Outdoor Hospitality News
For owners, operators, team members, and anyone else interested in camping, glamping, or the RV industry.
News for May 20, 2026
Care Camps Foundation has launched its inaugural Young Professionals Board, bringing together emerging leaders from the RV, camping and outdoor hospitality industries to expand fundraising and community engagement efforts supporting pediatric oncology camps across the United States and Canada.
Denbighshire councillors unanimously approved plans to expand Cae’r Mynydd Holiday Park from 42 to 60 caravans despite objections related to sewage infrastructure, Welsh language impacts, and alleged past planning compliance issues.
Campgrounds across Wisconsin are increasingly positioning themselves as hubs for historical tourism as interest grows in destinations connected to America’s past ahead of the nation’s 250th anniversary, prompting travelers to seek out museums, preserved landmarks and living history attractions located near privately owned campgrounds throughout the state.
The Waves Signature RV Resort in Naples has received a Best Park Award from the Florida and Alabama RV Park and Campground Association, recognizing the 56-acre luxury RV destination for its operational standards, guest satisfaction and facility quality during the association’s annual convention in Orlando.
Hipcamp has expanded its footprint in Australia and New Zealand by adding more than 60 Hampshire Holiday Parks to its booking platform, giving campers access to a broader mix of holiday parks, caravan parks, powered campsites and cabin accommodations across the region.
Thousand Trails has launched its 12th annual #100DaysofCamping campaign, inviting campers to share photos and outdoor experiences throughout the summer travel season while participating in prize giveaways tied to activities and themed events at Thousand Trails campgrounds across North America.
TechnoRV and Paragon Events announced the launch of The GathrRing Rally Experience, a new premium RV rally series scheduled for October 2026 that aims to deliver a smaller, community-focused alternative to traditional large-scale RV gatherings.
RV Industry Association is encouraging attendees of RVs Move America Week to download the EventMobi mobile application ahead of the conference in Washington, D.C., as the association prepares to use the platform for schedules, event updates, networking, and real-time notifications during the annual industry gathering.
Kampgrounds of America announced that Emily Lawless and Spencer Dougay have acquired the Borden/Summerside KOA Journey, where the new ownership group plans to expand entertainment programming, enhance campground amenities, and transform the property into a repeat destination for travelers visiting Prince Edward Island.
Recreational Vehicle Industry Association said rising travel costs and a growing shift toward last-minute vacation planning are creating favorable conditions for RV travel as consumers seek flexible and lower-cost alternatives heading into the summer season.
Inn Town Campground in Nevada City is entering a new chapter as founders Dan and Erin Thiem transfer ownership of the nationally recognized campground to Overland Collective, a four-partner hospitality group that says it will preserve the property’s operations, staff, and community-focused identity.
Virginia Gov. Abigail Spanberger has proclaimed May 31 as Dam Safety Awareness Day, drawing attention to the importance of maintaining and monitoring the Commonwealth’s more than 2,400 regulated dams amid concerns over aging infrastructure, changing weather patterns and increased downstream development.
Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis has signed CS/CS/SB 118 into law, establishing new limits on how local governments calculate certain assessments for RV parks and campgrounds, a move supporters say will protect operators from rising non-ad valorem fees tied to the treatment of campsites as permanent residential properties rather than transient recreational accommodations.
Kampgrounds of America (KOA) has expanded its campground network with the addition of the Emlenton/Allegheny KOA Journey in western Pennsylvania, strengthening its footprint along the Interstate 80 travel corridor and bringing its total system to more than 500 campgrounds across the United States and Canada.
The RV Technical Institute recently conducted a dealer on-site training session with NTP-STAG at the company’s Dallas location, delivering Level 1 instruction designed to strengthen product knowledge and improve sales effectiveness among the distributor’s RV sales team as part of the institute’s broader workforce development efforts across the industry.
A Liverpool short-term accommodation operator is considering expanding an urban glamping-style concept in the Baltic Triangle after relaunching refurbished cabin and caravan rentals that have seen strong booking demand in recent weeks.
Go RVing will expand its 2026 experiential marketing efforts through partnerships with five national events across sports, outdoor recreation and lifestyle sectors as the organization shifts toward larger-scale activations designed to increase consumer engagement and broaden exposure for the RV industry.
A campsite along France’s Loire à Vélo route has reopened after extensive cleanup and repair work following February 2026 flooding, highlighting both the resilience and operational challenges facing outdoor hospitality businesses in weather-prone destinations.
