Outdoor Hospitality News
For owners, operators, team members, and anyone else interested in camping, glamping, or the RV industry.
News for November 6, 2025
Pine Acres Family Camping Resort celebrated its 65th season in 2025 with a heartfelt fundraising effort, raising $30,900 for the Karen Wellington Foundation—an organization that provides women battling breast cancer with joyful, restorative experiences such as vacations and spa days.
RMS unveiled a new integration with point-of-sale provider Epos Now on November 5 during the World Travel Market in London, linking front-of-house transactions with its property management system to enhance efficiency and visibility for hospitality operators.
The federal government’s Canada Strong Pass, aimed at boosting travel and outdoor recreation, has drawn criticism from private campground operators who say the program created uneven competition and financial strain across the outdoor hospitality industry.
The RV Dealers Association has launched a mobile-friendly event website for the 2025 RVDA Convention/Expo, offering attendees access to schedules, exhibitors, and networking tools ahead of the November 10–14 event at Paris Las Vegas.
Five companies were honored with the 2025 SETT d’Or Innovation Awards during the 46th edition of the Salon Européen des Tendances Touristiques (SETT) in Montpellier, France, on November 4, recognizing groundbreaking solutions that advance sustainability and innovation across the outdoor hospitality sector.
Camp Jellystone recognized top-performing Jellystone Park franchisees across the U.S. and Canada during its annual Symposium in Orlando, highlighting excellence in operations, guest satisfaction, and brand commitment.
Coachella Lakes RV Resort in Coachella, California, will celebrate Thanksgiving weekend with a lineup of community-driven activities from November 27 to 29, including socials, tournaments, and family-friendly crafts designed to bring guests together in the spirit of gratitude and recreation.
The RV Technical Institute, Navarro College, and Fun Town RV marked a major step in RV workforce development with a ribbon-cutting ceremony in Corsicana, Texas, celebrating the launch of RVTI’s first community college partnership.
Firefly Reservations has launched a new “Day Use” feature that allows campgrounds, RV parks, and outdoor destinations to manage single-day bookings alongside overnight stays, streamlining operations and opening new revenue opportunities for property owners.
A backyard camping project launched during lockdown has grown into a thriving glamping business, with The Secret Garden Glamping now planning 10 new UK sites following a £100,000 investment from Dragon’s Den investor Deborah Meaden.
A former Fear Factor champion and Mrs. Texas International 2025 are transforming 12 acres of family land into Ferncrest Chambers Creek, a luxury glampground set to open in early 2026 just an hour south of Dallas-Fort Worth.
Pine Acres Family Camping Resort celebrated its 65th season in 2025 with a heartfelt fundraising effort, raising $30,900 for the Karen Wellington Foundation—an organization that provides women battling breast cancer with joyful, restorative experiences such as vacations and spa days.
RMS unveiled a new integration with point-of-sale provider Epos Now on November 5 during the World Travel Market in London, linking front-of-house transactions with its property management system to enhance efficiency and visibility for hospitality operators.
The federal government’s Canada Strong Pass, aimed at boosting travel and outdoor recreation, has drawn criticism from private campground operators who say the program created uneven competition and financial strain across the outdoor hospitality industry.
The RV Dealers Association has launched a mobile-friendly event website for the 2025 RVDA Convention/Expo, offering attendees access to schedules, exhibitors, and networking tools ahead of the November 10–14 event at Paris Las Vegas.
Five companies were honored with the 2025 SETT d’Or Innovation Awards during the 46th edition of the Salon Européen des Tendances Touristiques (SETT) in Montpellier, France, on November 4, recognizing groundbreaking solutions that advance sustainability and innovation across the outdoor hospitality sector.
Camp Jellystone recognized top-performing Jellystone Park franchisees across the U.S. and Canada during its annual Symposium in Orlando, highlighting excellence in operations, guest satisfaction, and brand commitment.
As the 2025 Western Ideas Forum and AccomEx continues in Cranbrook, British Columbia, organizers are preparing for an information-packed third day on November 5, featuring sessions on artificial intelligence, legal frameworks, pricing strategies, and tourism innovation for the outdoor hospitality industry.
Campspot, a campground management and online booking platform, has launched Day-use Add-ons, a feature designed to help campground operators manage, sell, and schedule daily activities, rentals, and experiences within a single reservation system.
John Spader of NCM Associates will present models, strategies, and systems used by top-performing dealerships to achieve success in any market during a workshop at the upcoming RV Dealers Convention/Expo in Las Vegas.
