If you’re part of the RVing community, there’s one event you don’t want to miss: the Quartzsite Big Tent Show.
Every January, tens of thousands of RVers, campers, and outdoor enthusiasts gather in the small town of Quartzsite, Arizona, for one of the country’s largest RV and outdoor expos. By 2025, the show will be bigger and better than ever, offering more vendors, demonstrations, and activities to kick off your year of adventures.
This guide will help you make the most of the 2025 Big Tent Show. We’ll cover everything you need to know, from when and where it takes place to what to expect from the vendors, seminars, and entertainment. We’ll also dive into tips for camping, dining, and exploring the area.
By the end, you’ll feel prepared and excited to join this yearly celebration of all things RVing and the outdoor lifestyle.
Dates, Location, and Admission of The Big Tent Show
Dates: The 2025 Quartzsite Big Tent Show will run from Saturday, January 18, 2025, through Sunday, January 26, 2025. Spanning nine days, this schedule gives you plenty of time to explore the show at your own pace. Plan to arrive early in the opening weekend if you enjoy the excitement of the crowd and the thrill of seeing vendors on their first day. If you prefer a slightly quieter experience, mid-week tends to be less busy.
Location: The Big Tent Show sets up in Quartzsite, Arizona, a small desert town located just off Interstate 10, near the California border. The main event center is a giant, circus-like tent situated on the show grounds just south of town. You’ll see plenty of signage directing you to parking areas. If you’re in an RV, don’t worry—Quartzsite is well-known for its abundance of dry camping opportunities scattered around the desert landscape.
Admission: Entry to the Big Tent Show traditionally requires a small admission fee, typically around $10 per person for a day’s entry. (Be sure to check the official 2025 Quartzsite Big Tent Show website for updated pricing before you arrive.)
Once inside, you can explore vendor booths, sit in on seminars, and enjoy entertainment throughout the day. Many people find that one day isn’t enough to see it all, so consider purchasing multi-day passes if they’re available.
What to Expect Inside the Big Tent
The heart of the Quartzsite show is the massive white tent that stretches as far as the eye can see. Inside, you’ll find over 350 exhibitors displaying everything from the latest RV models and accessories to solar equipment, camping gadgets, outdoor clothing, and health products.
If it’s related to RVing, camping, or travel, chances are you’ll find it under the Big Tent.
Top Highlights Under the Tent:
New RV Models: Major RV dealers and manufacturers bring their newest models for you to tour. This is a great opportunity to get a hands-on look inside Class A motorhomes, fifth wheels, travel trailers, truck campers, and van conversions. Even if you’re not currently in the market, looking at the newest layouts and features can inspire upgrades to your existing rig.
RV Accessories and Gear: Need a new water filtration system for your RV? Looking for the best solar panels or lithium battery upgrades? Want to invest in better leveling blocks, hitches, or towing mirrors? You’ll find vendors eager to demonstrate and discuss every product you can imagine. Take notes, gather brochures, and ask plenty of questions.
Camping Equipment and Gadgets: It’s not all about the RV itself. The Big Tent Show also features booths for camping gear, fold-up bicycles, inflatable kayaks, portable grills, and even handcrafted décor for your campsite. It’s like visiting a giant outdoor store, except the sales staff really know their products.
Health and Wellness Vendors: Expect to find a surprising number of health-focused booths offering massage chairs, posture-correcting cushions, essential oils, and various wellness products. While it might seem unrelated to RVing at first, consider how important comfort and health are when you’re on the road for long stretches.
Special Deals and Discounts: Many vendors offer “show specials” with discounts you won’t find online or in regular stores. Come prepared with a budget, and don’t be afraid to haggle a bit. The Quartzsite Big Tent is known as a place where you can score a deal.
Informational Seminars and Workshops
One of the biggest draws to the Quartzsite Big Tent Show is the daily lineup of seminars and workshops. Experienced RVers, technical experts, and industry pros share their knowledge on topics ranging from battery maintenance to solar installation, trip planning, and how to manage life on the road.
Popular Seminar Topics:
Solar and Off-Grid Living: Learn how to design, install, and maintain solar panels and lithium battery systems to power your RV in remote locations.
RV Maintenance and Repairs: Find out how to perform basic maintenance and fix common problems yourself, saving time and money on service calls.
Boondocking Basics: New to dry camping? Seminars cover how to find great boondocking spots, conserve water and power, handle waste responsibly, and leave no trace.
Full-Time RVing: Get advice from seasoned full-timers about budgeting, work opportunities, healthcare on the road, and community-building as you travel year-round.
Traveling with Pets: If you have furry companions, discover tips on how to keep them safe, healthy, and happy while exploring new places together.
Be sure to grab a schedule as soon as you enter the show. Popular sessions fill up quickly, especially when a well-known speaker is involved. Consider arriving early to secure a good seat. Seminars are included in your admission fee, so attending them is a great way to make the most of your ticket.
Entertainment and Special Events at The Big Tent Show
Beyond the booths and seminars, the Quartzsite Big Tent Show offers plenty of fun activities to keep you entertained. You might find live music, cooking demonstrations, product raffles, and contests taking place throughout the event.
