Pennsylvania’s state parks have been experiencing a significant surge in demand from campers. This trend, which has been particularly noticeable during holiday weekends, is not only reshaping the state’s outdoor recreation industry but also providing a unique opportunity for private campground owners and operators.
Over the Memorial Day weekend, park campgrounds reported an impressive occupancy rate of over 94%, with nearly 98% occupancy on May 27. Despite less than-optimal weather conditions, the parks also witnessed a strong turnout around Independence Day, with an 85.51% occupancy rate of the state’s 6,327 available campsites.
John Hallas, the director of state parks for the Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources, noted that the overall visitation in 2023 has been consistently higher than the 2022 numbers. This upward trend is not limited to holiday periods; it’s a year-round phenomenon, with reservations being made as much as 11 months in advance.
This surge in demand is a testament to the resilience and adaptability of Pennsylvania’s outdoor recreation industry, which has managed to bounce back strongly from the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic.
For private campground owners and operators, this increase in demand presents a golden opportunity. With state parks operating at near capacity, campers are likely to seek out private campgrounds as alternatives, potentially leading to increased revenue and business growth for these operators.
Moreover, the specific preferences of campers also provide valuable insights for these private operators. For instance, there is a growing demand for full hook-up campsites that include water, electric, and sewage facilities.
Campers are also seeking sites where they can bring their pets, and the need for improved internet connections is becoming increasingly apparent.
The state parks are responding to these needs by working to improve internet connections and offering a variety of accommodations, including full-service hookups for RVs, walk-in campsites, yurts, and camping cottages for rent.
Private campground owners can take a cue from these initiatives and tailor their offerings to meet these evolving demands.
The surge in camping demand is also a significant boost for Pennsylvania’s outdoor recreation industry as a whole. It not only generates revenue but also promotes a culture of outdoor activities, encouraging residents and visitors to explore the state’s natural beauty. This, in turn, can lead to increased interest and investment in outdoor recreation infrastructure and services, creating a virtuous cycle of growth and development.
The unprecedented surge in camping demand at Pennsylvania’s state parks is a positive sign for the state’s outdoor recreation industry.