RV Park Development Trends & Outlook 2025 – A Data-Driven Analysis of Growth, Occupancy Rates & Investment Trends

Introduction

The RV park and campground sector has emerged from the pandemic-era travel boom with robust momentum, entering 2025 as a compelling niche in the outdoor hospitality market. Industry revenue is projected at $10.9 billion in 2025, reflecting a strong rebound and 8.3% annual growth since 2020. While this surge was amplified by unique pandemic demand, forecasts indicate a more modest but steady trajectory ahead – approximately 1.9% CAGR through 2030, reaching an estimated $11.9 billion by 2030. Investors and real estate developers are increasingly eyeing RV park development as a stable, income-generating asset class that benefits from shifting travel preferences, rising occupancy rates, and new consumer demographics. This article provides a comprehensive, data-driven outlook on RV park industry trends in 2025, analyzing everything from occupancy and demand drivers to financial performance, design innovations, and high-opportunity markets. The goal is to equip investors with actionable insights into campground trends, RV park investment 2025 prospects, and strategic considerations for capitalizing on this evolving sector.

Revenue Growth & Demand Trends in the RV Park Sector

After a volatile pandemic period, the RV park industry’s revenue growth has normalized to a sustainable path. Industry revenue in 2025 is about $10.9 billion, up significantly from pre-pandemic levels. This growth was driven by an unprecedented camping boom in 2021–2022 as domestic travelers sought socially-distanced vacations. Even as travel patterns normalize, demand remains elevated. IBISWorld data shows 2025 revenue rose 2.5% year-over-year, and the five-year outlook calls for continued modest expansion (~1.9% annual growth through 2030). In other words, the RV park and campground market is mature but growing slightly faster than inflation, suggesting a stable environment for long-term investors.

Occupancy rates illustrate the sustained demand. National surveys indicate that average annual occupancy for RV parks hovers around 60–70% of sites occupied, with peaks approaching full capacity in prime season. During the pandemic, many parks saw record-high occupancy (near 100% at times in 2021), and although there was a slight dip in 2023 as some travel shifted back to abroad, occupancies remain higher than pre-2020 norms Early 2024 data showed a strong rebound – for example, major operators like KOA reported surges in advance reservations, and 56% of campers struggled to find available sites in 2024 due to full bookings. This “campsite crunch” indicates demand still exceeds supply in many regions. Overall, industry analysts anticipate robust occupancy levels through 2030 given favorable long-term trends: a growing base of RV owners, the enduring popularity of road trips, and limited new park construction keeping supply tight.

Several demand drivers underpin this optimism. Domestic travel and road trip interest remain high – 61% of Americans planned an RV trip in 2023 (up from 48% in 2022), revealing that the camping surge has staying power. Even economic headwinds like high fuel prices or inflation haven’t deterred campers significantly; in downturns, people often “trade down” to RV vacations as a cheaper alternative to flights and hotels (RV trips can be 25–60% less expensive). This makes RV parks relatively recession-resilient, as budget-conscious travelers still opt for campgrounds over pricier resorts during lean times. In short, the outdoor recreation boom of the early 2020s has translated into a persistent elevated demand baseline for campgrounds and RV parks.

Occupancy Rates & Shifting Camper Demographics

Who is camping in 2025? The demographic profile of campground visitors is evolving, bringing new opportunities. Notably, younger generations now comprise a large share of campers. According to industry research, over 65% of RV owners are under age 55, and Generation Z and Millennials are the fastest-growing camper segments. In fact, many new RV enthusiasts were minted during the pandemic: one-third of first-time campers in 2022 were Millennials, as younger travelers embraced camping and “van life” in large numbers. This youth influx is expanding the customer base and even reducing seasonality – working-age adults and families are taking more frequent weekend trips and off-peak outings than previous generations, making overall demand more resilient and less strictly seasonal.

