Outdoor Hospitality News
For owners, operators, team members, and anyone else interested in camping, glamping, or the RV industry.
News for January 8, 2026
Lagoon Ranch Luxury RV & Cabin Resort will host a Super Bowl-themed event, “Touch Downs & Tailgates,” from February 6–9, offering a three-night, football-focused getaway at its Lake Livingston property in Texas.
The Original Pittsburgh RV Show will return to the David L. Lawrence Convention Center in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, for two weekends in January, Jan. 9–11 and Jan. 16–18, 2026, featuring more than a dozen RV dealers, dozens of campgrounds, and nine acres of recreational vehicle exhibits and outdoor hospitality offerings.
Coachella Lakes RV Resort in California is highlighting its pet-friendly culture and on-site guest engagement with a January lineup of weekly events, anchored by the resort’s featured Pup of the Month and a slate of recurring social and recreational programming for guests.
Navarro College will offer a two-week, Level 1 RV technician training program in Spring 2026 in partnership with the RV Technical Institute (RVTI), aiming to produce “shop-ready” professionals equipped with both technical skills and workplace readiness.
EAST TO WEST RV, a Forest River subsidiary, collected more than 2,200 pounds of nonperishable food in its third annual Christmas Food Drive, donating the items to the Salvation Army Kroc Center in South Bend, Indiana, to help local families facing food insecurity during the winter months.
The Trust for Public Land has permanently protected the 3,586-acre South Branch Forest near Rangeley, Maine, creating new opportunities for outdoor hospitality operators to attract guests seeking paddling, hiking and wildlife viewing in this ecologically rich region.
RV Women’s Alliance and the RV Women’s Alliance Charitable Foundation have appointed five new board members effective January 1, expanding leadership across both organizations as they advance professional development, education and charitable initiatives for women in the RV industry.
The 2026 RV Industry Association Leadership Conference will feature a workshop led by retired U.S. Navy Capt. David Marquet, whose experience transforming the USS Santa Fe through decentralized leadership will anchor a broader discussion on empowering employees at every level.
Tennessee has released a comprehensive master plan to restore David Crockett Birthplace State Park, which has been closed since September 2024 after flooding from Hurricane Helene. The plan outlines a phased recovery that includes a rebuilt campground with RV and tent sites, a new visitor center, elevated riverfront trails, and upgrades to enhance safety, accessibility, and visitor experience.
Lagoon Ranch Luxury RV & Cabin Resort will host a Super Bowl-themed event, “Touch Downs & Tailgates,” from February 6–9, offering a three-night, football-focused getaway at its Lake Livingston property in Texas.
The Original Pittsburgh RV Show will return to the David L. Lawrence Convention Center in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, for two weekends in January, Jan. 9–11 and Jan. 16–18, 2026, featuring more than a dozen RV dealers, dozens of campgrounds, and nine acres of recreational vehicle exhibits and outdoor hospitality offerings.
Coachella Lakes RV Resort in California is highlighting its pet-friendly culture and on-site guest engagement with a January lineup of weekly events, anchored by the resort’s featured Pup of the Month and a slate of recurring social and recreational programming for guests.
Navarro College will offer a two-week, Level 1 RV technician training program in Spring 2026 in partnership with the RV Technical Institute (RVTI), aiming to produce “shop-ready” professionals equipped with both technical skills and workplace readiness.
The RV Women’s Alliance Charitable Foundation (RVWACF) is now accepting applications for the Bill Stewart Scholarship, which provides financial support for women seeking advanced training in RV systems through the foundation’s educational programs.
Greece has introduced a new legal framework for glamping that places the sector within the country’s four- and five-star accommodation system while setting clear requirements for capacity, environmental integration, and accessibility.
The 2026 Exclusive West Virginia RV Show is set for February 6–8 at the Hazel & J.W. Ruby Community Center at Mylan Park in Morgantown, West Virginia, bringing more than 55 recreational vehicles, on-site financing, and dealer-led expertise under one roof for what organizers describe as the state’s largest RV event.