Coachella Lakes RV Resort in Coachella, California, will celebrate Thanksgiving weekend with a lineup of community-driven activities from November 27 to 29, including socials, tournaments, and family-friendly crafts designed to bring guests together in the spirit of gratitude and recreation.
Firefly Reservations has launched a new “Day Use” feature that allows campgrounds, RV parks, and outdoor destinations to manage single-day bookings alongside overnight stays, streamlining operations and opening new revenue opportunities for property owners.
A backyard camping project launched during lockdown has grown into a thriving glamping business, with The Secret Garden Glamping now planning 10 new UK sites following a £100,000 investment from Dragon’s Den investor Deborah Meaden.
A former Fear Factor champion and Mrs. Texas International 2025 are transforming 12 acres of family land into Ferncrest Chambers Creek, a luxury glampground set to open in early 2026 just an hour south of Dallas-Fort Worth.
Coachella Lakes RV Resort in Coachella, California, will celebrate Thanksgiving weekend with a lineup of community-driven activities from November 27 to 29, including socials, tournaments, and family-friendly crafts designed to bring guests together in the spirit of gratitude and recreation.
Firefly Reservations has launched a new “Day Use” feature that allows campgrounds, RV parks, and outdoor destinations to manage single-day bookings alongside overnight stays, streamlining operations and opening new revenue opportunities for property owners.
Pine Acres Family Camping Resort celebrated its 65th season in 2025 with a heartfelt fundraising effort, raising $30,900 for the Karen Wellington Foundation—an organization that provides women battling breast cancer with joyful, restorative experiences such as vacations and spa days.
RMS unveiled a new integration with point-of-sale provider Epos Now on November 5 during the World Travel Market in London, linking front-of-house transactions with its property management system to enhance efficiency and visibility for hospitality operators.
Five companies were honored with the 2025 SETT d’Or Innovation Awards during the 46th edition of the Salon Européen des Tendances Touristiques (SETT) in Montpellier, France, on November 4, recognizing groundbreaking solutions that advance sustainability and innovation across the outdoor hospitality sector.
As the 2025 Western Ideas Forum and AccomEx continues in Cranbrook, British Columbia, organizers are preparing for an information-packed third day on November 5, featuring sessions on artificial intelligence, legal frameworks, pricing strategies, and tourism innovation for the outdoor hospitality industry.
The 46th edition of SETT, Europe’s leading trade fair for outdoor hospitality professionals, officially opened on Tuesday, November 4, at the Parc des Expositions in Montpellier, France. The ceremony marked a celebration of sustainability, innovation, and regional collaboration, bringing together industry leaders, federation representatives, and tourism professionals from across Europe to exchange ideas and explore the sector’s evolving future.
Hillbily Luxury near Parksville, British Columbia, offers a glamping experience that combines accessibility, modern amenities, and proximity to regional attractions—showcasing how thoughtful design can enhance guest satisfaction in the outdoor hospitality market.
Beaver Valley Base Camp in Ontario combines primitive camping and glamping accommodations across 64 acres, offering a model for outdoor hospitality businesses seeking to diversify guest experiences while preserving natural landscapes.
Set in Devon’s quiet Carey Valley, Nemetona combines locally crafted design and sustainable practices to offer a comfortable, semi off-grid glamping experience that reflects key trends shaping the outdoor hospitality industry.
Set within Lincolnshire’s Walcot Hall Estate, Apple Blossom offers a secluded glamping experience that blends countryside tranquility with high-end amenities, reflecting the growing demand for premium outdoor accommodations.
A tree farm east of Vancouver is merging agriculture and outdoor hospitality, offering RV and trailer stays amid fir trees and farmland while highlighting a growing trend toward sustainable, nature-based tourism experiences.
Outdoor Retailer is set to debut a reimagined platform when it moves to Minneapolis in August 2026, unveiling a Leadership Village, new collaborations with Garage Grown Gear and Founded Outdoors, and onsite experiences that spotlight innovation, independent brands, and Minnesota’s vibrant outdoor culture.
Coachella Lakes RV Resort in Coachella, California, will celebrate Thanksgiving weekend with a lineup of community-driven activities from November 27 to 29, including socials, tournaments, and family-friendly crafts designed to bring guests together in the spirit of gratitude and recreation.
A backyard camping project launched during lockdown has grown into a thriving glamping business, with The Secret Garden Glamping now planning 10 new UK sites following a £100,000 investment from Dragon’s Den investor Deborah Meaden.