Some of these special events may only be announced a few weeks before the show, so keep an eye on the official event website or pick up a daily bulletin at the entrance.
Tips for Enjoying the Entertainment:
Check the Schedule Daily: Plans often change, and new entertainers might be added. Keep checking the bulletin boards or event app if available.
Bring Seating: While some areas have seating, it might be limited. A portable, lightweight folding chair can be handy for watching performances or taking a break.
Engage with Vendors and Hosts: Many vendors host small demonstrations at their booths. Take advantage of these informal sessions to learn tricks for using their products.
Exploring Quartzsite Beyond the Big Tent
The Big Tent might be the main attraction, but Quartzsite itself offers plenty of reasons to stick around. Known as the “Mecca for RVers,” this desert town turns into a bustling community each winter, with other shows, swap meets, and special events happening at the same time.
Other Quartzsite Highlights:
Tyson Wells and Other Swap Meets: Several swap meets pop up across town during January, featuring everything from rock and gem vendors to handcrafted artwork, tools, household goods, and antiques. Even if you’re not looking for anything specific, strolling through these swap meets can be a fun treasure hunt.
Gems and Minerals: Quartzsite is famous for its gem and mineral shows. If you’re fascinated by geology or love unique jewelry, don’t miss these exhibits. They offer a chance to pick up beautiful stones from all over the world.
Local Dining: While you won’t find large chain restaurants in Quartzsite, there are a handful of diners, cafés, and food stands that pop up for the season. The local eateries cater to the RV crowd and often serve comfort food, burgers, Mexican specialties, and hearty breakfasts. Don’t expect gourmet dining, but enjoy the small-town charm.
Outdoor Adventures: Beyond the town, the surrounding desert offers hiking, off-roading, and wildlife-watching opportunities. If you have time, consider taking a day trip to explore the Kofa National Wildlife Refuge or hiking some of the nearby trails. The stark beauty of the Arizona desert will surprise you.
Camping and RVing in Quartzsite
One of the reasons people love Quartzsite is its abundance of RV camping options. Whether you prefer a full-hookup RV park or a no-hookup boondocking site, you’ll find a spot that suits your style and budget.
Camping Options:
Boondocking on BLM Land: The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) oversees vast stretches of public land around Quartzsite. For a small fee (usually around $40 for a two-week permit at the Long-Term Visitor Areas, or LTVAs), you can park your RV and camp in the desert with no hookups. This style of camping is popular among those who value space, scenery, and low costs. Just make sure you arrive with full water tanks, empty waste tanks, and enough solar or generator power to keep you comfortable.
Private RV Parks: If you need hookups, showers, laundry, or a reliable Wi-Fi connection, consider staying at one of the private RV parks or resorts in town. They fill up quickly during show season, so reserve your spot months in advance. Rates vary depending on amenities, location, and duration of stay.
Short-Term Camping Near the Show Grounds: Some areas close to the Big Tent set aside spaces for short-term stays, but these may have limited availability. If you want to be within walking distance of the show, keep an eye on official announcements and book as soon as possible.
Camping Tips:
Book Early: Quartzsite’s population swells dramatically in January. Don’t assume you can roll into town and find a full-hookup site at the last minute.
Conserve Resources: If you’re boondocking, conserve water and manage your black and gray tanks carefully. Bring portable water jugs and know where the nearest dump stations are located.
Prepare for Dust and Wind: Quartzsite is in the desert, so it can be dusty and windy. Make sure you secure awnings and outdoor gear, and prepare for chilly desert nights.
Getting to Quartzsite & The Big Tent Show
Quartzsite sits along Interstate 10, making it easily accessible whether you’re driving in from Los Angeles (about 3 hours away), Phoenix (about 2 hours away), or further. The roads are generally well-maintained, but keep an eye on weather reports.
Although rare, winter storms can bring unexpected conditions. Fuel up in nearby towns and consider stocking up on groceries before arriving, as local shopping options are limited and can be more expensive during the peak season.
Driving Tips:
- Plan for Traffic Delays: During the Big Tent Show, Quartzsite gets crowded. Expect slower traffic and consider arriving a day or two before the event starts to beat the rush.
- RV-Friendly Routes: Stick to main highways and avoid backroads unless you’re confident in your navigation skills. Cell service can be spotty in remote areas.
Staying Connected
Internet access and cell service can be a challenge in Quartzsite, especially when tens of thousands of people flood the area at once. If you need a stable connection for work or personal use, consider a cellular booster, or try to arrive early and scout out spots with better reception.
Some RV parks offer Wi-Fi, but it might slow to a crawl during peak hours.
Connectivity Tips:
Cellular Boosters: A good cell booster can help you get a stable signal.
Public Hotspots: Check if local cafés or RV parks offer paid or free Wi-Fi.
Data Management: If you rely on mobile data, plan ahead. Download maps, show schedules, and entertainment before you arrive.
Making the Most of Your Visit
The Quartzsite Big Tent Show can be overwhelming, especially if it’s your first time. With hundreds of vendors, multiple seminar stages, and a crowd of fellow RVers, you might feel unsure about where to start.
