Canadian reservations at New Hampshire campgrounds have dropped sharply at the start of the summer season, with state data showing a more than 70% decline compared to the same time last year.
Campground operators cite border-related challenges and changing travel patterns as contributing factors.
The New Hampshire Campground Owners Association reported a significant drop in Canadian visitors, particularly in northern areas and along the Seacoast.
Operators are seeing fewer bookings from across the border as the season begins, raising concerns about potential revenue losses.
“It’s unfortunate what’s going on, but they’re more than welcome (here),” Jeremy Sprince, executive director of the association, said, as reported by WMUR 9 on June 9.
“It’s a big, big part in New Hampshire, a big part of the tourism industry here, and we miss having them here,” Sprince added.
New Hampshire State Parks noted the early decline in Canadian bookings but said total reservations from all other groups remain relatively steady, as it is still too early to assess the full impact on the season, as many campers book later in the summer.
Privately owned campgrounds are also feeling the effects.
Robert Charest, manager at Friendly Beaver Campground in New Boston, said he has yet to see a single Canadian reservation.
“That could take a small downtick from what I’m seeing right now,” he said.
Charest noted that seasonal guests from Massachusetts and other New England states are helping sustain operations. He said most of their current customers are long-term seasonal renters rather than short-stay campers.
“People are very, very happy to be here, and they’re continually talking about (being here) the rest of the summer, so I don’t see any problems now,” Charest added.
At Crescent Campsites in Canaan, assistant Josh Archibald said Canadian guests are also typically part of the summer mix, especially during events like Laconia’s Bike Week.
However, he said steady attendance from New England residents offers financial stability for the site.
“It’s a totally different world,” Archibald said. “You leave your worries at the gate and you can pick them up on the way out.”