A former Fear Factor champion and Mrs. Texas International 2025 are transforming 12 acres of family land into Ferncrest Chambers Creek, a luxury glampground set to open in early 2026 just an hour south of Dallas-Fort Worth.
RMS unveiled a new integration with point-of-sale provider Epos Now on November 5 during the World Travel Market in London, linking front-of-house transactions with its property management system to enhance efficiency and visibility for hospitality operators.
Five companies were honored with the 2025 SETT d’Or Innovation Awards during the 46th edition of the Salon Européen des Tendances Touristiques (SETT) in Montpellier, France, on November 4, recognizing groundbreaking solutions that advance sustainability and innovation across the outdoor hospitality sector.
As the 2025 Western Ideas Forum and AccomEx continues in Cranbrook, British Columbia, organizers are preparing for an information-packed third day on November 5, featuring sessions on artificial intelligence, legal frameworks, pricing strategies, and tourism innovation for the outdoor hospitality industry.
The 46th edition of SETT, Europe’s leading trade fair for outdoor hospitality professionals, officially opened on Tuesday, November 4, at the Parc des Expositions in Montpellier, France. The ceremony marked a celebration of sustainability, innovation, and regional collaboration, bringing together industry leaders, federation representatives, and tourism professionals from across Europe to exchange ideas and explore the sector’s evolving future.
Hillbily Luxury near Parksville, British Columbia, offers a glamping experience that combines accessibility, modern amenities, and proximity to regional attractions—showcasing how thoughtful design can enhance guest satisfaction in the outdoor hospitality market.
The European Trade Show for Tourism Trends (SETT) returns to Montpellier from November 4–6, spotlighting innovations in glamping, sustainability, and technology that are transforming outdoor hospitality across Europe.
The second day of the 2025 Western Ideas Forum and AccomEx is set to kick off today, November 4, in Cranbrook, featuring the launch of the AccomEx Trade Show, sessions on industry standards, and networking opportunities for campground and RV park operators across Western Canada.
Hipcamp has partnered with Sun Outdoors, one of North America’s largest owners and operators of RV resorts and campgrounds, to bring 100 of its parks—including more than 20 Jellystone Parks—to the Hipcamp platform. The collaboration expands Hipcamp’s catalog of upscale camping destinations, offering travelers easier access to RV sites, glamping stays, and family-friendly resorts that blend outdoor adventure with modern comfort.
The Manila Town Council has sent its draft glamping ordinance back to the planning and zoning commission for revision, seeking clearer standards on density, lot size, and infrastructure before moving forward with new regulations.
Near Howe Cottages in the Lake District has submitted plans to replace five campervan pitches with two year-round glamping pods, a move aimed at meeting evolving visitor preferences and strengthening the site’s rural tourism offering.
Seven Yogi Bear’s Jellystone Park Camp-Resorts have been named finalists in OHI’s 2025 Awards of Excellence, earning distinction for innovation and leadership as the association debuts its new Park Innovator of the Year Award.
Set in Devon’s quiet Carey Valley, Nemetona combines locally crafted design and sustainable practices to offer a comfortable, semi off-grid glamping experience that reflects key trends shaping the outdoor hospitality industry.
Set within Lincolnshire’s Walcot Hall Estate, Apple Blossom offers a secluded glamping experience that blends countryside tranquility with high-end amenities, reflecting the growing demand for premium outdoor accommodations.
IHM Outdoors, the outdoor and resort-focused division of Island Hospitality Management, has promoted Hayden Schlosser to divisional vice president as the company continues expanding its national portfolio of outdoor properties.
The RV Technical Institute, Navarro College, and Fun Town RV marked a major step in RV workforce development with a ribbon-cutting ceremony in Corsicana, Texas, celebrating the launch of RVTI’s first community college partnership.
The RV Dealers Association has launched a mobile-friendly event website for the 2025 RVDA Convention/Expo, offering attendees access to schedules, exhibitors, and networking tools ahead of the November 10–14 event at Paris Las Vegas.
John Spader of NCM Associates will present models, strategies, and systems used by top-performing dealerships to achieve success in any market during a workshop at the upcoming RV Dealers Convention/Expo in Las Vegas.
As part of the 2025 RV Dealers Convention/Expo in Las Vegas, leadership expert Allen Phibbs will present a workshop titled “Disrupt Yourself Before the Market Disrupts You” on Thursday, November 13, from 1:30 to 2:30 p.m., guiding dealership leaders on how to anticipate and adapt to change before external market forces demand it.
