Outdoor Hospitality News
For owners, operators, team members, and anyone else interested in camping, glamping, or the RV industry.
News for June 5, 2025
Terramor Outdoor Resort in Bar Harbor, Maine, will host *Ember & Element: A Wellness Retreat* from June 13–16, offering guests a four-day, nature-immersive experience designed to support mental and physical well-being through movement, mindfulness, and outdoor exploration near Acadia National Park.
More than 100 RV industry leaders met with lawmakers on Capitol Hill June 5 during Advocacy Day to highlight the sector’s \$140 billion economic impact and push for key policy reforms. In 107 meetings, participants urged action on fair tax treatment, tariff clarity, infrastructure investment, and support through the bipartisan RV Caucus.
A plan to build a 47-acre luxury RV resort in Loxahatchee Groves hit a roadblock on May 19, as the town’s Planning and Zoning Board voted 4-1 to reject key elements of the proposal, including a comprehensive plan amendment and a new zoning category.
Campspot has become the first major campground management platform to launch a fully automated, AI-powered booking experience, thanks to a new integration with Insider Perks’ conversational AI—allowing guests to research, reserve, and pay for campsites seamlessly within a single chat window.
Camp Fimfo, a resort-style camping brand operated by Northgate Resorts, has partnered with low-sugar candy maker SmartSweets to launch a seasonal promotion aimed at enhancing guest experiences during the 2025 summer and fall travel seasons.
Top policymakers and political commentators joined RV industry leaders in Washington, D.C., this week for RVs Move America Week, where discussions on tax policy, trade, and shifting political dynamics took center stage during a high-profile gathering hosted by the RV Industry Association.
REV Group reported strong fiscal 2025 second-quarter earnings, with net sales climbing to $629.1 million and adjusted net income surging to $35.4 million. Buoyed by robust demand and throughput in its fire and emergency vehicle division, the Wisconsin-based manufacturer raised its full-year outlook and announced plans to expand production capacity.
Love’s Travel Stops has upgraded 13 locations across the U.S. this year as part of its Strategic Remodel Initiative, enhancing facilities for professional drivers, families, and RV travelers. The improvements include remodeled restrooms, showers, laundry services, and new RV-specific amenities such as parking and utility hookups, reflecting the company’s ongoing commitment to comfort and convenience on the road.
Terramor Outdoor Resort in Bar Harbor, Maine, will host *Ember & Element: A Wellness Retreat* from June 13–16, offering guests a four-day, nature-immersive experience designed to support mental and physical well-being through movement, mindfulness, and outdoor exploration near Acadia National Park.
More than 100 RV industry leaders met with lawmakers on Capitol Hill June 5 during Advocacy Day to highlight the sector’s \$140 billion economic impact and push for key policy reforms. In 107 meetings, participants urged action on fair tax treatment, tariff clarity, infrastructure investment, and support through the bipartisan RV Caucus.
A plan to build a 47-acre luxury RV resort in Loxahatchee Groves hit a roadblock on May 19, as the town’s Planning and Zoning Board voted 4-1 to reject key elements of the proposal, including a comprehensive plan amendment and a new zoning category.
A proposed holiday park featuring 134 caravan lodges on a disused industrial site in Astley has prompted concerns from residents over traffic congestion, though local highway authorities have raised no formal objections.
Campspot has become the first major campground management platform to launch a fully automated, AI-powered booking experience, thanks to a new integration with Insider Perks’ conversational AI—allowing guests to research, reserve, and pay for campsites seamlessly within a single chat window.
Thousand Trails has launched its 10th annual #100DaysofCamping campaign, inviting guests to enjoy the outdoors between Memorial Day weekend and Labor Day through camping experiences, social media engagement, and a national photo contest. The campaign, which began in 2015, encourages participants to document their summer adventures at Thousand Trails campgrounds across North America by sharing photos online for a chance to win prizes valued at more than $2,300.
The RV Industry Association honored Kevin McArt, general manager at Forest River and former Association chair, during the Chairman’s Dinner on Tuesday, June 3, at Ciel Social Club in Washington, D.C., as part of RVs Move America Week 2025.
