Camping on farms surged during the pandemic, according to Maryland Farm Bureau’s Director of Government Relations Colby Ferguson.
With House Bill 558 signed into law, agritourism in Maryland is set to grow, creating another stream of income for farmers.
Under the legislation, farmers can now offer camping and outdoor stays.
“It’s the biggest thing that farmers do to diversify their farm operation,” Ferguson told a local report.
In fact, some farmers have reported increased earnings of 30% to 40% after offering camping on their properties. As per Ferguson, campers usually buy farmers’ eggs and other products found in the general store when they go camping.
Hipcamp, an online marketplace company where private landowners can offer camping stays, is one of the platforms Maryland farmers list their camping agritourism experiences, according to a Businesswire report.
This story originally appeared on The Center Square.
What an excellent way for farmers to earn additional income and for people to experience rural life firsthand. It’s a mutually beneficial arrangement!