Generational revenue data from IBISWorld underscores these shifts. In 2025, Generation X campers account for about 31% of industry revenue, Millennials 26%, Gen Z 22%, and Baby Boomers and older around 21%. The rise of Gen Z is especially striking – this cohort barely registered a decade ago but is now “taking over the camping space” as they age into independent travel. The oldest Gen Zers are in their mid-20s and increasingly planning their own outdoor vacations, often on tighter budgets that steer them toward campsites and RV parks. Peer-to-peer RV rental platforms and shared camping gear services have further greased the wheels, allowing young people to try camping without owning an RV, thus accelerating Gen Z’s participation. Industry analysts expect Gen Z’s share to keep growing in coming years as the tail end of this cohort enters adulthood.

Meanwhile, Millennials’ share has tempered as they move into middle adulthood – falling from about one-third of RV park revenue in 2020 to roughly one-quarter by 2025. Some of this is a normalization after Millennials spiked in influence during COVID (when older folks stayed home), and partially because older generations have returned. Baby Boomers remain an important segment (around one-fifth of revenue) but are gradually declining as an active traveler group due to age. The net effect is a broadening demographic mix skewing younger and more diverse than ever before. For park operators, this means catering to a new generation of campers with different expectations – from digital conveniences to affordability – while still serving the needs of retirees and families. Importantly, the influx of millennials and Gen Z has expanded the overall market rather than just cannibalizing older campers, which bodes well for sustained occupancy. Younger campers also tend to take trips beyond the traditional summer peak (e.g. fall and spring outings), helping parks fill shoulder seasons.

Another notable trend is the rise of an affluent camping and “glamping” segment. As camping goes mainstream, more travelers with higher incomes are seeking upgraded outdoor experiences. Campground operators have responded by upscaling facilities to attract the affluent glamping market. In practice, this means adding or improving amenities – from yurts and safari tents to pools, spas and gourmet dining areas – to compete with boutique hotels and vacation rentals for luxury-seeking guests. Many parks now offer premium “glampsites” or furnished cabins with hotel-like comforts, targeting travelers willing to pay $200+ per night for a unique stay in nature. This strategy appears to be working: the industry notes a wealthier client base is indeed coming, and spending more per night, at well-appointed campgrounds. The glamping boom has also drawn new competitors (private landowners listing glamorous camping units on Airbnb, etc.), but traditional RV parks are adapting by inventing creative lodging options to retain high-end customers. The return on investment (ROI) for glamping additions can be attractive – while requiring upfront capex, a single luxury tent or cabin can fetch several times the nightly rate of a basic RV site, potentially yielding strong margins if demand holds. Indeed, the global glamping market was valued at $12.4 billion in 2024 and growing rapidly, reflecting the revenue potential of this upscale camping trend.

The Impact of Remote Work and Peer-to-Peer Rentals

One of the most transformative trends in the RV park sector is the influence of remote work and the “work-from-RV” lifestyle. The rise of remote work has blurred leisure and living, enabling professionals to take their jobs on the road. Many digital nomads now work from their RVs or campers, effectively turning campgrounds into semi-residential communities with Wi-Fi and mobile offices. This has materially lengthened average stays and boosted mid-week occupancy in many parks. Rather than just weekend warriors, remote workers might remain at a campground for weeks or months, as long as connectivity and comfort needs are met. Parks that cater to this segment by providing reliable high-speed internet (a must for nearly half of campers), quiet work areas, and maybe co-working spaces are capturing incremental demand and smoothing out traditional occupancy lulls during weekdays. Over one-third of campers now report working while on trips, a share that could grow as Gen Z enters the workforce and insists on extending their adventures without using vacation days. The remote work trend has essentially extended the camping season year-round for some sun-belt RV resorts, which now host “workcation” guests even in off-peak months. This convergence of work and play is expected to persist long-term, meaning parks with the right infrastructure (think strong Wi-Fi, cell boosters, on-site business centers) stand to benefit from a steady stream of remote-working campers.