The RV Technical Institute (RVTI) will introduce new pricing for its training programs and services starting January 1, 2026, marking its first comprehensive update in several years. The changes affect individual and location subscriptions, Authorized Learning Partner contracts, and technician training fees as the institute continues to expand and modernize its industry-leading certification programs.
Registration is now open for the 2026 RV Industry Association (RVIA) Leadership Conference, set for March 10-12 at the Hyatt Regency Lost Pines Resort and Spa in Austin, Texas, where RV industry executives and rising leaders will gather for three days of networking, leadership development, and professional growth.
Remote Vans has expanded its national dealer network through a new partnership with Van City RV, bringing its adventure-ready Class B motorhomes to more customers across the United States. The Cincinnati-based manufacturer announced the collaboration on October 28, marking another step in its mission to make high-quality, innovation-driven vans more accessible to outdoor enthusiasts.
The RV Industry Association (RVIA) reported a 4.4% increase in RV shipments for September 2025, with 25,684 units delivered compared to 24,595 a year earlier. The steady growth, according to RVIA President and CEO Craig Kirby, highlights the continued strength of the RV lifestyle and a growing shift toward year-round travel.
Industry consultant David Spader will lead two workshops at the 2025 RV Dealers Convention/Expo in Las Vegas, where he will help RV dealers improve leadership effectiveness through emotional awareness and structured performance management.
The RV Industry Association (RVIA) is highlighting the value of membership through a new two-part Maximizing Your Membership series, detailing how its core programs and services—from standards and government affairs to research, marketing, and training—support the $140 billion RV industry and its more than 470 member companies.
The countdown is on for Campervan Campout Festival 2026, taking place May 1-3, 2026, at the South of England Showground in Ardingly, United Kingdom, where Spartan Campers has been announced as the headline sponsor for the fourth annual event.
Connected TV (CTV) is taking the spotlight at the 2025 RV Dealers Convention/Expo, where Rich DeLancey, co-founder and chief innovation officer at Coast Technology, will lead a workshop on how the platform is driving measurable sales results and reshaping digital marketing for RV dealers.
The Emerging Leaders Coalition, an initiative of the RV Industry Association (RVIA) dedicated to developing the next generation of RV industry professionals, has announced its Class of 2026. The new cohort represents a diverse mix of leaders from manufacturing, supply, and retail sectors, reflecting the coalition’s ongoing commitment to fostering professional growth, collaboration, and innovation across the industry.
Chris Balderrama, co-founder and president of iClaims Services and director of fixed operations and warranty administration for RVsurance, will lead a session titled “Broken Promises: The RV Warranty Crisis” at the 2025 RV Dealers Convention/Expo in Las Vegas, focusing on how the industry can improve warranty service, strengthen trust between dealers, manufacturers, and customers, and better align with evolving consumer expectations.
The Virginia Department of Conservation and Recreation has acquired the 455-acre Lake Caledon property, expanding Caledon State Park by 20% through a partnership of local, state, and federal organizations dedicated to conservation and recreation.
Airxcel introduced new exterior components from its Velarium and Cleer Vision Doors brands during the 12th annual New Product Showcase, showcasing innovations designed to enhance safety, functionality, and style in recreational vehicles.
At the upcoming RV Dealers Convention/Expo in Las Vegas, a panel of industry experts will lead a workshop on November 11 to demonstrate how artificial intelligence (AI) is being applied by RV dealers to improve sales, service, and customer engagement.
Ken Barnes, director of sales for DealerPRO RV Training, will lead two workshops at the 2025 RV Dealers Convention/Expo in Las Vegas, offering strategies to boost fixed operations profitability and strengthen customer retention.
More than 30 Vendor Training +Plus sessions are set for the 2025 RV Dealers Convention/Expo, giving dealership professionals the chance to explore new products, services, and strategies from leading industry providers during the Nov. 10–14 event at Paris Las Vegas.
The Virginia Department of Conservation and Recreation, in partnership with the Federal Highway Administration, has awarded grants to 12 projects through the Recreational Trails Program, providing more than $1.7 million to support the construction and rehabilitation of trails and related facilities across the commonwealth.
A public information meeting on the 10-year master plan for Powhatan State Park will take place Sept. 23 at 6:30 p.m. at the Powhatan Village Building Auditorium, giving residents an opportunity to learn about proposed developments and provide input on the park’s future.