Le Garanel campsite in Sommières has been named to the ACSI France Top 100 list for the second year in a row following infrastructure upgrades, landscaping improvements, and continued focus on guest experience since new management took over in 2023.
The RV Industry Association (RVIA) will bring together compliance, safety and manufacturing professionals this summer for its 2026 Regulatory and Safety Compliance Seminar, a half-day event focused on recall management, safety culture and the growing role of artificial intelligence in regulatory compliance across the recreational vehicle industry.
Campground owners across the outdoor hospitality industry are confronting a growing paradox as younger travelers increasingly demand reliable Wi-Fi and digital convenience while simultaneously seeking outdoor experiences that help them disconnect from modern life.
Care Camps Foundation has launched its inaugural Young Professionals Board, bringing together emerging leaders from the RV, camping and outdoor hospitality industries to expand fundraising and community engagement efforts supporting pediatric oncology camps across the United States and Canada.
Sponsorship opportunities are now open for the 2026 RV Aftermarket Conference, giving companies across the recreational vehicle aftermarket sector a chance to increase brand visibility and connect directly with suppliers, distributors and other industry decision-makers through one-on-one business meetings, networking events and conference activities.
G’day Group has acquired Habitat Noosa Everglades EcoCamp in Queensland, expanding its portfolio of nature-based tourism assets as demand for glamping, eco-tourism, and experience-led travel continues to grow ahead of the Brisbane 2032 Olympics.
Eureka Group Holdings has acquired Paynesville Holiday Park in Victoria’s East Gippsland region for AU$6.6 million, citing regional housing demand, diversified income, and approved expansion potential as key factors in the transaction.
Park With Us, formerly known as Park, has announced a formal rebrand as the campground management software provider expands its positioning from a reservation management platform into a broader, community-focused ecosystem serving campground operators across the United States.
Join Modern Campground’s MC Fireside Chats on May 27th at 2 PM ET as special guest Amber Simpson reveals her “Roasted Marshmallow Method™.” Discover a revolutionary approach to digital storytelling, moving beyond amenities to craft unforgettable experiences that evoke emotion and deeply connect with all campers, from glampers to big-rig travelers.
Outdoor hospitality is undergoing a structural shift as operators, designers, and developers increasingly move beyond traditional RV park and campground models toward immersive, story-driven destinations that prioritize experience over lodging alone, a theme explored during a recent MC Fireside Chats episode hosted by Modern Campground and moderated by Brian Searl.
G’day Group has acquired Habitat Noosa Everglades EcoCamp in Queensland, expanding its portfolio of nature-based tourism assets as demand for glamping, eco-tourism, and experience-led travel continues to grow ahead of the Brisbane 2032 Olympics.
Eureka Group Holdings has acquired Paynesville Holiday Park in Victoria’s East Gippsland region for AU$6.6 million, citing regional housing demand, diversified income, and approved expansion potential as key factors in the transaction.
Park With Us, formerly known as Park, has announced a formal rebrand as the campground management software provider expands its positioning from a reservation management platform into a broader, community-focused ecosystem serving campground operators across the United States.
Join Modern Campground’s MC Fireside Chats on May 27th at 2 PM ET as special guest Amber Simpson reveals her “Roasted Marshmallow Method™.” Discover a revolutionary approach to digital storytelling, moving beyond amenities to craft unforgettable experiences that evoke emotion and deeply connect with all campers, from glampers to big-rig travelers.
Outdoor hospitality is undergoing a structural shift as operators, designers, and developers increasingly move beyond traditional RV park and campground models toward immersive, story-driven destinations that prioritize experience over lodging alone, a theme explored during a recent MC Fireside Chats episode hosted by Modern Campground and moderated by Brian Searl.
Virginia Gov. Abigail Spanberger has proclaimed May 31 as Dam Safety Awareness Day, drawing attention to the importance of maintaining and monitoring the Commonwealth’s more than 2,400 regulated dams amid concerns over aging infrastructure, changing weather patterns and increased downstream development.
The Greater Wausau Prosperity Partnership has received a $500,000 Talent Recruitment Grant from the Wisconsin Economic Development Corporation to launch a workforce relocation and retention initiative aimed at attracting out-of-state professionals, families and remote workers to Marathon County through relocation incentives, employer partnerships and quality-of-life marketing efforts.
Campground Views powered by RecPro has launched an upgraded trip-planning platform for RV travelers, introducing expanded campground search tools, RV-safe routing, and thousands of interactive virtual campsite tours as part of a broader push to streamline campground discovery and reservation planning.