In parallel, peer-to-peer (P2P) rental platforms and the sharing economy are lowering barriers to entry for RV travel, expanding the customer base. Services like Outdoorsy and RVshare allow owners to rent out their RVs when not in use, giving would-be campers an affordable taste of the RV lifestyle without the hefty purchase. This has drawn many new consumers into campgrounds. As IBISWorld observes, P2P rental sites have made camping more accessible – especially to younger people – by mitigating the steep cost of RV ownership or gear for first-timers. Essentially, someone intrigued by camping can now try before they buy, which has converted more novices into repeat campers. Equipment rental services (for tents, camping kits, etc.) also play a role in enabling urbanites or casual travelers to venture into camping without significant investment. The result is a broader, more inclusive demand pool fueling occupancy. Park operators benefit from P2P trends not only via increased foot traffic, but also through partnerships (some parks team up with RV rental companies or allow delivery of rental rigs to sites). On the flip side, the ease of renting RVs means parks must handle a flow of less experienced guests, so providing guidance (and designing parks for easy navigation) is key. Overall, technology-driven shifts – remote work, peer rentals, online booking – are reshaping RV park usage patterns. The most forward-thinking campground owners are embracing these changes: installing app-based self check-in systems, ensuring every site has strong Wi-Fi, and even marketing specifically to remote workers and renters in their offseason promotions.

Financial Performance: Revenue per Site, Margins & Off-Season Challenges

From an investor’s perspective, RV parks offer a compelling financial profile marked by solid cash flows but also unique operational considerations. A typical RV park generates revenue through site rentals (nightly or monthly fees) and ancillary sales (camp store, equipment rentals, etc.). With national average occupancy around 65% and average daily rates ranging from $30 at basic campgrounds to $60+ at upscale resorts, an RV site can produce roughly $10,000–$15,000 in annual revenue under normal conditions (e.g. ~$50/night rate × 365 days × 65% occupancy). High-demand parks or those with premium pricing can exceed this. Industry-wide, revenue per business averages about $660,000 annually – but this ranges widely from small mom-and-pop campgrounds to large destination RV resorts. One notable trend is the increase in revenue per site at upgraded parks: by adding amenities or glamping units, operators can boost their average daily rate and attract longer stays (e.g. a deluxe cabin might rent for 2-3x the price of an RV hookup, lifting overall revenue per site).

Operating margins in the RV park sector are healthy but not outsized, reflecting a balance of labor, maintenance, and utility costs against seasonal revenues. IBISWorld estimates net profit margins around 11–12% for 2025, down slightly from the mid-teens in earlier years as inflation has raised labor and utility expenses. Still, a ~11% profit margin is competitive in hospitality, especially considering many campgrounds are family-run with modest corporate overhead. Well-run parks can achieve even higher EBITDA margins (since depreciation on land improvements can be significant, reducing net profit). For example, one analysis noted average profit margins of ~13–15% in recent years. Upscale parks or those with year-round occupancy (e.g. in Florida) often see the strongest margins, whereas parks in highly seasonal locales may struggle to break even over the full year. A key financial challenge is seasonality – many northern parks operate only 6-8 months, yet must cover year-round property taxes, financing, and off-season upkeep. Even in milder climates, off-peak months have much lower site utilization. This necessitates careful cash flow management: successful operators stash profits from peak summer season to sustain the winter. Some parks are mitigating seasonality by hosting long-term “snowbird” guests in winter (in warm states) or monthly renters who provide a baseline income year-round. Others diversify with off-season uses – for instance, converting into RV storage lots or hosting special events (Halloween festivals, winter RV rallies) to generate revenue beyond typical camping.

