2026 Free Entrance Days in the National Parks – 2/16

National Park Service

2026 Free Entrance Days in the National Parks

Come experience the national parks! All National Park Service sites that charge an entrance fee will offer free admission to everyone (other fees, including timed entry or reservation fees, may apply). Mark your calendar for these entrance fee-free dates:

February 16: Presidents Day (Washington’s Birthday)

May 25: Memorial Day

June 14: Flag Day/President Trump’s birthday

July 3–5: Independence Day weekend

August 25: 110th Birthday of the National Park Service

September 17: Constitution Day

October 27: Theodore Roosevelt’s birthday

November 11: Veterans Day

Beginning in 2026, free entrance on these days will be for US citizens and residents only. Nonresidents will pay the regular entrance fee and any applicable nonresident fees.

Skooliepalooza – The Ungathering 2/7-14

chooliepalooza The Ungathering

Skooliepalooza The Ungathering

Skooliepalooza – Eherenburg, Arizona 1/15-22/25

In honor of all nomads worldwide, the anarchist, the hippy, the artist, the crafter, the private ones, the lost ones, the known ones and the loved ones we present: “SkooliePalooza 2025”.

SkooliepaloozaⓇ is a gathering of people who live and travel in converted school buses (skoolies), vans and other nomadic vehicles. The event is a celebration of a unique lifestyle that offers attendees the opportunity to connect with others who share their passion for adventure, minimalism and freedom. Skooliepalooza is a great opportunity for vehicle life nomads to showcase their converted vehicles, share knowledge and experiences, as well as help build a community of like-minded individuals.

The Benefits of Skooliepalooza

One of the benefits of attending Skooliepalooza is the chance to meet other vehicle nomads and enthusiasts. Vehicle nomads come from all walks of life and have a wide range of experiences and expertise. The event provides a unique opportunity to learn from others, share experiences, and form new friendships. Skooliepalooza is also a great way to explore new places, as the events run multiple times every year. Each location offers its own unique attractions, and attendees have the chance to explore the area and learn more about the local culture.

Another benefit of Skooliepalooza is the opportunity to attend workshops and presentations. Vehicle nomads and experts often lead workshops on a variety of topics, including solar power, water filtration, yoga, and wellness. These workshops can be valuable for those who are new to the vehicle nomad lifestyle or who want to improve their skills and knowledge.

Why attend Skooliepalooza?

If you are a vehicle nomad or just an enthusiast, attending Skooliepalooza is a must. The event provides a unique opportunity to connect with others who share your passion for adventure, minimalism, and sustainable living. You will have the chance to learn from others, share your experiences, and make new friends. Additionally, Skooliepalooza offers the opportunity to explore new places and learn more about the local culture. Whether you are a seasoned skoolie owner or just starting out, Skooliepalooza is an event that you won’t want to miss.

How to help grow the Skooliepalooza community

Skooliepalooza is a community-driven event, and there are many ways that you can help grow the community and make the event even better. One way to get involved is to volunteer your time and skills. Skooliepalooza relies on volunteers to help with everything from event planning to workshop facilitation. If you have skills that could be useful, such as carpentry, electrical work, or event planning, consider volunteering your time to help make the event a success.

Another way to help grow the Skooliepalooza community is to share your experiences and knowledge. If you are a vehicle nomad, consider sharing your story and photos on social media. You can also share your expertise by leading workshops or presentations at Skooliepalooza or other events. By sharing your knowledge and experiences, you can inspire others to join the vehicle nomad community and help grow the movement.

In conclusion, Skooliepalooza is a unique and valuable event for anyone who is interested in the vehicle nomad lifestyle. The event and community offers the opportunity to connect with others, learn new skills, and explore new places.