The British Columbia Lodging and Camping Association (BCLCA) has partnered with Acera Insurance Services Ltd. and Western Financial Group to expand insurance options for its members, offering tailored brokerage solutions designed to provide greater flexibility, competitive coverage, and value across the province’s outdoor hospitality industry.
Sailor’s Creek Battlefield Historical State Park will host its 6th annual Butterflies on the Battlefield Pollinator and Nature Festival on Aug. 23, offering free, family-friendly activities that highlight the importance of pollinators through educational programs, nature walks, and craft activities.
Campspot, a reservation software provider for campgrounds, has announced a new integration with Iterable, an AI-powered cross-channel marketing platform. This collaboration enables multi-park operators and marketing teams to sync guest and reservation data directly into Iterable’s advanced system.
RoverPass’s new “Escape the Chaos” campaign brings the stress of running a campground to life through humor, animation, and a not-so-cuddly Chaos Monster—showing owners they’re not alone and that smarter, AI-powered solutions are on the way.
My Financing USA, a national RV and boat financing provider, has announced a plan to give away $1 billion worth of prequalified leads to dealerships through its newly launched website, MyFy Marketplace. The platform is designed to connect dealers with thousands of credit-qualified buyers at no cost for listings, offering a timely solution as retailers face rising advertising expenses across the recreational vehicle and marine industries.
Campspot, an online booking platform for campgrounds and RV parks, has announced the 2025 Campground Revolutionaries, recognizing seven professionals across the United States and Canada for their leadership, innovation, and dedication to enhancing the outdoor hospitality industry.
Campground owners across the U.S. can now join OHI or their state association independently, following a major shift to a direct membership model. While the move sparked mixed reactions, both OHI and state leaders agree on one goal: supporting park owners through tailored benefits, advocacy, and collaboration.
June is Parks and Recreation Month, celebrating the numerous benefits of parks and outdoor recreation spaces. This initiative encourages communities to engage in diverse outdoor activities, promoting physical, mental, and community health while supporting economic growth and environmental sustainability.
USA Camping Company is elevating traditional campgrounds into resort-level destinations by acquiring and upgrading properties with enhanced amenities and community integration. Their growth strategy focuses on providing high-quality guest experiences, prime outdoor locations, and sustainable practices.
Luxe Glamp, an eco-friendly luxury dome glamping project, has begun construction in the Umm Al Quwain Mangrove Reserve, UAE, promising a sustainable and immersive stay experience. The project, attended by Sheikh Majid bin Saud bin Rashid Al Mualla, aims to blend luxury with environmental conservation, highlighting the UAE’s diverse tourism offerings.
National Powersports Auctions (NPA) has expanded its RV and Marine team by appointing Shannon Bennett as the RV+Marine sales and admin coordinator and promoting Tom Wilkinson to production supervisor for RV+Marine and Specialty Product. This strategic move aims to enhance service efficiency and support the growing demand in the RV and Marine industries.
Temporary road closures and changed parking conditions are set for the 2024 Let’s Go Queensland Caravan and Camping Supershow from May 30 to June 11. The event will feature the latest models of caravans, motorhomes, and camping equipment, hosted by over 200 exhibitors.
A recent Winnebago Industries survey reveals that more Americans are turning to outdoor activities for health benefits, with 71% acknowledging their positive impact on physical and mental well-being. The survey highlights a growing trend in outdoor participation, which supports increased demand in the RV industry.
Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro launches the “Pennsylvania: The Great American Getaway” tourism initiative with a weeklong RV tour to promote the state’s attractions and boost its tourism industry. The campaign aims to draw millions of visitors, benefiting local businesses and the outdoor recreation sector.
Campsite reservations in BC Parks’ Okanagan region have decreased this year, with 1,400 reservations for the May long weekend compared to 1,600 last year. Despite this, most parks are fully booked, and several trails remain closed due to wildfire impacts and seasonal conditions.
The 12th annual RV Industry Power Breakfast at the RV/MH Hall of Fame witnessed its highest turnout ever, with industry leaders discussing the robust interest and emerging trends in the RV sector. Key talks highlighted increased outdoor activities spurred by the pandemic and the transformative impact of artificial intelligence in enhancing customer experiences.
As the 2024 camping season begins, demand for local campsites in southern Ontario shows significant growth, with facilities like Whistle Bare Campground nearly fully booked. Campground operators are advised to optimize services and facilities in response to the increasing popularity of outdoor activities.