Outdoor Hospitality News
For owners, operators, team members, and anyone else interested in camping, glamping, or the RV industry.
News for May 16, 2025
Josef Hjelmaker, former chief innovation officer at THOR Industries, has launched Electric Outdoors, a Detroit-based startup aiming to transform off-grid camping with the EO Canopy—a self-sustaining, solar-powered platform that enables landowners to create eco-friendly outdoor destinations without the need for traditional infrastructure.
AEONrv is shaking up the recreational vehicle market with its high-tech, composite-built campers designed for year-round, off-grid adventure. Born from CEO Jim Ritchie’s frustration with conventional RVs and informed by his Silicon Valley roots, the company blends rugged performance with modern materials and advanced energy systems. In an interview with *Modern Campground*, Ritchie shared how a personal project evolved into a mission to reimagine RV design from the ground up—resulting in a product that’s not only durable and efficient, but also deeply aligned with the needs of today’s mobile explorers.
With summer fast approaching, 44 million Americans plan to travel by recreational vehicle, underscoring RVing’s enduring appeal as a top vacation choice, according to the RV Industry Association’s latest Summer Travel Intentions Survey. Conducted in April among U.S. leisure travelers, the survey found strong interest across diverse age groups, with Millennials and Gen Z leading the charge in both travel intent and RV ownership interest.
Brent Crosby, a seasoned real estate investor with more than a decade of experience, has acquired the Manti-La Sal KOA Holiday in Mount Pleasant, Utah, with plans to enhance the campground’s offerings and strengthen ties to the local community.
Scott Jennings, a senior conservative commentator for CNN and former Special Assistant to President George W. Bush, is slated to deliver a keynote address during the Tuesday lunch session at RVs Move America Week, held June 1–5 in Washington, D.C. Hosted by the RV Industry Association, the annual advocacy event convenes leaders from across the recreational vehicle sector for a week of strategic discussions and legislative outreach.
With electric vehicle demand rising and sustainability at the forefront, outdoor hospitality is entering a new era.
Join the conversation with industry leaders and power your business forward—watch live this May 21st!
Josef Hjelmaker, former chief innovation officer at THOR Industries, has launched Electric Outdoors, a Detroit-based startup aiming to transform off-grid camping with the EO Canopy—a self-sustaining, solar-powered platform that enables landowners to create eco-friendly outdoor destinations without the need for traditional infrastructure.
AEONrv is shaking up the recreational vehicle market with its high-tech, composite-built campers designed for year-round, off-grid adventure. Born from CEO Jim Ritchie’s frustration with conventional RVs and informed by his Silicon Valley roots, the company blends rugged performance with modern materials and advanced energy systems. In an interview with *Modern Campground*, Ritchie shared how a personal project evolved into a mission to reimagine RV design from the ground up—resulting in a product that’s not only durable and efficient, but also deeply aligned with the needs of today’s mobile explorers.
East Riding Council has approved redevelopment plans for Patrington Haven Leisure Park following a fire in April 2024, with proposals including structural repairs, extended operating hours, and solar panel installation.
A new RV park is gearing up to welcome visitors in Grand Junction, with Horizon RV Park slated to be fully operational by June at the intersection of Compass Drive and Crossroads Boulevard. The park, which began hosting guests in September 2024 with 10 initial spaces, will soon expand to 24 fully equipped sites offering full hookups, Wi-Fi, ADA-compliant facilities, and amenities such as a laundry room, bathrooms with showers, and a dog park—all within close proximity to the interstate, restaurants, and a fitness center.
Nehalem Bay State Park will reopen several day-use areas on May 23, offering limited access to visitors while its campground remains closed through at least the end of June for ongoing construction, the Oregon Parks and Recreation Department announced.
The RV Women’s Alliance Charitable Foundation has successfully wrapped up its all-female RV systems training class in partnership with Brinkley RV, marking a significant step toward empowering women in the RV industry through hands-on technical education and professional development.
THOR Industries has named Seth Woolf as its new head of corporate development and investor relations, a move aimed at strengthening the company’s long-term growth strategy and deepening engagement with the investment community.
