1. A Surge in RV Popularity Means More Park Reservations
Pandemic-era demand: During the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, consumers sought socially distanced ways to travel—free from airports, crowded hotels, or large events. RVs emerged as a safe leisure option, especially when lockdowns curtailed international trips or other indoor pastimes. As a result, RV dealer revenue skyrocketed, rising at an annualized rate of 8.4% through the recent period and hitting USD 51.8 billion in total sales.
Ongoing effects on RV parks: Many of these “pandemic-era buyers” have remained active RV owners. The sustained ownership base means that even though overall RV shipments have cooled from their 2021 highs, thousands of first-time RV owners continue to fill campsites and park slots each year. This supply of new owners—some exploring cross-country routes or living remotely out of their RV—translates into steady or growing demand for RV park accommodations.
Balancing Economic Pressures
Rising interest rates and fuel costs: Despite buoyant growth, the industry was not immune to challenges. Skyrocketing fuel prices and higher interest rates in 2022 and 2023 undercut some consumer enthusiasm for big-ticket discretionary purchases like Class A or Class C motorhomes. Yet, while dealers reported less robust sales volume, there is a compensatory effect at many RV parks: many existing owners are looking to maximize their RV usage rather than selling or upgrading. From an RV park’s perspective, consistent occupancy is often driven by owners who want to get the most out of a costly vehicle.
Service and repair segments: As some RV owners hold onto their current models, there has been a surge in demand for parts and repair services, which comprised roughly 9.8% of dealer industry revenue (or USD 4.7 billion). These after-sales services keep older models on the road longer—again ensuring a continuous pipeline of overnight campers and extended-stay RV residents at parks nationwide.
2. Product Mix and Its Influence on Park Infrastructure
Leading Segments: Travel Trailers and Fifth-Wheel Trailers
Travel trailers (59.2% of dealer revenue): The largest slice of dealer revenue comes from travel trailers (USD 28.3 billion). These towable units are relatively easier to purchase for families or part-time travelers—many of whom already own a capable SUV or pickup truck. Because they are less expensive than premium motorhomes, they broaden the RV customer base and, by extension, increase the number of potential RV park guests.
Fifth-wheel trailers (15.5% of dealer revenue): Positioned as roomier towables, fifth-wheel trailers require heavy-duty towing vehicles but provide more residential amenities. Their popularity reflects a willingness among retirees and long-haul travelers to invest in comfort. RV parks, in turn, have responded by building larger sites with better hook-up options, improved water and sewage systems, and stable concrete pads that can accommodate bigger rigs.
Growth in Motorized Classes: More Amenities, Different Park Needs
Class C (7.0%) and Class B (3.4%) RVs: Although smaller in aggregate revenue than towables, these motorhomes remain critical for travelers who prefer “all-in-one” convenience. Newer Class B and C RVs often come equipped with advanced electrical systems, solar-power options, and integrated Wi-Fi—features appealing to younger travelers and remote workers. Parks are adapting with robust Wi-Fi infrastructures, designated “work-friendly” zones, and on-site amenities to meet these campers’ extended-stay needs.
Class A (2.8%) motorhomes: The luxury motorhome category still garners the highest per-unit revenue for dealers, and the presence of Class A RVs in a park typically demands premium amenities. Many upscale RV parks, sometimes labeled as “RV resorts,” now offer expanded clubhouse facilities, high-end laundry areas, and on-site recreational activities to cater to this demographic.
3. Demographics: Baby Boomers and Younger Adventurers
Retirees Power the Industry—But Younger Segments Grow
Adults aged 55+ (48.4% of dealer market): Retirees traditionally form the bedrock of RV ownership and, consequently, a critical customer segment for RV parks. With better healthcare and longer life expectancies, older Americans are enjoying more active retirements—leading them to spend extended periods at RV parks each season, especially in warmer states.
Adults aged 35 to 54 (30.0%) & 18 to 34 (21.6%): Younger buyers represent a smaller proportion of total RV purchases but are growing quickly, with many citing “wanderlust” and family camping as incentives. For RV parks, appealing to these younger demographics means offering short-term flexibility (e.g., weekend or even single-night stays), solid Wi-Fi, and proximity to adventure-based tourism spots like national parks and hiking trails.
4. Implications for the RV Park Business Model
Seasonal Demand and Weather Sensitivity
Seasonality: RV travel tends to spike during late spring and summer, then tapers off in colder months. Parks must manage fluctuating occupancy, ramping up staffing and facility maintenance in peak seasons while staying operationally lean in the off-season.
Geographic positioning: Parks located near national parks, beaches, or popular tourist corridors enjoy more stable year-round occupancy. Data from dealers indicates continued consumer interest in ecotourism, meaning well-located parks see repeat visits from travelers who want a base near iconic wilderness areas.