Camp Fimfo, a resort-style camping brand operated by Northgate Resorts, has partnered with low-sugar candy maker SmartSweets to launch a seasonal promotion aimed at enhancing guest experiences during the 2025 summer and fall travel seasons.
Top policymakers and political commentators joined RV industry leaders in Washington, D.C., this week for RVs Move America Week, where discussions on tax policy, trade, and shifting political dynamics took center stage during a high-profile gathering hosted by the RV Industry Association.
A proposed glamping development in Bewdley has been denied planning approval due to its perceived adverse impact on the countryside, sparking frustration among local residents and raising caution for outdoor hospitality operators targeting rural locations.
Terramor Outdoor Resort in Bar Harbor, Maine, will host *Ember & Element: A Wellness Retreat* from June 13–16, offering guests a four-day, nature-immersive experience designed to support mental and physical well-being through movement, mindfulness, and outdoor exploration near Acadia National Park.
A plan to build a 47-acre luxury RV resort in Loxahatchee Groves hit a roadblock on May 19, as the town’s Planning and Zoning Board voted 4-1 to reject key elements of the proposal, including a comprehensive plan amendment and a new zoning category.
A proposed holiday park featuring 134 caravan lodges on a disused industrial site in Astley has prompted concerns from residents over traffic congestion, though local highway authorities have raised no formal objections.
Campspot has become the first major campground management platform to launch a fully automated, AI-powered booking experience, thanks to a new integration with Insider Perks’ conversational AI—allowing guests to research, reserve, and pay for campsites seamlessly within a single chat window.
Love’s Travel Stops has upgraded 13 locations across the U.S. this year as part of its Strategic Remodel Initiative, enhancing facilities for professional drivers, families, and RV travelers. The improvements include remodeled restrooms, showers, laundry services, and new RV-specific amenities such as parking and utility hookups, reflecting the company’s ongoing commitment to comfort and convenience on the road.
Terramor Outdoor Resort in Bar Harbor, Maine, will host *Ember & Element: A Wellness Retreat* from June 13–16, offering guests a four-day, nature-immersive experience designed to support mental and physical well-being through movement, mindfulness, and outdoor exploration near Acadia National Park.
A plan to build a 47-acre luxury RV resort in Loxahatchee Groves hit a roadblock on May 19, as the town’s Planning and Zoning Board voted 4-1 to reject key elements of the proposal, including a comprehensive plan amendment and a new zoning category.
Campspot has become the first major campground management platform to launch a fully automated, AI-powered booking experience, thanks to a new integration with Insider Perks’ conversational AI—allowing guests to research, reserve, and pay for campsites seamlessly within a single chat window.
Thousand Trails has launched its 10th annual #100DaysofCamping campaign, inviting guests to enjoy the outdoors between Memorial Day weekend and Labor Day through camping experiences, social media engagement, and a national photo contest. The campaign, which began in 2015, encourages participants to document their summer adventures at Thousand Trails campgrounds across North America by sharing photos online for a chance to win prizes valued at more than $2,300.
Camp Fimfo, a resort-style camping brand operated by Northgate Resorts, has partnered with low-sugar candy maker SmartSweets to launch a seasonal promotion aimed at enhancing guest experiences during the 2025 summer and fall travel seasons.
Campspot is putting the spotlight on a rising travel trend—pop-up escapes—during its upcoming “Camp Campspot: Open Session” on June 5, offering campground and RV park operators a timely opportunity to tap into evolving traveler preferences.
Prince Edward Island National Park is gearing up for the 2025 summer season with a series of infrastructure upgrades, enhanced safety protocols, and expanded programming aimed at protecting the park’s fragile coastal environment and improving visitor experience. Among the key changes is a new ban on pool inflatables at all park beaches, part of a broader initiative by Parks Canada to reduce safety risks and preserve ecological integrity along the island’s shoreline.
Oregon Caves National Monument and Preserve has officially kicked off the summer season with the return of guided cave tours and the reopening of Cave Creek Campground, drawing visitors back to this scenic Southern Oregon destination. Cave tours are now available on Saturdays and Sundays, with advance tickets sold on Recreation.gov and limited same-day options at park visitor centers.
