New Hampshire state officials report a significant decline in campground reservations from Canadian visitors for the 2025 season, raising concerns among tourism and outdoor hospitality operators in the region.
Data from the Department of Natural and Cultural Resources show that bookings at state-run campgrounds made by individuals with Canadian addresses fell by over 71% during the first five months of 2025 compared to the same period in 2024.
According to a report by SeacoastOnline, the number dropped from more than 1,000 reservations last year to fewer than 300 this year.
The decline is part of a broader reduction in cross-border tourism that some attribute to ongoing political tensions.
Some Canadians have expressed a reluctance to travel to the United States, reportedly in reaction to former President Donald Trump’s comments suggesting Canada should become the 51st U.S. state.
Despite these tensions, overall campground reservation numbers in New Hampshire remain steady with 2024 levels, according to state officials.
“Camping is generally in high demand, so it may end up being that overall visits are not impacted,” said Greg Keeler, a spokesperson with the state. “But we’ll have a better idea later in the season and once all of our sites have reopened.”
Privately operated campgrounds are also observing a decline in Canadian guests. At Saco River Family Camping in North Conway, about 90% of Canadian reservations have been canceled for the 2025 season.
“May and October have taken a big hit for us, between the canceled reservations and the lack of Canadian bookings coming in,” said Brooke Wade of Saco River.
While some campground owners are voicing frustration, others appear less concerned about the downturn. “They can stay in Canada,” said Joshua and Missy Phillips, owners of Trailside’s Big Rock Campground in Stratford, when asked about the reduced interest from Canadian visitors.
In response to the shift, New Hampshire’s tourism officials are ramping up outreach efforts.
The state has launched a multimedia advertising campaign aimed at highlighting its natural attractions, including running ads in the greater Montreal area.
Business and Economic Affairs Commissioner Taylor Caswell reaffirmed the state’s interest in maintaining strong ties with Canadian travelers. “We have not left that market; we have no intentions to leave that market,” he said.
For campground and RV park owners, especially those in border states like New Hampshire, the situation underscores the importance of diversifying their customer base and maintaining flexible marketing strategies.
While overall demand for camping remains strong, the change in international visitor patterns may affect shoulder season revenues and regional tourism dynamics.