The Florida and Alabama RV Park and Campground Association hosted their annual Outdoor Hospitality Conference & Expo from May 14 to May 17 at the Hilton Orlando. The event saw a high turnout, with approximately 440 attendees and representation from over 140 campground and industry businesses, alongside 92 exhibitors and suppliers.
This year’s conference continued its five-year streak of record attendance, drawing participants from 12 states. Most attendees hailed from Florida and Alabama. Association President and CEO Bobby Cornwell referred to the conference as “The Biggest and Best in the Southeast.” Cornwell emphasized that while they are proud of the record-breaking attendance, the event’s true value lies beyond the numbers.
“I’ve been told by many that what sets our conference apart is the welcoming and positive atmosphere, the relevant content and fun events, and most importantly, it’s our attendees who are engaged and eager to learn and network with each other and our vendors,” Cornwell said in a press release.
Throughout the conference, the association showcased several benefits and services available to its members. Among the features were legislative programs, new member discounts, and enhanced music and movie licensing programs.
Another initiative discussed was the potential formation of a “captive” group insurance program to provide financial relief and stability to members. Cornwell and Thomas Sparrow, the association’s chair of the board, emphasized the importance of this initiative. Although still in the preliminary stages, the feedback from members has been positive, prompting the board to proceed with feasibility studies.
Educational sessions, covering various topics, were also the highlight of the conference. Attendees benefited from presentations on industry trends and forecasts, glamping, asset protection, and workforce management.
Sessions addressed new technology and using AI to attract customers and best practices for registration forms, waivers, and rental agreements. Other discussions covered park acquisitions and sales, Wi-Fi solutions, and RV park design and construction.
The annual awards dinner was another highlight of the conference. It featured entertainment by “Them Sweeney Boys” and an auction. Awards were presented to the top parks in various categories, with Turtle Beach Campground, Fisherman’s Cove RV Resort, Zachary Taylor RV Resort, and The Surf Signature RV Resort by Zeman each receiving accolades. Wild Energy was also honored as Supplier of the Year.
At the chairman’s lunch, Sparrow recognized the association’s major PAC fund contributors, followed by a legislative update from lobbyist Marc Dunbar. Former Senate President and congressional candidate Mike Harridopolos appeared, acknowledging the importance of the RV park and campground industry. Enthusiasm for legislative efforts raised $45,000 for PAC funds.
Every year, the FRVCA hosts the annual Outdoor Hospitality Conference & Expo, bringing together RV park and campground owners, operators, managers, staff, and industry suppliers. Attendees benefit from professional speakers, industry experts, educational seminars, networking opportunities, and interactive sessions.
Planning for the 2025 conference has begun, with dates and location to be announced soon.