Outdoor Hospitality News
For owners, operators, team members, and anyone else interested in camping, glamping, or the RV industry.
News for October 20, 2026
Fraser Coast Regional Council has completed the Pialba Caravan Park redevelopment ahead of schedule, adding 95 larger camping sites, new amenities, a camp kitchen, and a dog-friendly section as part of ongoing upgrades to its regional caravan park network.
OHI has named six finalists for its 2026 Supplier Innovator of the Year Awards, with three companies in each of the small and large supplier categories competing for recognition at the Awards of Excellence Luncheon Nov. 9 during OHCE 2026 in Fort Worth, Texas.
The Campground Owners Expo, owned by Severson & Associates, will return to Branson, Missouri, Dec. 2-5, 2026, at the Hilton Branson Convention Center, with programming focused on campground operations, industry education, supplier connections and state campground association development.
RoverPass will participate in the October 20–22 Campground Solutions Summit West in Reno, where its CEO will join a panel on reservation technology and the company will demonstrate its software for campground and RV park operators.
Whiskeytown Lake’s annual water-level drawdown and upcoming winter closures across the Shasta-Trinity National Forest and Lassen Volcanic National Park are prompting visitors and outdoor hospitality operators to prepare for changing access and recreation conditions.
RV Technical Institute (RVTI) certification exams combine industry-developed standards, independent assessment validation and scenario-based performance testing to measure recreational vehicle technician competency, including the ability to apply technical knowledge in real-world service situations.
AA Car Insurance has ranked the New Forest National Park as the UK’s leading stargazing destination, highlighting potential seasonal opportunities for campgrounds, RV parks, and glamping resorts near areas with favorable night-sky conditions.
The RV Women’s Alliance recognized Eleonore Hamm, Jessica Rider, Grand Design RV and other industry leaders for their contributions to women’s leadership, mentorship and professional development during its annual awards ceremony Oct. 15.
RV dealership leaders will share strategies for building sustainable charitable programs that strengthen employee engagement, workplace culture and customer relationships during a Nov. 12 panel at the 2026 RV Dealers Convention/Expo in Las Vegas.
The RV Industry Association (RVIA) will host a members-only webinar Dec. 8 featuring ITR Economics Senior Forecaster Connor Lokar, who will review the Winter 2026 RV RoadSigns forecast, including wholesale shipment projections and the economic factors and risks shaping the recreational vehicle industry’s outlook.
Fraser Coast Regional Council has completed the Pialba Caravan Park redevelopment ahead of schedule, adding 95 larger camping sites, new amenities, a camp kitchen, and a dog-friendly section as part of ongoing upgrades to its regional caravan park network.
RV wholesale shipments are projected to fall 15.3% in 2026 to approximately 290,000 units before stabilizing at 285,000 units in 2027, with year-over-year quarterly growth expected to return in the second half of next year, according to the Fall 2026 RV RoadSigns forecast from ITR Economics and the RV Industry Association.
OHI has named six finalists for its 2026 Supplier Innovator of the Year Awards, with three companies in each of the small and large supplier categories competing for recognition at the Awards of Excellence Luncheon Nov. 9 during OHCE 2026 in Fort Worth, Texas.
The Campground Owners Expo, owned by Severson & Associates, will return to Branson, Missouri, Dec. 2-5, 2026, at the Hilton Branson Convention Center, with programming focused on campground operations, industry education, supplier connections and state campground association development.
The PA Wilds Conservation Shop at Leonard Harrison State Park, located on the edge of the Pennsylvania Grand Canyon in Wellsboro, Pennsylvania, will close for the winter after Oct. 18. This date marks the final open day of the season for the facility.
The Bundaberg Region in Queensland, Australia, received over 1,000 visitors from across the country last weekend as the Campervan and Motorhome Club of Australia opened its 39th National Rally at the Bundaberg Recreational Precinct.
