Announced during the awards dinner at Jayco, Inc’s annual Dealer Homecoming back in August (this year in Las Vegas, NV), Pete’s RV Center upped their top ten retailer status for the model year 2026.
Pete’s RV Center earned major global accolades with Jayco RV, taking the number four and number one spots in the Top Ten Towable Volume category for its South Windsor, CT and Mountville, PA locations, respectively.
The group also secured two positions among the Top Ten Motorized Volume dealers, with South Windsor claiming number seven and Mountville placing number one.
Taking top positions in Jayco towables and motorized is a first for Pete’s RV Center.
“Achieving this recognition reflects the incredible effort every team member puts in across our entire dealership network… They are the reason we’re accepting these awards,” noted co-owner Chad Shepard. “Our collaboration with Jayco remains invaluable, and we fully align with their focus on pursuing excellence for customers through our people. We look forward to wrapping up another successful year together with Jayco at Hershey!”
Established in 1968, Jayco, Inc., manufactures and markets towable and motorized RVs. Jayco, Entegra Coach, Open Range RV, Starcraft RV and Heartland RV make up a historically influential and iconic group of companies.
Pete’s RV Center is an exceptional dealership group serving the United States and Canada since 1952. With multiple locations, Pete’s RV provides sales, service, parts, accessories, and education to their community of RVers all across North America.
There is a distinct moment when you realize you have stepped into something massive. For RV enthusiasts, that moment happens the second you pull up to the Giant Center in Hershey, Pennsylvania. Spread out before you are roughly 33 football fields of gleaming fiberglass, steel, and aluminum.
Welcome to America’s Largest RV Show.
With nearly 1,500 RVs from 40 different manufacturers on display, this annual September event is the holy grail for buyers. Whether you are a casual weekend warrior looking to upgrade a travel trailer or an aspiring full-timer hunting for a luxury Class A diesel pusher, Hershey is the place to shop, compare, and buy.
But because of its sheer size, it can also be incredibly overwhelming. If you walk into the show without a plan, you will end up with blistered feet, a folder full of confusing brochures, and severe decision fatigue.
To help you navigate the chaos and make a confident purchase, Pete’s RV Center has created a comprehensive strategy guide to conquering the Hershey RV Show- your adventure begins here!
1. Do Your Homework Before You Step on the Lot
The work begins weeks before you ever smell the chocolate in the Hershey air. Because the show features everything from tiny teardrop trailers to million-dollar luxury coaches, wandering aimlessly is a recipe for exhaustion.
Define your budget: Know your absolute financial ceiling. Remember to account for taxes, registration, insurance, and the hitch or tow equipment you might need.
Narrow down your class: Decide beforehand whether you are looking for a towable (travel trailer, fifth wheel, toy hauler) or a motorized unit (Class A, B, or C).
Identify “must-have” floor plans: If you have a family of five, you need a bunkhouse. If you work from the road, you need a dedicated desk area. Write down your non-negotiables.
2. Secure Tickets Online and Pick the Right Day
Hershey has transitioned to a digital-only ticketing system—you cannot buy tickets at the gate. Buy them in advance online so you can simply flash the digital version on your phone when you arrive.
The day of the week you attend will completely dictate your experience:
Wednesday & Thursday: These are the golden days. The crowds are thinner, factory reps have more time to talk to you, and the energy is calmer. Thursday is also Senior Day (55+), which offers discounted tickets.
Friday: Veterans and First Responders get a discount. Crowds start building as the weekend crowd arrives early.
Saturday: This is peak chaos. Expect long lines to enter popular rigs, packed food vendors, and a high-energy atmosphere. Go on Saturday only if you love a crowd or have limited options.
Sunday: The final day has the shortest hours (9 a.m. to 5 p.m.) and the cheapest ticket prices. It’s a great day for snagging remaining show models or getting discounts on parts and accessories from the indoor vendor booths.
3. Download the App and Map Your Route
Do not attempt to “wing it” across 33 football fields of pavement. The Pennsylvania RV Camping Association (PRVCA) releases an official America’s Largest RV Show App before the gates open.
Download the app to access detailed maps, exhibitor locations, and seminar schedules.