Roadtrippers, a popular North American road trip planning app, is giving travelers free access to its premium features during a “Free Preview Weekend” from May 16 to May 18, coinciding with the start of peak travel season. The promotion allows users to explore advanced tools like Autopilot, an AI-powered itinerary builder informed by more than 38 million past trips, as well as vehicle-specific routing, RV tools, and campground booking.
Champion Homes has been honored with the Manufactured Housing Institute’s Excellence in Manufactured Housing Award for the 11th consecutive year, earning top recognition in both the Multi-Section and CrossMod home design categories at the 2025 MHI Congress & Expo in Orlando, Florida—bringing its total to 26 awards over the past 11 years.
Navarro College is seeking a part-time RV technician instructor to lead its “Intro to RV Tech” course during the Fall 2025 semester, part of the college’s continuing education program in partnership with the RV Technical Institute. As the first community college designated an RVTI Authorized Learning Partner, the Corsicana, Texas-based institution is offering training designed to equip students with essential skills in RV systems diagnostics and repair.
The RV Industry Association’s Regulatory & Safety Compliance Seminar is set to return for its 10th year on Wednesday, July 30, continuing a decade-long commitment to educating RV professionals on essential safety and compliance practices. Scheduled from 8 a.m. to 12 p.m. ET at the Lerner Theatre in Elkhart, Indiana, the members-only event is free of charge and open for registration through July 25.
With electric vehicle demand rising and sustainability at the forefront, outdoor hospitality is entering a new era.
Join the conversation with industry leaders and power your business forward—watch live this May 21st!
Josef Hjelmaker, former chief innovation officer at THOR Industries, has launched Electric Outdoors, a Detroit-based startup aiming to transform off-grid camping with the EO Canopy—a self-sustaining, solar-powered platform that enables landowners to create eco-friendly outdoor destinations without the need for traditional infrastructure.
East Riding Council has approved redevelopment plans for Patrington Haven Leisure Park following a fire in April 2024, with proposals including structural repairs, extended operating hours, and solar panel installation.
Josef Hjelmaker, former chief innovation officer at THOR Industries, has launched Electric Outdoors, a Detroit-based startup aiming to transform off-grid camping with the EO Canopy—a self-sustaining, solar-powered platform that enables landowners to create eco-friendly outdoor destinations without the need for traditional infrastructure.
A new RV park is gearing up to welcome visitors in Grand Junction, with Horizon RV Park slated to be fully operational by June at the intersection of Compass Drive and Crossroads Boulevard. The park, which began hosting guests in September 2024 with 10 initial spaces, will soon expand to 24 fully equipped sites offering full hookups, Wi-Fi, ADA-compliant facilities, and amenities such as a laundry room, bathrooms with showers, and a dog park—all within close proximity to the interstate, restaurants, and a fitness center.
Roadtrippers, a popular North American road trip planning app, is giving travelers free access to its premium features during a “Free Preview Weekend” from May 16 to May 18, coinciding with the start of peak travel season. The promotion allows users to explore advanced tools like Autopilot, an AI-powered itinerary builder informed by more than 38 million past trips, as well as vehicle-specific routing, RV tools, and campground booking.
Kampgrounds of America, Inc. (KOA) has added the Alpine/Bridger Teton KOA Holiday in Etna, Wyoming, to its network of more than 500 campgrounds across North America. Owned and operated by Dennis and Laura Decker and their family, the campground marks a new chapter for the Deckers, who transitioned from their Airstream dealership to outdoor hospitality with the goal of enhancing camping experiences in Wyoming’s Star Valley.
The RV industry is aligning itself with the rapidly growing wellness tourism market, which the Global Wellness Institute estimates will reach $1.3 trillion by 2025. Recognizing this opportunity, Go RVing—an initiative backed by the RV Industry Association—has highlighted wellness tourism as a key area for growth, emphasizing RV travel’s ability to support personal wellbeing by connecting travelers to nature, promoting physical activity, and encouraging meaningful social connections while on the road.
With summer fast approaching, 44 million Americans plan to travel by recreational vehicle, underscoring RVing’s enduring appeal as a top vacation choice, according to the RV Industry Association’s latest Summer Travel Intentions Survey. Conducted in April among U.S. leisure travelers, the survey found strong interest across diverse age groups, with Millennials and Gen Z leading the charge in both travel intent and RV ownership interest.