RoverPass will participate in the October 20–22 Campground Solutions Summit West in Reno, where its CEO will join a panel on reservation technology and the company will demonstrate its software for campground and RV park operators.
Fixed operations professionals at the 2026 RV Dealers Convention/Expo will examine strategies to improve dealership profitability, service efficiency and technician retention during a Nov. 12 program at Paris Las Vegas, with workshops covering parts operations, workforce development and repair processes.
Fraser Coast Regional Council has completed the Pialba Caravan Park redevelopment ahead of schedule, adding 95 larger camping sites, new amenities, a camp kitchen, and a dog-friendly section as part of ongoing upgrades to its regional caravan park network.
OHI has named six finalists for its 2026 Supplier Innovator of the Year Awards, with three companies in each of the small and large supplier categories competing for recognition at the Awards of Excellence Luncheon Nov. 9 during OHCE 2026 in Fort Worth, Texas.
Fixed operations professionals at the 2026 RV Dealers Convention/Expo will examine strategies to improve dealership profitability, service efficiency and technician retention during a Nov. 12 program at Paris Las Vegas, with workshops covering parts operations, workforce development and repair processes.
Fraser Coast Regional Council has completed the Pialba Caravan Park redevelopment ahead of schedule, adding 95 larger camping sites, new amenities, a camp kitchen, and a dog-friendly section as part of ongoing upgrades to its regional caravan park network.
OHI has named six finalists for its 2026 Supplier Innovator of the Year Awards, with three companies in each of the small and large supplier categories competing for recognition at the Awards of Excellence Luncheon Nov. 9 during OHCE 2026 in Fort Worth, Texas.
The Campground Owners Expo, owned by Severson & Associates, will return to Branson, Missouri, Dec. 2-5, 2026, at the Hilton Branson Convention Center, with programming focused on campground operations, industry education, supplier connections and state campground association development.
RoverPass will participate in the October 20–22 Campground Solutions Summit West in Reno, where its CEO will join a panel on reservation technology and the company will demonstrate its software for campground and RV park operators.
The Virginia Department of Conservation and Recreation has adopted an updated master plan for High Bridge Trail State Park that will guide future development, trail enhancements and visitor access improvements along the 32-mile rail-trail, including a planned extension to the Town of Burkeville.
Canopy Camping Escapes founders Sonia Minnaar and Liz Henderson have been recognized at the 2026 NZI Rural Women Business Awards for building a rural accommodation network that now includes more than 220 independently owned escapes across New Zealand.
Virginia State Parks has expanded its accessibility program with the addition of an all-terrain wheelchair at First Landing State Park, bringing the total number of parks offering the mobility equipment to seven and increasing access to more than 5 miles of trails for visitors with mobility limitations.
A discounted two-night glamping promotion at Ribble Valley Retreat highlights how outdoor hospitality operators are using seasonal pricing and optional guest experiences to attract travelers ahead of the peak summer vacation period.
The Virginia Department of Conservation and Recreation is accepting applications for $11 million in federal Land and Water Conservation Fund grants to support park acquisition, development and rehabilitation projects across the state, with eligible applicants able to seek awards ranging from $150,000 to $2.5 million.
Glamping destinations in Selangor are attracting domestic and international visitors while creating opportunities for local businesses, with tourism officials emphasizing licensing, safety compliance, and community partnerships as the sector develops.
Scotland’s architect-designed AirShip 002 has reportedly generated approximately £100,000 in annual Airbnb revenue, highlighting the commercial potential of distinctive glamping accommodations alongside the costs and regulatory considerations facing operators.
The Glamping Show European Forum will take place Nov. 26 at Basecamp Amsterdam in the Netherlands, bringing together glamping operators, suppliers, investors and outdoor hospitality professionals for a one-day conference focused on business strategy, investment decisions, revenue growth and opportunities across the European glamping sector.
