Arkansas
Outdoor
Expo
Our History
Where It All Started
Stipins who tragically passed away in July 2022, was the driving force to RVAE that came to fruition in April 2019. However, the event succumbed to Covid-19 in 2020/21.
RVAE hosted attendees, and vendors from various outdoor interests including hunting, fishing, hiking, boating, and many more, as well as elements that parallel the lifestyle such as cooking, clothing, and education.
In October 2024, while listening to the “Business from the Bass Boat” podcast with guests Russell Marine Products, Jason Baggett felt a strong urge to start asking questions, and take action towards restoring an annual outdoors focused event in the Fort Smith area.
While introducing the idea to potential sponsors, and within the many outdoor circles, Baggett was met with immediate encouragement and support, which was more than enough to begin connecting the dots.
Event organizers, and a growing list of supporters feel a strong desire to make Arkansas Outdoor Expo an event that aligns the original concept with the ever-changing marketplace, while directly positioning outdoor focused brands, destinations, personal interests and education found within, and beyond Arkansas into an event for outdoor recreation interests.
“Our intentions of this event are to blend what outdoor shows used to be, and where they’re headed into a multi-day, single location event catering to outdoor related passions, and to grow it into an annual calendar date for the outdoors tradeshow circuit” added Baggett.
ARKANSAS OUTDOOR EXPO
Our Mission
The Arkansas Outdoor Expo aims to bring together outdoor enthusiasts, families, and adventurers for an immersive experience celebrating the best of nature and outdoor recreation. Our event is designed to showcase top outdoor brands, offer hands-on experiences, and provide educational opportunities that inspire attendees to explore, preserve, and enjoy the natural world. Through engaging hands-on experiences, and a vibrant community atmosphere, the Arkansas Outdoor Expo strives to connect people with the tools, knowledge, and passion needed to embrace outdoor adventures year-round.