The BC Lodging and Campgrounds Association has appointed longtime board member Jamie Cox as its new executive director, initiating a leadership transition for the provincial organization representing independently owned lodging businesses, campgrounds, and RV parks across British Columbia.
The 64th Annual Lehigh Valley RV & Campgrounds Show will return to the Allentown Fairgrounds Agri-Plex Building from January 9–11, 2026, bringing RV dealers, campground representatives, and industry vendors together for a three-day regional event focused on recreational vehicles and camping.
Whispering Pines Nudist Resort in Ocean Isle Beach, North Carolina, is seeking Brunswick County approval to expand its RV capacity from 57 to 69 sites. The proposed project, scheduled for review by the Board of Adjustment on Jan. 8, would add 12 full-service RV sites connected by a new roadway, aiming to accommodate growing demand among visitors.
Lagoon Ranch Luxury RV & Cabin Resort will host a Super Bowl-themed event, “Touch Downs & Tailgates,” from February 6–9, offering a three-night, football-focused getaway at its Lake Livingston property in Texas.
The Original Pittsburgh RV Show will return to the David L. Lawrence Convention Center in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, for two weekends in January, Jan. 9–11 and Jan. 16–18, 2026, featuring more than a dozen RV dealers, dozens of campgrounds, and nine acres of recreational vehicle exhibits and outdoor hospitality offerings.
Coachella Lakes RV Resort in California is highlighting its pet-friendly culture and on-site guest engagement with a January lineup of weekly events, anchored by the resort’s featured Pup of the Month and a slate of recurring social and recreational programming for guests.
Lagoon Ranch Luxury RV & Cabin Resort will host a Super Bowl-themed event, “Touch Downs & Tailgates,” from February 6–9, offering a three-night, football-focused getaway at its Lake Livingston property in Texas.
The Original Pittsburgh RV Show will return to the David L. Lawrence Convention Center in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, for two weekends in January, Jan. 9–11 and Jan. 16–18, 2026, featuring more than a dozen RV dealers, dozens of campgrounds, and nine acres of recreational vehicle exhibits and outdoor hospitality offerings.
Coachella Lakes RV Resort in California is highlighting its pet-friendly culture and on-site guest engagement with a January lineup of weekly events, anchored by the resort’s featured Pup of the Month and a slate of recurring social and recreational programming for guests.
The BC Lodging and Campgrounds Association has appointed longtime board member Jamie Cox as its new executive director, initiating a leadership transition for the provincial organization representing independently owned lodging businesses, campgrounds, and RV parks across British Columbia.
Tennessee has released a comprehensive master plan to restore David Crockett Birthplace State Park, which has been closed since September 2024 after flooding from Hurricane Helene. The plan outlines a phased recovery that includes a rebuilt campground with RV and tent sites, a new visitor center, elevated riverfront trails, and upgrades to enhance safety, accessibility, and visitor experience.
A shepherd’s hut glamping unit in Powerstock, Dorset, illustrates how small-scale, farm-based accommodation can attract year-round visitors by combining self-contained comfort with access to heritage landscapes and established tourism hubs.
Tinywood Four is a year-round cabin glamping accommodation near Long Itchington that illustrates how compact, self-contained units with private amenities can support consistent demand in rural destinations close to established visitor attractions.
Grand Canyon National Park will reopen South Rim hotels on Wednesday, Dec. 17, after completing repairs to the Transcanyon Waterline, restoring potable water to lodges and easing some restrictions while continuing conservation measures.
State parks across Virginia will mark New Year’s Day 2026 with statewide First Day Hikes, offering visitors free parking and a range of guided and self-guided outdoor activities. The annual initiative, led by America’s State Parks, invites hikers of all skill levels to explore Virginia State Parks on Jan. 1 while kicking off the year with outdoor recreation.
The Idaho Department of Parks and Recreation is offering a limited-time 25 percent discount on select cabins, yurts, and RV sites at five state parks from December 16 through January 4, providing campers with a more affordable way to experience Idaho’s winter landscapes.
Parks Canada is bringing back the Canada Strong Pass for the 2025–26 holiday and summer seasons, offering free admission to all national parks, historic sites, and marine conservation areas it operates, along with a 25 percent discount on camping and roofed accommodations.
