Is your campground operating as efficiently—and profitably—as it could be? Join us on July 16, 2025 at 2 PM EST for the next episode of MC Fireside Chats as we explore proven strategies to streamline operations and boost bottom lines. Gain insights from industry leaders who know what it takes to turn everyday challenges into long-term success.
Host Brian Searl will be joined by our regular industry voices: Jeff Hoffman, Board Member at OHI; Sandy Ellingson, a renowned RV Industry Advisor; Ali Rasmussen, CEO of Spacious Skies Campgrounds; and Mike Harrison, Chief Operating Officer at CRR Hospitality.
We’re excited to announce new additions to the panel: Angele Miller, Co-Founder of Creekside RnR Glamping; and Robert Preston, CEO and Founder of Unhitched Management.
We’re also thrilled to welcome special guests Britt Roth, Owner of Dark Sky RV Campground, and James Sims, Owner of Black Bird Eco Park.
This dynamic lineup brings together a diverse range of expertise and fresh perspectives that promise an engaging and insightful discussion on the evolving landscape of outdoor hospitality. Don’t miss it!
July 9th Episode Recap
In the July 9th, 2025 episode of MC Fireside Chats, hosted by Brian Searl and sponsored by Horizon Outdoor Hospitality, a diverse panel of guests discussed key trends and challenges in the outdoor hospitality industry. The recurring guests included Zach Stoltenberg from LJA and Casey Cochran from Campspot, joined by special guests Natalie Binder from Camp V and Josh Hansen and Rebecca Lindblom from Big Rock Creek.
The discussion opened with introductions, where Casey Cochran highlighted Campspot’s role as an online reservation and property management system, emphasizing their marketplace for campers. Zach Stoltenberg, an architect, explained LJA Engineering’s work in designing and funding glamping and outdoor hospitality projects, noting he was joining from his cabin in Colorado with a view of Pikes Peak.
Natalie Binder then introduced Camp V, a boutique glamping hotel in a restored historic mining town in Colorado, offering a mix of accommodations and an arts nonprofit for events. Josh Hansen described Big Rock Creek, a large glampground and event venue in Wisconsin, detailing their diverse glamping and camping options, alongside a barn for weddings and large events. Rebecca Lindblom, Josh’s sister, also from Big Rock Creek, later joined the conversation, elaborating on their successful Christmas Light Festival.
A significant portion of the chat focused on the holiday weekend performance and revenue management. Casey Cochran reported that many campgrounds achieved 100% occupancy over the Fourth of July, highlighting Campspot’s efforts to automate revenue management by analyzing market and historical data. Brian Searl added that even with fewer camper nights, effective Average Daily Rate (ADR) management could still lead to increased revenue, potentially reducing guest issues.
The conversation then shifted to disaster preparedness and emergency response, prompted by Zach Stoltenberg’s discussion of recent flooding in Texas that impacted summer camps and RV parks. He underscored the critical importance of having and practicing a disaster plan, citing a camp that avoided casualties due to robust planning. Natalie Binder shared her own harrowing experience with an electrical fire at Camp V, emphasizing that while they had plans, the actual employee reaction during an emergency is unpredictable and highlighted the need for more psychological and trauma-informed training.
She also mentioned their strategy of bringing in trusted “outside contractors” for emergency coverage. Zach Stoltenberg suggested drawing lessons from amusement parks and cruise ships that conduct regular, unannounced drills. Josh Hansen acknowledged the difficulty of consistent training due to seasonal staff turnover.
When asked about technological solutions, Casey Cochran noted Campspot’s dashboards could identify occupied sites, and while text messaging is useful, legal opt-in requirements limit its immediate impact in emergencies. Zach Stoltenberg also mentioned integrated hardware systems like Point Central that can automate alerts and controls within units. Ultimately, the consensus was that operators should at least start with a basic plan and rehearse it with their staff.
The discussion transitioned to diversifying revenue and event-based marketing. Josh Hansen shared Big Rock Creek’s pivot to camping and glamping during COVID-19, accelerating their event business. Rebecca Lindblom highlighted their hugely successful Miracle at Big Rock Christmas Light Festival, which draws tens of thousands of visitors and effectively generates winter revenue while promoting summer offerings.
She advised other operators to focus on efficient resourcing and creating social media-shareable photo opportunities. Natalie Binder revealed that Camp V’s Planet V Fest music festival also grew organically from guest enthusiasm and serves as a powerful marketing tool.
She also shared how a $2 million state grant helped them build a new event pavilion. Natalie emphasized that for remote destinations like Camp V, relationship marketing and outbound efforts to attract specific groups are crucial, leveraging the property’s unique assets like dark skies. Both Josh Hansen and Natalie Binder agreed on the unpredictable but valuable nature of influencer marketing.
Zach Stoltenberg observed that both Big Rock Creek and Camp V exemplify a business model where experiences and events are primary, with accommodations serving as a secondary component. This approach, he noted, naturally leads to higher revenues and creates lifelong customers.
Rebecca Lindblom enthusiastically agreed, stating that event attendees often become repeat guests for all their offerings. Brian Searl concluded that prioritizing the experience generally works more in an operator’s favor. Zach Stoltenberg further distinguished the marketing channels for events (targeting HR directors, wedding planners) versus individual accommodation bookings. Natalie Binder reiterated that their success largely comes from grassroots, word-of-mouth, and direct relationship-building.
In closing, Brian Searl thanked the guests. Natalie Binder encouraged visits to campv.com. Josh Hansen directed listeners to bigrockcreekwi.com and miracleatbigrock.com, adding a final thought that early-week glamping or camping can be just as enjoyable as weekends. Rebecca Lindblom also expressed appreciation for the discussion. Zach Stoltenberg highlighted the importance of relationships as a wise business strategy, where trust and connection naturally lead to strong business. Brian Searl then promoted his upcoming podcast, “The Campground of the Future,” before concluding the episode.
About MC Fireside Chats
MC Fireside Chats is a live podcast experience dedicated to the outdoor hospitality and outdoor recreation industries. Hosted by Brian Searl, founder and CEO of Insider Perks and Modern Campground, the show offers engaging discussions with industry leaders, innovators, and experts shaping the future of camping, RVing, glamping, and outdoor recreation.
Airing every Wednesday at 2 p.m. (ET), the show follows a structured weekly theme to deliver deep dives into the most relevant topics:
- Week 1: Industry Trends & Insights
- Week 2: Enhancing Guest Experience
- Week 3: Business Operations & Management
- Week 4: RV Industry, Outdoor Recreation & Activities
Each episode features a panel of recurring guests, complemented by 1–2 rotating special guests, including industry analysts, campground owners, technology providers, sustainability advocates, and more. Whether exploring the latest market trends or innovative guest experience strategies, MC Fireside Chats delivers thought-provoking insights for professionals and enthusiasts across the outdoor recreation spectrum.
To explore previous episodes of MC Fireside Chats, visit: moderncampground.com/mc-fireside-chats.