As the travel industry evolves, the concept of shoulder season—falling between the peak and off-peak periods—has become a strategic focus for travelers seeking new experiences without the crowds.
In British Columbia (BC, Canada), shoulder season offers unique opportunities, particularly through Indigenous-led tourism ventures that combine cultural richness with outdoor adventures. This blend not only attracts tourists but also presents a model for campground, RV park owners, and outdoor hospitality operators to diversify and enrich their offerings.
Sidney Whale Watching, operating out of Sidney, BC, exemplifies this approach. Active from March to October, the business is an enterprise of The Tsawout First Nation and runs tours on the traditional territories of the W̱SÁNEĆ First Nation. The company uses knowledgeable local guides to lead expeditions where visitors can observe sea lions, humpback whales, and bald eagles. The attraction of such wildlife experiences during less crowded months can extend the tourist season for nearby campground and RV park operators.
Further enhancing the shoulder season appeal is the Tsawaak RV Resort located in Tofino, BC. Open year-round, this resort is situated a short walk from Mackenzie Beach and is close to some of the island’s top hiking trails and attractions. During the shoulder season, the resort sees a surge in visitors drawn to the area’s hiking, hot springs, and surfing opportunities. For campground owners, the success of Tsawaak RV Resort provides a blueprint for utilizing natural and cultural local resources to maintain guest interest and occupancy rates throughout the year.
Ainsworth Hot Springs Resort offers another model of year-round visitor engagement. Nestled in the Kootenay Mountains, the resort features natural caves and a thermal pool that have been visited for their restorative properties since the times of the Ktunaxa First Nations. By promoting historical and wellness tourism, Ainsworth not only attracts visitors but also educates them on the Indigenous heritage of the area, adding layers of depth to the guest experience that can be emulated by other operators.
As per a VanCity report, Squamish Lil’wat Cultural Centre in Whistler operates beyond just a museum or cultural center; it is an active participant in the cultural education landscape, open all year. It hosts storytelling sessions, live carving demonstrations, and various cultural showcases, making it a pivotal part of the community’s outreach to tourists. Campgrounds and outdoor hospitality venues can learn from this model to incorporate educational and cultural programming that enhances guest experiences and extends operating seasons.
Lastly, Cariboo Chilcotin Jetboat Adventures in Williams Lake offers a dynamic approach to exploring Indigenous fishing practices and local history from May to October. The enterprise not only teaches traditional fishing techniques but also provides thrilling excursions to view ancient petroglyphs and local wildlife. This type of adventure tourism can be particularly appealing in the shoulder seasons, providing campground and RV park operators with examples of how to create unique, engaging content that draws visitors during traditionally slower periods.
Incorporating Indigenous experiences into the shoulder season travel offerings not only diversifies the attractions available but also supports the cultural preservation and economic stability of First Nations communities. For campground and RV park owners, embracing and promoting these unique cultural experiences can lead to extended seasons, enhanced guest satisfaction, and a stronger connection to the rich histories of their locales.