Seats are filling fast for the inaugural Western Ideas Forum & AccomEx 2025, set to take place November 3–6 at the St. Eugene Golf Resort in Cranbrook, British Columbia. The new event will bring together campground, RV park, and outdoor hospitality operators from across Western Canada for four days of education, collaboration, and industry networking.
As he counts down the days to retirement, BC Lodging & Campgrounds Association (BCLCA) Executive Director Joss Penny said organizing the event marks a significant career milestone.
“Owners often aren’t connecting beyond their immediate region. We want this event to spark new conversations and camaraderie,” Penny explained.
The forum was developed following discussions at last year’s national conference, where provincial associations identified the need for a regional gathering that fosters collaboration across the western provinces.
The long-term goal is for the event to rotate annually among Western Canada’s provinces, complementing the biennial Canadian Camping & RV Conference.
The forum’s program features keynote presentations, expert-led workshops, and a trade show, all focused on strengthening the outdoor hospitality sector.
Aaron Williamson, vice president of franchise operations at Kampgrounds of America (KOA), will open the event with a keynote on strategies to help operators move their campgrounds “from worst to first.”
Peter Pilarski, president of the tourism AI Network, will lead a session titled AI Made Simple, designed to help attendees understand how artificial intelligence can enhance guest experiences, streamline operations, and sharpen competitive advantage.
Maureen Riley, vice-president of industry engagement at Destination Canada, will deliver the closing keynote.
She will unveil the Digital Traveler Twin Tool, present market insights from Germany, the United States, Canada, and the United Kingdom, and introduce the organization’s new Generative Engine Optimization (GEO) Playbook.
In addition to the keynotes, 16 education sessions will provide in-depth learning on topics such as staffing, operations, sustainability, and technology. Each session is designed to offer practical takeaways operators can apply directly to their businesses.
Attendees can also participate in cracker barrel discussions—peer-led conversations where operators share firsthand experiences and solutions to everyday challenges. These discussions are expected to provide a valuable exchange of ideas within a collaborative setting.
AccomEx 2025, the trade show portion of the event, will also feature 22 confirmed exhibitors showcasing products and services tailored to the campground and outdoor hospitality market.
From technology solutions to new amenities, the trade show will highlight tools that can support business growth and guest satisfaction.
Networking opportunities will be a central part of the event, with informal and structured sessions encouraging collaboration between operators, suppliers, and industry partners.
The Forum’s setting at the St. Eugene Golf Resort & Casino—located on the traditional lands of the Ktunaxa First Nation—will provide a scenic and culturally rich environment for attendees to learn and connect.
With just weeks remaining, organizers are encouraging those who haven’t registered to secure their spots soon.