Outdoor Hospitality News
For owners, operators, team members, and anyone else interested in camping, glamping, or the RV industry.
News for August 30, 2024
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Pebble, a California-based startup, has opened a new 60,000-square-foot headquarters and manufacturing facility in Fremont, California, marking a significant milestone in its mission to enhance the RVing experience with its all-electric Pebble Flow travel trailer.
Shenandoah National Park drew 1.5 million visitors in 2023, generating $114 million for the local economy and supporting 1,351 jobs, according to a National Park Service (NPS) report. The overall economic benefit reached $156 million, highlighting the park’s vital role in the community.
Myall River Camp secured multiple awards at the North Coast Tourism Awards, including Gold for ‘Excellence in Camping, Glamping and Caravanning’ and Bronze for ‘Excellence in Specialised Tourism’, while staff member Maree Milne wins Gold for ‘Outstanding Tourism Employee’.
Spacious Skies Campgrounds is expanding its fall glamping options across 15 locations, offering cabins, yurts, and retro-style trailers for non-RVers. The campground collection, known for its Fall Color Trail, aims to provide inclusive, unique lodging experiences for autumn adventurers.
After nearly half a century as a cornerstone of Durango’s RV market, Tarpley RV closed its doors at the end of June 2023, marking the end of a family-owned business that had grown from a small operation to a thriving enterprise employing up to 50 workers at its peak.
Huellas Latinas will be joining the upcoming MC Fireside Chats Open Discussion, bringing fresh perspectives to the conversation. Don’t miss this unique opportunity to hear from industry leaders and gain valuable insights into the future of outdoor hospitality.
Love’s RV Stops is offering a 10% discount to football fans traveling in RVs from September 1, 2024, through February 9, 2025, providing a convenient and cost-effective way to enjoy game days on the road. With 70 locations nationwide, Love’s RV Stops combine comfort and accessibility, catering to tailgaters heading to high school, college, or professional sports events.
RVDA and Accelerate2Compliance (A2C) will host a 30-minute webinar on September 12 at 2:00 p.m. Eastern to address the hidden capabilities and risks of the Dark Web for RV dealers, focusing on safeguarding sensitive data and maintaining cybersecurity.
Pebble, a California-based startup, has opened a new 60,000-square-foot headquarters and manufacturing facility in Fremont, California, marking a significant milestone in its mission to enhance the RVing experience with its all-electric Pebble Flow travel trailer.
Imagine a family of four, excited yet a bit overwhelmed while planning their first camping trip, finding your campground offering everything they need for their dream adventure. Let’s explore how to create the ultimate trip planning experience that will make families feel welcomed, excited, and ready to book their stay with you.
A bright summer morning at your campground, busy with families setting up tents and RVs parking, is every owner’s dream. Using search data to choose the right advertising platforms and craft targeted ads ensures your campground becomes the go-to spot for nature lovers.
Imagine a family arriving at your campground in their shiny RV, excited to find the perfect spot under a big oak tree. By offering free or low-cost camping spots, you can attract adventurers and create a win-win situation with added services that generate income.
Fall is a magical time to attract visitors to your campground, RV park, or glamping resort with cozy campfires and breathtaking scenery. Learn how to make your place the star of the season with fun activities, special deals, and creative marketing strategies.
After a visit to your amazing campground, encourage guests to leave online reviews by making it easy, asking at the right time, offering rewards, and creating memorable experiences. Positive reviews boost your campground’s visibility and credibility, helping new guests choose your site with confidence.
Imagine your campground as the perfect escape for someone nearby, turning it into the go-to spot for local getaways. By highlighting nearby attractions, using social media, and offering excellent customer service, you can attract locals and become a beloved part of the community.
Discover how adding “glamping,” or glamorous camping, to your campground can attract more guests and boost your revenue. With cozy beds, soft rugs, and fairy lights, your guests can enjoy nature with the comfort of home, making their stay unforgettable.
Jim and Nancy noticed fewer families were coming to their RV park due to economic challenges. By offering budget-friendly options like free camping spots, firewood bundles, and organizing free nature walks, they quickly filled their campground with happy, grateful campers.
Imagine a warm summer evening at your glamping resort with families laughing around campfires and the sky lit up in orange and pink as the sun sets. Learn how to create engaging content that showcases your campground’s unique features to attract more guests.