Dolly Varden Campground, a 12-site facility in Alaska’s Kenai National Wildlife Refuge operated by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, will close for renovations from 8 a.m. on May 28 through noon on June 27 to improve infrastructure and enhance long-term visitor access and safety.
Terramor Outdoor Resort in Bar Harbor, Maine, will host *Ember & Element: A Wellness Retreat* from June 13–16, offering guests a four-day, nature-immersive experience designed to support mental and physical well-being through movement, mindfulness, and outdoor exploration near Acadia National Park.
Campspot has become the first major campground management platform to launch a fully automated, AI-powered booking experience, thanks to a new integration with Insider Perks’ conversational AI—allowing guests to research, reserve, and pay for campsites seamlessly within a single chat window.
A proposed glamping development in Bewdley has been denied planning approval due to its perceived adverse impact on the countryside, sparking frustration among local residents and raising caution for outdoor hospitality operators targeting rural locations.
A series of court decisions has cleared the way for Basecamp Hospitality’s glamping resort near Teton Village to continue operating under a state-issued temporary use permit, ending a high-profile legal battle with environmental groups and Teton County.
Fairlawns Hotel and Spa in Aldridge has submitted a 15-year development plan that includes new wellness facilities and nine glamping cabins, aiming to evolve into a destination venue while responding to customer trends and sustainability goals.
After years on the road as full-time RVers, Frank Kecseti and Alyson Long saw firsthand how intimidating fire-building could be for many campers—especially those new to outdoor life. That realization sparked the creation of PyreLogs, a simple yet thoughtfully engineered tool designed to make building the perfect campfire easier, safer, and more accessible.
A proposal to extend the season for a Hampshire glamping site has been rejected after dozens of residents raised fire safety and quality-of-life concerns, offering a cautionary example for outdoor hospitality businesses planning to grow.
Explore the critical emerging trends and demographic shifts reshaping outdoor hospitality with host Brian Searl, recurring experts, and special guest Jayne Cohen of Campground Consulting Group. Don’t miss this vital discussion – join MC Fireside Chats live on Wednesday, June 4, 2025, at 2:00 PM ET.
Jellystone Park Camp-Resorts are expanding their glamping accommodations across North America, offering a wide range of unique lodging units such as tipis, treehouses, covered wagons, and lakeview tents to meet the evolving preferences of family travelers.
REV Group reported strong fiscal 2025 second-quarter earnings, with net sales climbing to $629.1 million and adjusted net income surging to $35.4 million. Buoyed by robust demand and throughput in its fire and emergency vehicle division, the Wisconsin-based manufacturer raised its full-year outlook and announced plans to expand production capacity.
More than 100 RV industry leaders met with lawmakers on Capitol Hill June 5 during Advocacy Day to highlight the sector’s \$140 billion economic impact and push for key policy reforms. In 107 meetings, participants urged action on fair tax treatment, tariff clarity, infrastructure investment, and support through the bipartisan RV Caucus.
Top policymakers and political commentators joined RV industry leaders in Washington, D.C., this week for RVs Move America Week, where discussions on tax policy, trade, and shifting political dynamics took center stage during a high-profile gathering hosted by the RV Industry Association.
DM Vans, a Western Slope-based RV manufacturer, will be featured in an upcoming episode of Viewpoint with Dennis Quaid, a nationally broadcast documentary series, highlighting the company’s role in Colorado’s growing adventure van industry and its impact on outdoor recreation and rural economies.
As the UK faces extended periods of dry weather, Compass, a specialist in caravan and leisure insurance, is warning of an increased risk of flash flooding due to hardened ground conditions that limit water absorption when rain returns.
Wholesale RV shipments are projected to remain largely steady in 2025, with the RV Industry Association’s latest RV RoadSigns forecast predicting a modest 1 percent increase over the previous year. Released in partnership with ITR Economics, the Summer 2025 report estimates 337,000 units will be shipped by year’s end—up slightly from 333,700 in 2024—despite an 11% surge through April. The forecast, which anticipates shipments ranging between 320,400 and 353,500 units, reflects cautious optimism amid persistent economic headwinds, including tariff concerns, high borrowing costs, and tightening consumer spending.