Pocahontas State Park will launch the 2026 Pocahontas Premieres concert series on May 9 at the Heritage Amphitheater, featuring new musical acts, returning crowd favorites and the debut of season tickets that provide admission and free parking for all shows throughout the season.
The Dyrt has released a Pacific Coast Highway road trip and camping guide outlining route details, campground recommendations and planning considerations for travelers along the West Coast corridor, including a suggested two- to three-week itinerary across the 1,650-mile stretch from Port Angeles to San Diego
Join Modern Campground’s MC Fireside Chats on May 27th at 2 PM ET as special guest Amber Simpson reveals her “Roasted Marshmallow Method™.” Discover a revolutionary approach to digital storytelling, moving beyond amenities to craft unforgettable experiences that evoke emotion and deeply connect with all campers, from glampers to big-rig travelers.
Outdoor hospitality is undergoing a structural shift as operators, designers, and developers increasingly move beyond traditional RV park and campground models toward immersive, story-driven destinations that prioritize experience over lodging alone, a theme explored during a recent MC Fireside Chats episode hosted by Modern Campground and moderated by Brian Searl.
A Liverpool short-term accommodation operator is considering expanding an urban glamping-style concept in the Baltic Triangle after relaunching refurbished cabin and caravan rentals that have seen strong booking demand in recent weeks.
The American Glamping Association will host a virtual discussion session on May 27 featuring experts in finance, operations, travel, and landscape architecture to examine issues affecting the glamping and outdoor hospitality industry.
Odisha’s Tourism Department has proposed a new 30-year lease framework for tent cities, glamping pods, and camping facilities as part of its effort to expand sustainable tourism infrastructure and attract investment in emerging destinations.
Early Memorial Day booking trends are prompting glamping and outdoor hospitality operators to evaluate expansion strategies, guest experience priorities, and year-round revenue opportunities as demand for premium accommodations continues to rise.
Salop Leisure has submitted plans to convert its Love2Stay caravan and glamping site near Shrewsbury into a 118-home care village, citing declining touring caravan demand and growing need for accommodation for older residents.
Travel companies and outdoor hospitality operators are expanding soft adventure offerings such as glamping, safari lodges, guided walks, and wellness retreats as travelers increasingly seek nature experiences centered on comfort, accessibility, and structured hospitality.
Join Modern Campground on May 20, 2026, for MC Fireside Chats as industry experts share invaluable insights on navigating campground property renovations, optimizing operational efficiency, and developing scalable staffing frameworks for business success.
USA TODAY has named Camp Fimfo Texas Hill Country the top RV campground in the nation in its 2026 10Best Readers’ Choice Awards, recognizing the resort-style Texas campground for its mix of RV accommodations, luxury cabins and family-focused amenities following a four-week nationwide public voting competition announced May 13.
A proposed glamping development in Peacehaven featuring yurts, cabins, and wellness-focused accommodations is under review as local authorities assess access, traffic, and environmental considerations ahead of a decision expected this month.
TechnoRV and Paragon Events announced the launch of The GathrRing Rally Experience, a new premium RV rally series scheduled for October 2026 that aims to deliver a smaller, community-focused alternative to traditional large-scale RV gatherings.
RV Industry Association is encouraging attendees of RVs Move America Week to download the EventMobi mobile application ahead of the conference in Washington, D.C., as the association prepares to use the platform for schedules, event updates, networking, and real-time notifications during the annual industry gathering.
Recreational Vehicle Industry Association said rising travel costs and a growing shift toward last-minute vacation planning are creating favorable conditions for RV travel as consumers seek flexible and lower-cost alternatives heading into the summer season.
Go RVing will expand its 2026 experiential marketing efforts through partnerships with five national events across sports, outdoor recreation and lifestyle sectors as the organization shifts toward larger-scale activations designed to increase consumer engagement and broaden exposure for the RV industry.
The RV Industry Association (RVIA) will bring together compliance, safety and manufacturing professionals this summer for its 2026 Regulatory and Safety Compliance Seminar, a half-day event focused on recall management, safety culture and the growing role of artificial intelligence in regulatory compliance across the recreational vehicle industry.
Campground owners across the outdoor hospitality industry are confronting a growing paradox as younger travelers increasingly demand reliable Wi-Fi and digital convenience while simultaneously seeking outdoor experiences that help them disconnect from modern life.
Sponsorship opportunities are now open for the 2026 RV Aftermarket Conference, giving companies across the recreational vehicle aftermarket sector a chance to increase brand visibility and connect directly with suppliers, distributors and other industry decision-makers through one-on-one business meetings, networking events and conference activities.