Another financial aspect attracting investors is the relatively low CapEx needs once a park is up and running. Compared to hotels (which may need refurbishing every few years), an RV park’s “rooms” are the guests’ own RVs; the park primarily must maintain infrastructure (roads, hookups, bathhouses). That said, initial development costs per sitecan be substantial. Estimates vary, but developing a modern RV park can range from $15,000 to $50,000 per site when factoring land, utility installation, paving, amenities, etc. High-end resorts with pools and clubhouses skew to the upper end. In 2024, construction costs have climbed due to inflation, and higher interest rates mean financing new projects is pricier. Indeed, industry brokers report that rising interest rates and construction costs have slowed the pace of new park development – some developers have paused or tabled projects because the economics became challenging. For existing parks, owners are also facing higher capital expenditure to upgrade aging facilities (many parks were built mid-20th century). Utilities like septic systems or electrical pedestals may need modernization to handle today’s larger RVs. Investors should budget for ongoing CapEx such as site resurfacing, utility upgrades, and amenity improvements to stay competitive.

Despite these costs, ROI in the RV park sector can be attractive, particularly given the resilience of demand. Cap rates for RV parks and campgrounds typically range around 7%–10%, which is higher than many other real estate asset classes (indicating investors expect a bit more return for perceived risk or hands-on management). In recent years, cap rates compressed as the industry boomed; however, 2024 saw cap rates tick up with rising interest rates, putting slight downward pressure on park values. Still, compared to multifamily or hotel investments, RV parks often trade at yields that can deliver solid cash-on-cash returns, especially if an operator can add value through better marketing or upgrades. The recession-resistant nature of campgrounds (as discussed, people seek cheaper vacations in downturns) also supports the investment thesis that these properties can maintain income even in soft economic cycles. The biggest financial wildcards remain weather and seasonality – a rainy summer or wildfire season can dent one year’s profits – and fuel prices, which can affect RV travel volume. But broadly, the financial outlook for well-located RV parks in 2025 is positive: steady revenues, manageable expenses, and opportunities to enhance yield via premium offerings.

Geographic Outlook: High-Opportunity States and Markets

Real estate is all about location, and that holds true for RV parks. While demand for camping is nationwide, certain regions offer especially strong opportunities due to climate, tourism, and demographic trends. In 2025, investors are focusing on states like California, Texas, Florida, and New York, among others, as high-potential markets for RV park development and acquisition. Below is a comparative outlook on these key states:

State	Opportunities & Demand Drivers	Considerations for Investors
California	Enormous camping demand from a large population; iconic destinations (beaches, national parks, etc.) draw millions of RVers annually; year-round operation possible in southern regions; high RV ownership rates.	Very strict permitting and environmental regulations make new development challenging; land and construction costs are among the highest in the nation; seasonal wildfires/droughts can pose risks. However, upgrading or expanding existing parks near popular areas can yield high occupancy and premium rates due to undersupply.
Texas	Booming RV travel market with diverse attractions (Hill Country, Gulf Coast, Big Bend); generally pro-development environment with lenient zoning; strong winter Texan (snowbird) influx in South Texas; growing population of local campers.	Weather extremes (very hot summers, occasional severe storms) require resilient infrastructure; ample land means competition can emerge if overbuilt in a local area, though overall supply growth is moderate. Focus on areas like Austin’s Hill Country or near major lakes, which see consistently high demand.
Florida	Arguably the hottest RV park market: mild year-round climate, a magnet for retirees and vacationers; #1 snowbird destination for winter RVers; recent boom in upscale RV resorts to meet surging demand; tourism hubs (Disney area, the Keys, Gulf beaches) drive occupancy nearly all year.	High humidity and hurricane exposure require robust design (stormwater management, backup power); summer season is actually the slower period (peak is Oct–April for snowbirds). The state saw 3,600 new RV sites added from 2022–24, yet demand still outpaces supply. Competition is growing in prime corridors, so differentiating with unique amenities (e.g. luxury glamping, marina access) can be key. Insurance and property taxes have been rising, affecting operating costs.
New York	A large affluent population (NYC metro) feeds weekend camping and “glamping” getaways upstate; scenic regions like the Adirondacks, Catskills, and Finger Lakes are perennially popular in summer/fall; high willingness-to-pay for premium camping experiences among urbanites seeking nature escapes (strong glamping ROI potential).	Short camping season – many parks operate only May–Oct due to harsh winters; state environmental regulations and zoning can be complex, especially for Adirondack Park areas. Land near prime destinations is limited and pricey. Investors might target existing campgrounds to renovate or add cabins/yurts targeting luxury market. Off-season strategies (like winter cabin rentals or event hosting) can help northern parks balance the yearly cash flow.