Camping World Holdings reported a mid-teens percentage increase in combined same-store new and used RV unit sales during its annual Camp 5 event, held May 22-26, signaling a robust kickoff to the summer selling season and reinforcing strong consumer interest in RV travel and outdoor recreation.
The Family RV Association has entered an exclusive partnership with RV Overnights, a membership platform that connects RV travelers with small businesses offering no-cost overnight stays, providing discounted access to a network of host locations across the United States and Canada.
My Financing USA, a national RV and boat financing provider, has announced a plan to give away $1 billion worth of prequalified leads to dealerships through its newly launched website, MyFy Marketplace. The platform is designed to connect dealers with thousands of credit-qualified buyers at no cost for listings, offering a timely solution as retailers face rising advertising expenses across the recreational vehicle and marine industries.
AEONrv, a Reno-based manufacturer specializing in off-grid recreational vehicles, has been named the 2025 Manufacturing Company of the Year by Nevada’s Center for Entrepreneurship and Technology. The award recognizes AEONrv’s contributions to advanced manufacturing, technological innovation, and regional economic growth in Northern Nevada.
Nominations are now open for the 2025 Aftermarket Lifetime Achievement Award, an honor that recognizes an individual whose decades-long contributions have helped shape and advance the RV aftermarket. Presented annually during the RV Aftermarket Conference, this prestigious award celebrates exceptional service, innovation, and leadership within the industry.
The RV Technical Institute, in partnership with Truma, will host an advanced technician training session on July 7 in Elkhart, Indiana, offering hands-on instruction on the Truma AquaGo and Truma Combi systems. Open to just 20 participants, the no-cost course provides eight credit hours toward RVTI’s Level 3 Appliance Specialist certification, which focuses on essential RV components like furnaces and on-demand water heaters.
RV shipments in the United States rose to 35,375 units in April, a 3.4% increase from the same month last year, as manufacturers ramped up production ahead of the summer travel season, according to the latest data from the RV Industry Association. The upward trend reflects growing consumer demand, with more than 44 million Americans planning RV trips this summer. Year-to-date, total shipments have climbed 10.9% to 133,223 units, signaling a strong start for the industry as it heads into its peak season.
Rollick and Aqua Finance have joined forces to streamline the outdoor recreation shopping experience by integrating Aqua’s financing prequalification process into the RollickEngage digital retail platform. Designed to meet rising consumer demand for online financing tools, the new collaboration aims to simplify and accelerate the path to purchase for RV, powersports, and boat shoppers nationwide.
Ally Brown has been named Education Director at the Mike Molino RV Learning Center, a division of the National RV Dealers Association (RVDA), as the organization prepares for the upcoming retirement of longtime Executive Director Karin Van Duyse in June.
The RV Industry Association urged Minnesota regulators to revise a proposed PFAS reporting rule during a public hearing on May 22, citing concerns over implementation timelines, data collection burdens, and the feasibility of compliance for RV manufacturers.
The RV Industry Association has released its 2024 RV Industry Profile, offering a detailed snapshot of recreational vehicle production and shipment activity across North America, with Indiana continuing to dominate manufacturing and Texas leading in shipments.
In a significant legislative move, the U.S. House of Representatives on May 22 passed H.R. 1, the One Big Beautiful Bill Act, a sweeping budget reconciliation package that extends the 2017 tax cuts and addresses long-standing concerns across multiple industries—including a major victory for the RV sector.
THOR Industries, the world’s largest manufacturer of recreational vehicles, announced it will release its fiscal 2025 third quarter earnings before the market opens on Wednesday, June 4. Accompanying the earnings report, the company will provide a detailed Q\&A document and a slide presentation on its investor relations website, offering stakeholders comprehensive insights into its financial performance and operational strategies.
RVs Move America Week is returning to Washington, D.C., from June 1 to June 5, uniting RV industry professionals for five days of strategic meetings, keynote sessions, and networking opportunities aimed at shaping the future of the $140 billion RV market.
