Arizona State Fair and Maricopa County Fair RV Rental Guide

Arizona's state fair context is slightly unusual: the Arizona State Fair runs in October–November at the Arizona State Fairgrounds in central Phoenix, while the Maricopa County Fair runs separately in the spring at the WestWorld of Scottsdale complex. Both offer traditional fair experiences — midway rides, livestock competitions, arena entertainment, and fair food — but at different scales and seasons. The Arizona State Fair's 3-week run draws 1.2–1.5 million visitors and includes a full concert series, rodeo competition, and international cultural exhibits. For RV travelers, October is peak Arizona RV season and the state fair gives them a multi-day urban anchor for a Phoenix-area winter arrival.

VenueArizona State Fairgrounds, 1826 W McDowell Rd, Phoenix, AZ 85007 (light rail accessible); WestWorld of Scottsdale, 16601 N Pima Rd, Scottsdale, AZ 85260
DatesArizona State Fair: mid-October through early November (3+ weeks). Maricopa County Fair: typically April at WestWorld. Verify at azstatefair.com and maricopacountyfair.com.
Book Your RV4–6 weeks for October Phoenix area. Peak snowbird arrival season.

RV Tips for Arizona State Fair and Maricopa County Fair

  1. Phoenix Metro RV Park (central Phoenix) is closest to the State Fairgrounds — 3 miles, no freeway required
  2. Valley Metro light rail stops within 3 blocks of the fairgrounds entrance — the recommended approach from any East Valley RV park
  3. State Fair parking for large vehicles is available but the light rail eliminates the need for it
  4. For Maricopa County Fair (WestWorld, Scottsdale): Scottsdale RV Park on Thomas Road is 4 miles away
  5. October state fair coincides with AZ Cardinals home games at State Farm Stadium (20 miles west) — possible double-event weekend
  6. The state fair concert series (typically country and rock acts) requires separate ticket purchase from fair admission

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does the Arizona State Fair run?

The Arizona State Fair typically runs for 23–26 days, from mid-October to early November. It opens Thursday–Sunday, with daily operation during the final weeks. The fair includes a midway with 70+ rides, livestock shows, a rodeo competition, international cultural village, nightly entertainment on the main stage, and an annual concert series featuring 10+ acts.

What is the difference between the Arizona State Fair and the Maricopa County Fair?

The Arizona State Fair (October–November, Phoenix) is the larger, statewide annual event with a 3+ week run, major concerts, and 1.2–1.5 million visitors. The Maricopa County Fair (typically April, WestWorld Scottsdale) is a separate, county-level fair with a shorter run (5–7 days), more traditional fairground character, and smaller crowds. Both feature the classic fair elements — livestock, midway, fair food — but at different scales and seasons.

Find RVs for Arizona State Fair and Maricopa County Fair

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