Pete’s Pro Tip: Manufacturers are clustered together by brand. If you want to compare Grand Design fifth wheels to Keystone fifth wheels, look up their locations on the map and tackle that zone first while your energy is high. Zigzagging back and forth across the Giant Center parking lot will drain your battery and your patience.
4. Treat It Like a Marathon (Because It Is)
You will easily log 10,000 to 15,000 steps a day at this show. Treat your body accordingly:
Footwear is everything: This is not the place for fashion. Wear your most supportive, broken-in walking shoes or sneakers.
Prepare for the elements: The majority of the show is outdoors on open blacktop. September in Pennsylvania can bring anything from blistering 85°F heat to chilly downpours. Pack a small backpack with sunscreen, a rain poncho, a hat, and a refillable water bottle.
Take advantage of the golf carts: If you have mobility issues or simply find yourself exhausted on the far side of the lot, look for the free golf cart escorts buzzing around to help transport attendees.
5. Develop a Notetaking System
After stepping inside your fifteenth travel trailer, they will all begin to blend together. The gorgeous kitchen island in the third rig will get confused with the master bedroom in the eighth rig.
To keep your notes clean, use this foolproof note system:
[ Display name ] [ Year ] [ Make ] [ Model ] [ Photo of floor plan ] [ Photo of price sheet ]
By bookmarking your photos and notes this way, you create a visual folder for each specific RV. When you look back at your notes at the hotel later that evening, you will know exactly which features belonged to which price tag.
6. Test the RV Like You Already Own It
Don’t just stand in the middle of the living room and nod. To see if an RV works for your life, you need to interaction-test it:
Sit on the toilet: Shut the bathroom door. Do your knees hit the wall? Is there enough shoulder room?
Lie on the bed: Are your feet hanging off the edge? Is the mattress an unusual shape that will make finding custom sheets impossible?
Stand in the shower: Can you fully stand up under the skylight without bumping your head?
Simulate daily flow: Have your partner stand at the kitchen counter while you try to walk past them to the bathroom. Is the hallway a bottleneck?
Check the slide-outs: Ask the representative to show you what the RV looks like with the slide-outs fully retracted. Can you still access the refrigerator and the bathroom while pulled over at a rest stop?
7. Leverage Factory Representatives
One of the greatest benefits of a massive show like Hershey is that you aren’t just talking to local dealership salespeople. The actual factory product managers and engineers travel from places like Elkhart, Indiana, to stand on the lot.
These factory reps don’t have the same motives as a floor salesman—they want you to understand the build quality. Ask them the tough technical questions:
How is the roof constructed?
What is the R-value insulation rating in the underbelly?
Where are the water lines routed to protect against freezing?
8. Don’t Skip the Indoor Seminars
If your legs need a break from the sun, head inside the Giant Center to check out the educational seminars. These sessions are completely free with your admission ticket and run throughout all five days of the show.
Industry experts, technical gurus, and well-known RV influencers present on a massive range of topics:
Maintaining your RV’s solar and electrical system.
Understanding proper towing weight limits and cargo capacities.
Tips and tricks for transitioning to full-time RV living.
It’s an incredible way to gain thousands of dollars worth of industry knowledge for the price of a standard gate admission.
9. Understand “Show Pricing” Realities
Dealerships love to advertise “Special Show Prices” that look like massive discounts off the MSRP. While you can absolutely get a fantastic deal at Hershey due to the fierce competition side-by-side on the lot, remember these rules of engagement:
Don’t buy under pressure: Salespeople might tell you, “This is the last unit at this price.” Do not let FOMO (Fear Of Missing Out) dictate a six-figure investment.
The delivery reality: If you purchase a unit at the show, you typically don’t drive it home that day. You are purchasing through a participating dealer, and you will likely need to coordinate pickup or delivery from their specific dealership location after the show concludes.
Read the fine print: Ensure the “show price” doesn’t hide exorbitant freight, prep, or delivery fees that pump the cost right back up to normal retail pricing.
10. Book Your Lodging Months in Advance
Because Hershey attracts tens of thousands of visitors from across North America, local accommodations fill up incredibly fast.
