The Outdoor Hospitality Industry (OHI) added five members to its board of directors Wednesday as the association used the final day of its 2026 Outdoor Hospitality Conference & Expo (OHCE) in Fort Worth, Texas, to review its annual activities, discuss advocacy priorities and address business challenges facing campground owners and operators.
The new board members were sworn in during the OHI 2026 Year in Review & Looking Ahead Annual Breakfast Meeting, led by OHI President and CEO Paul Bambei and Chief Strategy Officer and Senior Vice President of Government Affairs David Basler. The meeting provided updates on the association’s work over the past year and its priorities for the coming year.
The leadership transition comes as OHI marks its 60th anniversary in 2026.
Advocacy took center stage during the Advocacy in Action for Outdoor Hospitality luncheon, where Basler led discussions on issues affecting campground owners and operators. The session addressed state and federal advocacy priorities and provided updates on OHI’s efforts to represent the outdoor hospitality industry.
Running concurrently with the luncheon, Lisa Courtney of Camp Jellystone led Inside National School, presenting lessons and insights from National School students and faculty.
Education sessions throughout Wednesday addressed several operational and financial priorities for outdoor hospitality businesses. Morning presentations covered negotiation strategies, the business value of unique rental accommodations and electrical submetering at RV parks.
Afternoon programming focused on campground profitability, financial planning, guest experience and workforce management. Christa and Jonathan Neundorfer of Aspen Grove RV Park led an interactive workshop that guided attendees through evaluating their properties’ guest experiences and identifying opportunities to improve revenue.
Campfire Sessions also returned with discussions tailored to specific campground roles. One session examined changing demands on hospitality managers, while another addressed ways guest services employees can resolve common guest complaints without increasing labor requirements.
The Expo Hall opened at 8 a.m. for its final morning, giving attendees additional time to meet exhibitors, review products and services, and connect with industry partners before the conference concluded.
The final day’s schedule also included free professional headshots and a puppy visit for attendees.
OHCE 2026 concluded Wednesday evening with Neon Rodeo, a closing reception featuring live entertainment. Organizers also announced the winner of the conference game during the event.
The conference brought together outdoor hospitality professionals for association updates, educational programming and industry networking as OHI continued its 60th anniversary observance.