Kampgrounds of America (KOA) has released its latest annual Camping and Outdoor Hospitality Report, spotlighting significant shifts in the camping industry. The report details how millennials, the largest generational group in North America, drive demand for enhanced amenities, sustainability, and technology at campgrounds.
KOA’s findings reveal that as younger, more diverse campers emerge, the travel industry adapts to accommodate their evolving preferences.
Private campgrounds have increasingly diversified their accommodation offerings, a response to the rising popularity of unique lodging options like cabins, safari tents, treehouses, and tiny homes. As the report outlines, eight in 10 non-campers and seven in 10 campers express interest in campgrounds offering pre-set RVs upon arrival.
Sustainability also plays a pivotal role in the decision-making process for modern campers. The report shows more than half of all campers prefer campgrounds with sustainable practices, with 54% of millennial campers indicating that sustainability would significantly influence their choice of location.
“As the travel industry continues to evolve, campers increasingly seek modern amenities that enhance comfort,” said KOA President and CEO Toby O’Rourke. “Private campgrounds and outdoor hospitality resorts have been at the forefront of this modernization, prioritizing both guest experience and sustainability.”
Technology is also integrated into the camping experience for younger generations, particularly Gen Z, who report extending their camping trips by an additional nine days when they have access to technology. Wi-Fi has become a critical amenity for campers, especially among higher-income households, millennials, Gen Z, and urban dwellers. According to the report, nearly half of new campers consider Wi-Fi to be the most important factor when choosing a campground.
In addition to basic connectivity, technological advancements such as digital check-ins and text message updates are important. Four in 10 campers cited these features as essential to their overall experience.
As transportation trends shift, electric vehicle (EV) charging stations have become an important consideration for many campers. KOA’s findings indicate that 80% of campers who either own or plan to own electric vehicles would utilize them for camping, including car camping and glamping.
The report also identifies the rising trend of “no-car” camping, particularly among urban residents and higher-income campers. This growing preference for eliminating the need to drive to a campsite reflects a broader desire to simplify the travel process.