Outdoor Hospitality News
For owners, operators, team members, and anyone else interested in camping, glamping, or the RV industry.
News for November 12, 2026
BIG4 Adventure Whitsunday Resort raised $14,564.35 for Meals on Wheels Proserpine through its 22nd annual Camp and sCare, combining Halloween-themed guest activities with accommodation-based and voluntary fundraising.
Grevon’s integration with Indio by Big Rig Media will allow RV parks and campgrounds to handle guest inquiries, check real-time availability, and complete reservations and payments through a single AI-powered conversation.
OHCE 2026 opened its full conference program in Fort Worth with educational sessions, the annual Awards of Excellence Luncheon, peer discussions, exhibitor meetings, and a reception marking OHI’s 60th anniversary.
Grevon and Indio by Big Rig Media have partnered to integrate AI-powered conversational booking technology into RV parks and campgrounds, enabling guests to check availability, get property information, make reservations and complete payments through a single interaction without leaving the booking platform.
Hilton and Accor are expanding their loyalty programs beyond traditional hotel stays, with Hilton integrating AutoCamp outdoor accommodations and Explora Journeys cruises into Hilton Honors while Accor uses exclusive sporting experiences to engage ALL members.
West Virginia has opened reservations for 32 new glamping accommodations across four state parks for the 2027 season, with private investment from Out & West supporting construction, operations, and maintenance under a public-private partnership.
An overview of nine safari tent manufacturers examines their production capabilities, technical specifications, customization options, and the considerations resort developers should evaluate when sourcing modular tented accommodations.
Bowling RV was named the top fundraiser in the 2026 Compete for Kids campaign, which raised more than $100,000 for Care Camps Foundation through the participation of 49 RV dealerships across 19 states. The foundation and the Recreation Vehicle Dealers Association (RVDA) recognized the three highest fundraising dealerships Nov. 11 during the RVDA Convention/Expo in Las Vegas.
Wooda Farm Holiday Park in Bude, Cornwall, has been named the UK’s best holiday park in The AA’s 2026–27 Caravan & Camping Awards, recognizing its 200 pitches, varied accommodations, recreational activities, and on-site guest services.
The National RV Dealers Association (RVDA) recognized volunteer leaders, industry partners and longtime staff members for their contributions to the association and the recreational vehicle industry during its annual meeting Nov. 11 at Paris Las Vegas, presenting its highest honor to Chris Andro of Hemlock Hills RV Center and posthumously honoring former Dealer Services Manager Chuck Boyd.
The American Glamping Association (AGA) has scheduled four Lunch & Learn sessions through Jan. 13, 2027, featuring outdoor hospitality business founders and a presentation on reducing shipping costs and losses, giving industry professionals opportunities to exchange business insights and discuss operational challenges.
The last stretch of the year is where operational efficiency either shows up in your numbers—or doesn’t. Modern Campground invites you to a practical conversation on cutting bottlenecks, tightening daily workflows, and finding hidden revenue on the latest episode of MC Fireside Chats, airing live on Wednesday, November 18, 2026, at 2 PM ET.
The Outdoor Hospitality Industry (OHI) added five members to its board of directors and highlighted state and federal advocacy priorities during Wednesday’s final day of the 2026 Outdoor Hospitality Conference & Expo (OHCE) in Fort Worth, Texas, as the association marked its 60th anniversary.
A proposal to establish a four-unit glamping site in Wicklewood, Norfolk, has attracted objections from residents concerned about its potential impact on the rural landscape, local roads, noise levels, and drainage.
A proposal to establish four shepherd hut accommodations on agricultural land near Troon could create a year-round tourism business and additional revenue stream for an Ayrshire farm, with a planning decision expected by the end of December 2026.
Brad Bacon of PleasureLand RV Center in St. Cloud, Minnesota, has been elected chairman of the National RV Dealers Association (RVDA) Board of Directors for 2027, succeeding Bob Been of Blue Compass RV, who will remain on the board as immediate past chairman.
The RV Industry Association (RVIA) Board of Directors has reelected Ryan Elias, president and general manager of Leisure Travel Vans/Triple E RV, as chair for 2027, while retaining its existing Executive Committee officers and appointing new and returning members to board positions during its Nov. 10 organizational meeting.
A new Storable Newbook report found that 57% of U.S. campers abandoned a campground, RV park or glamping reservation in the past year because they could not reach someone or complete the booking online, while 69% chose one property over another because it offered an easier online booking, payment or communication process.