 

 

2025 Rubber Tramp Rendezvous (RTRs) Quartzsite, Arizona 1/8-16/24

2025 Rubber Tramp Rendezvous (WRTR & RTR)

2025 Rubber Tramp Rendezvous (WRTR & RTR)

SAVE THE DATES

Women’s RTR: January 8th -10th (Wed – Friday)
RTR: January 11th – 16th (Sat – Thurs)

EVENT LOCATION
Quartzsite, AZ
Town Park Baseball Field

THIS IS A FREE EVENT

The RTR will end just before the Big Tent RV Show begins (1/18/25), where Nomads often find seasonal jobs.

What can you expect at the RTR?
Educational and informational presentations
Live Music
Games Table
Sewing Services
Arts and Crafts
Bulletin Board
Cold Weather Gear giveaway
Free Pile
Food
Opportunities to meet and gather with other nomads
and more!

Please check the HOWA/RTR web page for more information

Adventure Van Expo – Ventura 10/26-27

Final Show of the 2024 Season

Get ready, Southern California! The Adventure Van Expo is rolling into Ventura this weekend, October 26-27. Come join us for an exciting weekend of exploring the latest in adventure vehicles, van builds, gear, and lifestyle products. Whether you’re planning a new adventure rig, looking to upgrade your gear, or simply enjoy the van life community, this event is for you!

 

Here’s what you can expect in Ventura:

Unique Builds & Top Brands – Explore a variety of unique camper vans, off-road vehicles, and custom builds. Meet the pros and get inspired!

Awesome Gear & Accessories – Discover and shop the latest in adventure gear, from roof racks and solar setups to camping must-haves.

Community & Fun – Connect with fellow adventurers, join talks, and see what the #vanlife community is all about.

Tickets for our Ventura show are $5, and we encourage you to purchase online in advance to save time at the gate.

Ventura, California

Ventura County Fairgrounds
10 W Harbor Blvd, Ventura, CA 93001

October 26-27, 2024
Saturday: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Sunday: 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Adventure Van Expo – North Lake Tahoe 9/14-15

Back to where it all began, beautiful Lake Tahoe! Join us at Palisades Tahoe next weekend September 14-15. Tons to see, open house vans, live bands, plus local food vendors. Check out 80+ vendors from all categories of the vanlife industry.

After you’re done checking out the show, we encourage you to check out the rest of the region! There are hikes you can start from the venue, (no need to drive to another trailhead) Lake Tahoe is just 15 minutes down highway 89, or checkout the town of Truckee for some fun after the show ends.

North Lake Tahoe, California
Palisades Tahoe Ski Resort

1960 Olympic Valley Road
Olympic Valley, CA 96146

September 14-15, 2024
Saturday: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Sunday: 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Adventure Van Expo – Evergreen, CO 7/27-28

Open house vans, DIY contest, live music, food trucks and camping!

We return to Colorado and this time it will be rolling to beautiful Evergreen CO! Join us July 27-28 for a family-friendly weekend open to all ages celebrating the van life community and the opportunity to view over 50 van vendors.

In addition to all of the great van builds the event will feature live music, food, and local brews all weekend long. And those looking to show off their custom builds are encouraged to sign up for the DIY Contest where they will have their rigs viewed by hundreds of event goers and rated by van build experts.

Looking to buy or sell? Expect to find roof racks, bumpers, solar panels, interior storage, water filters, window coverings, beds, bedding, and 4×4 recovery items….and of course coffee cups, t-shirts, and more!

LOCATED IN BUCHANAN PARK RECREATION CENTER

32003 Ellingwood Trail, Evergreen, CO 80439

SATURDAY, JULY 27TH
  • 10am – Show opens
  • Open house vans, DIY vans open for viewing, talks begin, bands, food, beverages and music available all day
  • 5pm – Show closes, campers may stay on-site
SUNDAY, JULY 28TH
  • 10am – Show opens
  • Open house vans, DIY vans open for viewing, talks begin, bands, food, beverages and music available all day
  • 3pm – Show closes, campers may stay on-site

Adventure Van Expo – Enumclaw, WA 9/7-9

WHAT’S HAPPENING

The show will feature built-out Mercedes Sprinters (mostly) 4×4 rigs, accessories, and more. Come out and meet the builders, network with vanlifers, check out all kinds of cool workmanship and things maybe you’ve never seen, learn something new. Vendors will be set up with accessories to buy for your van or rig. There will be talks on topics like solar.