Greece has introduced a new legal framework for glamping that places the sector within the country’s four- and five-star accommodation system while setting clear requirements for capacity, environmental integration, and accessibility.
Tamil Nadu’s tourism authority has launched organized camping and glamping projects across four hill destinations, opening new opportunities for private outdoor hospitality operators while underscoring the importance of regulatory coordination and sustainable development.
The Campground Owners Expo is moving to a per-person registration model for its 2026 event and launching COE Advantage, a new optional, year-round program offering discounts, education, and networking benefits for campground owners.
A year-round shepherd’s hut at Thompson Hall Retreats in Norfolk illustrates how compact glamping units can integrate wellness facilities, upsell experiences, and adult-focused positioning to meet evolving guest expectations in the outdoor hospitality sector.
A shepherd’s hut glamping unit in Powerstock, Dorset, illustrates how small-scale, farm-based accommodation can attract year-round visitors by combining self-contained comfort with access to heritage landscapes and established tourism hubs.
Tinywood Four is a year-round cabin glamping accommodation near Long Itchington that illustrates how compact, self-contained units with private amenities can support consistent demand in rural destinations close to established visitor attractions.
Hexagone Sport Robotics showcased its suite of automated maintenance solutions at the record-breaking 46th SETT trade fair in Montpellier, highlighting how robotics can streamline campground operations.
Kits Coty Glamping and a member of its housekeeping team were both recognised at the 2025 Beautiful South Tourism Awards, reflecting a continued focus on service quality and staff contribution within the regional tourism sector.
Wild Glamping Gal Oya and Amba Yaalu, Kandalama were among the projects recognised at the SLTC Research and Innovation Awards 2025 for their research-driven approaches to sustainability, community engagement, and inclusive tourism development.
French startup Mycea is bringing a science-based approach to soil management at campgrounds, offering a localized fungi service designed to improve plant health while helping operators reduce water use and maintenance costs.
Insider Perks has released “Fully Booked for Christmas,” the outdoor hospitality industry’s first AI-generated holiday album, offering 11 tracks that blend humor, heart, and campground-specific holiday chaos.
A military-themed glamping resort in Lonavala is offering outdoor hospitality operators a real-world example of how niche positioning, limited inventory, and experience-led programming can shape a differentiated business model.
Outdoor Hospitality Industry concluded its eighth Washington, D.C., advocacy fly-in of 2025 last week, bringing 24 campground owners, operators, and executives to the nation’s capital to meet directly with federal lawmakers and advance policy priorities impacting private campgrounds and RV parks.
EAST TO WEST RV, a Forest River subsidiary, collected more than 2,200 pounds of nonperishable food in its third annual Christmas Food Drive, donating the items to the Salvation Army Kroc Center in South Bend, Indiana, to help local families facing food insecurity during the winter months.
RV Women’s Alliance and the RV Women’s Alliance Charitable Foundation have appointed five new board members effective January 1, expanding leadership across both organizations as they advance professional development, education and charitable initiatives for women in the RV industry.
The 2026 RV Industry Association Leadership Conference will feature a workshop led by retired U.S. Navy Capt. David Marquet, whose experience transforming the USS Santa Fe through decentralized leadership will anchor a broader discussion on empowering employees at every level.
The Original Pittsburgh RV Show will return to the David L. Lawrence Convention Center in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, for two weekends in January, Jan. 9–11 and Jan. 16–18, 2026, featuring more than a dozen RV dealers, dozens of campgrounds, and nine acres of recreational vehicle exhibits and outdoor hospitality offerings.
Navarro College will offer a two-week, Level 1 RV technician training program in Spring 2026 in partnership with the RV Technical Institute (RVTI), aiming to produce “shop-ready” professionals equipped with both technical skills and workplace readiness.
The RV Women’s Alliance Charitable Foundation (RVWACF) is now accepting applications for the Bill Stewart Scholarship, which provides financial support for women seeking advanced training in RV systems through the foundation’s educational programs.