BIG4 Adventure Whitsunday Resort raised $14,564.35 for Meals on Wheels Proserpine through its 22nd annual Camp and sCare, combining Halloween-themed guest activities with accommodation-based and voluntary fundraising.
Grevon’s integration with Indio by Big Rig Media will allow RV parks and campgrounds to handle guest inquiries, check real-time availability, and complete reservations and payments through a single AI-powered conversation.
OHCE 2026 opened its full conference program in Fort Worth with educational sessions, the annual Awards of Excellence Luncheon, peer discussions, exhibitor meetings, and a reception marking OHI’s 60th anniversary.
Wooda Farm Holiday Park in Bude, Cornwall, has been named the UK’s best holiday park in The AA’s 2026–27 Caravan & Camping Awards, recognizing its 200 pitches, varied accommodations, recreational activities, and on-site guest services.
The American Glamping Association (AGA) has scheduled four Lunch & Learn sessions through Jan. 13, 2027, featuring outdoor hospitality business founders and a presentation on reducing shipping costs and losses, giving industry professionals opportunities to exchange business insights and discuss operational challenges.
The Outdoor Hospitality Industry (OHI) added five members to its board of directors and highlighted state and federal advocacy priorities during Wednesday’s final day of the 2026 Outdoor Hospitality Conference & Expo (OHCE) in Fort Worth, Texas, as the association marked its 60th anniversary.
A proposal to establish a four-unit glamping site in Wicklewood, Norfolk, has attracted objections from residents concerned about its potential impact on the rural landscape, local roads, noise levels, and drainage.
The American Glamping Association (AGA) has scheduled four Lunch & Learn sessions through Jan. 13, 2027, featuring outdoor hospitality business founders and a presentation on reducing shipping costs and losses, giving industry professionals opportunities to exchange business insights and discuss operational challenges.
The Outdoor Hospitality Industry (OHI) added five members to its board of directors and highlighted state and federal advocacy priorities during Wednesday’s final day of the 2026 Outdoor Hospitality Conference & Expo (OHCE) in Fort Worth, Texas, as the association marked its 60th anniversary.
The RV Industry Association (RVIA) Board of Directors has reelected Ryan Elias, president and general manager of Leisure Travel Vans/Triple E RV, as chair for 2027, while retaining its existing Executive Committee officers and appointing new and returning members to board positions during its Nov. 10 organizational meeting.
Grevon’s integration with Indio by Big Rig Media will allow RV parks and campgrounds to handle guest inquiries, check real-time availability, and complete reservations and payments through a single AI-powered conversation.
Grevon and Indio by Big Rig Media have partnered to integrate AI-powered conversational booking technology into RV parks and campgrounds, enabling guests to check availability, get property information, make reservations and complete payments through a single interaction without leaving the booking platform.
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.
West Virginia has opened reservations for 32 new glamping accommodations across four state parks for the 2027 season, with private investment from Out & West supporting construction, operations, and maintenance under a public-private partnership.
An overview of nine safari tent manufacturers examines their production capabilities, technical specifications, customization options, and the considerations resort developers should evaluate when sourcing modular tented accommodations.
The American Glamping Association (AGA) has scheduled four Lunch & Learn sessions through Jan. 13, 2027, featuring outdoor hospitality business founders and a presentation on reducing shipping costs and losses, giving industry professionals opportunities to exchange business insights and discuss operational challenges.
A proposal to establish a four-unit glamping site in Wicklewood, Norfolk, has attracted objections from residents concerned about its potential impact on the rural landscape, local roads, noise levels, and drainage.
A proposal to establish four shepherd hut accommodations on agricultural land near Troon could create a year-round tourism business and additional revenue stream for an Ayrshire farm, with a planning decision expected by the end of December 2026.
A proposed off-grid holiday cabin in Reepham, England, has received planning approval despite concerns about sewage capacity, surface water drainage, and parking, with the development expected to add short-stay accommodation to the area’s rural tourism offering.
Isla Aguada Glamping Co. has opened founding reservations for a planned 50-accommodation beachfront ecotourism retreat in Campeche, Mexico, combining jungle-based accommodations, wellness facilities, Maya cultural experiences and regenerative design ahead of its targeted late 2027 opening.
Auko Eco-Wellness Lodges in Vietnam’s Phong Nha offers a premium riverside glamping experience featuring 30 tents, daily wellness treatments, regional dining, and outdoor activities, with packages starting at VND5.5 million per night for two guests.
