As the 2024 camping season gets underway with warmer weather, there is a noticeable surge in demand for campsites across southern Ontario (Canada). The Grand River Conservation Authority (GRCA) and several provincial parks have already opened their sites this month. The opening of Whistle Bare Campground in Cambridge underscores the growing interest in outdoor recreation.
Whistle Bare Campground, which has space for 82 camper vans, is nearly fully booked for its opening weekend, according to Laura Bingeman, a representative of the campground. Bingeman highlighted the importance of making reservations early, particularly for the busy summer months and long weekends.
“A lot of campers are coming out, starting to get prepared for the season,” Bingeman told CTV News.
At the retail level, the boom in camping interest is evident at Mountain Equipment Company in Kitchener, where camping-related products have been selling rapidly. Charlie Denomey, a sales associate at the store, noted that everything from tents to sleeping bags and watersport gear has been popular.
“We’re in ‘Camp Week’ right now,” Denomey said. “The season has really kicked off well. We’re busy.”
Data from the GRCA supports this trend, showing nearly 5,300 reservations on the first day of the season, a 37% increase over last year. This spike in early bookings can serve as a crucial planning metric for park managers and campground operators.
For campground and outdoor hospitality operators, the current trend offers a strategic opportunity. Optimizing booking systems and ensuring that additional facilities and activities are well-maintained can enhance guest experiences and potentially increase repeat visits.
Operators might consider expanding their offerings to include more family-oriented activities or enhanced amenities like upgraded sanitation facilities, given the apparent popularity of such features among campers.
Training staff to handle peak season pressures and focusing on customer service can also make a significant difference in how campgrounds are perceived by guests. Investing in marketing strategies that highlight the unique aspects of each site could attract even more visitors.
As the season progresses, monitoring customer feedback and adjusting services accordingly will be essential for maintaining satisfaction and managing the growing demand effectively.
The 2024 camping season is setting up to be a dynamic period for the campground and outdoor hospitality industry. With strategic preparations and a focus on customer experience, operators can capitalize on this trend and ensure a successful and profitable season.
