As of 2025, the campground industry is thriving. With continued interest in RV travel, remote work, and outdoor recreation, both demand and revenue opportunities are climbing steadily. For campground owners and investors, understanding this growth isn’t just interesting, it’s essential. From market size to tech-driven transformation, the data paints a clear picture of where the industry is headed and how you can position your business to thrive.

Table of contents

What You’ll Learn in This Article

  • The current U.S. and global market size of the campground industry
  • Key occupancy, revenue, and rate trends shaping operations in 2025
  • Technology’s impact on performance and guest expectations
  • Where opportunities and challenges are emerging for park owners
  • How to act on this data to stay competitive and grow strategically

The Current Size and Economic Impact of the Campground Industry

The campground and RV park industry continues to show robust performance in 2025, driven by increasing travel interest, economic stability, and diversification in camper demographics.

This growth reflects not only a strong economy but also a shift in consumer behavior, outdoor hospitality is now seen as both desirable and practical.

The evolution of the campground industry is powered by a blend of traveler expectations, digital tools, and operational shifts. Let’s explore the data behind the current trends.

Market Growth Projections and Demand Drivers

  • 11+ million new camping households have entered the market since 2019
  • Demand is driven by remote work, increased RV ownership, and the rise of younger travelers
  • Interest remains high due to flexible travel preferences and affordable domestic vacationing

The growth is not cyclical; it’s structural. Owners who adapt early benefit most from this long-term expansion.

Revenue is largely driven by occupancy, pricing, and seasonal demand.

  • Average occupancy (2025): 60% to 70%, peaking in summer
  • Small parks: 9% growth in occupancy (YoY)
  • Large parks: 8% increase in average daily rate (ADR)

Location and site variety continue to influence income potential. Adjusting pricing to reflect market conditions and seasonal demand can help improve overall revenue performance.

Technology and Operations Transformation

Campgrounds using digital tools are outperforming their peers on every front.

  • $1.9 billion in bookings processed via online platforms (2023)
  • Growing use of contactless check-in and automated messaging
  • Owners using reservation software and analytics report higher guest retention and better reviews

Opportunities and Challenges for Campground Owners

Understanding the latest data is only the first step. The real challenge lies in acting on these trends before your competitors do.

Meeting Demand: Expansion, Upgrades, and Differentiation

To meet rising demand, campground capacity must grow 7% annually over the next five years. But growth isn’t just about adding more sites—it’s about aligning your offerings with evolving guest expectations.

  • Wi-Fi, upgraded bathhouses, EV charging, and glamping units are fast becoming minimum requirements
  • Flexible booking policies and real-time availability appeal to last-minute travelers and digital nomads
  • Parks that differentiate through design, experience, or amenities attract longer stays and premium rates

Owners looking to stay competitive should explore campground expansion opportunities, add diversified lodging types, and implement non-site revenue strategies that support long-term growth.

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As investor interest in the outdoor hospitality sector increases, market consolidation is accelerating, particularly in high-demand regions like the Sunbelt, the Pacific Northwest, and areas near national parks. This means independent owners are now competing with professionally managed portfolios and private equity-backed chains.

At the same time, regulatory complexity is increasing:

  • Zoning, density, and utility compliance are under review in many states
  • New environmental standards, ADA requirements, and septic limitations may restrict future development
  • Failure to stay ahead of these changes can lead to costly delays or forced operational adjustments

Owners who monitor zoning updates, understand infrastructure requirements, and involve local officials early in the planning process are better positioned to avoid costly delays and build sustainably.

Frequently Asked Questions: Campground Industry Growth

How big is the campground industry in the U.S. and globally?

In 2025, the U.S. campground market is valued at $10.9 billion, with the global market projected to hit $56.1 billion by 2030. The U.S. market is growing at 8.3% CAGR.

What is the average occupancy rate for campgrounds in 2025?

Annual occupancy averages between 60% and 70%, peaking in summer. Smaller parks reported a 9% increase year-over-year.

Is owning a campground a profitable business?

Yes. Campgrounds yield strong returns when managed efficiently. Profitability depends on occupancy, daily rates, and non-site revenue. Digital operators see better margins.

How resilient is the industry in a recession?

The industry has proven recession-resistant, with bookings remaining stable during downturns. RVing and camping are seen as affordable alternatives to air travel and hotels.

Which U.S. states have the most campgrounds?

Texas, California, Florida, New York, and Pennsylvania top the list. Growth is also strong in Western states with public lands or digital nomad appeal.

What is a typical cap rate for a campground investment?

Most parks in 2025 trade at cap rates between 8% and 10%, depending on location, stability, and amenities. Lower cap rates often signal higher-performing properties.