Outdoor Hospitality News
For owners, operators, team members, and anyone else interested in camping, glamping, or the RV industry.
News for October 16, 2025
Outdoor Retailer, the premier B2B event for the $1.2 trillion North American outdoor industry, will relocate to Minneapolis for its reimagined 2026 show, scheduled for August 19–21. The move marks a new chapter focused on collaboration, innovation, and community engagement within the outdoor business sector.
The BC Lodging & Campgrounds Association (BCLCA) is urging campground, RV park, and lodging operators to preserve the human element of hospitality as digital reservation systems become more common across the industry.
The RV Industry Association (RVIA) is reminding manufacturers selling units into Quebec to review and comply with the province’s strengthened French language laws under Bill 96, which require French translations on all product labeling, documentation, and related materials to avoid substantial penalties.
Waenfechan Glamping in North Wales blends rural charm and modern comfort, illustrating how small-scale operators can attract travelers seeking nature-based experiences with easy access to regional attractions.
Linn County Conservation will close all modern campgrounds and dump stations for the season on Sunday, October 26 at 1 p.m., with the final night of camping set for Saturday, October 25. The closure affects facilities at Buffalo Creek Park, Morgan Creek Park, Pinicon Ridge Park, and Wanatee Park as part of the county’s annual winterization and maintenance schedule.
Tanzania’s Siringit Collection is expanding its footprint with new property upgrades, the launch of Siringit Safaris, and plans for a new camp opening in 2026, reflecting broader trends in sustainable, experience-focused hospitality.
The Lake Rosalie Park Campground in Polk County will reopen to the public Friday, Oct. 17, offering RV and primitive camping options for visitors. Operated by Polk County Parks and Recreation, the site’s return provides campers and boaters in the Lake Wales area renewed access to a popular outdoor destination featuring modern amenities and direct lake access.
A survey conducted at the 2025 International Caravanning Show in Barcelona found that 75% of attendees prefer motorhomes or campervans, underscoring a continued shift toward integrated, family-friendly, and sustainable travel solutions in the caravanning sector.
The Outdoor Recreation Roundtable (ORR) announced new leadership appointments on October 16, naming Glenn Hughes, president and CEO of the American Sportfishing Association, as chair of its Board of Directors. Christy LaCurelle, president and CEO of the Motorcycle Industry Council, was elected vice chair, while Fred Ferguson, president and CEO of the American Bus Association, joined the board as a new member.
Tune in to the Week 4 episode of MC Fireside Chats on October 22 at 2 PM ET to hear host Brian Searl and an expert panel explore the newest developments in AI and digital marketing for outdoor hospitality.
The RV Technical Institute (RVTI) and Littleton Public Schools have launched the first high school RV technician certification program in Colorado, aiming to build a skilled workforce and introduce students to new career opportunities in the RV industry.
The RV Technical Institute (RVTI) highlighted the growing demand for skilled RV technicians during the 2025 American School Counselor Conference in Dillon, Colorado, where more than 800 attendees gathered to strengthen career guidance initiatives.
Harvest Hosts is expanding its footprint across Washington state, offering RV travelers unique overnight stays at farms, wineries, breweries, and attractions while helping small businesses boost visibility and attract new visitors.
Outdoor Retailer, the premier B2B event for the $1.2 trillion North American outdoor industry, will relocate to Minneapolis for its reimagined 2026 show, scheduled for August 19–21. The move marks a new chapter focused on collaboration, innovation, and community engagement within the outdoor business sector.
The BC Lodging & Campgrounds Association (BCLCA) is urging campground, RV park, and lodging operators to preserve the human element of hospitality as digital reservation systems become more common across the industry.
The RV Industry Association (RVIA) is reminding manufacturers selling units into Quebec to review and comply with the province’s strengthened French language laws under Bill 96, which require French translations on all product labeling, documentation, and related materials to avoid substantial penalties.
Waenfechan Glamping in North Wales blends rural charm and modern comfort, illustrating how small-scale operators can attract travelers seeking nature-based experiences with easy access to regional attractions.
Tanzania’s Siringit Collection is expanding its footprint with new property upgrades, the launch of Siringit Safaris, and plans for a new camp opening in 2026, reflecting broader trends in sustainable, experience-focused hospitality.
Harvest Hosts is expanding its footprint across Washington state, offering RV travelers unique overnight stays at farms, wineries, breweries, and attractions while helping small businesses boost visibility and attract new visitors.
