More than 39 million Americans are expected to travel by car during Memorial Day weekend, according to AAA projections, signaling continued strength in the road trip economy heading into the summer travel season as Virginia campgrounds prepare for increased visitor activity.
At the same time, AAA reported Virginia’s statewide average gas price at approximately $4.27 per gallon this week, reflecting seasonal increases in travel costs ahead of the holiday period.
The Virginia Campground Association (VCA) said the combination of strong road travel demand and rising fuel prices reinforces camping’s position as a flexible and value-oriented travel option for consumers seeking affordable outdoor experiences closer to home.
The association also pointed to a growing “closer to home” travel trend on social media, where travelers are increasingly highlighting regional destinations and shorter-distance getaways.
The association encouraged campgrounds to use and share the hashtag “#closertohome” to increase visibility for Virginia camping destinations.
Separately, the Virginia Department of Health has released draft Public Aquatic Facility Regulations that would update and expand the state’s regulatory framework governing pools and aquatic facilities.
According to the VCA, the proposed regulations include revised requirements related to operations, safety, staffing, signage, testing and reporting standards that could affect campground pools and other semi-public aquatic facilities throughout Virginia.
The association said it is reviewing the draft regulations and participating in stakeholder discussions to better understand potential operational impacts on campgrounds, implementation timelines and staffing or operator requirements tied to aquatic facilities.
At this stage of the review process, the association said its focus is on engaging with regulators while ensuring that campground operational realities, seasonal usage patterns and differences among facility types are considered as discussions continue.
The organization is also seeking input from campground operators and members with experience in pool management, aquatic facility operations, lifeguard certification requirements and state or national aquatic facility regulations.
Members interested in participating in an informal VCA workgroup or providing feedback on the proposed regulations were encouraged to contact the association.
The association also urged campground operators to submit nominations for its “Ordinary Awards,” describing the recognition program as an effort to highlight strong parks and operators across Virginia’s campground industry.
“Strong parks deserve visibility,” the association said in its member communication. “Good operators raise the bar for everyone.”