The BC Lodging & Campgrounds Association (BCLCA) highlights the importance of maintaining human connection in an era where digital reservation systems increasingly define guest interactions.
As online booking platforms streamline the check-in process, campground, RV park, and lodging operators are being encouraged to preserve the “personal touch” that has long characterized the outdoor hospitality experience.
Digital systems now allow guests to check availability, book sites, and make payments within minutes, offering convenience for both travelers and operators.
“RV park and lodging operators have long been known as ‘people-pleasers,’ going the extra mile to match a guest with the perfect site, offer local tips, or simply make visitors feel welcome,” the association states.
As bookings increasingly occur online, these personal exchanges risk being replaced by automated confirmations and impersonal communication.
According to BCLCA, travelers today consistently express a desire for both “convenience and connection.”
While they value digital access to information, they also place high importance on feeling personally cared for during their stay.
The association emphasizes that the key challenge for operators is balance—embracing digital tools that enhance efficiency without sacrificing the warmth and community spirit that define camping.
“The essence of camping—connection, community, and human hospitality—must remain at the heart of the experience,” BCLCA adds.
To achieve that balance, the association encourages campground, RV park, and lodging operators to create intentional moments for personal engagement beyond the reservation process.
Simple gestures such as greeting guests by name at check-in or offering local recommendations can go a long way toward maintaining meaningful connections.
BCLCA also suggests several strategies to strengthen guest relationships. A warm welcome at check-in, even for online reservations, sets the tone for the stay. Personalized recommendations about nearby attractions, dining, or recreation make guests feel like valued members of the community rather than just customers.
The association also recommends ensuring that staff remain visible and approachable throughout the property.
Casual check-ins—asking “How’s your stay going?” or “Need any firewood?”—help build rapport and show attentiveness. Hosting community activities, such as evening campfires or morning coffee gatherings, can create natural opportunities for guests and staff to connect.
Follow-up touch points during a stay reinforce that hospitality extends beyond arrival. A mid-stay visit or a friendly farewell at check-out communicates care and builds loyalty. Even short interactions can make guests feel appreciated and more likely to return.
BCLCA also stresses that operators who successfully blend digital convenience with human warmth will be better positioned to meet modern traveler expectations. Technology can improve efficiency, but the personal side of hospitality remains a competitive advantage.