The 5th Annual Campground Owners Expo (COE) officially opened today at the Hilton Branson Convention Center (Missouri). Owned by Severson & Associates, the event runs through December 6 and targets private park owners seeking to improve their bottom line.
Organizers Lori Severson and Bud Styer bring a combined 50 years of industry experience to the trade show. Their stated mission is to help owners “make more money, avoid costly pitfalls, learn and grow” through targeted networking and education.
“In these trying times we would like to give you the information and knowledge we have acquired for campgrounds around the USA,” the event’s details indicate.
A primary objective of this year’s expo is strengthening state-level representation. The event provides dedicated meeting space to help attendees build robust state associations and offer benefits to participating parks.
At 9:00 a.m., Wednesday’s (December 3) agenda will kick off with a “Workcamper 101 Workshop.” The session will address essential roles, commitments, and communication skills for both new and experienced workcampers.
The Expo Hall will this afternoon, giving attendees access to vendors offering show-specific specials. Buyers receive raffle incentives for every on-site purchase made during the event.
Tonight’s schedule features a Welcome Reception Dinner and charity auction. Don Bennett is slated to lead the awards ceremony, followed by networking opportunities in the ballroom.
Educational sessions will begin in earnest with a focus on marketing technology. Mark Koep of Campground Views will present on “The AI Shift,” exploring how chat tools are rewriting marketing rules, followed by live website reviews.
Financial compliance and expansion are key themes for the business track. Holly Hoffman of the Sales Tax Advisory Network will address sales tax compliance, while Phil Whitehead and Kim Lantta of Lake Ridge Bank discuss financing renovation projects.
A dedicated panel will address the industry-wide push for stronger regional representation. Michael Moore of TACO, Don Bennett of ICA, and Jason Vaughn of PCOA will discuss strategies for states without existing associations.
Changing demographics are also on the agenda. John Jaszewski of Campgrounds4Sale.com will present “Reimagining Camping for the Post-Baby Boomer Generation,” analyzing future market shifts.
Operational risk management remains a priority for park operators. Eric Haun and Crystal Erickson of Coverra Insurance Services are scheduled to host a Q&A session regarding campground claims and coverage.
For more information about the event, visit their website here.