Imagine your website as the virtual entrance to your campground, guiding families, kids, and couples to your site with the help of SEO, or Search Engine Optimization. By focusing on keyword optimization and maintaining your website, you make it easy for excited campers to find you online and enjoy their next adventure.
Quinn and Alyssa Nelson, former registered nurses from Battle Ground, Washington, have acquired and rebranded Rock Horse RV Park in Fort Rock, Oregon, now known as Coyote Ridge Campground. The couple, who share a passion for rural living, have transformed the site at 74543 Highway 31 into a hub for outdoor activities and community events, offering enhanced amenities and unique experiences for both locals and visitors.
Shenandoah National Park drew 1.5 million visitors in 2023, generating $114 million for the local economy and supporting 1,351 jobs, according to a National Park Service (NPS) report. The overall economic benefit reached $156 million, highlighting the park’s vital role in the community.
The RV industry marked Women’s Equality Day with a gathering at the RV Technical Institute, celebrating progress toward gender equality. Organized by the RV Women’s Alliance and sponsored by Camping World, the event honored the 19th Amendment’s certification and attracted participants from various sectors of the RV industry, including members of the RV Industry Association, RV Technical Institute, and RV Dealers Association.
Myall River Camp secured multiple awards at the North Coast Tourism Awards, including Gold for ‘Excellence in Camping, Glamping and Caravanning’ and Bronze for ‘Excellence in Specialised Tourism’, while staff member Maree Milne wins Gold for ‘Outstanding Tourism Employee’.
Quinn and Alyssa Nelson, former registered nurses from Battle Ground, Washington, have acquired and rebranded Rock Horse RV Park in Fort Rock, Oregon, now known as Coyote Ridge Campground. The couple, who share a passion for rural living, have transformed the site at 74543 Highway 31 into a hub for outdoor activities and community events, offering enhanced amenities and unique experiences for both locals and visitors.
Spacious Skies Campgrounds is expanding its fall glamping options across 15 locations, offering cabins, yurts, and retro-style trailers for non-RVers. The campground collection, known for its Fall Color Trail, aims to provide inclusive, unique lodging experiences for autumn adventurers.
RoverPass has introduced its new Ambassador Program, offering RV enthusiasts, campground owners, and outdoor hospitality professionals the chance to earn money by promoting its campground reservation software, a move aimed at expanding its reach within the industry.
Spot2Nite has expanded its campsite marketplace by adding several RV resorts from investment group Four Points RV Resorts, providing campers access to six premium locations across the U.S., including four Jellystone Park destinations known for their family-friendly experiences.
Love’s RV Stops is offering a 10% discount to football fans traveling in RVs from September 1, 2024, through February 9, 2025, providing a convenient and cost-effective way to enjoy game days on the road. With 70 locations nationwide, Love’s RV Stops combine comfort and accessibility, catering to tailgaters heading to high school, college, or professional sports events.
Quinn and Alyssa Nelson, former registered nurses from Battle Ground, Washington, have acquired and rebranded Rock Horse RV Park in Fort Rock, Oregon, now known as Coyote Ridge Campground. The couple, who share a passion for rural living, have transformed the site at 74543 Highway 31 into a hub for outdoor activities and community events, offering enhanced amenities and unique experiences for both locals and visitors.
Spacious Skies Campgrounds is expanding its fall glamping options across 15 locations, offering cabins, yurts, and retro-style trailers for non-RVers. The campground collection, known for its Fall Color Trail, aims to provide inclusive, unique lodging experiences for autumn adventurers.
RoverPass has introduced its new Ambassador Program, offering RV enthusiasts, campground owners, and outdoor hospitality professionals the chance to earn money by promoting its campground reservation software, a move aimed at expanding its reach within the industry.
Spot2Nite has expanded its campsite marketplace by adding several RV resorts from investment group Four Points RV Resorts, providing campers access to six premium locations across the U.S., including four Jellystone Park destinations known for their family-friendly experiences.
Shenandoah National Park drew 1.5 million visitors in 2023, generating $114 million for the local economy and supporting 1,351 jobs, according to a National Park Service (NPS) report. The overall economic benefit reached $156 million, highlighting the park’s vital role in the community.
Myall River Camp secured multiple awards at the North Coast Tourism Awards, including Gold for ‘Excellence in Camping, Glamping and Caravanning’ and Bronze for ‘Excellence in Specialised Tourism’, while staff member Maree Milne wins Gold for ‘Outstanding Tourism Employee’.
