They have names such as Freedom Express, Sporttrek, Avalanche and Astoria.
These are some of the brand names of the campers, trailers and recreation vehicles now filling up the QCCA Expo Center in Rock Island for the return of the RV and Camping Show in the QC. The annual show, which was closed due to COVID-19 restrictions last year, is set for Friday through Sunday, Feb. 25-27, at the expo center.
The event will transform the expo center into a showroom for outdoor enthusiasts with the latest models of recreational vehicles, other equipment and services. As of late Wednesday afternoon, the QCCA Expo Center was already a center of activity as workers concentrated on setting up vendor booths and numerous rec vehicles and campers. By the day’s end, the entire exhibit hall appeared packed with row after row of campers, trailers and other equipment.
“My building is full. My phone is ringing off the hook,” Robert Junker, show director at the QCCA Expo Center, said with a laugh Wednesday afternoon as he prepared for the show.
Mr. Junker added that vendors and the public are excited about this year’s show. The show will have at least 30 vendors. But the main attractions of the show will be displays of rec vehicles, campers and trailers, he said.
Among those setting up a display at the show was John Dresselhaus of Campers Inn RV of Davenport.
Mr. Dresselhaus said his company has been a mainstay at the show for at least 10 years and he’s looking forward to this weekend’s crowds. “Everybody needs something different, and we can help them,” he added.
The show hours are: noon to 8 p.m. Friday; 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. Saturday; and 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sunday.
Admission is $8 for adults, $1 for young people ages 6 to 15; and free admission for children under 6. On Friday, Feb. 25, the show hosts veterans and senior day during which admission will be $6 (from noon to 5 p.m.) for veterans and anyone over age 65.
For more information on the show, call the QCCA Expo Center at (309) 788-5912.