If you plan to bring an RV, look into local spots like the Hersheypark Camping Resort or regional state parks early. Limited dry-camping spaces are usually available right on the show grounds on a first-come, first-served basis, but there are no water or electric hookups available. If you prefer hotel comfort, book your stay at the Hershey Lodge or nearby Harrisburg hotels well ahead of the September rush.
Summary Checklist for Your Hershey Adventure
What to Bring
What to Do Beforehand
What to Do at the Show
👟 Broken-in walking shoes
🎟️ Buy digital tickets online
📱 Take model badge photos first
💧 Refillable water bottle
📱 Download the official show app
🚽 Sit on the toilets & test the beds
🎒 Lightweight backpack
💰 Set a firm financial ceiling
🗣️ Talk directly to factory reps
☀️ Sunscreen & rain poncho
📝 List your layout non-negotiables
✍️ Attend a free technical seminar
America’s Largest RV Show is a thrilling, exhausting, eye-opening experience, and Pete’s RV Center is ready to help you navigate it all. We at Pete’s RV Center are proud and excited to be representing Jayco, Forest River, Modern Buggy, nuCamp, and Keystone this year, and by connecting with our sales team prior to the show, you can get a head start looking into the brands, models, floor plans, and pricing that work best for you and your family prior to ever setting foot in the show. With your insider knowledge provided by the friendly team at Pete’s RV and our brand representatives, you will conquer the largest RV show in America was ease. We look forward to helping you start your biggest adventure yet!
I started working at Keystone RV in June of 2025. Before working here I had almost no knowledge of RV life or how the units functioned. Since working here I have been able to increase my knowledge of the RV world and have been able to learn a lot.
1. RVs have thousands of different layouts fit for anyone’s needs.
As I started to navigate through several different units from different brands, I found lots of layouts that had uniquely different pieces for each company. There are so many units that the floorpan stood out to me, specifically the idea of a rear kitchen. whether you’re looking for a family or for yourself. There are a lot of manufacturing options. Even now I am still impressed by the new additions each year.
2. Battery Disconnects.
While I have always known how a battery itself works to get power, I was able to learn about the many different ways an RV is transferring that power. Almost every brand has a different way of turning on a battery disconnect, or in some cases like the Jayco pinnacles, you will occasionally need power from both the battery box and the power cord. To this day I still am learning about the different places or ways a company integrates battery power into their units.
3. Outdoor Showers!
Almost every RV comes equipped with an outdoor shower, which I found interesting and very handy if you were outside and needed to wash yourself off before going in. It’s like your own built-in hose!
4. RV shows happen more often than you think.
I did not know the RV world was so large and popular. I never grew up around these things, so watching my boss go to shows often was interesting to note. I also did not realize how many units get brought to these shows from the lots, or get brought back here.
5. The creativity you can have when owning an RV.
Since working here I have been able to immerse myself on RV tik tok, and I am always fascinated with the different ways the owners of RVs personalize their units. I have seen things from different couches to indoor swings. I work with bare units so to see the creativity some people put in is always awesome!
6. RVs can be Luxury.
Motor homes specifically have high tech features like phones or large built-in electronic control panels that controls virtually everything in the unit and the best of the best appliances. Everything is thought of in the manufacturing process and makes it feel like a luxury apartment on wheels.
7. Appliances
I’ve noticed in the newer model of units that some come with an air fryer/stove combo. I did not know that existed but now I do! It definitely helps to save space.
8. Applications we use!
I have been able to increase my knowledge on websites I have never heard of. Learning how VIN numbers work, and how they play into the process of selling RVs has expanded my view of the business world.
9. The Reps!
Every weekend during the summer we have Representatives from each of our Manufacturers! They join us for the weekend, show us around their new units, tell us about the new innovative features the company has added and hangout for the weekend!
10. How the Industry has changed throughout the years.
We have trade units that are older than me! When you take a step back you notice companies have changed with the trends over the years, and how things like, light fixtures, and slide operations have been able to advance. It is always cool to see new innovative ways companies look to improve.
