If you’ve been in the campground business for a while, you’ve probably noticed a big shift in who’s showing up at your park and what they’re looking for. Over half of all Baby Boomers, who have shaped the way we have camped over the decades, are now over the age of 60.
- How long will they continue to camp?
- When these folks “retire” from camping, who is going to replace them?
The answer is already here. Younger generations are stepping in, and they’re bringing new expectations with them. Many aren’t looking for the same amenities Boomers valued. If you want to keep your sites full, it’s worth paying attention to how these trends are shaping the industry.
Use these eight trends shaping camping today…And how you might use them to your advantage.
1. Nostalgia & Unique Experiences
Campers are gravitating toward nostalgic and distinctive settings. Think retro RV stays, rustic retreats, and simpler, slower travel experiences. These younger generations want an experience with their camping trip.
2. Elevated Accommodations & Glamping
Luxury glamping is on the rise. This camp style is pulling in guests who want nature with a side of comfort. From yurts with plush beds to cabins with gourmet meal packages, the bar keeps rising.
Families, in particular, are driving growth in this category. If you’ve got unused space, this could be a profitable way to diversify.
3. Culinary & Agritourism Appeal
Food is becoming a bigger part of the camping experience. Themed events like farm-to-table dinners, cooking classes, and on-site gardens add value and give guests another reason to stay longer.
4. Solo Camping
Solo camping has grown steadily in recent years, driven by travelers looking for peace, quiet, and independence.
Farm stays are also gaining popularity, especially for guests who want an authentic rural experience. If you’ve got open acreage, it may be worth exploring.
5. Younger Demographics Driving Spending
Millennials and Gen Z now make up the bulk of new campers. They’ve already surpassed how much they spend on campgrounds than their Boomer counterparts. Much of that money goes toward gear rentals, unique activities, and local experiences. Capturing this audience means offering things they can’t get at home.
6. Tech, Accessibility & Wellness Integration
Technology is now part of the outdoor experience, from app-based bookings to portable solar power setups. Accessibility is also getting attention, with more parks adding wheelchair-friendly paths and adaptive gear. Another popular trend on the radar is wellness retreats, which feature amenities such as yoga, meditation, and digital detox programs.
7. Eco-Friendly Gear & Design Innovations
Campers expect you to be using the latest tech when it comes to their booking experience. The camping…now that’s a different story.
Younger generations share a greater sense of environmental awareness than ever before. Think about how your park already reflects those values and ways you can improve. Solar lighting, composting toilets, recycled building materials – explore options that fit your campground.
8. Pop-Ups, Night Sky & Social Spaces
Most importantly, in a world dominated by AI, people are actively looking for ways to disconnect by reconnecting with the real world. This isn’t new, and chances are, as a campground owner, you already tick many of the boxes. Creating a sense of community can turn a one-time visitor into a repeat guest.
- Keep your sites clean
- Offer community sites
- Include group activities
- Provide a relaxing getaway
- The list goes on…
Bottom line: Camping is evolving, and so are your guests. The owners who adapt early — and think creatively — are the ones who will keep their sites full in the years ahead. If you’re considering changes or want to talk through ideas for your property, reach out. We’re here to help you plan for the future.