Other notable markets: Outside of these four states, investors are also looking at the broader Sunbelt and Mountain West. Arizona is a major snowbird hub with high winter occupancies (areas around Phoenix and Yuma are expanding parks to cater to seasonal residents). Carolinas and Tennessee are seeing growing RV tourism, leveraging their mountains and mild climate as new resorts pop up. Colorado, Utah, Montana and others in the Mountain West have huge summer demand (national parks, etc.), though tougher terrain and permitting limit new development, which keeps occupancy high at existing parks. Generally, coastal and scenic destination regions have the greatest demand but also the tightest supply due to natural and regulatory barriers. For example, California’s stringent rules resulted in relatively few new parks in recent years, leading to persistent waitlists at campgrounds in high-demand areas. On the flip side, some rural areas with cheap land have seen a mini-boom of new park construction; investors should be cautious of localized overbuilding if multiple projects flood a small market with more sites than the camper population can support. Overall, though, the U.S. market is far from saturated – most regions are undersupplied, and even in 2024 over half of campers reported difficulty finding a campsite at some point. This suggests that strategic investments in the right locations can pay off with consistently high occupancy.

Design & Development Trends: Modern RV Park Layouts, Amenities and Sustainability

Today’s RV park design standards are a far cry from the simple campgrounds of the past. Developers and owners are embracing innovative layouts and features to maximize land use, enhance guest satisfaction, and future-proof their parks. A core principle in site planning is land-use optimization – fitting a profitable number of sites while preserving an enjoyable environment. A common rule of thumb is to allocate about one acre of land per 10 campsites. This accounts for not just the RV pads or tent sites themselves, but also internal roads, utility space, and communal areas. For instance, a small 50-site RV park typically needs ~5 acres or more to comfortably accommodate everything, while a mixed-use campground (RVs + cabins + tent areas) might require 20+ acres to include all lodging types and amenities.

Layout and clustering strategies play a big role in efficient land use. Rather than a uniform grid, many parks use clustered site arrangements: grouping similar site types together and leveraging natural features. Grouping similar sites together can minimize wasted space and simplify infrastructure. For example, placing all tent sites or cabins in one zone allows shared facilities (bathhouse, parking) to be located conveniently and keeps those areas quieter, away from RV generators. Likewise, clustering cabins in one area can optimize land compared to scattering them around, since you can create a “village” with shared paths and utilities. RV sites are often laid out along loop roads or cul-de-sacs, angled toward the road for easy back-in or pull-thru access, which is both space-efficient and user-friendly for large rigs. Thoughtful layout also considers buffers – e.g. leaving greenbelts around the perimeter as noise/privacy buffers and using landscaping to create a sense of privacy even when sites are relatively close. Multi-use spaces are another tactic: designing recreation or pavilion areas that can serve multiple purposes (a field that is a playground by day and outdoor movie theater by night, for instance) to get more utility out of each square foot. The bottom line in modern RV park design is to create a park that feels spacious and park-like, yet also achieves a good density of rentable sites to drive revenue.

