Overlanders from across the country will return to James River State Park on October 20 through October 22 for the 7th Annual Roof Top Tent Rally. The special two-day event, a collaboration between James River and Bedford County-based Blue Ridge Overland Gear, provides a unique opportunity to connect with fellow overlanders and adventure seekers or explore the overlanding lifestyle for the first time.

Keep reading to learn more about the Roof Top Tent Rally and this different perspective on camping. If it sounds like something you’d enjoy, buy your tickets now. This family-friendly event sells out every year.

Campers spread out in a field at James River State Park for the Roof Top Tent Rally

What is Overlanding?

Blue Ridge Overland Gear describes overlanding as vehicle-based, on-road and off-road, adventure travel with a focus on self-reliance, resilience and enjoyment of the journey.

While vehicle mechanics, customization and building out a unique rig are huge parts of being an overlander, Blue Ridge Overland Gear says at the heart of it all is a love of the great outdoors, camping culture and exploring new places.

You don't have to have a big, decked out rig or roof top tent to get involved! Even though 'roof top tent' is in the name, this event is open to all adventure lovers. 

How did James River State Park get involved in overlanding?

In 2017, Park Manager John Fury purchased his first roof top tent and started exploring adventure travel. At the time, Fury noticed there weren’t any overland events being held in Virginia and that there seemed to be a gap between state parks and the overlanding community.

“Virginia State Parks have so much to offer overlanders as they travel up and down the East Coast,” said Fury. “We have such diverse camping options, from mountain camping to coastal camping. How many state park systems can offer that?”

So, with a few trips of his own under his belt, Fury knew he wanted to plan a laid back event that would bring together like-minded adventure travelers at James River State Park. So, he reached out to Blue Ridge Overland Gear for help, and owner Matt Akenhead jumped at the idea.

That same year, James River and Blue Ridge Overland Gear held the first Root Top Tent Rally with about 70 rigs and 250 people. In 2018, the event grew to 250 rigs and around 700 people.

Over the years, the Roof Top Tent Rally has continued to sell out and has attracted overlanders from England, Australia, Canada and across the U.S.

"Blue Ridge Overland Gear is happy to once again partner with our friends at James River State Park to produce a family-friendly event that brings together adventure lovers from around the region," said Blue Ridge Overland Gear's Director of Communications and Community Rick Stowe. "It's a perfect example of what the public and private sectors can achieve when they work together. We appreciate the opportunity to cohost the Roof Top Tent Rally for the last six years, and we look forward to many more."

A rig at the Roof Top Tent Rally

How many tickets are available?

James River and Blue Ridge Overland Gear limit ticket sales to 250 rigs to keep the event intimate and to give campers the chance to spread out and make friends with their neighbors, which Fury says campers really appreciate.

“A proud moment for me was in 2018 at the Overland Expo East in Asheville, North Carolina. I overheard a fellow attendee mention the Roof Top Tent Rally. They were talking about how much fun they had and that they really liked that we capped the event to keep it relaxed and the crowd numbers low,” said Fury.

A rig at the Roof Top Tent Rally

Can I still camp if I don’t have a roof top tent?

Absolutely! Ground tents and off-road trailers (under 20 feet) are welcome; however, RVs and freestanding campers are not permitted.

What else is there to do at the Roof Top Tent Rally?

The Roof Top Tent Rally offers activities for campers of all ages. You can check out the full schedule of events here (PDF), but here are some of the highlights:

• Children’s activities: Fire Building, Photo Scavenger Hunt, Seed Bomb Slingshots, Ring the Banjo, Apple Slingshots, and Dark Sky Viewing
• Live music: Caleb Cox Band, and the Blue Mountain Boys
• Camp Cook-Off - winner takes home a TemboTusk Skottle
• Backwoods Games: fire building, frying pan toss, and bear bag Olympics

The event also features expert-led presentations for overlanders, including:

• Navigation with Dean Shirley of East Coast Overland Adventure: This class covers the basics of overland navigation. From using maps to using GPSs, Shirley highlights the easiest ways to plan a route for success.
• Vehicle Recovery with Ted Dinwiddie of Overland Experts: Dinwiddie brings a wealth of knowledge to the table when it comes to recovery. During this class, Dinwiddie talks about equipment, technique and safety that help someone make sound decisions when freeing their vehicle from a peculiar spot.
• What’s in your medical kit with Rodney Dewson of Overland Medic: With years of experience in the fire and EMS field, Dewson shares some dos and don’ts when it comes to building your overland medical kit. During this class, Dewson breaks down his kits and talks about what you should have in a basic or advanced medical kit.
• Amateur Radio Test Session: Throughout the Roof Top Tent Rally, a group of volunteers will be hosting an amateur radio test session. A growing part of the overland community is switching their communication to amateur radio to remain connected during their travels. Since the FCC requires you to have a license to transmit on the ham frequencies, we host a test session to help overlanders acquire their license.

Campers are also invited to explore the park, which offers more than 20 miles of trails for hiking and biking, three fishing ponds and access to the river for fishing smallmouth bass, catfish and panfish. A fishing license is required.

The Roof Top Tent Rally Offers live music and family-friendly activities for all ages

A message from Park Manager John Fury

“The Rooftop Tent Rally is by far my favorite event of the year. It is truly a family event that has something for everyone. Over the years, I have made so many friends from the rally, and I look forward to spending time with them each year. During the event, I take time to visit as many camps as I possibly can, learning about their travels and lifestyle.

Planning for the rally is no easy task. From lining up vendors and sponsors to planning activities and entertainment, I spend a lot of time during the year building this event. But I am always thrilled to witness the magic of the Roof Top Tent Rally unfold amidst the natural beauty of our park. It's not just about camping; it's a celebration of adventure, camaraderie and the boundless spirit of outdoor enthusiasts coming together under the stars. This event embodies our park's commitment to fostering a deep connection with nature and igniting the passion for exploration. Join us on this unforgettable journey as we elevate camping to new heights, quite literally, and create lasting memories along the banks of the James River.”

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For more information about the Roof Top Tent Rally or to purchase tickets, click here.