The 2026 Exclusive West Virginia RV Show is set for February 6–8 at the Hazel & J.W. Ruby Community Center at Mylan Park in Morgantown, West Virginia, bringing more than 55 recreational vehicles, on-site financing, and dealer-led expertise under one roof for what organizers describe as the state’s largest RV event.
The 64th Annual Lehigh Valley RV & Campgrounds Show will return to the Allentown Fairgrounds Agri-Plex Building from January 9–11, 2026, bringing RV dealers, campground representatives, and industry vendors together for a three-day regional event focused on recreational vehicles and camping.
Airstream Club International has signed a contract to host its 71st International Rally from June 24–29, 2028, at the Mercer County Fairgrounds in Celina, Ohio, marking the organization’s first return to the state since 1999 and positioning the event near its manufacturing and headquarters hub in Jackson Center.
Kunes Auto & RV Group has expanded its Wisconsin presence with the acquisition of Quietwoods RV and Scenic RV, adding five locations across Sturgeon Bay, Fox Valley, Slinger, Wisconsin Dells and Janesville, and broadening its inventory, service, and storage offerings for RV enthusiasts statewide.
The Original Pittsburgh RV Show will return to the David L. Lawrence Convention Center in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, for two weekends in January, bringing RV dealers, campground operators and outdoor hospitality suppliers together for a large-scale consumer marketplace ahead of the 2026 travel season.
The RV Industry Association’s Government Affairs team hosted a Capitol Hill reception on December 15 to highlight the recreational vehicle industry’s achievements in 2025 and engage lawmakers on key policy priorities, including economic impact, job creation, and emerging camping technologies.
The RV Technical Institute (RVTI) showcased the growing career opportunities in RV service to more than 6,500 education professionals at the Association for Career and Technical Education’s CareerTech Vision Conference in Nashville, Tennessee, December 9–12.
Winnebago Industries announced that its Winnebago, Newmar, and Grand Design brands earned multiple industry awards tied to the 2026 model year, highlighting continued recognition for innovation, design, and product development across its premium RV portfolio.
The Green Bay RV & Camping Expo, presented by Kunes RV of Green Bay, will return January 29 through February 1, 2026, offering four days of RV deals, campground showcases, and programming that draws thousands of outdoor enthusiasts to the region.
Storyteller Overland has launched the nVader product line, a new suite of rugged, bolt-on accessories designed to enhance durability and performance for expedition-ready adventure vehicles, with the full lineup debuting on the 2026 BEAST MODE flagship model.
Cincinnati-based Remote Vans has teamed up with Northern Idaho outfitter Yozzy Overland, giving Mountain West van enthusiasts access to its premium Class B adventure vans designed for off-grid travel and the “Work, Play, Travel … Anywhere” lifestyle.
Good Sam, a subsidiary of Camping World Holdings, has expanded its partnership with fintech lender Octane Lending, Inc. to increase RV loan origination volumes across nearly 200 Camping World dealerships and its digital buying platforms.
State parks across Virginia will mark New Year’s Day 2026 with statewide First Day Hikes, offering visitors free parking and a range of guided and self-guided outdoor activities. The annual initiative, led by America’s State Parks, invites hikers of all skill levels to explore Virginia State Parks on Jan. 1 while kicking off the year with outdoor recreation.
Staunton River Battlefield State Park is lighting up the holiday season with the return of its annual Lighting of the Bridge event, featuring new decorations, festive activities, and family-friendly fun from Dec. 12–14.
Bear Creek Lake State Park is set to sparkle once again as the annual Lights at the Lake returns for its 11th year, offering families a festive drive-through display of holiday lights, community exhibits, and seasonal activities on December 5-7 and 12-14.
The Virginia Department of Conservation and Recreation has acquired the 455-acre Lake Caledon property, expanding Caledon State Park by 20% through a partnership of local, state, and federal organizations dedicated to conservation and recreation.
Airxcel introduced new exterior components from its Velarium and Cleer Vision Doors brands during the 12th annual New Product Showcase, showcasing innovations designed to enhance safety, functionality, and style in recreational vehicles.
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.
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.