Best Bark has featured 15 dog-friendly cabins, lodges, and glamping stays across Ireland in an autumn getaway guide highlighting pet-friendly amenities, access to walking routes, and opportunities for outdoor hospitality operators to attract travelers beyond the peak summer season.
Pondshire has introduced new amenities at its private Upstate New York glamping retreat following a 2025 trial season, offering exclusive bookings for up to six guests across a dome and two cabins, with a dockside wood-fired hot tub and outdoor recreation facilities.
Hwaam Healing Campsite has opened in Jeongseon-gun, South Korea, following a 3.3 billion won investment, offering 45 deck campsites, three glamping units, and access to nearby attractions and planned cultural programming.
The American Glamping Association (AGA) will host an Oct. 14 Lunch & Learn session featuring Aspen Creative Co. to help glamping businesses use artificial intelligence to create marketing content that reflects their brand voices and avoids generic messaging.
With peak season behind us, how do you successfully extend your destination’s appeal and build year-round guest experiences through unique, eco-friendly accommodations? Modern Campground invites you to explore actionable strategies for elevating your property on the latest episode of MC Fireside Chats, airing live on Wednesday, October 14, 2026, at 2 PM ET.
Glamping Show Americas drew more than 1,770 verified attendees, exhibitors and speakers from 1,010 companies and 17 countries to the Arapahoe County Fairgrounds in Aurora, Colorado, Sept. 28–30, with organizers reporting a more purchase-ready audience and strong interest in structures, technology and other outdoor hospitality solutions.
How do you successfully evaluate the state of the outdoor hospitality industry and identify lucrative future investments as the fall season settles in? Modern Campground invites you to explore the evolving landscape of park real estate and franchise opportunities on the latest episode of MC Fireside Chats, airing live on Wednesday, October 7, 2026, at 2 PM ET.
Fixed operations professionals at the 2026 RV Dealers Convention/Expo will examine strategies to improve dealership profitability, service efficiency and technician retention during a Nov. 12 program at Paris Las Vegas, with workshops covering parts operations, workforce development and repair processes.
RV Technical Institute (RVTI) certification exams combine industry-developed standards, independent assessment validation and scenario-based performance testing to measure recreational vehicle technician competency, including the ability to apply technical knowledge in real-world service situations.
The RV Women’s Alliance recognized Eleonore Hamm, Jessica Rider, Grand Design RV and other industry leaders for their contributions to women’s leadership, mentorship and professional development during its annual awards ceremony Oct. 15.
RV dealership leaders will share strategies for building sustainable charitable programs that strengthen employee engagement, workplace culture and customer relationships during a Nov. 12 panel at the 2026 RV Dealers Convention/Expo in Las Vegas.
The RV Industry Association (RVIA) will host a members-only webinar Dec. 8 featuring ITR Economics Senior Forecaster Connor Lokar, who will review the Winter 2026 RV RoadSigns forecast, including wholesale shipment projections and the economic factors and risks shaping the recreational vehicle industry’s outlook.
RV wholesale shipments are projected to fall 15.3% in 2026 to approximately 290,000 units before stabilizing at 285,000 units in 2027, with year-over-year quarterly growth expected to return in the second half of next year, according to the Fall 2026 RV RoadSigns forecast from ITR Economics and the RV Industry Association.
The Bundaberg Region in Queensland, Australia, received over 1,000 visitors from across the country last weekend as the Campervan and Motorhome Club of Australia opened its 39th National Rally at the Bundaberg Recreational Precinct.
Wells Fargo Inventory Finance will return as the platinum sponsor of the 2026 RV Dealers Convention/Expo, funding the opening general session keynote by Curt Steinhorst as organizers seek to maintain event quality while keeping the convention affordable for dealers. The event is scheduled for Nov. 9-13 at Paris Las Vegas.