MUSIC & FOOD

Hang out on Saturday and Sunday for local beats by a great lineup of acoustic live music. Bring the fam and enjoy some delicious treats from local food trucks.

DIY CONTEST

Show us what you built! Display your work during our van buildout DIY Contest on Saturday, which will be viewed by hundreds of eventgoers and rated by van build experts.

ON-SITE CAMPING

Don’t miss a beat! Continue the fun into the night and throughout the weekend. Purchase in advance! Camping tickets are not available for purchase on-site.

LOCATED AT THE ENUMCLAW FAIRGROUNDS NEAR SEATTLE

45224 284th Ave SE, Enumclaw, WA 98022

THE ITINERARY

SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 7TH
  • 10am – Show opens
  • Open house vans, DIY vans open for viewing, talks begin, bands, food, beverages and music available all day
  • 5pm – Show closes, campers may stay on-site
SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 8TH
  • 10am – Show opens
  • Open house vans, DIY vans open for viewing, talks begin, bands, food, beverages and music available all day
  • 3pm – Show closes, campers may stay on-site

Adventure Van Expo – Hood River, OR 6/22-23

Join us for the Adventure Van Expo in Hood River, OR, on June 22-23! This exciting event is a must-attend for van enthusiasts and adventure seekers alike. Experience over 90 vendors showcasing meticulously crafted 4×4 rigs, connect with builders and fellow van lifers, and explore a diverse range of accessories.

In addition to the amazing van builds, the expo offers live music, cold beer from local brewery Pfriem, and on-site camping to keep the fun going all weekend. Located at the Hood River County Fairgrounds, this event provides the perfect opportunity to dive into van life culture while surrounded by the stunning scenery of Hood River.

Hood River, OR

HOOD RIVER COUNTY FAIRGROUNDS
3020 Wyeast Rd, Hood River, OR 97031

June 22-23, 2024

Saturday: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Sunday: 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Tickets: Admission is FREE! However, if you’re bringing your furry friend, please purchase a dog pass. To save time at the gate and have more van exploration time, consider purchasing parking in advance.

Adventure Van Expo – Boise, ID 6/29-30

This summer, we’re excited to bring the festivities to Boise, ID. Join us for a family-friendly weekend welcoming all ages to celebrate the vibrant van life community. Explore an array of van vendors and overland products, creating a unique experience for enthusiasts.

In addition to the impressive van builds, the event will be filled with live music, delicious food, and local brews throughout the weekend. DIY enthusiasts can showcase their custom builds by signing up for the DIY Contest, where rigs will be viewed and rated by both event-goers and van build experts.

Whether you’re looking to buy or sell, the marketplace offers roof racks, bumpers, solar panels, interior storage solutions, water filters, window coverings, beds, bedding, 4×4 recovery items, and more. Uncover the perfect van life essentials, from practical gear to stylish coffee cups and t-shirts. Join us for a weekend of community, creativity, and exploration in beautiful Boise, ID!

LOCATED AT THE BOISE FAIRGROUNDS

5610 N Glenwood St, Garden City, ID 83714

SATURDAY, JUNE 29TH

  • 10am – Show opens
  • Open house vans, DIY vans open for viewing, talks begin, bands, food, beverages and music available all day
  • 5pm – Show closes, campers may stay on-site
SUNDAY, JUNE 30TH
  • 10am – Show opens
  • Open house vans, DIY vans open for viewing, talks begin, bands, food, beverages and music available all day
  • 3pm – Show closes, campers may stay on-site