From the Empire State Building to Lake Champlain, a lot of pretty epic things spring to mind when you think about New York and NYC… but still, the state as a whole is way more incredible than any one of its many attractions.
Although it’s home to the most populous (and, if we do say so ourselves, perhaps the best) city in the U.S., it’s also got some stunning natural features and campgrounds to explore. You can find yourself in awe of its numerous, imposing mountain ranges, including the Catskills and the Adirondacks, or you might prefer to do some fishing and canoeing in its multiple river valleys. Don’t forget that a few hours’ drive puts you smack-dab in Great Lakes territory; the state’s northwestern borders straddle Lake Ontario and Lake Erie. It’s also home to the famed Finger Lakes area, which actually produces some of the finest American-made wines outside of Napa.
All that diversity makes New York an ideal state to see by RV. After all, it’s going to take a few hours of driving to make sure you take in all the Empire State has to offer! Whether you own your own rig or hop into your New York RV rental, traveling in a recreational vehicle means you’ll never have to worry about where you’ll lay your head at night, no matter which of New York’s stunning skylines you’ll see outside your window in the morning.
Another great opportunity for New York campers is to attend one of its many motorhome and travel trailer shows. These camping shows are a fantastic way to shop for a new RV, or even just to get more familiar with the variety of makes, models, and types of rigs out there. Plus, you’ll more than likely discover new destinations, helpful new technologies and equipment, and maybe even meet new camping friends. In other words, they’re just plain fun!
With a large population and avid outdoor adventure community, it’s no wonder that New York is the host of so many high-quality RV shows and camping events. Here are a few of the best in the business.
1. The Annual Northeast RV Show
Held each year in Suffern, the Annual Northeast RV Show is one of the largest RV shows in New York. It’s participated in by RV dealers from across New York and the entire northeastern United States, and you’ll be able to visit and chat with more than 50 different vendors. Along with the opportunity to check out and compare tons of makes and models of the newest rigs on the market, you’ll also find a wide array of campgrounds, RV repair facilities, RV storage solutions, and services represented as well.
Why You’ll Love the Annual Northeast RV Show
The coming 2020 show will be the event’s 46th annual running — that’s nearly half a century! So it goes without saying the organizers have learned a thing or two about how to host a fantastic expo.
The facility itself, which is part of Rockland Community College, is a 90,000-square-foot arena with fully functional climate control and heating to ensure you have a comfortable experience even in New York’s chilly February weather. The entry price is reasonable, and it’s easy to score a free discount by signing up for an email newsletter… and parking is free!
Plus, Suffern is conveniently located on the southeastern New York/New Jersey border, which makes it an easy trek from anywhere in the tri-state area and beyond. Once you’re done exploring the show, treat yourself and the family to a relaxing weekend camping trip to one of the nearby New York state or RV parks, such as Harriman State Park or Sterling Forest. If this winter’s powdery, there’s even plenty of skiing nearby!
Annual Northeast RV Show Information
- Location: Rockland Community College Field House 145 College Road, Suffern, New York 10901
- Dates: February 16th-19th, 2024
- Contact: 845-343-2772
- Tickets: Adults are $12 and Children 12 and under are free.
2. CNY RV and Camping Show
Ready for a trip to Syracuse, from possibly Rochester… in March?
No, we’re not crazy. If you’re looking to experience one of the best camping shows in New York State, this event will make it worth the trip, even in the snow.
Why You’ll Love the CNY RV and Camping Show
The show spans four huge buildings which are populated by nine of New York’s finest RV dealers. You can shop hundreds of new models offered at special show pricing — but those low costs won’t last, so don’t miss out!
Along with RV dealers, the CNY RV and Camping Show will also bring together local New York campground representatives, RV suppliers, and general outdoor outfitters to ensure you find everything you need for the upcoming camping season. According to the show’s website, “You’ll find just about every type of camper – Fold Downs, Travel Trailers, Hybrid Travel Trailers, Fifth Wheels, Class A, Class B and Class C Motorhomes, Park Models, Truck Campers and more – all in one huge indoor show. In addition, you’ll find campground information, RV and Camping Suppliers, RV and Camper Insurance, RV and Camper Financing and more!”
Sounds pretty great, right? It’s little wonder this event bills itself as “New York State’s Premier RV & Camping show!”
CNY RV and Camping Show Information
- Location: The New York State Fairgrounds 581 State Fair Boulevard, Syracuse, New York 13209
- Dates: February 29th- March 3rd, 2024
- Contact: 315-794-0695
- Tickets: Thursday $6, Friday and Saturday $12, Sunday $10. Children under 16 are free.
3. The Annual New York State Recreational Vehicle Show
In its 25th year, this show isn’t quite as historied as some of the other options on this list… but that only speaks to the incredible quality and tradition behind New York RV shows in general. Twenty-three years is still a really long time, and a trip to this fall show is a great cap to your summer camping season!
Why You’ll Love the Annual New York State Recreational Vehicle Show
Organized by the same folks behind the CNY RV & Camping Show above, you can count on finding reputable dealers offering high-quality rigs at the Annual NYS RV Show. And although spring might seem like the perfect time to get your hands on a brand-new rig just off the lot, don’t forget that shopping during fall means the dealers have more incentive to get rid of their wares to make way for the incoming new models… which means great deals for you at this RV camper show!
Plus, who can resist an autumn visit to Syracuse, when the snow may have yet to show itself but the leaves have begun their color change and slow descent? It’s a lovely time of year in a lovely area of the country… and some of the best bargains on RVs you’ll ever find? Sign us up!
Annual New York State Recreational Vehicle Show Information
- Location: The New York State Fairgrounds 581 State Fair Boulevard, Syracuse, New York 13209
- Dates: TBA, but last year it was held September 22nd-24th, 2023.
- Contact: 315-794-0695
- Tickets: Free admission and parking!
As you can see, New York hosts some of the finest RV shows in the country, and you have many different venues and times of year to choose from. Whether you hit a spring show to find your dream rig ahead of the popular summer camping season or wait until things cool down a bit in fall, the camping expos and events across New York are a great way to find the deals you’re looking for.
Of course, we’ve only listed a few of the best shows in the state here — there are plenty of other opportunities out there if none of these will fit in your agenda! In New York, you also have the added advantage of being so close to so many other northeastern states, which also hold their own events annually.
To keep up to date on the latest information about RV goings-on near you, be sure to follow local camping sites and groups on Facebook, where you may find local gatherings listed in communities’ “events” pages. You can also run a Google search for “RV shows near me” or “RV shows + [your zip code],” which will give you the best chance at finding any expos going on in your immediate area.
No matter what, enjoy your time in one of the most beautiful and diverse states in the nation. We know how wonderful it is to be in a New York state of mind!
Psst — want to double down on your adventure? Check out some of the following RV road trip destinations and guides for New York!
- The Ultimate Guide to RV Camping in New York
- The Top 33 Bucket List Destinations in New York
- Boondocking in New York
- Top 10 Landmarks in New York
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.