Across Wisconsin, a tradition of family-run campgrounds continues to shape the state’s outdoor hospitality scene, offering travelers more than just a place to pitch a tent or park an RV. From Spooner to Sturgeon Bay, these parks—many owned and operated by multiple generations—blend recreational amenities with personal touches rooted in family values and a passion for helping others create lasting memories.
Kampgrounds of America (KOA) has added Spring Grove KOA Journey in southeastern Minnesota to its expansive network of more than 500 open-to-the-public campgrounds across the U.S. and Canada, offering travelers a scenic getaway nestled in the state’s bluff country.
Kampgrounds of America (KOA) is set to host its 18th annual Care Camps Big Weekend on May 9-10, a two-day fundraising initiative supporting the Care Camps Foundation’s mission to provide medically supervised oncology camps for children with cancer.
Nehalem Bay State Park will reopen several day-use areas on May 23, offering limited access to visitors while its campground remains closed through at least the end of June for ongoing construction, the Oregon Parks and Recreation Department announced.
Infinite Outdoors has launched a new initiative called Access Granted to provide legal, no-cost public access to thousands of acres of previously unreachable public lands, starting with properties in Wyoming and Colorado.
More than 759,000 visitors spent over 13.5 million days at Iowa state parks in 2025, according to the Iowa Department of Natural Resources, as the state readies for another busy camping season with upgraded amenities, expanded reservation options, and new projects aimed at enhancing accessibility and visitor experiences across multiple parks.
The Bureau of Land Management’s Northern California District has opened three popular recreation sites in northeast California for the summer season, with North Eagle Lake and Pit River campgrounds opening May 1 and the Hobo Camp day-use area scheduled to open May 17, offering expanded camping and outdoor opportunities for visitors.
Josef Hjelmaker, former chief innovation officer at THOR Industries, has launched Electric Outdoors, a Detroit-based startup aiming to transform off-grid camping with the EO Canopy—a self-sustaining, solar-powered platform that enables landowners to create eco-friendly outdoor destinations without the need for traditional infrastructure.
Spot2Nite has unveiled the winners of its 2025 Camping Spotlight Awards, honoring top-rated campgrounds and RV resorts across the United States and Canada based on real-time booking data, guest feedback, and unique site features.
Scott Jennings, a senior conservative commentator for CNN and former Special Assistant to President George W. Bush, is slated to deliver a keynote address during the Tuesday lunch session at RVs Move America Week, held June 1–5 in Washington, D.C. Hosted by the RV Industry Association, the annual advocacy event convenes leaders from across the recreational vehicle sector for a week of strategic discussions and legislative outreach.
AEONrv is shaking up the recreational vehicle market with its high-tech, composite-built campers designed for year-round, off-grid adventure. Born from CEO Jim Ritchie’s frustration with conventional RVs and informed by his Silicon Valley roots, the company blends rugged performance with modern materials and advanced energy systems. In an interview with *Modern Campground*, Ritchie shared how a personal project evolved into a mission to reimagine RV design from the ground up—resulting in a product that’s not only durable and efficient, but also deeply aligned with the needs of today’s mobile explorers.
The RV Women’s Alliance Charitable Foundation has successfully wrapped up its all-female RV systems training class in partnership with Brinkley RV, marking a significant step toward empowering women in the RV industry through hands-on technical education and professional development.
THOR Industries has named Seth Woolf as its new head of corporate development and investor relations, a move aimed at strengthening the company’s long-term growth strategy and deepening engagement with the investment community.
Navarro College is seeking a part-time RV technician instructor to lead its “Intro to RV Tech” course during the Fall 2025 semester, part of the college’s continuing education program in partnership with the RV Technical Institute. As the first community college designated an RVTI Authorized Learning Partner, the Corsicana, Texas-based institution is offering training designed to equip students with essential skills in RV systems diagnostics and repair.
The RV Industry Association’s Regulatory & Safety Compliance Seminar is set to return for its 10th year on Wednesday, July 30, continuing a decade-long commitment to educating RV professionals on essential safety and compliance practices. Scheduled from 8 a.m. to 12 p.m. ET at the Lerner Theatre in Elkhart, Indiana, the members-only event is free of charge and open for registration through July 25.