Florida’s Department of Environmental Protection rescheduled public meetings on controversial state park proposal, seeking larger venues to ensure public participation in discussions about adding lodges and recreational facilities to nine parks.
Marine parks in British Columbia continue to captivate visitors with their blend of natural beauty and outdoor adventure. In April 2024, BC Parks conducted interviews with marine park visitors, finding that most participants viewed park fees as reasonable.
Milakokia Lake State Forest Campground in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula will close after Labor Day for significant upgrades, according to the Tahquamenon Falls State Park Facebook page. The closure, scheduled from September 3 to November 30, aims to improve traffic flow, enhance boating access, and replace vault toilets.
Somerset has been nominated as one of Blue Ridge Outdoors Magazine’s Top 25 “Small Adventure Towns” in the mid-Atlantic and Southeastern United States. An online voting contest is now underway, where the public will select the top town, with winners to be featured in the November issue of the magazine.
Myall River Camp secured multiple awards at the North Coast Tourism Awards, including Gold for ‘Excellence in Camping, Glamping and Caravanning’ and Bronze for ‘Excellence in Specialised Tourism’, while staff member Maree Milne wins Gold for ‘Outstanding Tourism Employee’.
Spacious Skies Campgrounds is expanding its fall glamping options across 15 locations, offering cabins, yurts, and retro-style trailers for non-RVers. The campground collection, known for its Fall Color Trail, aims to provide inclusive, unique lodging experiences for autumn adventurers.
Spot2Nite has expanded its campsite marketplace by adding several RV resorts from investment group Four Points RV Resorts, providing campers access to six premium locations across the U.S., including four Jellystone Park destinations known for their family-friendly experiences.
Minnesota’s glamping scene is booming, offering travelers luxurious outdoor experiences with amenities like canvas tents, saunas, and unique accommodations such as treehouses and stargazing domes, attracting a diverse range of visitors seeking nature without sacrificing comfort.
MooVert is transforming sustainable tourism in France, offering eco-responsible accommodations, cultural experiences, and personalized itineraries that prioritize environmental responsibility and support local communities.
CRR Hospitality has been selected to manage Lagoon Ranch RV Resort in Onalaska, Texas, marking a new chapter for the luxury RV resort. The partnership aims to enhance the resort’s offerings, providing guests with improved amenities and elevated experiences in the popular Lake Livingston area.
The Shetland Islands Council Planning Committee has approved controversial glamping pods in Fetlar, sparking local debate and highlighting the challenges of balancing development with community concerns in remote island communities.
The upcoming election is influencing fall travel decisions for outdoor enthusiasts, with one in four campers canceling or delaying their plans, according to the latest MC Camper Compass research report. As campground operators prepare for potential disruptions, the report highlights the importance of staying informed and responsive to campers’ concerns during this uncertain time.
Adventures on the Gorge in Fayetteville, West Virginia, blends fall whitewater rafting and luxury camping along the Gauley River, offering a unique experience through its Deluxe Gauley River Overnight package, which includes two days of rafting, gourmet meals, and upscale camping at the Canyon Doors Campground.
Insider Perks, a leader in AI marketing solutions for the outdoor hospitality industry, has unveiled its AI Phone Call service, expanding their existing 24/7 customer support from chatbots to voice-based interactions. This new service allows campgrounds, RV parks, and resorts to offer round-the-clock, personalized phone assistance, ensuring no potential booking or customer inquiry is missed, even after hours.
Spot2Nite, an online travel agency focused on outdoor accommodations, has expanded its offerings by adding 21 premium RV resorts from Blue Water, significantly enhancing its marketplace with over 3,000 new camping options across the U.S., including RV and tent sites, vacation rentals, and glamping experiences.
Finalists for the 2024 Lancashire Tourism Awards have been announced, highlighting top contenders in categories such as Camping, Glamping & Holiday Parks, and more. These businesses will now undergo rigorous evaluations, including mystery shopping and interviews, as they compete for top honors to be awarded at a gala ceremony in February 2025.
Crystal Lake Township officials are set to review a revised site plan for the proposed 17-acre Camp Nearby campground at their upcoming August 28 planning commission meeting, following public concerns raised by the community.
RoverPass, an online reservation management system for campgrounds, RV parks, and glamping resorts, will host the second installment of its webinar series, “Mastering Site Pricing,” on Thursday, August 15, at 6 p.m. CT. This session aims to help campground owners and managers refine their pricing strategies by offering advanced techniques for setting site rates, with a focus on seasonal demand, competitor pricing, and customer preferences.
