ask questions of camping and marine experts.
And since this show takes place in early January, it’s a great way to ring in a brand new year of camping fun!
Why You’ll Love the Iowa Boat, RV and Vacation Show
Promising “more boats and campers in one event than anywhere in Iowa,” this is one of the largest RV shows in the state — and it has the added bonus of providing you information about boating, too. Hey, you never know when you might want to take on a new adventure!
The Iowa Boat, RV and Vacation show also hosts a variety of informative exhibits and seminars covering all sorts of topics to do with camping, sailing, and vacationing in general.
Iowa Boat, RV and Vacation Show Information
- Location: The UNI-Dome 2501 Hudson Road, Cedar Falls, Iowa 50614
- Dates: January 26th-28th, 2024
- Contact: 319-240-3571
- Tickets: Admission is $7 when purchased online as prices increase the day of the show. Children under 13 are free.
2. Iowa’s Original RV Show
Here’s an opportunity to visit the Iowa State Fairgrounds in Des Moines and possibly walk away with your perfect travel trailer or motorhome.
Iowa’s Original RV Show has been held annually for more than 35 years — so you know they know what they’re doing! And like the Greater Iowa RV Show, it benefits from its central and exciting urban locale. Not only is it easily reached from all corners of the state, but it also makes for a great weekend getaway.
Why You’ll Love the Iowa’s Original RV Show
They don’t call it “original” for nothing! This RV and camping show is attended by some of the top RV dealers in Iowa, including names like Autorama RV Center, Bob & Jo’s Guthrie Center, Good Life RV, Herold Trailer Sales, Imperial RV, and others. These dealers offer high-quality rigs at bargain prices during the show, so if you’re in the market, keep your eyes peeled.
While you wander around the fairgrounds, you’ll be able to tour and explore rigs of all kinds, from lightweight travel trailers and campers to full-sized, luxurious Class A diesel pushers. Who knows? Maybe one of them is your next dream rig.
Iowa’s Original RV Show Information
- Location: Iowa State Fairgrounds East University Avenue & East 30th Street, Des Moines, Iowa 50317
- Dates: February 1st-4th, 2024
- Contact: 515-961-7405
- Tickets: Adults are $10 (or $9 if purchased in advance online), Children (2-12) are $5, Children (2 and under) are free, and Seniors (60+ Thursday only) are $8.
3. Cedar Rapids Sportshow
At this all-inclusive camper and RV show, you’ll find not only fifth wheels, travel trailers, and motorhomes, but also pontoon boats, fishing boats, and a heap of exciting outdoor, hunting, fishing, and travel exhibits. So if you’ve ever been curious about casting a line or turning a deer into dinner, this RV camper show might be perfect for you!
Why You’ll Love the Cedar Rapids Sportshow
Aside from useful information and equipment for all those outdoor pursuits you’ve been hankering to try, the Cedar Rapids Sportshow also features a variety of fun family activities and world-class seminars, so the kids will stay happy and you’ll walk away from the conference with way more knowledge than you went in with.
Plus, February is the absolute perfect time to shop for your next camper. Springtime means new models are on their way out from the factory, so you’ll be sure to find some great deals on new, but not quite brand-new, RVs that have suddenly been rendered just-so-slightly out of date. (Plus, you’ll be able to land your next rig well before high travel season arrives in the summer — so you’ll be more than ready for adventure when the time comes!)
Cedar Rapids Sportshow Information
- Location: Alliant Energy Powerhouse Convention Center 370 1st Ave NE, Cedar Rapids, IA 52401
- Dates: February 23rd-25th, 2024
- Contact: 319-240-3571
- Tickets: Admission is $7 when purchased online as prices increase the day of the show. Children under 13 are free.
4. Eastern Iowa Sportshow
Looking to upgrade your destination bucket list?
Ready to discover some incredible outdoor adventures you might not even have considered before?
The Eastern Iowa Sportshow combines all the stuff we love about a traditional RV show — that is, walking through and exploring lots and lots of different kinds of RVs — with a rich source of information about camping, traveling, fishing, hunting, and even going on safari. In short, if it gets you outside, someone’s probably talking about it at the Eastern Iowa Sportshow!
Why You’ll Love the Eastern Iowa Sportshow
No matter what kind of outdoor activities catch your fancy, you’re sure to find everything you’re looking for — and probably some things you weren’t! — at the Eastern Iowa Sportshow.
Here are just a few of the exciting exhibits, vendors, and activities that will be represented, per the show’s website:
- Fishing camps
- Fly-ins
- Outposts
- Family Resorts
- Michigan Sportfishing
- Canoe Outfitters
- Big Game Outfitters
- African Safaris
- Tourism Associations
- Campgrounds
- Camping Gear
- Fishing Tackle
- Archery Equipment
- Backpacking Gear
- and more!
After all, camping is about more than driving around a motorhome. It’s about all the fun stuff you’re going to do when you get there — and this show will help you learn more about options you might not have even considered yet!
The show will also have several different lightweight trailers, fifth wheels, toy haulers, and motorhomes on display, so if you’re looking to upgrade from your Iowa RV rental to your very own rig, you could be in luck.
Finally, as if all that wasn’t enough, you’ll also be entered to win exciting and valuable door prizes and have the chance to take part in fun hands-on activities.
Eastern Iowa Sportshow Information
- Location: The UNI-Dome 2401 Hudson Road, Cedar Falls, Iowa 50614
- Dates: March 8th-10th, 2024
- Contact: 317-716-2684
- Tickets: Admission is $7 when purchased online as prices increase the day of the show. Children under 13 are free.
Iowa offers a range of RV and outdoor expos that not only feature high-quality equipment for sale from reputable vendors but also provide you the opportunity to learn more about a whole host of outdoor activities you might not be participating in yet!
Whether it’s hunting, fishing, or even just learning more about destinations in the midwestern area, attending a camping show in Iowa is a great way to expand your horizons — which will bring you better adventures for years to come, both in the Hawkeye State and beyond.
Psst — want to double down on your adventure? Check out some of the following RV road trip destinations and guides for Iowa!
- The Ultimate Guide to RV Camping in Iowa
- The Top 34 Bucket List Destinations in Iowa
- Boondocking in Iowa
- Top 10 Landmarks in Iowa
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.