More than 30 Vendor Training +Plus sessions will be offered at the 2025 RV Dealers Convention/Expo, set for Nov. 10–14 at Paris Las Vegas, providing dealership professionals with access to the latest technologies, compliance practices, and service innovations. Hosted by the RVDA of the U.S., RVDA of Canada, and the Mike Molino RV Learning Center, the sessions are tailored to support core dealership operations with topics ranging from fraud prevention and tax strategies to lithium upgrades and artificial intelligence-driven marketing solutions.
Open Roads, known for its nationwide diesel fuel discount program for RV travelers, has launched Open Roads Insurance, a new service designed to deliver affordable, RV-specific coverage tailored to the needs of life on the road. Announced on May 13 and offered in partnership with Roamly, the insurance includes benefits such as personal effects protection, emergency expense coverage, and vacation liability.
The RV industry is aligning itself with the rapidly growing wellness tourism market, which the Global Wellness Institute estimates will reach $1.3 trillion by 2025. Recognizing this opportunity, Go RVing—an initiative backed by the RV Industry Association—has highlighted wellness tourism as a key area for growth, emphasizing RV travel’s ability to support personal wellbeing by connecting travelers to nature, promoting physical activity, and encouraging meaningful social connections while on the road.
With summer fast approaching, 44 million Americans plan to travel by recreational vehicle, underscoring RVing’s enduring appeal as a top vacation choice, according to the RV Industry Association’s latest Summer Travel Intentions Survey. Conducted in April among U.S. leisure travelers, the survey found strong interest across diverse age groups, with Millennials and Gen Z leading the charge in both travel intent and RV ownership interest.
Exhibit space for the 2025 RV Dealers Convention/Expo, scheduled for Nov. 10-14 at Paris Las Vegas, is nearly sold out, with vehicle display space already at capacity and remaining exhibitor booths available on a first-come, first-served basis, according to event organizers. The annual convention, presented by RVDA of the U.S., RVDA of Canada, and the Mike Molino RV Learning Center, serves as a major gathering for RV dealers, manufacturers, and industry professionals from across North America.
As airfare and hotel prices continue to climb, Allstar Coaches is highlighting luxury RV travel as a flexible and affordable vacation alternative for summer 2025. The Fort Lauderdale-based rental provider reports families can save more than 38% by choosing RV travel over traditional trips, offering an all-in-one solution that combines transportation, lodging, dining, and entertainment.
As part of its nationwide effort to attract and train the next generation of RV technicians, the RV Technical Institute (RVTI) took part in the Association for Career and Technical Education’s Region 5 Conference, held May 1–3 in Las Vegas, Nevada. The event brought together career and technical education professionals from 16 western states and territories, offering RVTI a valuable platform to promote its technician training program and connect with educators shaping workforce pathways across the region.
The fourth annual National Go RVing Day will take place on Saturday, June 14, encouraging RV industry stakeholders and consumers alike to celebrate the freedom and excitement of RV travel by visiting outdoor destinations across the country.
The RV Industry Association has named Jack Holt as its new manager of federal affairs, tasking him with advocating for the RV industry’s interests on Capitol Hill and with federal agencies. Holt, a Wyoming native and attorney, brings experience from the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee, where he worked on outdoor recreation and water policy under Senator John Barrasso.
WFCO Technologies has expanded its partnership with the RV Technical Institute to offer advanced Level 3 training on Logic Control Systems and Control Area Networks, strengthening technician education and reinforcing the company’s nearly 50-year commitment to supporting RV industry innovation and progress.
Open Roads and AdventureGenie have announced a strategic partnership to combine fuel savings and AI-powered trip planning for RV travelers, bringing together Open Roads’ diesel fuel discount program and AdventureGenie’s trip planning platform to help RVers plan better routes, find destinations, and save money at the pump.
Myers Industries announced its financial results for the first quarter of 2025, reporting higher profitability despite flat net sales from the prior year, driven by contributions from its Signature acquisition and strong sales of its Scepter military products, while reducing expenses under its “Focused Transformation” program, according to President and CEO Aaron Schapper.
The Recreation Vehicle Dealers Association (RVDA), in partnership with workforce risk management firm KPA, will host a free webinar on Wednesday, May 21, at 2 p.m. EDT to provide RV dealers with human resources best practices, onboarding strategies, and guidance on common employment issues to help strengthen workforce practices and navigate compliance challenges.