Before starting my internship at Pete’s RV Center, I had little to no RV knowledge. Although my family members own RVs, I was still very unfamiliar with them. However, through my experience as a marketing intern at Pete’s, I have learned a ton.
There are many different RV types Before working with RVs, I used to think that there were only standard fifth wheel trailers or motor homes. Well, I was wrong. There are fifth wheels, motor homes (Class A/B/C), expandable trailers, teardrop campers, toy haulers, and even truck campers!
RVs can feel like a small home RVs may vary by shape, size, and style; however, most of them feel like a small apartment. Many RVs include fireplaces, cozy sofas and recliners, and some even have bunkhouses.
How to jump-start an RV battery Learning how to jump-start an RV battery was a life skill I didn’t know I needed. It turns out, it is very similar to jump-starting a car— which I had to learn this winter. Thankfully, Pete’s RV Center had me prepared!
There is a lot of storage space While it may seem like there is little space in an RV, there are many compartments and hidden storage areas. RVs are strategically designed to make the most out of every space.
RV shows are very popular During the RV season, there is a show almost every weekend. Since January, Pete’s RV Center has attended 9 RV shows! Typically held at convention centers, hundreds of RVs are brought out and displayed.
You can accessorize your RV In the parts and service department at Pete’s RV Center, there are a variety of add-ons available to enhance your RV experience.
RV manufacturers have several different makes and models Learning RV brands and their makes and models was definitely a learning curve at first, but I would now consider myself knowledgeable. Cherokee Wolf Den, Grey Wolf, Alpha Wolf, and Wolf Pup are just a few of Forest River’s models.
RV winterization While working at the dealership during the peak of winter, I learned that all RVs should be winterized. It is important to use RV antifreeze to prevent freezing and damage to the plumbing.
RVs can have built-in outdoor kitchens and entertainment Typically found in fifth wheels and travel trailers, RVs can have miniature refrigerators, sinks, and even TVs in exterior compartments. This setup is perfect for outdoor entertainment!
There is an RV for everyone New or used, there is an RV out there for everyone. Whether it has modern features, a family-friendly layout, or space for solo travel, you are almost guaranteed to find one that suits your lifestyle best.
Burlington, Vermont – Pete’s RV Center is pleased to announce the success of the 2026 winter RV promoter show season in New England. Despite facing periods of poor weather, the company reported experiencing a marked increase in attendance this year, accompanied by strong buying intent from customers.
Co-owner Chad Shepard commented, “Despite the weather challenges, we saw a significant uptick in attendance and a positive increase in sales this year during the winter New England RV show season.”
Chad Shepard further expressed appreciation for the team’s efforts, stating, “A huge thank you goes out to our dedicated staff for their hard work and commitment to customer service. Their expertise and enthusiasm played a crucial role in creating an inviting atmosphere that made show season a success.”
About Pete’s RV Center Pete’s RV Center is a premier provider of recreational vehicles in New England, committed to delivering exceptional service and a diverse selection of high-quality RVs.
Pete’s RV Center is planning to open in Saco, Maine this spring. The Maine dealership will be the dealership group’s ninth location, and is going to offer sales, a parts and accessories store, and service center with multiple bays.
Pete’s RV Center – Maine is set to carry a wide variety of travel trailer, fifth wheel, and motorhome brands, including Jayco’s full lineup, Brinkley, nuCamp, and Modern Buggy.
Surrounded by hundreds of iconic destinations for Maine RVers, Saco is just four miles from Old Orchard Beach, minutes from the popular Bayley’s Camping Resort, and only twenty minutes from historic downtown Portland.
“Maine is called ‘Vacationland’ for a reason. We’re thrilled to get the opportunity to become a community fixture in the Saco and greater Portland area, plus be surrounded by amazing campgrounds, beaches, and national parks,” remarked Pete’s RV co-owner Chad Shepard.
Along with the flagship store in Vermont, Pete’s RV Center has dealerships in Connecticut, Massachusetts, Pennsylvania, Indiana, and Virginia.
Before starting at Pete’s, my RV knowledge was limited to towable and drivable, big ones and small ones. It took a little bit to feel confident and comfortable naming, identifying, and knowing what each RV was, but me 6 months ago would be shocked to know all that I know now!