Strategies for Enjoying the Show:
Arrive Early in the Day: Mornings are often less crowded, allowing you to talk to vendors with minimal waiting.
Wear Comfortable Shoes: You’ll be doing a lot of walking on sometimes uneven ground. Good footwear is essential.
Bring a Backpack or Tote Bag: You’ll likely pick up brochures, product samples, and small purchases. Having a convenient way to carry them frees your hands.
Take Breaks: If you’re feeling tired or overwhelmed, step outside the tent and enjoy some fresh air.
Attend Seminars Strategically: If you have a few topics you’re really interested in, plan your schedule around those seminar times. Make them a priority and fill in the rest of the day around those sessions.
Meeting Other RVers and Building Community
One of the best parts of the Quartzsite experience is the chance to connect with fellow RVers. Thousands of like-minded travelers come from all over the country (and beyond), bringing their own stories, tips, and friendship.
Ways to Connect:
Attend a Meetup: Many clubs, Facebook groups, and forums organize informal meetups in Quartzsite during show week. Keep an eye on online communities you’re a part of.
Chat with Your Neighbors: Whether in the Big Tent, the campground, or a local café, don’t hesitate to strike up a conversation. You never know what you might learn.
Join a Rally: Some RV clubs hold rallies in Quartzsite, giving members a chance to gather, share potluck meals, and enjoy group activities.
Building these connections can enhance your entire travel experience, giving you new friends to visit on the road or valuable advice for future trips.
Preparing Your RV for the Trip to Quartzsite’s Big Tent Show
Heading to Quartzsite is easier if you prepare your RV for boondocking and dusty conditions. Before you hit the road, run through a maintenance checklist to ensure everything’s in working order.
RV Prep Checklist:
Check Your Tires: Proper inflation and good tread are crucial, especially if you’ll be driving over rough desert roads or off-road paths to your campsite.
Service Your Generator and Solar System: If you’re relying on off-grid power, make sure everything is running smoothly before you arrive.
Empty Waste Tanks and Fill Fresh Water: Arrive with empty black and gray tanks and a full water tank if you plan to boondock. Know where the nearest dump stations are located.
Dust-Proof Your Rig: While you can’t entirely avoid dust in the desert, consider placing covers over vents and using good-quality air filters.
Staying Safe and Healthy
Desert environments require a bit of extra care. The days can be warm, the nights can be cold, and the desert sun can be intense even in January.
Safety Tips:
Stay Hydrated: Even mild desert weather can dehydrate you quickly. Carry water with you at all times while exploring the show.
Dress in Layers: Mornings and evenings can be chilly. Wear layers so you can adjust to changing temperatures.
Protect Yourself from the Sun: Sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses are must-haves.
Watch Your Step: The ground can be uneven, both inside the tent and outside on the dusty terrain.
Be Mindful of Your Belongings: While Quartzsite is generally safe, it’s still wise to keep valuables locked up in your RV and to keep an eye on personal items.
Day Trips and Local Attractions
If you have time, consider exploring beyond Quartzsite. The region offers interesting destinations within a few hours’ drive.
Lake Havasu City (About 1.5 hours northwest): Known for the London Bridge and beautiful lake views. A fun day trip for water activities, shopping, and dining.
Yuma (About 1.5 hours south): Historical sites, the Yuma Territorial Prison State Historic Park, and a warmer climate.
Joshua Tree National Park (About 2 hours west): If you have a tow car, consider driving out to this unique desert landscape known for its namesake trees and beautiful rock formations.
These side adventures can break up your stay and make your Quartzsite experience feel like a true vacation.
After the Big Tent Show: What’s Next?
Once the 2025 Quartzsite Big Tent Show ends, the town quiets down a bit, but there’s still plenty to do if you’re not quite ready to move on. January and February remain popular months for RVers to boondock in the desert, bask in the mild winter temperatures, and enjoy the company of fellow travelers.
You might also take the inspiration and knowledge you gained at the show and apply it to your next journey. Maybe you found the perfect solar setup and can’t wait to test it out, or discovered a new RV resort in another state to visit next month. The Big Tent Show is just the beginning of your 2025 adventures.
Visit The Big Tent Show This Year
The 2025 Quartzsite Big Tent Show promises to be an unforgettable experience, bringing together thousands of RVers, vendors, and experts for nine days of learning, shopping, and community-building. From browsing the newest RV models to attending seminars on off-grid living, from hunting for hidden treasures at local swap meets to making new friends around a campfire in the desert, there’s truly something for everyone.
By planning ahead, arriving early, and taking advantage of the show’s many offerings, you can make the most of your visit. Remember to pack comfortable shoes, layer your clothing, and bring an open mind. Don’t be afraid to strike up conversations with fellow RVers—you never know what tips or stories they’ll share.
As you drive away from Quartzsite, you’ll likely have a list of new gear to install, places to visit, and friends to catch up with on the road. In the end, that’s what the Quartzsite Big Tent Show is all about: inspiring your next adventure, making lasting memories, and connecting with the community that makes RV travel so special. Safe travels, and enjoy the 2025 Quartzsite Big Tent Show!
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