The Campground Boom: Why Outdoor Hospitality Is One of the Fastest-Growing Markets

Outdoor hospitality is having a moment—and it’s not slowing down anytime soon. What was once a niche industry dominated by mom-and-pop RV parks and seasonal family campgrounds is now attracting major investors, developers, and hospitality brands looking to get in on the action.

The demand for camping and RV travel has skyrocketed, fueled by shifting travel preferences, remote work opportunities, and an increased desire for outdoor experiences. And the numbers prove it:

• The U.S. outdoor recreation economy contributes over $1 trillion annually, outpacing many traditional travel sectors.
• RV ownership has reached record highs, with over 11 million U.S. households now owning an RV.
• Glamping, once a fringe trend, is now a mainstream travel category, attracting both luxury travelers and first-time campers.

So, what’s driving this campground boom? And more importantly, what does it mean for investors, developers, and current owners looking to expand or optimize their business?

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1. Demand for Outdoor Travel Has Exploded

Even before the pandemic, camping and RV travel were on the rise. But 2020 changed everything. With international travel restricted and hotels feeling risky, people turned to camping as a safe, socially distanced vacation option.

And they didn’t stop once restrictions lifted.

Why Outdoor Travel is Here to Stay:

• New campers have entered the market – Millions of people who never camped before tried it during the pandemic and discovered they love it.
• RV travel offers flexibility – Unlike traditional vacations, RVing allows travelers to be spontaneous, mobile, and cost-conscious.
• Nature is the new luxury – Travelers are prioritizing open spaces, fresh air, and outdoor adventure over crowded resorts.

This shift isn’t temporary—it’s a long-term transformation in how people vacation.

What This Means for Campgrounds:

• High occupancy rates aren’t just a summer trend—they’re becoming the new normal.
• New development opportunities are emerging, especially in under-served markets where demand outweighs supply.
• Parks that offer more than just a place to park—think premium amenities and curated experiences—are thriving.

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2. The RV Industry is Growing—And Evolving

RV sales hit record numbers in 2020 and 2021, and while sales have leveled off slightly, ownership continues to climb. Today’s RV owners are also different from past generations:

• Younger travelers are entering the market – Millennials and Gen Z are buying RVs at increasing rates.
• More part-time RVers – Instead of selling their homes and going full-time, many RV owners take extended trips while maintaining a home base.
• The rise of RV rentals – Platforms like Outdoorsy and RVshare have made it easier than ever for people to try RV travel without buying.

What This Means for Campgrounds:

• More first-time RVers means demand for easy-to-navigate sites, premium amenities, and educational resources is growing.
• The RV rental trend is bringing new customers into the market—campgrounds should partner with rental companies to offer RV delivery and setup options.
• Campgrounds that cater to both weekenders and long-term travelers will have the most success.

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3. The Glamping Market is Booming

Glamping is no longer just a trendy buzzword—it’s a multi-billion-dollar industry that’s bringing a new kind of guest into the outdoor hospitality space.

Many travelers want to experience nature but don’t own an RV or camping gear. Glamping—whether it’s in luxury tents, treehouses, yurts, or tiny homes—offers a way to enjoy the outdoors with hotel-level comfort.

Why Glamping is a Major Growth Opportunity:

• The average daily rate (ADR) for glamping accommodations is often higher than traditional RV sites, increasing campground revenue.
• Glamping attracts a new audience—travelers who might not normally consider a campground stay.
• The rise of Instagram and influencer marketing has fueled demand for unique, photo-worthy stays.

What This Means for Campgrounds:

• Adding glamping units can diversify revenue and increase occupancy rates year-round.
• Even traditional campgrounds should enhance their accommodations—deluxe cabins, safari tents, and A-frame rentals are in high demand.
• Parks that create an experience rather than just a place to sleep—with curated outdoor activities, high-end dining, or guided adventures—will attract more guests.

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4. Institutional Investment is Pouring Into Campgrounds

For decades, the campground industry was dominated by family-owned businesses. But in recent years, large investment groups have recognized the earning potential of outdoor hospitality.

What’s Driving the Investment Boom?

• RV parks and campgrounds have proven to be recession-resistant assets.
• The outdoor hospitality market offers higher ROI than many traditional hotel investments.
• Many parks still operate below their revenue potential, making them attractive to investors looking to optimize and modernize properties.

What This Means for Campground Owners:

• Property values are rising—now is a great time to sell or expand.
• Competition is increasing, and independent campgrounds need to modernize to stay competitive.
• There are new opportunities to partner with investors or secure funding for improvements.

For owners looking to scale, sell, or reinvest, understanding market trends is key to maximizing the value of their property.

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5. Technology & Automation are Reshaping the Industry

Campgrounds are rapidly adopting hotel-style technology to improve operations and enhance the guest experience.

Key Tech Trends in Campgrounds:

• Online booking & contactless check-in – Guests expect an easy, frictionless reservation process.
• Smart utilities – Automated lighting, water conservation systems, and solar-powered sites are becoming standard features.
• High-speed Wi-Fi – Reliable internet is no longer optional, especially with the rise of remote workers and digital nomads.
• Dynamic pricing models – Campgrounds are implementing hotel-style demand-based pricing to maximize revenue.

What This Means for Campgrounds:

• Parks that embrace automation and efficiency tools will be better positioned for long-term success.
• Campgrounds investing in high-speed internet and tech-forward amenities will attract remote workers and long-term travelers.
• Dynamic pricing can help owners increase revenue by charging premium rates during peak seasons.

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Final Thoughts: A Booming Industry with Endless Potential

The outdoor hospitality industry is one of the fastest-growing sectors in travel—but it’s also evolving rapidly.

Campgrounds that invest in modern amenities, diversify accommodations, and embrace new technologies will be best positioned to capitalize on this growth. Whether you’re looking to develop a new park, expand an existing property, or optimize your revenue model, now is the time to take action.

At Campground Consulting Group, we help developers, investors, and campground owners navigate this fast-changing industry with expert strategy, planning, and operational support.

Thinking About Expanding or Investing in Outdoor Hospitality? Let’s Talk.

The campground boom is here—are you ready to take advantage of it?

Contact us today for a consultation.

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Outdoor hospitality is the future of travel—let’s make sure your campground is ready.