The BC Lodging & Campgrounds Association (BCLCA) is urging campground, RV park, and lodging operators to preserve the human element of hospitality as digital reservation systems become more common across the industry.
Waenfechan Glamping in North Wales blends rural charm and modern comfort, illustrating how small-scale operators can attract travelers seeking nature-based experiences with easy access to regional attractions.
Harvest Hosts is expanding its footprint across Washington state, offering RV travelers unique overnight stays at farms, wineries, breweries, and attractions while helping small businesses boost visibility and attract new visitors.
The BC Lodging & Campgrounds Association (BCLCA) is urging campground, RV park, and lodging operators to preserve the human element of hospitality as digital reservation systems become more common across the industry.
The Campground Solutions Summit West (CSSW) will return to the Grand Sierra Resort in Reno, Nevada, from October 20 to 22, uniting campground owners, managers, and industry professionals for three days of education, collaboration, and networking focused on advancing the outdoor hospitality sector.
The Outdoor Hospitality Industry (OHI) will partner with Morgan Stanley to host an online Campfire Session on October 15 at noon CST, offering campground owners insights on how to grow, protect, and maximize the value of their family-owned businesses through comprehensive financial planning.
The Churchill County Public Works and Planning Commission has voted to extend its annual review of the special-use permit for Sage Valley RV Park, allowing another year of oversight as developers continue to address infrastructure and landscaping requirements tied to the project.
The fall camping season is in full swing across Virginia, and the Virginia Campground Association (VCA) is encouraging members to embrace the season with festive events, social media promotions, and community recognition, while also celebrating several campgrounds honored for excellence in hospitality.
Honeysuckle Country Park in Widdrington has received approval for a major expansion that includes new accommodation, a visitor centre promoting local produce, and environmental features aimed at supporting biodiversity and regional tourism.
Cinchio Solutions has expanded its integration with Campspot by launching a new “charge to site” feature, allowing campground and RV park guests to link purchases directly to their reservations and enjoy cashless transactions during their stay.
Linn County Conservation will close all modern campgrounds and dump stations for the season on Sunday, October 26 at 1 p.m., with the final night of camping set for Saturday, October 25. The closure affects facilities at Buffalo Creek Park, Morgan Creek Park, Pinicon Ridge Park, and Wanatee Park as part of the county’s annual winterization and maintenance schedule.
The Lake Rosalie Park Campground in Polk County will reopen to the public Friday, Oct. 17, offering RV and primitive camping options for visitors. Operated by Polk County Parks and Recreation, the site’s return provides campers and boaters in the Lake Wales area renewed access to a popular outdoor destination featuring modern amenities and direct lake access.
The Outdoor Recreation Roundtable (ORR) announced new leadership appointments on October 16, naming Glenn Hughes, president and CEO of the American Sportfishing Association, as chair of its Board of Directors. Christy LaCurelle, president and CEO of the Motorcycle Industry Council, was elected vice chair, while Fred Ferguson, president and CEO of the American Bus Association, joined the board as a new member.
Outdoor Retailer, the premier B2B event for the $1.2 trillion North American outdoor industry, will relocate to Minneapolis for its reimagined 2026 show, scheduled for August 19–21. The move marks a new chapter focused on collaboration, innovation, and community engagement within the outdoor business sector.
Waenfechan Glamping in North Wales blends rural charm and modern comfort, illustrating how small-scale operators can attract travelers seeking nature-based experiences with easy access to regional attractions.
Tanzania’s Siringit Collection is expanding its footprint with new property upgrades, the launch of Siringit Safaris, and plans for a new camp opening in 2026, reflecting broader trends in sustainable, experience-focused hospitality.
Waenfechan Glamping in North Wales blends rural charm and modern comfort, illustrating how small-scale operators can attract travelers seeking nature-based experiences with easy access to regional attractions.
Scandinavian-themed outdoor facility “Nolla naguri” in Hanno City combines glamping, Finnish saunas, and locally inspired dining to deliver a culturally immersive experience that reflects emerging trends in Japan’s outdoor hospitality industry.
RoverPass introduced its new AI Front Desk Agent at The Glamping Show Americas 2025, reflecting the outdoor hospitality industry’s growing interest in technology-driven tools to streamline operations and enhance guest service.
Stay Clearwater in British Columbia combines glamping, RV, and camping accommodations along the Clearwater River, offering a case study in hybrid lodging that appeals to diverse travelers and highlights evolving opportunities in the outdoor hospitality industry.