Amenities have become make-or-break in attracting today’s campers, so developers are packing in as many high-demand features as feasible. At a minimum, modern RV parks are expected to offer full hookups (water, electric, sewer connections at each RV site), clean restrooms and showers, and reliable high-speed Wi-Fi. In fact, internet connectivity is often cited as one of the most important amenities – nearly half of campers say Wi-Fi availability is crucial in choosing a campground. This ties back to the remote work trend and general connectivity needs. From there, parks differentiate with various lifestyle amenities: swimming pools and hot tubs or splash pads, sports facilities (e.g. pickleball and volleyball courts are increasingly popular), playgrounds for children, dog parks for pet owners, and clubhouse or community centers for activities. Many newer resorts also incorporate spas, fitness rooms, or yoga studios, especially if targeting the glamping or wellness travel segment. On-site retail and food is another trend – camp stores with groceries and firewood are standard, but some parks now have food trucks or cafes, and even beer/wine bars for guests. All these extras not only justify higher nightly rates but also keep guests on-property longer (increasing ancillary spending).

A significant emerging focus is on sustainable design and green infrastructure in campgrounds. Environmentally friendly practices both appeal to eco-conscious travelers and can reduce operating costs. For example, solar power is making inroads: some forward-thinking RV parks have installed solar panels or even small solar farms to generate electricity for the campground. In a few cases, solar canopies double as covered RV parking, providing shade while powering the park – a win-win for comfort and sustainability. EV charging stations are also appearing, as the adoption of electric vehicles (and even electric RVs) grows. Parks offering Level 2 or fast EV chargers gain a marketing edge for EV-driving campers and position themselves as future-ready. Interestingly, many RV parks already have the electrical capacity (50-amp plugs) to serve as overnight EV chargers, and some are formalizing this to attract “EV-friendly campgrounds”searches. Other sustainable features include LED lighting and smart energy management systems, water conservation measures (low-flow fixtures, greywater recycling for irrigation), and robust recycling/composting programs to minimize waste. Integration with nature is also key to design – preserving trees, creating nature trails, and utilizing native landscaping not only reduces maintenance and water usage but enhances the outdoor appeal. The concept of eco-friendly RV parks that merge luxury with nature is gaining traction, showing that camping can be both comfortable and low-impact.

From an architectural standpoint, modern RV park development must also account for the larger RVs and diverse camping units of today. Sites need to be long and wide enough to handle 40+ foot motorhomes with multiple slide-outs. This often means designing sites of 65+ feet in length and 30 feet in width, with adequate turning radii on roads. Pull-thru sites (where an RV can drive in and out without backing up) are highly desired for big rigs and are commonly included along main loops. Accessibility standards are also considered – ensuring facilities (and some portion of sites) are ADA-compliant. Fire safety, drainage, and floodplain considerations are taken into account, particularly as many campgrounds sit in natural settings. In essence, today’s RV park layout must balance operational efficiency (for the owner) with experiential quality (for the guest). The best designs use a combination of clustering, multi-purpose areas, and amenity placement to create a sense of community and convenience. As the KOA planning guide succinctly puts it, efficient site planning and thoughtful layout are key to optimizing land use and thriving in a competitive marketownakoa.comownakoa.com.

Investment Recommendations for 2025 and Beyond

Given the industry’s maturity, moderate growth outlook (~1.9% CAGR), and evolving competition, how should investors and developers approach RV park opportunities? Below are key recommendations based on current trends and market dynamics:

• Target High-Demand Locations: Focus on markets where demand exceeds supply – often tourist destinations or warm-climate regions. States like Florida, Texas, Arizona, and parts of California continue to show strong occupancies and pricing power. Even as new projects come online, these areas benefit from year-round or multi-season use and large camper populations. Underserved regions (where campers struggle to find sites) offer the greatest upside. Perform regional analysis to avoid locales that might be approaching saturation (watch for areas with a recent flurry of new park builds without commensurate growth in campers).

