Oklahoma State Fair
Want to mix an RV holiday with an entertainment extravaganza? Pencil in the Oklahoma State Fair on your calendar. Camp, shop, explore, and enjoy.
Event information
If non-stop action and activity sound like your kind of RV holiday, then type Oklahoma City into your GPS and start navigating your way to the State Fair in the middle of the city. This event, at State Fair Park, 3001 General Pershing Boulevard, lures thousands of people from across all states, and it’s clear to see why.
The ten-day event encompasses a carnival-like environment, music, food, animals, camping, and so much more. Even if you stay from start to finish, you might get to try all of the vendor food options, full camping amenities, and endless entertainment that will get you on your feet.
If you weren’t planning on staying for the full ten days, then you may be considering it when you discover what’s on offer. From trams and exhibits through to livestock, games, and rides, there’s something to appeal to all. Both young and old will love meandering through the expansive 435-acre State Fair Park, in search of the next major attraction, of nearly 200, to grab their attention.
The best part is, The Oklahoma State Fair is one of the most RV-friendly events around, with over 400 sites, free WiFi, and all service hook-ups you need. Could it be time to fuel up, pack a bag, and hit the road? State Parks near Oklahoma City also give RV campers a place to land along the way and are loaded with hiking, biking, and water activities.
Tickets
Ticket prices vary, depending on when you buy them. Advanced Gate Deals run from July until September every year, available from the Oklahoma State Fair. You can also purchase tickets for adults and children, as well as season passes. Children under five are free. Special discount days apply, so be sure to check the website to find out when those are expected.
Explore Oklahoma State Fair RV Rentals
Transportation
Driving
There are several different ways to get to the State Fair Park due to its expansive size. However, the Will Rogers Expressway, State Highway 44, runs parallel to the event site, making the journey a breeze.
You can also take a right or left (depending on your direction) to exit directly off the highway and into the vicinity of the State Fair. Allow delays, for traffic typically increases during the fair.
Parking areas
If trying to park your big rig has you transforming into a big ball of stress, then you’ll be pleased to know it’s a breeze at the Oklahoma State Fair. There are four RV camping lots for upwards of 400 RVs.
The North RV Park is off Chisholm Trail with the West RV Park nearby via Del Mar Gardens Avenue. The South RV Park is accessible from Land Rush Street or Black Mesa Drive. You can buy a single-day pass or a season parking pass at the Jim Norick Arena Box Office.
Public Transportation
Trams typically operate daily to help you navigate the State Fair and rest your weary feet. These are open for passenger use starting mid-morning each day. There are also several bus routes that take you from various locations around Oklahoma City to within walking distance of the fair. Alternatively, avoid the hustle and bustle and park in your RV at one of the many sites within walking distance to the main attractions.
Where to stay
Onsite
There are options galore with onsite camping at the Oklahoma State Fair, since you can park in one of the multiple RV sites. There are both grass and concrete options, restrooms and showers, dumping stations, lockers, free WiFi in some areas, a laundromat, service hookups, and ADA accessibility. In the past, advanced bookings have not been accepted. Guests are welcomed on a first-in, first-served basis.
Nearby
Oklahoma City has been hosting the State Fair for several years, so it’s no stranger to accommodation requirements. Fairgoers will find a full range of options for RV camping in and near Oklahoma City. Campers may want to book well in advance if camping in Oklahoma City during the time of the fair. Rockwell RV Park is as close as five miles and Oklahoma City KOA East is within 25 miles of the fair.
Getting around
If you don’t fancy spending all day on your feet, then you may not have to at the Oklahoma State Fair. There will be wheelchairs, electric scooters, wagons, and strollers on site for rent. You can get these at each of the three main gates–two, six, and nine. You can reserve these in advance or on the day.
What to pack
Clothing
The expansive site of the State Fair Park means you’re going to cover a fair amount of ground over the ten days. To do that, you’re going to need comfortable clothing. Oklahoma weather in fall is not ordinarily uncomfortable, but pack versatile layers you can dress up or down. Fairgoers may also enjoy finding a new favorite hat, boots, or denim attire or sport what they already own. Be sure to include apparel for hiking at Bluff Creek Park or water gear for Lake Hefner.
Gear
The Oklahoma State Fair is such a well-run event that there’s very little you won’t have at your fingertips. Many ATM sites around the park will cater to your need for cash, while convenience items will be available from various vendors. You will not be able to bring in food and beverages unless you need them for medical purposes or leave them at the campsite. Infant and toddler food is permitted. Weapons are also not allowed.
Health & Safety
With an event of this size, it’s important to pace yourself, take your time, and rest often. Take advantage of the many seating areas, buy bottled water, and ensure you eat plenty throughout the day to keep your energy levels up. If you ever feel unwell, you can receive medical help at the first-aid site off of General Pershing Boulevard.
Where to eat
Cooking
While there are no cooking facilities at the Oklahoma State Fair itself for guests, you can cook up a storm in the comfort of your RV. However, no open fires are allowed for the safety of all guests. Grocery options are available within a five-minute drive but may be limited in supply the week of the fair. Guests can also head off-site to one of the many restaurants in the Oklahoma City area.
Restaurants
You will not be short of dining options in Oklahoma City. You can leave your RV in the Park and set off for any of the family-friendly eateries in and around the city. However, allow extra time for travel. Lots of hungry travelers descend on Oklahoma City for the fair, and serving delays should be expected.
Vendors
With over 400 acres of concrete and grass, it’s of no surprise that you won’t be short of vendor options. Enjoy fair favorites, sweets, deep-fried food, and much more. There are also several vendors that offer the opportunity of shopping until you drop, with clothing, knick-knacks, and more.
Safety
Security
Oklahoma State Fair seeks to ensure the safety of all guests. No weapons will be allowed on site, even with a current concealed carry license. The State Fair Park is under 24-hour security to ensure everything runs smoothly. Both Oklahoma County sheriff deputies and Oklahoma City police offers will also be on site ready to help when needed.
Weather
Weather in Oklahoma City during September can be around the 86 degree-Fahrenheit mark. However, it can drop dramatically overnight as the end of the month nears or it may still be hot and sticky as you sleep. Wear light, breathable layers during the day, and consider ventilating your RV. At night, you may want to load on the blankets and get that RV heater cranked up or it might be nice enough to let the air flow naturally.
Medical
At the west end of the Safety Center by General Pershing Boulevard is a first aid area. If you or someone else has a medical emergency, dial 911; there will be EMSA personnel on site for immediate dispatch to your location. The first-aid area is also equipped to help find children if they become separated from their group.