A survey conducted at the 2025 International Caravanning Show in Barcelona found that 75% of attendees prefer motorhomes or campervans, underscoring a continued shift toward integrated, family-friendly, and sustainable travel solutions in the caravanning sector.
The RV Technical Institute (RVTI) and Littleton Public Schools have launched the first high school RV technician certification program in Colorado, aiming to build a skilled workforce and introduce students to new career opportunities in the RV industry.
The RV Technical Institute (RVTI) highlighted the growing demand for skilled RV technicians during the 2025 American School Counselor Conference in Dillon, Colorado, where more than 800 attendees gathered to strengthen career guidance initiatives.
The RV Industry Association (RVIA) is reminding manufacturers selling units into Quebec to review and comply with the province’s strengthened French language laws under Bill 96, which require French translations on all product labeling, documentation, and related materials to avoid substantial penalties.
The 2025 RV Dealers Convention/Expo will feature a panel session exploring emerging consumer behaviors and market shifts shaping RV sales strategies. Scheduled for Tuesday, Nov. 11, from 8:15 to 9:15 a.m., “2025 RV Buyer Trends: What They Mean for Your Sales Strategy” will provide dealers with data-driven insights drawn from retail registration figures and behavioral trends among millions of RV shoppers
The RV Technical Institute (RVTI) has begun offering Spanish testing options for its Level 1 and Level 2 certification exams, expanding access to training and certification for Spanish-speaking RV technicians across the United States.
The RV Industry Association (RVIA) has announced that the 2026 Edition of the National Electric Code (NEC) has been published, officially finalizing the requirement for Grounding Monitor Interrupters (GMI) on all RVs with 30-amp or 50-amp electrical service.
General RV Center recently celebrated the one-year anniversary of its Salisbury Supercenter in North Carolina, bringing together company leaders, employees, and local officials on October 7 to highlight the dealership’s growth, community impact, and continued expansion in the region.
The Headrest Safe Company is set to participate in the 2025 RV Component Exposition, taking place October 14–17 at the Michiana Event Center in Shipshewana, Indiana. During the multi-day event, the company will showcase its innovative in-vehicle storage systems designed to enhance safety, convenience, and peace of mind for RV travelers.
Caravaning 2025, taking place October 11–19 in Barcelona, will feature over 700 models and 180 exhibitors, highlighting sustainability, digital innovation, and the evolving landscape of European caravanning.
The inaugural National Caravan Industry Summit in Canberra brought together sector leaders and government representatives to address profitability, compliance, and workforce challenges shaping the industry’s future.
Brown & Brown has implemented new leadership appointments within its Retail segment, naming senior leaders, vice presidents, and a North American retail brokerage leader as part of its strategy to drive growth and strengthen collaboration following the acquisition of Risk Strategies.
Velarium, an Airxcel brand, has introduced its new Cut-to-Fit Awning Tube to the RV aftermarket, offering a modular solution designed to reduce installation time, cut freight costs, and provide dealers and mobile service providers with a more durable and cost-efficient option for awning replacement.
At the upcoming RV Dealers Convention/Expo in Las Vegas, a panel of industry experts will lead a workshop on November 11 to demonstrate how artificial intelligence (AI) is being applied by RV dealers to improve sales, service, and customer engagement.
Ken Barnes, director of sales for DealerPRO RV Training, will lead two workshops at the 2025 RV Dealers Convention/Expo in Las Vegas, offering strategies to boost fixed operations profitability and strengthen customer retention.
More than 30 Vendor Training +Plus sessions are set for the 2025 RV Dealers Convention/Expo, giving dealership professionals the chance to explore new products, services, and strategies from leading industry providers during the Nov. 10–14 event at Paris Las Vegas.
The Virginia Department of Conservation and Recreation, in partnership with the Federal Highway Administration, has awarded grants to 12 projects through the Recreational Trails Program, providing more than $1.7 million to support the construction and rehabilitation of trails and related facilities across the commonwealth.
A public information meeting on the 10-year master plan for Powhatan State Park will take place Sept. 23 at 6:30 p.m. at the Powhatan Village Building Auditorium, giving residents an opportunity to learn about proposed developments and provide input on the park’s future.
The British Columbia Lodging and Camping Association (BCLCA) has partnered with Acera Insurance Services Ltd. and Western Financial Group to expand insurance options for its members, offering tailored brokerage solutions designed to provide greater flexibility, competitive coverage, and value across the province’s outdoor hospitality industry.