Rising Home Costs and Extended Stays
Full-time RV living: High housing costs in many metro areas have nudged some consumers into part- or full-time RV living—an unconventional but growing lifestyle choice. While still a niche, these “full-timers” often stay at an RV park for months, adding a stable revenue stream for operators. Parks that offer mail services, permanent site rentals, and improved utilities are well-positioned to capture this extended-stay market.
Amenities and Upgrades
Tapping into upscale travelers: As dealers report consumers gravitating toward more luxurious and eco-friendly RV models, parks must continually upgrade their infrastructure—electric hookups for EV or hybrid motorhomes, grey-water disposal systems, advanced security, and robust internet connectivity.
Value-added services: Parks can capture more revenue by offering on-site repair shops or partnerships with mobile RV service providers, especially as dealers’ parts-and-repair segment expands. These extra services resonate with travelers who seek convenience and trust in a single location.
5. Competition, Consolidation, and Ongoing Trends
Dealer Concentration Inspires Park Partnerships
Camping World (12.1% market share among dealers): As the undisputed leader in the dealer space, Camping World’s aggressive expansion has ripple effects down the line for RV parks, too. Parks partnering with large dealer networks—via loyalty programs, cross-promotions, or discount alliances—could draw more visitors while fostering a mutually beneficial ecosystem of referral customers.
Fragmented local markets: Small, independent dealers abound, cultivating close community ties. Similarly, smaller independent RV parks can thrive by emphasizing a unique brand identity—like scenic views, specialized amenities, or curated events (e.g., “wine-tasting weekends” or live music)—to compete with bigger, franchised RV resorts.
Economic Indicators
Consumer confidence: RV purchases hinge on discretionary income and optimism about personal finances. Parks feel the downstream effect; as consumer confidence improves, more people invest in motorhomes or travel trailers, increasing the traveler base for local campgrounds.
Access to credit: Financing drives many RV acquisitions, and the resulting growth in ownership naturally expands the pool of potential RV park customers. Periods of tight credit can stifle new purchases but simultaneously lead to more rental or second-hand units traveling among parks.
6. The Road Ahead
Despite recent economic headwinds—such as higher interest rates, variable consumer sentiment, and modest drops in new unit shipments—fundamental demand for RV-friendly travel remains strong. Forecasts show RV dealer revenue will grow at a modest 2.7% CAGR over the next five years, signaling continued but measured enthusiasm among prospective buyers. That momentum bodes well for the RV park industry in several ways:
Sustained occupancy: A robust base of existing RV owners translates into steady travel patterns. Even if new RV sales slow, tens of thousands of road-ready vehicles remain active on America’s highways.
Upward tier migration: As current owners age or see their financial situation improve, they often trade up to larger or more amenity-rich motorhomes. This shift can spur growth in premium RV resorts featuring luxury amenities, further elevating the entire RV park sector.
Younger generations and eco-friendly Rigs: Younger travelers’ growing interest in green travel, along with dealers offering electric or hybrid RVs, will put pressure on parks to modernize. Innovative parks that invest in EV charging stations and sustainable infrastructure could stand out to this emerging demographic.
Geographical expansions: Warmer southern states (Florida, Texas, the Carolinas) and adventure-heavy western states (Colorado, Utah, Oregon) continue to draw retiree and younger RV tourists alike. Future park expansions and upgrades will likely concentrate in these fast-growing regions.
Conclusion
The synergy between RV dealerships and RV parks has never been stronger, anchored by a pandemic-era boom that drove exponential growth in vehicle ownership. While dealers report some cooling in new unit sales compared to the peaks of 2020–2021, their evolving product mix—especially toward more feature-rich and eco-friendly RVs—ensures a vibrant pipeline of diverse travelers seeking RV park accommodations.
For park operators, aligning with these trends and consumer demands can yield long-term success. Facilities that cater to retirees with extended-stay amenities and younger adventurers with high-speed internet and modern conveniences will be best placed to capitalize on the broadening RV traveler base. Though economic variables remain in flux, the core appeal of RV travel—freedom, flexibility, and proximity to nature—continues to underpin steady, sustainable growth in the RV park industry. By keeping an eye on the data from RV dealers—whether it’s shifting product preferences, demographic shifts, or changing financing conditions—RV parks can strategically adjust and thrive in an evolving, opportunity-rich market.
Are you looking for an RV park, Glamping, or Resort feasibility study? MMCG is the expert RV park feasibility study provider. Contact us today.
January 30, 2025, by Michal Mohelsky, J.D., principal of MMCG Invest, LLC, RV park feasibility study consultancy.
Comentarios