What began as a local passion project has quickly evolved into one of the Mid-Atlantic’s fastest-growing tourism and business success stories. The OC RV & Van Lifestyle Show, founded and produced by Worcester County residents Jennifer Evans and Rich Hutchins, is fueling both travel and economic growth across Maryland’s Coast and the broader Delmarva region.
Now entering its fourth year, the show has grown from a small community event to a regional draw that welcomed just over 10,000 attendees this past fall. Visitors travel from across Maryland, Delaware, Pennsylvania, and Virginia, filling hotels, restaurants, and small businesses throughout Worcester County, MD, and neighboring towns.
“The show has become more than an event,” says Evans. “It’s a reflection of the lifestyle we live, one that values freedom, craftsmanship, and connection.”
A Win for Maryland’s Coast
Last year, with the support of Visit Maryland’s Coast, the Maryland Tourism Coalition, Senator Mary Beth Carozza, Delegate Wayne Hartman, and the Town of Ocean City, a local law was passed allowing out-of-state RV dealers to display in Worcester County, MD, for the first time in over 30 years.
The change opened the door for broader participation and more variety across the RV industry, giving attendees access to a wider range of makes and models. “This was really about expanding opportunity,” says Hutchins. “By welcoming a mix of in-state and out-of-state dealers, we’re creating a stronger, more dynamic marketplace that benefits everyone, from buyers and vendors to local businesses across Maryland’s Coast.”
Family-Owned. Lifestyle-Driven.
That same spirit of collaboration and community runs through every part of the OC RV & Van Lifestyle Show. That early, family-led vision has expanded into a regional movement shaped by authenticity, hard work, and a shared love of the open road.
Evans and Hutchins are full-time RVers who live the lifestyle they promote. They’ve renovated RVs, traveled the coast, and built their event from the ground up, not as outsiders looking in, but as members of the same community they serve.
“People can tell this show comes from real people who live the life,” says Evans. “We’re not a big corporation; we’re a family that loves the RV lifestyle and wanted to create something special for others who feel the same.”
Partnerships That Strengthen the Region
In 2025, the show expanded through new partnerships with complementary outdoor lifestyle events, including the Bronco Beach Bash, which united the off-road and 4×4 communities under one roof.
“It was an incredible crossover,” says Hutchins. “RVs, campers, trucks, and outdoor recreation all share the same spirit of exploration. The tie that binds us together is the RV, it’s what connects everyone in this lifestyle.”
Local Impact, Regional Growth
The ripple effects of the OC RV Show’s success are already visible across Maryland’s Coast and the Delmarva region.
- RV dealerships are actively exploring property in Worcester and Wicomico Counties, recognizing the strong consumer market revealed through the show.
- The RV Shop expanded its mobile repair operation and opened a new facility in Laurel, Delaware, after connecting with new customers at the event.
- Beach Buggies relocated to a larger facility near the Delaware line following significant growth tied to their show presence.
- Sequoia + Salt unveiled a brand-new truck camper at the 2025 event, directly inspired by growing interest from attendees.
- Hyatt Place Oceanfront became an official partner hotel, creating long-term stay packages for extended visitors, snowbirds, and event partners.
Beyond business growth, the show continues to invest in community impact. This year, Evans and Hutchins partnered with the Hogs & Heroes Foundation, donating $5,000 to support their mission. The partnership was a natural fit; both communities share a passion for freedom, camaraderie, and the open road. Several members of Hogs & Heroes even purchased RVs at the event, deepening the connection between their cause and the lifestyle the show celebrates.
Inspiration Beyond the Coast
The OC RV Show has also sparked creativity and entrepreneurship far beyond the show floor. One standout story comes from the travel creators behind the Wonder Park Family, who attended the event for two consecutive years before purchasing their RV from a local dealer. Since then, they’ve transitioned into seasonal RV living, creating travel content that inspires families to explore.
This fall, they’re launching a series of children’s books based on their adventures through national parks like Assateague Island, Shenandoah, and Rocky Mountain, a testament to how one weekend at the OC RV Show can plant the seed for something much bigger.
A Growing Force on Delmarva
With each passing year, the OC RV & Van Lifestyle Show draws more visitors, vendors, and opportunities to the region. Evans and Hutchins’ goal is clear: to make the event the largest outdoor lifestyle event on Delmarva, uniting RVers, overlanders, vanlifers, anglers, boaters, off-roaders, and outdoor brands under one roof.
“It’s about community,” says Evans. “The RV is what ties it all together. It’s where stories start, where ideas grow, and where people rediscover what’s possible. Our goal is to keep building that connection, right here on Maryland’s Coast.”