Sailor’s Creek Battlefield Historical State Park will host its 6th annual Butterflies on the Battlefield Pollinator and Nature Festival on Aug. 23, offering free, family-friendly activities that highlight the importance of pollinators through educational programs, nature walks, and craft activities.
Campspot, a reservation software provider for campgrounds, has announced a new integration with Iterable, an AI-powered cross-channel marketing platform. This collaboration enables multi-park operators and marketing teams to sync guest and reservation data directly into Iterable’s advanced system.
RoverPass’s new “Escape the Chaos” campaign brings the stress of running a campground to life through humor, animation, and a not-so-cuddly Chaos Monster—showing owners they’re not alone and that smarter, AI-powered solutions are on the way.
My Financing USA, a national RV and boat financing provider, has announced a plan to give away $1 billion worth of prequalified leads to dealerships through its newly launched website, MyFy Marketplace. The platform is designed to connect dealers with thousands of credit-qualified buyers at no cost for listings, offering a timely solution as retailers face rising advertising expenses across the recreational vehicle and marine industries.
Campspot, an online booking platform for campgrounds and RV parks, has announced the 2025 Campground Revolutionaries, recognizing seven professionals across the United States and Canada for their leadership, innovation, and dedication to enhancing the outdoor hospitality industry.
Jellystone Park’s annual bear-waking event, which invites guests to help rouse Yogi Bear, Boo Boo, and Cindy Bear from hibernation, highlights how themed experiences can enhance engagement and drive early-season campground bookings.
The Half a Mind Podcast has released a compelling new episode featuring an exclusive interview with Carl Borkholder, founder of Gen-Y Hitch, who shares his inspiring journey from leaving school after the 8th grade to transforming the towing industry with his innovative hitch designs.
Campground owners across the U.S. can now join OHI or their state association independently, following a major shift to a direct membership model. While the move sparked mixed reactions, both OHI and state leaders agree on one goal: supporting park owners through tailored benefits, advocacy, and collaboration.
June is Parks and Recreation Month, celebrating the numerous benefits of parks and outdoor recreation spaces. This initiative encourages communities to engage in diverse outdoor activities, promoting physical, mental, and community health while supporting economic growth and environmental sustainability.
USA Camping Company is elevating traditional campgrounds into resort-level destinations by acquiring and upgrading properties with enhanced amenities and community integration. Their growth strategy focuses on providing high-quality guest experiences, prime outdoor locations, and sustainable practices.
Luxe Glamp, an eco-friendly luxury dome glamping project, has begun construction in the Umm Al Quwain Mangrove Reserve, UAE, promising a sustainable and immersive stay experience. The project, attended by Sheikh Majid bin Saud bin Rashid Al Mualla, aims to blend luxury with environmental conservation, highlighting the UAE’s diverse tourism offerings.
National Powersports Auctions (NPA) has expanded its RV and Marine team by appointing Shannon Bennett as the RV+Marine sales and admin coordinator and promoting Tom Wilkinson to production supervisor for RV+Marine and Specialty Product. This strategic move aims to enhance service efficiency and support the growing demand in the RV and Marine industries.
Temporary road closures and changed parking conditions are set for the 2024 Let’s Go Queensland Caravan and Camping Supershow from May 30 to June 11. The event will feature the latest models of caravans, motorhomes, and camping equipment, hosted by over 200 exhibitors.
A recent Winnebago Industries survey reveals that more Americans are turning to outdoor activities for health benefits, with 71% acknowledging their positive impact on physical and mental well-being. The survey highlights a growing trend in outdoor participation, which supports increased demand in the RV industry.
Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro launches the “Pennsylvania: The Great American Getaway” tourism initiative with a weeklong RV tour to promote the state’s attractions and boost its tourism industry. The campaign aims to draw millions of visitors, benefiting local businesses and the outdoor recreation sector.
Campsite reservations in BC Parks’ Okanagan region have decreased this year, with 1,400 reservations for the May long weekend compared to 1,600 last year. Despite this, most parks are fully booked, and several trails remain closed due to wildfire impacts and seasonal conditions.
The 12th annual RV Industry Power Breakfast at the RV/MH Hall of Fame witnessed its highest turnout ever, with industry leaders discussing the robust interest and emerging trends in the RV sector. Key talks highlighted increased outdoor activities spurred by the pandemic and the transformative impact of artificial intelligence in enhancing customer experiences.
As the 2024 camping season begins, demand for local campsites in southern Ontario shows significant growth, with facilities like Whistle Bare Campground nearly fully booked. Campground operators are advised to optimize services and facilities in response to the increasing popularity of outdoor activities.