Jellystone Park Zion is preparing for the summer season filled with family-fun offerings. The park, which has become a popular destination since its Memorial Day weekend debut, features a range of activities and amenities designed to appeal to visitors of all ages.
RVDA and Accelerate2Compliance (A2C) will host a 30-minute webinar on September 12 at 2:00 p.m. Eastern to address the hidden capabilities and risks of the Dark Web for RV dealers, focusing on safeguarding sensitive data and maintaining cybersecurity.
Pebble, a California-based startup, has opened a new 60,000-square-foot headquarters and manufacturing facility in Fremont, California, marking a significant milestone in its mission to enhance the RVing experience with its all-electric Pebble Flow travel trailer.
The RV industry marked Women’s Equality Day with a gathering at the RV Technical Institute, celebrating progress toward gender equality. Organized by the RV Women’s Alliance and sponsored by Camping World, the event honored the 19th Amendment’s certification and attracted participants from various sectors of the RV industry, including members of the RV Industry Association, RV Technical Institute, and RV Dealers Association.
Ron Wheeler, CEO of Wheeler Advertising, and Annie Wheeler-Rusch, account and social media director, will lead educational workshops at the 2024 RV Dealers Convention/Expo. Ron Wheeler will host “Leads, Leads, Leads: What You Need to Know to Create More Leads” on Nov. 12, focusing on lead generation strategies backed by data from 50 dealerships.
Brown & Brown Insurance has increased its sponsorship to the silver level for the 2024 RV Dealers Convention/Expo, set to take place from Nov. 11-15 at Paris Las Vegas. The event, sponsored by RVDA of the U.S., RVDA of Canada, and the Mike Molino RV Learning Center, will gather RV industry professionals from across North America.
The campground and RV industry is experiencing significant growth and transformation, driven by increasing demand, technological advancements, and a focus on sustainability, reshaping the outdoor hospitality landscape and offering new opportunities for stakeholders.
After nearly half a century as a cornerstone of Durango’s RV market, Tarpley RV closed its doors at the end of June 2023, marking the end of a family-owned business that had grown from a small operation to a thriving enterprise employing up to 50 workers at its peak.
Lightship, spearheaded by former Tesla innovators, is set to revolutionize the RV industry with its electric, aerodynamically designed trailers that promise sustainability and modern convenience. As the company prepares for imminent production, its breakthroughs signal a significant shift towards eco-friendly and technologically advanced recreational vehicles.
The North American recreational vehicle market is experiencing a surge in demand, driven by increasing disposable incomes and a shift towards remote work and outdoor lifestyles. Technological advancements and a focus on sustainability are further shaping the market, with luxury and customized RVs becoming increasingly popular among consumers.
Oliver Travel Trailers and Evans RV Sales partner to offer a unique “Oliver Experience” at the Elkhart, Indiana dealership, providing customers with personalized guidance throughout the purchasing process.
AEONrv, an innovator in the overlanding and RV industry, has launched an equity crowdfunding campaign via Wefunder, seeking to raise up to $3 million at a $33 million pre-money valuation. The campaign follows a successful private round of $450,000 and aims to fund expansion, manufacturing capacity increases, and research and development.
Fixed operations performance will be a focal point at the RV Dealers Convention/Expo, where experts from Integrated Dealer Systems (IDS) will lead educational workshops. Scheduled for Nov. 11-15 at Paris Las Vegas, the event is sponsored by RVDA of the U.S., RVDA of Canada, and the Mike Molino RV Learning Center.
At the upcoming RV Dealers Convention/Expo in Las Vegas, Charlie Dougherty at Wells Fargo, will lead a session on the U.S. economy’s outlook for 2025. The session, part of the dealer/GM education track, will focus on key economic factors such as inflation, interest rates, and demographic trends, with an emphasis on their impact on the RV industry
RV Products, a division of Airxcel, has completed the expansion of its Wichita, Kansas, facility, marking the end of a two-phase project that added 125,000 square feet to the site. The company celebrated the milestone with a ribbon-cutting ceremony on August 16.
weBoost has introduced the Drive Reach RV II, a cutting-edge cell signal booster designed to enhance connectivity for RV owners in remote areas. The device delivers up to 32 times stronger signals than unboosted options, supports all North American carriers, and reduces dropped calls by 90%, making it ideal for travelers seeking reliable communication on the road.