RV Sites Underprice a Surging Market as Outdoor Hospitality Index Climbs 2.7% in May — The Insider Perks Outdoor Hospitality Pricing Index (OHPI) climbed to 102.7 in May, but with the Demand Pressure Index jumping 9.4 points to 49.4% while RV segment pricing slipped below baseline to 99.3, some operators — particularly in Sunbelt markets — may be leaving rate increases on the table.
Navarro College will offer a summer 2026 RV technician training program in partnership with the RV Technical Institute, expanding hands-on workforce development efforts aimed at preparing entry-level technicians for careers in the recreational vehicle service industry.
The RV industry is advancing a range of summer 2026 initiatives focused on safety compliance, workforce development, aftermarket networking, and consumer outreach as demand for RV travel and outdoor accommodations continues to grow.
A bipartisan group of lawmakers has introduced legislation that would allow Americans to deduct interest paid on RV loans from their taxes, a move supporters say would make recreational vehicle ownership more affordable while strengthening the U.S. RV industry.
Australia’s recreational vehicle market became more concentrated in the first quarter of 2026 as Jayco widened its lead in consumer interest, while brands including Opus Camper, Lifestyle Campers and Patriot Campers gained ground across imported and locally built segments despite broader economic pressures, according to a new report from Retain Media
The Caravan Industry National Conference Gala Dinner recognized businesses, parks, manufacturers, and industry professionals for achievements in innovation, leadership, safety, and customer engagement across the caravan and camping sector.
RV Industry Association’s Sustainability Committee will host its fifth annual All-Industry Volunteer Day on May 20 at the Elkhart County 4-H Fairgrounds, bringing together volunteers from across the recreational vehicle sector to complete restoration and improvement projects aimed at enhancing the fairgrounds’ campground and recreational facilities.
Virginia Gov. Abigail Spanberger has proclaimed May 31 as Dam Safety Awareness Day, drawing attention to the importance of maintaining and monitoring the Commonwealth’s more than 2,400 regulated dams amid concerns over aging infrastructure, changing weather patterns and increased downstream development.
Pocahontas State Park will launch the 2026 Pocahontas Premieres concert series on May 9 at the Heritage Amphitheater, featuring new musical acts, returning crowd favorites and the debut of season tickets that provide admission and free parking for all shows throughout the season.
The 28th Annual Eagle Festival will return to Mason Neck State Park on May 9, running from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., bringing a full day of family-oriented programming centered on conservation, wildlife education and outdoor recreation in Northern Virginia.
Virginia State Parks will take part in the Chesapeake Bay Foundation’s Clean the Bay Day, a statewide volunteer initiative aimed at protecting and restoring the Chesapeake Bay watershed through coordinated cleanup efforts across rivers, streams, and shorelines.
Strong customer engagement and heightened interest in real-time safety technology underscored growing demand for advanced tire pressure monitoring systems (TPMS) as TechnoRV reported a successful partnership with Road Tech following the Mid-America Trucking Show, held March 26–28 in Louisville, Kentucky.
The Wisconsin Association of Campground Owners (WACO) announced a legislative win for private campgrounds after Governor Tony Evers signed Wisconsin Act 117 into law, clarifying that personal property owned by seasonal campers in licensed campgrounds is exempt from real property tax.
The European Trade Fair for Tourism Trends (SETT) will mark a historic milestone at its 47th edition, November 3-5 at the Montpellier Exhibition Centre, with the launch of the “Sett Hospitality” brand and a dedicated hall for cafés, hotels, and restaurants.
The Virginia Natural Heritage Program will mark its 40th anniversary in 2026 with a series of expert-led hikes and events across the state, offering visitors opportunities this spring to restore river cane, view rare wildflowers and see Virginia’s earliest blooming orchid.
Governor Abigail Spanberger launched the centennial anniversary of the Virginia Department of Conservation and Recreation (DCR), celebrating a century of protecting the commonwealth’s natural landscapes and public lands.
Signature Park has reaffirmed its commitment to the Canadian outdoor hospitality industry by renewing its strategic sponsorships with the British Columbia Lodging and Campgrounds Association (BCLCA) and the Canadian Camping and Recreational Vehicle Council (CCRVA).
CampLife will host a free webinar on Remote Meter Reading for campgrounds on February 5 at 11 a.m. EST, featuring Wild Energy and Kim Mulkey, property manager at University Station RV Resort, who will share her experience using the technology.
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.
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.