State by State: A Look at RV Park Search Volume and Where Demand is Headed

The report titled “State by State: A Look at RV Park Search Volume and Where Demand is Headed” provides a comprehensive analysis of how the digital search landscape is changing for RV campgrounds, parks, and resorts. One of the key observations is that the overall volume of searches for these facilities has declined by 12% from 2023 to 2024. Despite this overall drop, there has been a significant increase in specific search categories such as luxury RV parks and long-term RV parks, indicating changing preferences among RV travelers towards premium amenities and extended stays. This shift suggests that campers are looking for more comfortable and tailored experiences.

The report highlights that search trends vary significantly by region and state. Some states like Maryland, Montana, and Indiana have seen substantial increases in search volumes, while others such as Utah, Georgia, and Pennsylvania have experienced significant declines. Regionally, the southern states show the most notable declines in search volume, whereas the Midwest has the lowest drop, pointing to diverse market dynamics across different areas. This variability suggests that campground owners need to pay attention to local trends to effectively cater to RV travelers’ needs.

One critical observation is the growing interest in luxury RV parks, with searches for such locations improving across all regions, especially in the Midwest where there was a 64% increase. This trend contrasts with the general category searches for RV parks, which are dragging down the overall volume in most regions. This indicates that while general interest may be declining, there is a robust market for high-end RV camping options, and this presents an opportunity for campground owners to differentiate their offerings with upscale amenities.

The report concludes with several strategic recommendations for campground owners. It emphasizes the importance of investing in luxury and premium amenities to attract the growing number of travelers seeking upscale experiences. Understanding the preferences of long-term stay guests and tailoring offerings to meet their needs can also be beneficial. Additionally, the report highlights the importance of optimizing online presence through targeted keywords and paid search strategies to stand out in competitive states. By leveraging regional strengths and focusing on strategic marketing, campground owners can better position themselves in a fluctuating market.

Key Insights

• In 2024, overall searches for RV parks and campgrounds saw a decline of 12%, while luxury RV park searches increased by 18%. The interest in the “best” RV parks also rose, with a 19% increase compared to the previous year.
• Search volume for long-term RV parks increased by 8%, suggesting a rising interest in extended stays, possibly influenced by the challenges in affordable housing and the desire for more stable, long-term travel options.
• Regional variations are significant: Maryland, Montana, and Indiana experienced the highest increases in searches, while states like Utah, Georgia, and Pennsylvania saw declines of more than 24%.
• The Midwest showed the lowest decline in overall search volume, indicating it is a key growth area.
  The Midwest recorded a notable 64% increase in searches for luxury RV parks, highlighting a growing demand for upscale experiences in the region. This trend contrasts with the declining general searches for RV parks, underscoring a shift towards premium amenities and differentiated services.