Dogs are welcome but they must be leashed at all times. Leashes must be 6 feet or shorter. Failure to keep your dog leashed and under control could result in you being asked to leave the event.
Rooftop Tent Rally presented by The Friends of James River State Park
Where
James River State Park, Gladstone, VA.
When
Oct. 16-19, 2025
Are you ready for an unforgettable weekend of adventure, community and the great outdoors? Join us at James River State Park for the 9th Annual Rooftop Tent Rally, where nature enthusiasts, overlanding pros and camping newcomers come together to celebrate the joy of rooftop tent camping in one of Virginia’s most beautiful state parks.
Nestled along the scenic James River, the Rooftop Tent Rally, presented by The Friends of James River State Park, offers the perfect backdrop for camping under the stars, swapping stories around the campfire and exploring miles of hiking and biking trails. Whether you’re a seasoned overlander or curious about this unique camping style, the Rooftop Tent Rally is your opportunity to connect with a vibrant community and enjoy an array of activities for all ages.
The event is sponsored by the Friends of James River State Park.
What to expect:
- Gear demos and workshops: Discover the latest rooftop tent innovations, learn camping tips and tricks and participate in hands-on workshops led by industry experts.
- Outdoor activities: Go hiking, kayaking on the James River or mountain biking and participate in nature programs led by park rangers.
- Community campfire: Share stories and meet fellow campers at our nightly bonfire.
- Live music: Enjoy nightly live music.
- Family-friendly fun: With activities like scavenger hunts, crafts and kids’ nature programs, there’s something for everyone.
- Campsite cook-off: On Saturday, overlanders can complete for a TemboTusk Skottle Grill Kit by participating in the campsite cook-off. Learn more and sign up by emailing rttrcookoff@gmail.com.
Why attend?
The Rooftop Tent Rally isn’t just an event—it’s a community celebration. Connect with like-minded adventurers, learn from the best and discover why rooftop tent camping is one of the fastest-growing outdoor trends. Plus, James River State Park offers breathtaking views, diverse wildlife and endless opportunities for exploration.
Tickets for the Rooftop Tent Rally are intentionally limited to create an intimate and exclusive experience for our guests. Be sure to secure your spot early.
Thursday, Oct. 16
2 p.m.: Early bird check-in: Contact station
10 p.m.: Check-in closes
Friday, Oct. 17
10 a.m.: Check-in tent opens: Amphitheater Road
5–9 p.m.: Loose Shoe Brewery: Tent
6:30 p.m.: Live music: Stage
7 p.m.: Bonfire: Vendor area
10 p.m.: Quiet hours begin/check-in closes
Saturday, Oct. 18
9 a.m.: Check-in station opens: Amphitheater Road
9 a.m.: Vendor area opens
9:45 a.m.: Overlander Cook-off meeting: Stage
10 a.m.: Radio Communications Q&A with John Fury & Carl Davis
10 a.m.: Overlander Cook-off begins
11 a.m.: Backwoods Games - Fire Building: Vendor area
12 p.m.: Amateur Radio Test session begins: Shelter 4
12 p.m.: Overlander Cook-off judging and awards: Stage
1 p.m.: Navigation with Dean Shirley, East Coast Overland Adventures: Vendor area
1 p.m.: Backwoods Games – Frying Pan Toss: Vendor area
2 p.m.: Medical Assessments in the Woods with Sarah Fury, Fury Training Concepts: Shelter 4
5-9 p.m.: Loose Shoe Brewery: Vendor area
6:30 p.m.: Live music: Stage
8 p.m.: Bonfire: Vendor area
10 p.m.: Quiet hours begin
Saturday Family Fun
9 a.m.: Fire Building: Stage area
10 a.m.: Photo Scavenger Hunt begins: Vendor area
2 p.m.: Seed Bomb Slingshots: Green Hill Pond
4 p.m.: Archery: Shelter 3
11 a.m.–4 p.m.: Apple Slingshot: Green Hill
Sunday, Oct. 19
9 a.m.: Door prize drawing (Must be present to win.)
10 a.m.: Banner raffle
12 p.m.: Check-out
Things you need to know:
TENTS & TRAILERS
Ground tents are welcome. No camping trailers over 15 feet are allowed. RVs are not allowed.
FIRES & FIREWOOD
Fires must be contained in a fire pan. No ground fires permitted. All ashes must be disposed of in the metal ash cans located at the entrance, stage, and upper field. Transportation of firewood is illegal in Virginia. Please leave your firewood at home. Firewood will be for sale in the park at shelter 4. Please place money in the honor safe.
ICE AND WATER
Ice will be for sale in the park at shelter 4. Please place money in the honor safe. Potable water is located at shelter 4.
VEHICLE LEVELING
It is recommended to bring vehicular leveling blocks.
EARLY CAMPING
Early camping will be available on Thursday, Oct. 16, for an additional fee. When buying your ticket, please select the ticket that includes early camping.
BATHROOMS
Restrooms are located at the top of the hill, by shelter 4. Porta potties are located behind near Green Hill Pond and left of the stage.
QUIET HOURS
Please be courteous of other campers. Quiet hours are 10 p.m. to 7 a.m.
GENERATORS
Generator use is not permitted in Virginia State Parks.
LOCATION
James River State Park, Amphitheater Field
104 Green Hill Dr., Gladstone, VA 24553