1. There are more types of RV’s than I thought
I used to think of RV’s as trailers or drivable, but now I know it is so much more than that! There are: Fifth wheels, Travel Trailers, Toy Haulers, Motorhomes ( Class A, B, C ), Teardrop, Pop-ups, Expandable, Truck Camper
2. You can boondocks your RV
I always thought your RV was limited to the campsite, but with proper preparations and planning, you can go virtually anywhere you can park the camper!
3. There is the perfect RV for everyone
Whether you’re looking for something for the whole extended family to fit in, or something for your solo adventure, there is an RV type for you.
4. RV’s can be luxurious
Some of the new, and older RV’s are like luxury apartments! They have the newest and best looking features and tech, you can take the feeling of home wherever you go!
5. RV’s have as many makes and models as cars
Every day when we have a trade in come in, I discover a new brand of RV and model! It’s hard to keep up with it all, but it keeps it interesting!
6. RV culture is very popular
All it took was seeing Hershey 2025 in person to realize just how big the RV community really is!
7. How to jumpstart a battery
While I’ve been very lucky to never have to jumpstart a car battery, I now feel confident after getting all the practice in with RV’s!
8. You have to winterize your RV
If you don’t travel south for the winter, it’s very important to your RV’s health and function that you get it winterized every year!
9. RV’ing has been around for over a hundred years
The first RV dates back to the late 1800’s! That’s several generations of camping and family exploration and adventure.
10. My favorite kind of RV
With all of my newfound knowledge of RV’s, I can confidently say I am a big fan of the truck camper- its perfect for camping and optimal space, while providing the luxury of a bed, a kitchen, and a bathroom!
Pete’s RV Center Achieves Record Sales at the 2025 America’s Largest RV Show in Hershey, PA
Hershey, PA – November 1, 2025 – Despite slightly lower attendance at this year’s America’s Largest RV Show, Pete’s RV Center emerged triumphant with record sales of No Boundaries, nuCamp, Seismic, and Jay Flight SLX recreational vehicles.
As one of the leading dealerships in the region, Pete’s RV Center (Keystone RV Center is part of the dealer group and also represented at Hershey) reported a remarkable increase in sales figures compared to previous years. The dealership showcased its extensive inventory and innovative models, attracting discerning customers eager to explore new horizons in RV travel.
“Our success underscores our commitment to providing high-quality recreational vehicles and exceptional customer service,” said Chad Shepard, co-owner of Pete’s RV Center. “While attendance may have been lower than previous years, our dedicated team engaged effectively with potential buyers, fostering meaningful connections and understanding their needs.”
The 2025 RV Show served as a significant opportunity for Pete’s RV Center to reinforce its position as a preferred destination for RV enthusiasts. The dealership looks forward to continuing this momentum as it embarks on 2026.
Pete’s RV Center is an exceptional dealership group serving the United States and Canada since 1952. With multiple locations, Pete’s RV provides sales, service, parts, accessories, and education to their community of RVers all across North America.
Announced during the awards dinner at Jayco, Inc’s annual Dealer Homecoming (this year in Grapevine, TX), Pete’s RV Center retained their top ten retailer status for the model year 2025.
Pete’s RV Center was recognized as the number two and number seven volume retailer in the category of Top Ten Towables (Single Locations: South Windsor, CT and Mountville, PA). They also placed number two and number nine in the category of Top Ten Motorized (Single Locations: Also Mountville and South Windsor).
“I am so proud of these accomplishments, and the hard work put forth by every employee under the Pete’s RV dealer group…We’re up on that stage because of them”, reflected co-owner Chad Shepard. “We are also grateful for our partnership with Jayco, and embrace their ‘better, not different’ philosophy for achieving excellence. See you at Hershey!”
Established in 1968, Jayco, Inc., manufactures and markets towable and motorized RVs. Jayco, Entegra Coach, Open Range RV, Starcraft RV and Heartland RV make up a historically influential and iconic group of companies.
Pete’s RV Center is an exceptional dealership group serving the United States and Canada since 1952. With multiple locations, Pete’s RV provides sales, service, parts, accessories, and education to their community of RVers all across North America.
