Vintage trailerites swarmed the Pine Mountain RV Resort in Pine Mountain, Georgia, for the Gathering of the Times Vintage Trailer Rally, proving that this hobby is alive and well on the East Coast. The campground filled to capacity with over 140 vintage trailers, including a one-of-a-kind prototype 1955 Wally Byam Holiday Model 16 and a rare 1947 Great Western—one of only three known to exist.
Originally started by Doug Millard as the North Georgia Vintage Trailer Rally in Hiawassee, Georgia, the first event saw just twenty-three trailers—mostly friends of Millard. When Pete Whitley took over hosting a few years later, the rally’s popularity skyrocketed, attracting vintage trailerites from across the country, from Montana to Massachusetts. Before long, the event outgrew its original location and moved to Pine Mountain RV Resort, where it adopted its new name: Gathering of the Times.
The resort is a full-service park featuring a playground, swimming pool, hot tub, and a large pavilion reserved exclusively for rally guests throughout the four-day festival.
As trailers rolled in on Thursday, participants received welcome bags filled with goodies like a trailer sign, ID badges, schedule, rally poster, and rally koozie. The evening was spent reconnecting with friends—new and old—over food, drinks, and laughter.
Friday night featured a tapas-style dinner, where guests shared homemade dishes (and maybe a few secret recipes). A highlight of the evening was a miniature beachside vintage trailer diorama crafted by Richard Cook, complete with a Shasta Airflyte trailer, Chevrolet Nomad tow vehicle, picnic setup, and even a dancing hula girl on real beach sand.
Later that night, trailer historian and restorer Tim Heintz shared a fascinating talk on the history of vintage trailers and the Tin Can Tourists organization, followed by a lively retro party. Guests arrived dressed in classic styles—poodle skirts, saddle shoes, rolled-up jeans, and tie-dye tees—for a night of dancing to rockabilly, sock hop, and hippie tunes.
The weekend’s main event was the Saturday afternoon vintage trailer show and flea market. With over a hundred trailers to explore, it was impossible to see them all—but that didn’t stop anyone from trying! The night wrapped up with live rock and roll music from Sweet Grass Sally, a local Georgia band that had everyone dancing.
When no formal activities were scheduled, trailerites swapped stories, shared restoration tips, and toured each other’s rigs. Each morning began with free coffee and mimosas at the tiki hut, making for a relaxed and social start to the day.
By Sunday morning, it was time for goodbyes—until next time.
If you love vintage trailers, friendly folks, and a good dose of retro fun, make plans to join the next Gathering of the Times Vintage Trailer Rally at Pine Mountain. You won’t want to miss it!