CARAVAN SALON Düsseldorf 2024, set to take place from August 30 to September 8, is poised bringing together over 750 exhibitors across 16 halls. This global platform will showcase the latest innovations and models in the caravanning industry, emphasizing freedom and individuality as key attractions for travelers.
RV Trader and Cycle Trader have launched a new AI-powered vehicle listing tool aimed at simplifying the process of selling pre-owned RVs and motorcycles. The tool, which populates vehicle details and descriptions automatically, reduces the time needed to create listings, offering sellers a more efficient way to market their vehicles.
The Ron & Lisa Fenech Family Foundation has committed $500,000 for the emergency relief program for RV dealership employees, partnering with the Mike Molino RV Learning Center to provide financial assistance for those facing hardships due to natural disasters and other catastrophic events.
Dealers registering for the 2024 RV Dealers Convention/Expo by September 5 have a chance to win a free two-night stay at Paris Las Vegas, adding an incentive for early sign-ups ahead of the November 11-15 event.
Ron Wheeler, CEO of Wheeler Advertising, and Annie Wheeler-Rusch, account and social media director, will lead educational workshops at the 2024 RV Dealers Convention/Expo. Ron Wheeler will host “Leads, Leads, Leads: What You Need to Know to Create More Leads” on Nov. 12, focusing on lead generation strategies backed by data from 50 dealerships.
Campground Views, a camping technology and provider of virtual tours for campgrounds and RV parks, has been selected as part of Google Play’s #WeArePlay campaign. This recognition highlights the company’s work in enhancing the camping experience through advanced virtual tour technology.
As September and October approach, outdoor enthusiasts are gearing up for Gauley Season in West Virginia, where Adventures on the Gorge (AOTG), the adventure resort and rafting outfitter, will offer guided rafts, cabins, campsites, and more for an exhilarating whitewater experience on the world-renowned Gauley River.
Campground Views, a provider of virtual tours for campgrounds and RV parks, has launched a major upgrade to their Campground Virtual Tours by introducing audio overlays, including music and voice overs, to enhance the virtual touring experience for users.
Remote work, gap years, sabbaticals, and a desire to escape city life have contributed to a 30-35% increase in solo travelers in the United States, according to The Dyrt and Pinterest. Roadtrippers, an app powered by AI technology, is emerging as a key resource for these adventurers, offering personalized trip recommendations to enhance their travel experience.
Kent Outdoors, a leader in outdoor adventure products for over 60 years, has appointed Randy Hales as its new CEO. Hales brings extensive experience in consumer products, having previously led companies like Next Level Apparel, ZAGG Inc., and Back to Basics.
Spacious Skies Campgrounds, with 15 properties from Georgia to Maine, offers an ideal family destination, ensuring a safe and engaging environment for children. The campground offers tips for keeping kids happy on camping trips, highlighting the vibrant community feel and the wide array of activities, from jumping pillows to pool splashes, which keep kids entertained and create lasting memories.
Campground Views has launched a new virtual tour for Bay Hide Away RV Park & Campground, offering potential guests an immersive and interactive way to explore the park. Located in the picturesque Bay St. Louis area of Mississippi, the virtual tour is now available on the Bay Hide Away website.
The Virginia Land Conservation Foundation (VLCF) has opened applications for $13.5 million in land conservation grants, marking its 25th anniversary this year. These grants, aimed at preserving farmland, forestland, historic areas, natural areas, and open spaces, provide crucial support for localities, nonprofits, and state or federally recognized tribes in their conservation efforts.
Green Bay football player, Gilbert Brown, visits Wisconsin campgrounds and bars to raise funds for children’s charities through The Gilbert Brown Foundation.
The Dyrt, a popular app for camping availability, photos, and reviews, has announced its 2024 Best Places To Camp Regional Awards. This year’s awards include some of the trendiest campgrounds of the past year, popular picks from The Dyrt users, and well-established, sought-after properties that continually earn top spots on these lists.
OpenCampground has teamed up with Chekdin to integrate the power of word-of-mouth marketing within its AI-driven reservation management system. This strategic partnership will enable campgrounds and RV resorts to effectively leverage positive guest experiences, sharing them across digital channels to boost their marketing efforts.
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.
The Campground Conference & Trade Show 2025 announces its return to Lake Buena Vista, Florida, from March 3-5, inviting campground and outdoor hospitality professionals to engage in vital networking and educational opportunities.