My Financing USA, a national RV and boat financing provider, has announced a plan to give away $1 billion worth of prequalified leads to dealerships through its newly launched website, MyFy Marketplace. The platform is designed to connect dealers with thousands of credit-qualified buyers at no cost for listings, offering a timely solution as retailers face rising advertising expenses across the recreational vehicle and marine industries.
Campspot, an online booking platform for campgrounds and RV parks, has announced the 2025 Campground Revolutionaries, recognizing seven professionals across the United States and Canada for their leadership, innovation, and dedication to enhancing the outdoor hospitality industry.
Jellystone Park’s annual bear-waking event, which invites guests to help rouse Yogi Bear, Boo Boo, and Cindy Bear from hibernation, highlights how themed experiences can enhance engagement and drive early-season campground bookings.
The Half a Mind Podcast has released a compelling new episode featuring an exclusive interview with Carl Borkholder, founder of Gen-Y Hitch, who shares his inspiring journey from leaving school after the 8th grade to transforming the towing industry with his innovative hitch designs.
Larry Troutt III of Topper’s Camping Center in Waller, Texas, has been appointed chairman of the RV Dealers Association (RVDA) for 2025, taking on the leadership role during the association’s annual meeting on Nov. 13 at Paris Las Vegas.
Research indicates that RV dealerships prioritizing a robust culture of safety experience tangible benefits, including reduced absenteeism, fewer injuries, minimized safety violations, and lower turnover rates. At the upcoming RV Dealers Convention/Expo, attendees can explore these advantages during the workshop “Creating a Safety Culture – Your New Competitive Advantage,” scheduled for 3:15 p.m. on November 14 as part of the fixed operations education track.
In a competitive RV market, leveraging data insights is crucial for dealers aiming to capture market share and generate leads effectively. The upcoming workshop, “Insights 360: Leveraging Consumer Data for Market Success,” scheduled for November 14 at 12:45 p.m. during the RVDA Convention, will guide dealers on how to utilize market trends and consumer behavior data to optimize their marketing efforts.
The upcoming RV Dealers Convention will feature a workshop dedicated to leveraging showroom technology. Scheduled for November 14, the session will provide valuable insights on how dealers can integrate sales and finance processes, and identify legal boundaries for customer information protection.
Caledon State Park is set to host its annual Art and Wine Festival on Nov. 2 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Nov. 3 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., offering a weekend filled with family-friendly activities, live music, and local flavor. Attendees can enjoy tastings from regional wineries, sample dishes from food trucks and vendors, and explore art displays from talented local artists.
GE Appliances, a supplier of refrigerators, air conditioners, stoves, washers, and dryers tailored for the RV industry, is set to return as a bronze partner for the 2024 RV Dealers Convention/Expo, scheduled for November 11-15 at Paris Las Vegas.
Red Oak Inventory Finance, known for providing innovative and efficient financing solutions for all types of RVs, both new and used, has announced its bronze partnership for the 2024 RV Dealers Convention/Expo. Scheduled to take place from November 11-15 at Paris Las Vegas, the event is sponsored by the RVDA of the U.S., RVDA of Canada, and the Mike Molino RV Learning Center.
RVDA has announced that Portfolio, a provider of service contracts, has returned as a bronze partner for the 2024 RV Dealers Convention/Expo, set to take place Nov. 11-15 at Paris Las Vegas. Sponsored by RVDA of U.S., RVDA of Canada, and the Mike Molino RV Learning Center, the event will offer dealership professionals the opportunity to network, gain valuable industry insights, and enhance dealership operations.
The RV Dealers Convention/Expo will offer a session titled “Demystifying AI” on November 13 at 3:15 p.m., led by Richard Latman, CEO of TheCRM. This session will tackle the top five myths surrounding artificial intelligence and explore how AI can transform RV dealership operations.
RVDA has announced that Northpoint Commercial Finance will return as a bronze partner for the 2024 RV Dealers Convention/Expo, set to take place from Nov. 11-15 at Paris Las Vegas. Sponsored by RVDA of the U.S., RVDA of Canada, and the Mike Molino RV Learning Center, the event will bring together top dealership personnel across North America.
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.