Go RVing has launched its new “Just Beyond Your Door” campaign to inspire travelers to embrace the freedom and adventure of RV travel, using innovative virtual production technology and a multi-platform rollout to highlight RVing as an accessible, authentic way to explore destinations closer than imagined.
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.
Larry Troutt III of Topper’s Camping Center in Waller, Texas, has been appointed chairman of the RV Dealers Association (RVDA) for 2025, taking on the leadership role during the association’s annual meeting on Nov. 13 at Paris Las Vegas.
Research indicates that RV dealerships prioritizing a robust culture of safety experience tangible benefits, including reduced absenteeism, fewer injuries, minimized safety violations, and lower turnover rates. At the upcoming RV Dealers Convention/Expo, attendees can explore these advantages during the workshop “Creating a Safety Culture – Your New Competitive Advantage,” scheduled for 3:15 p.m. on November 14 as part of the fixed operations education track.
In a competitive RV market, leveraging data insights is crucial for dealers aiming to capture market share and generate leads effectively. The upcoming workshop, “Insights 360: Leveraging Consumer Data for Market Success,” scheduled for November 14 at 12:45 p.m. during the RVDA Convention, will guide dealers on how to utilize market trends and consumer behavior data to optimize their marketing efforts.
The upcoming RV Dealers Convention will feature a workshop dedicated to leveraging showroom technology. Scheduled for November 14, the session will provide valuable insights on how dealers can integrate sales and finance processes, and identify legal boundaries for customer information protection.
Caledon State Park is set to host its annual Art and Wine Festival on Nov. 2 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Nov. 3 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., offering a weekend filled with family-friendly activities, live music, and local flavor. Attendees can enjoy tastings from regional wineries, sample dishes from food trucks and vendors, and explore art displays from talented local artists.
GE Appliances, a supplier of refrigerators, air conditioners, stoves, washers, and dryers tailored for the RV industry, is set to return as a bronze partner for the 2024 RV Dealers Convention/Expo, scheduled for November 11-15 at Paris Las Vegas.
Red Oak Inventory Finance, known for providing innovative and efficient financing solutions for all types of RVs, both new and used, has announced its bronze partnership for the 2024 RV Dealers Convention/Expo. Scheduled to take place from November 11-15 at Paris Las Vegas, the event is sponsored by the RVDA of the U.S., RVDA of Canada, and the Mike Molino RV Learning Center.
RVDA has announced that Portfolio, a provider of service contracts, has returned as a bronze partner for the 2024 RV Dealers Convention/Expo, set to take place Nov. 11-15 at Paris Las Vegas. Sponsored by RVDA of U.S., RVDA of Canada, and the Mike Molino RV Learning Center, the event will offer dealership professionals the opportunity to network, gain valuable industry insights, and enhance dealership operations.
The RV Dealers Convention/Expo will offer a session titled “Demystifying AI” on November 13 at 3:15 p.m., led by Richard Latman, CEO of TheCRM. This session will tackle the top five myths surrounding artificial intelligence and explore how AI can transform RV dealership operations.
RVDA has announced that Northpoint Commercial Finance will return as a bronze partner for the 2024 RV Dealers Convention/Expo, set to take place from Nov. 11-15 at Paris Las Vegas. Sponsored by RVDA of the U.S., RVDA of Canada, and the Mike Molino RV Learning Center, the event will bring together top dealership personnel across North America.
Mark Goldsmith, a national trainer with iA Dealer Services, will lead a workshop on the importance of communication at the upcoming RV Dealers Convention/Expo. Titled “The Power of Effective Communication,” the session will take place at 2:00 p.m. on Nov. 13 as part of the business innovation education track.
The RVDA has announced that M&T Bank of Buffalo, N.Y., will serve as a bronze partner for the 2024 RV Dealers Convention/Expo, which will take place from November 11-15 at Paris Las Vegas. Sponsored by RVDA of U.S., RVDA of Canada, and the Mike Molino RV Learning Center, the event provides dealership professionals with valuable opportunities to connect with industry leaders, expand their networks, and gain insights into optimizing dealership operations.
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.