A planning application submitted to South Ayrshire Council proposes four year-round shepherd hut accommodations on agricultural land near Loans and Troon, with the development intended to diversify an existing farming operation and attract short-stay visitors.
Maximize your property’s equity through strategic expansions and new amenities. Modern Campground invites you to explore actionable ways to build long-term park value on the latest episode of MC Fireside Chats, airing live on Wednesday, November 11, 2026, at 2:00 PM ET.
Mleiha National Park has received the Sustain Sharjah Award in the Destinations category, recognizing the park’s integration of solar-powered infrastructure, waste reduction and conservation education into its tourism operations, including its glamping accommodations.
Muscat Municipality has started work on the 500,000-square-meter Hawiyat Najm development in Qurayyat, which will combine camping and caravan facilities, luxury glamping accommodations, public attractions, and sustainability initiatives.
Authorities in Bali’s Badung regency are reviewing Eco Park Pelaga Glamping Retreat’s business registrations, building approvals, and safety compliance following a November 1 landslide that left two guests missing.
Bowling RV was named the top fundraiser in the 2026 Compete for Kids campaign, which raised more than $100,000 for Care Camps Foundation through the participation of 49 RV dealerships across 19 states. The foundation and the Recreation Vehicle Dealers Association (RVDA) recognized the three highest fundraising dealerships Nov. 11 during the RVDA Convention/Expo in Las Vegas.
The National RV Dealers Association (RVDA) recognized volunteer leaders, industry partners and longtime staff members for their contributions to the association and the recreational vehicle industry during its annual meeting Nov. 11 at Paris Las Vegas, presenting its highest honor to Chris Andro of Hemlock Hills RV Center and posthumously honoring former Dealer Services Manager Chuck Boyd.
Brad Bacon of PleasureLand RV Center in St. Cloud, Minnesota, has been elected chairman of the National RV Dealers Association (RVDA) Board of Directors for 2027, succeeding Bob Been of Blue Compass RV, who will remain on the board as immediate past chairman.
Bestselling author Dan Heath will headline the RV Industry Association’s fifth annual Leadership Conference with a keynote address on creating memorable experiences through everyday interactions, challenging RV industry leaders to look beyond the products they sell and consider the lasting experiences they help create.
Vixen Composites has installed a new large-format CNC machine capable of processing composite panels up to 10 feet by 40 feet, expanding its fabrication capabilities to accommodate more complex designs while improving cutting precision and production efficiency.
BMO Bank N.A. will return as a bronze partner for the 2026 RV Dealers Convention/Expo, continuing its support of the Nov. 9-13 event in Las Vegas, where the bank provides retail financing, inventory funding and treasury management services to RV dealerships.
The RV Dealers Convention/Expo mobile app is now available for registered attendees ahead of the Nov. 9-13 event at Paris Las Vegas, offering tools to manage education schedules, navigate the exhibit floor and connect with industry participants, while onsite registration and hotel accommodations remain available.
The RV Technical Institute (RVTI) and Truma have scheduled two remaining product training sessions for 2026, offering recreational vehicle technicians 16 continuing education credits per course through complimentary, two-day instruction covering heating, water heating and cooling systems.
Travelers’ growing interest in achievement-based vacations is creating new marketing opportunities for the recreational vehicle industry, with research showing that 80% of Americans want to pursue travel checklist goals and 85% prefer destinations that challenge them.
The RV Industry Association (RVIA) added two park model RV manufacturers and a chassis supplier to its membership in October 2026, expanding its representation of companies across the recreational vehicle manufacturing and supply chain.
The RV Industry Association (RVIA) has released a recording of its Fall RV RoadSigns forecast webinar, giving members access to an analysis of wholesale shipment projections, economic indicators and potential risks affecting the recreational vehicle industry
The RV Dealers Association (RVDA) will bring together dealership, brokerage and financial planning professionals Nov. 10 for a session at the 2026 RV Dealers Convention/Expo focused on helping RV dealers assess business value, prepare for ownership transitions and plan dealership sales.
The Virginia Department of Conservation and Recreation has awarded $8.6 million in Land and Water Conservation Fund grants to 10 parks and outdoor recreation projects, supporting improvements ranging from sports courts and playgrounds to accessible boat launches, trails and new public park facilities.
Compass, a specialist caravan and leisure insurance provider, is urging caravan owners across the UK to secure their vehicles, review insurance coverage and prepare for potential flooding and wind damage ahead of Storm Austen, which is forecast to bring strong winds and heavy rain to south-west England, south Wales and southern coastal counties from late Thursday into Friday.
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.
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.