The Canadian Camping and RV Association (CCRA) is highlighting campground tours, supplier exhibits and educational programming on revenue management, artificial intelligence and campground operations as registration remains open for the Canadian Outdoor Hospitality Conference and Expo (COHCE) 2026, scheduled for Nov. 1-4 in Vancouver, British Columbia.
The RV Industry Association (RVIA) will review its Fall 2026 RV RoadSigns forecast during a members-only webinar Oct. 28, featuring ITR Economics Senior Forecaster Connor Lokar, who will discuss wholesale shipment projections, the economic factors behind the outlook and potential risks affecting the recreational vehicle industry.
The RV Industry Association (RVIA) is highlighting the role of its seal in helping campground and RV park operators verify manufacturer safety compliance, with more than 500 safety requirements covering electrical systems, water and waste systems, fire protection and other critical components of recreational vehicles.
The RV Dealers Association (RVDA) has awarded 27 recreational vehicle manufacturers and brands for dealer satisfaction, with recipients earning scores of at least 4.25 out of five in the association’s 32nd annual Dealer Satisfaction Index survey, which gathered 2,992 brand ratings from 602 dealership locations in the United States and Canada.
The Florida RV Trade Association (FRVTA) is continuing its 2026 fall RV show season with events in Tampa Nov. 5-8 and West Palm Beach Nov. 12-15, bringing multiple dealers together to showcase recreational vehicles and give consumers opportunities to compare models, floorplans and features in one location.
Nebraska’s new RV franchise law took effect Oct. 1, establishing requirements for manufacturer-dealer agreements, contract terminations, warranty responsibilities and other business practices, while updating vehicle classifications and standards under state law.
Twin Lakes State Park’s fall festival will return with pumpkin painting, hayrides, wildlife encounters, a craft marketplace and the comeback of its scarecrow decorating contest, with the winning creation earning a Virginia State Parks gift certificate.
Virginia’s Department of Conservation and Recreation and the Federal Highway Administration have awarded $1.3 million in Recreational Trails Program grants to seven trail projects across the Commonwealth, selected from 24 applications seeking a combined $4.93 million in funding.
Campspot has launched a weeklong fall sale offering hundreds of deals at participating campgrounds across North America, as campers increasingly extend outdoor travel into September and October. The sale runs Sept. 7–13 and comes as the company’s 2026 trend report shows a majority of surveyed campers continue camping beyond the traditional summer season.
The Virginia Department of Conservation and Recreation has adopted an updated master plan for High Bridge Trail State Park that will guide future development, trail enhancements and visitor access improvements along the 32-mile rail-trail, including a planned extension to the Town of Burkeville.
Virginia State Parks has expanded its accessibility program with the addition of an all-terrain wheelchair at First Landing State Park, bringing the total number of parks offering the mobility equipment to seven and increasing access to more than 5 miles of trails for visitors with mobility limitations.
The Virginia Department of Conservation and Recreation is accepting pre-application proposals for parks and outdoor recreation projects seeking funding through the National Park Service’s Outdoor Recreation Legacy Partnership Program.
The Virginia Department of Conservation and Recreation is accepting applications for $11 million in federal Land and Water Conservation Fund grants to support park acquisition, development and rehabilitation projects across the state, with eligible applicants able to seek awards ranging from $150,000 to $2.5 million.
Construction to fully reconstruct the River Road bridge at High Bridge Trail State Park in Farmville will begin July 6, closing the bridge and a section of the trail for about one month while maintaining public access to High Bridge and other portions of the trail.
The National RV Dealers Association has launched its 2026 Dealer Satisfaction Index survey, giving U.S. and Canadian dealers until Sept. 9 to evaluate the manufacturers and brands they represent across four areas critical to dealer operations: reliability and quality, parts support, warranty support and sales support.
Virginia State Parks will host a diverse lineup of outdoor concerts and music series this summer, offering visitors opportunities to enjoy live performances ranging from bluegrass and country to rock, symphony and contemporary music at park locations across the state from May through October.
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.
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.