First Camp, Scandinavia’s largest campsite and resort chain, has announced the acquisition of three destinations from the Sommarvik Group in Värmland, Sweden.
The purchase includes Sommarvik (Årjäng Camping & Stugor), Haganäset (Charlottenberg Camping & Stugor), and Herrgårdsliv (Kristinehamns Herrgårdscamping & Stugor). The official handover is set for October 1, 2025.
The acquisitions will bring First Camp’s portfolio to 78 destinations across five countries. In Värmland, the company will operate ten locations, strengthening its presence in the region and around Lake Vänern.
Sommarvik in Årjäng, a five-star site near the E18, is known for attracting returning guests from Sweden and Norway. All three sites are situated near lakes and forests, offering a range of cabins and activities aimed at families.
“We are both pleased and humbled that the Fransson family has chosen to entrust us with their life’s work. This is a well-run business with excellent and much-loved destinations and many loyal guests, and we will take great care of it all,” Johan Söör, CEO of First Camp, said in a press release.
He added that Sommarvik Group’s guests will benefit from First Camp’s loyalty program, which allows members to earn points and free stays.
Söör noted that Sommarvik in Årjäng and Haganäset have a large number of seasonal guests. “Nothing will change in the terms for seasonal guests, and we look forward to getting to know them better. We know how important they are for the community on site,” he said.
The Sommarvik Group, led by CEO and founder Christer Fransson, began with Sommarvik in 1979/80, recording 5,000 guest nights that first year.
The group played a role in creating the First Camp brand in 2003, acquired Haganäset the same year, and developed Herrgårdscampingen in 2010. Currently, the group logs more than 250,000 guest nights annually in Värmland and employs around 100 seasonal staff.
Fransson described the sale as a natural progression for the business. “With First Camp as a financially strong operator, it feels as though our circle has come full,” he said. “We wish them, all staff, and partners the best of luck in their continued hosting.”
For outdoor hospitality business owners, the acquisition reflects continued consolidation in the Scandinavian market, with larger operators seeking to expand regional footprints and capitalize on strong seasonal demand.
The move also underscores the importance of maintaining community ties, especially with long-term seasonal guests.