Reno Rodeo

A summer RV road trip to Reno, Nevada could be on the cards when you realize the rodeo is in town. Head to Reno Rodeo for the holiday of a lifetime.

Event information

If you’re at a loss trying to decide where to spend your summer holidays, then why not take an RV road trip to Reno, Nevada? Not only is this area one of the sunniest parts of the country and home to the largest alpine lake in North America, but it also boasts an annual rodeo. The Reno Rodeo is not one you’re going to want to miss.

Reno Rodeo, at 1350 N. Wells Avenue in Reno, has been a popular calendar addition since 1920. Every year, over 140,000 fans descend upon the area, ready to take advantage of the wild west family fun.

The paved and dirt facility is set in the heart of Reno, making it proximate to a whole host of fun things to see, do, and experience. That is, of course, once you finish enjoying ten days of rodeo action. There are special children’s events, pony races, bullfighters, steer decorating, and even extreme bull riding at the Reno Rodeo.

You can then pay a visit to nearby parks and attractions, see Rancho San Rafael Regional Park, or work on your swing at Wildcreek Golf Course next to Sun Valley. By the time you’ve finished exploring Nevada, you’ll be pleased you made the trip to Reno. It might be time to book your tickets and hit the road.

Tickets

While you can line up for tickets to the Reno Rodeo once you arrive, or buy them over the phone, it may be more convenient to purchase them online. Tickets are available from the organizer’s website, and you can buy them well in advance. Due to the popularity of Reno Rodeo events, it’s best to purchase your tickets long before the event is due to begin.

Explore Reno Rodeo RV Rentals


Transportation

Driving

While Reno is a built-up, easy-to-navigate area with excellent signage, the roads surrounding it can be challenging at best. Desert roads, mountainous terrain, and the Great Basin climate makes it imperative always to check the weather before you hit the road.

Once you open NDOT 511 for updated traffic and road conditions, you can travel with far more confidence. The main roads into the area are I-80, which may include crossing from California into Nevada, I-580, US-395, and NV-445. Upon arriving in Reno, Reno Rodeo is on N. Wells Avenue, off I-80. It may also help to note that NV-659 encircles the heart of Reno, including the rodeo arena.

Parking areas

Public entrances for parking are on Sutro Street and N. Wells Avenue. If you can’t secure a large enough spot for your RV, you may be able to park at the University of Reno. Alternatively, make use of the area’s many transportation options, with taxis able to pick up and drop off people by the livestock pavilion on N. Wells Avenue.

Public Transportation

There are many different ways in which to reach Reno Rodeo if you prefer not to park your RV at the event site. You can take a bus from the center of Reno, which usually takes around 15 minutes, or you can make use of private ride services by downloading a rideshare app. There is also a shuttle that delivers visitors from the University of Reno to the rodeo at regular intervals.

Where to stay

Onsite

Reno is a densely populated city that gets its name as “the biggest little city in the world” for a reason. It’s home to approximately 250,000 people in a small area. As such, there is not a lot of room for camping directly around the rodeo site. Fortunately, Reno knows how to cater to visitors, and there are plenty of facilities in and around Reno for you and your RV to stay during your visit.

Nearby

You might be amazed at the number of RV parks, resorts, and campgrounds within proximity to Reno Rodeo. Within a short distance along Truckee River, you are bound to find several to suit your needs. Some are even within an hour’s walking distance, or two to three miles away. There are also more on the outskirts or up to 20 miles from all the action. Don’t delay, for accommodation is in hot demand in Reno over summer.

Getting around

The most convenient and oft encouraged way to get around Reno Rodeo is on foot. For an event of this size and popularity, it’s a good idea to pop your bike, scooters, or other wheeled transportation back in your RV for use once the rodeo has ended. You can also hop aboard a shuttle to get to the rodeo if you are able to park your RV at the University of Reno.

What to pack

Clothing

Reno is hot and dry throughout the summer months, which means you need to put some thought into your wardrobe on your holiday. Pack quite a few summery pieces, but think about what you might want to wear at night once it cools down. Given the dry, dusty conditions at the rodeo, it’s also a good idea to pack clothing that won’t show the dirt. Some comfortable cowboy boots and a hat can help you fit right into this animal-friendly setting.

Gear

It can be quite tricky to know what to bring to a rodeo event. Given that there’s a lot to see, do, and experience, it’s a good idea not to bring much at all. Bring along cash and credit and sun safety essentials, but leave behind potentially prohibited items, just in case. Reno Rodeo asks that you don’t bring food or beverage items, cameras (both video and still image), cans, glass bottles, banners and signs, weapons, and noisemakers. When in doubt, leave it out.

Health & Safety

Health and safety are crucial at a rodeo because it can be a hot, dusty, and noisy place with animals frequenting the area. Remain hydrated, bring a first aid kit, and think about sunscreen, a sun hat, and sunglasses as well. Wash your hands often, and don’t forget any medical supplies you might need to access quickly.

Where to eat

Cooking

How and what you cook can depend on where you intend to rest your head for the night. Every campground and resort can differ. You can safely assume that the use of your onboard RV kitchen appliances is allowed. You can also stock up on supplies at some of the many markets surrounding both the rodeo event site and nearby accommodation providers. Much of what you may require is within walking distance of the event site and some campgrounds.

Restaurants

Not only is Reno full of people, but eateries as well. Everywhere you look, there’s a fine dining restaurant, casual eatery, or café that’s ready to take your order. From bagels and Bavarian through to sushi and tacos, you’re spoiled for options. The hardest part will be choosing just one place to dine. Many well-established eateries are within a short drive or walking distance of the rodeo.

Vendors

If you don’t fancy wandering too far from all the action, then haul out the greenbacks for the onsite vendors. The food court and carnival area run parallel to N. Wells Avenue and have a whole host of different options to suit your palate. Remember to carry both cash and credit to ensure you get your first pick. Fair food is one of the many highlights of the Reno Rodeo.

Safety

Security

It’s a good idea to not only think about your comfort during the Reno Rodeo but what you can and can’t take. Less is always best for the sake of your back, but also for security reasons. Reno Rodeo security personnel ask that you allow your bags, jackets, and blankets to be searched. They also ask that you don’t film or take photos of the entertainment.

If you require assistance at any time, there are always officials on hand to help. Alternatively, Reno Police Services are a 25-minute walk away, or 1.2 miles, from the rodeo.

Weather

If you’re trying to achieve that sun-kissed look this summer, then a trip to Reno can certainly help. Temperatures in June average around 68 degrees, which is less than the peak average in July of 75, but still balmy and comfortable for the average traveler. Make sure your air conditioning unit is ready to go, and that you’ve topped up all those necessary RV fluids before you hit the road.

Medical

Whether you’re feeling unwell, have sustained an injury, or the sun has become too much to bear, you can approach any Reno Rodeo official to point you in the direction of medical assistance. In an emergency, dial 9-11 or make your way to the nearest hospital under two miles away down I-80. Pharmacy options are as close as two miles in several directions from the rodeo site.