As we pack up the fireworks and polish off another round of leftover hot dogs and hamburgers, it marks the end of phase one of the summer camping season. But exiting phase one doesn't mean it's over, it's actually very far from over.

We dove back in to Kampgrounds of America Inc.'s 2023 North American Camping & Outdoor Hospitality Report to give you a mid-season refresher on what this year could still bring and how your campground can meet the needs and wants of those last minute summer vacation planners.  

Consumers are craving new experiences. 

"Year-to-year, about 80% of campers try a new form of camping they are unfamiliar with. This desire to try new things, along with a breadth of ways to camp, glamp and connect with the outdoors, helps further connect leisure travelers to outdoor hospitality options. In 2023, 40% of campers want to travel to experience natural events like eclipses or meteor showers. A similar number (36%) say food tourism and seeking out culinary experiences are a priority for the year."

If it's been a hard year, camping offers a mental health outlet. 

"Campers and glampers are quick to note that outdoor hospitality has mental and familial benefits that are important to them. Those who travel and camp with their family members are more likely to say that camping is relaxing, provides an escape and helps them blow-off steam. Gen Z and the youngest campers especially indicate that spending time outdoors with their families is important and beneficial. In all, 56% of campers say it’s important to introduce the next generation to camping and the outdoors and 54% state it contributes to their family’s traditions."

A vacation that won't break the bank? Camping is the answer.

"Even in a lagging economy, camping is a priority. Half of all campers say camping offers a more cost-friendly way to travel during an economic downturn. In fact, 38% say they will continue to camp and take fewer vacations of other types in the event the economy worsens. In total, 89% of campers share they will not sacrifice a camping trip for other travel options."

Y'all come back now, ya hear.

Since 2O14, the number of households who camp three or more times annually has grown an aggressive 174%. If they've come to your campground once already, try to get on their books again for a repeat visit. It's likely they'll be camping again anyway, so why not with you?

To read the full report go to the KOA Press Room at http://www.koapressroom.com/.
Looking for more valuable data? The National ARVC Learning and Resource Center offers over a decade of industry reports and data, including our recent 2023 Industry Outlook Report. Members can access it all for free here.