• Upgrade and Differentiate: With rising competition from both premium RV resorts and alternative accommodations, it’s crucial to differentiate your park. Invest in high-demand amenities and upgrades – e.g. install reliable high-speed Wi-Fi, add unique glamping units, improve landscaping and site privacy, and consider luxury touches like modern bathhouses or a resort-style pool. These enhancements can attract the affluent segment and justify higher rates, improving your revenue per site. As IBISWorld noted, many campgrounds are upscaling facilities to court wealthier “glampers,” which can significantly boost ROI if executed well. Don’t neglect the basics either: cleanliness and maintenance are paramount for good reviews. In a fragmented industry where many competitors are older mom-and-pop operations, a well-maintained park with contemporary amenities can quickly become a market leader.

• Plan for Seasonality and Diversification: If your target location has an off-season, have a strategy to generate income or reduce costs during those months. This could mean catering to long-term or full-time residents(monthly rentals to snowbirds or local workers) to create a steady base income. Hosting special events, holiday festivals, or partnering with RV clubs for off-peak rallies can also bring business in shoulder seasons. In extreme cases, some owners close for part of the off-season to cut costs – if so, ensure peak season profitability is sufficient to carry the year. Diversify revenue streams: add a rental cabin or two, open a small camp store or equipment rental, or explore offering storage for RVs/boats in the off-season. These ancillary revenues can improve overall margins and resilience.

• Mind the Financials – Costs and Capital: As of 2025, interest rates remain elevated and construction costs high, which can impact new developments and expansions. Budget conservatively for any new project, allowing contingency for cost overruns. Consider phasing development (opening 50 sites first, then adding 50 later once cash flow is established) to reduce upfront risk. If acquiring an existing park, perform thorough due diligence on infrastructure – older parks might need significant capital improvements (electrical, water systems, etc.) that should be factored into your investment. On the upside, financing for RV parks is increasingly available from specialty lenders, given the strong performance of the asset class in recent years. Some investors employ a strategy of acquiring under-managed parks and boosting NOI through operational improvements and rate management, then refinancing. Given cap rates ~7–9%, there is room for savvy operators to create value. Just be aware that in the current climate, higher cap rates mean you should underwrite with realistic exit values and not over-leverage, as the market is not as frothy as it was in 2021–2022.

• Stay Abreast of Evolving Camper Expectations: The profile of the RV park customer is changing, and successful investors stay ahead of these preferences. For example, the rise of digital nomads means parks that advertise “remote-work friendly” features can tap a growing niche. The spread of electric vehicles means installing an EV charger could soon be as expected as having a dump station. Sustainability is also a selling point – many younger travelers prefer businesses that are eco-conscious, so even small steps like solar lighting or a pollinator-friendly garden can enhance your brand. Keep an eye on technology in the industry: from campground management software that enables dynamic pricing and online bookings to possible future innovations (e.g. autonomous RVs or more electric RV adoption). Embracing tech can streamline operations and appeal to the next-gen camper.

• Consider Consolidation and Partnerships: The RV park sector remains highly fragmented (an estimated 75–80% of parks are independently owned). However, consolidation is underway – major players like Equity Lifestyle Properties, Sun Communities, and others have been acquiring parks to scale their portfolios. Investors should recognize that an exit strategy could be selling to a larger REIT or operator if you build a high-quality asset. Aligning your development with institutional standards (good records, professional management, scalable design) can make your property an attractive target. Alternatively, partnerships or franchising can accelerate success; for instance, joining a network like KOA or Yogi Bear’s Jellystone can provide marketing muscle and a ready customer base. These avenues can help drive occupancy and credibility, though at the cost of franchise fees. Depending on your goals, it’s worth evaluating these options in your business plan.

In summary, the RV park and campground industry in 2025 offers steady growth and solid fundamentals, but it is not a get-rich-quick sector. Investors should approach it with a blend of hospitality mindset and real estate savvy. The market’s maturity means that while double-digit annual growth is unlikely on a macro level, well-run parks can still significantly outperform through savvy development and management. By choosing prime locations, delivering top-notch guest experiences, and adapting to trends like glamping and remote work, investors can achieve attractive returns in this niche. As the industry projects a stable ~1.9% annual growth to 2030, think of RV parks as a long-term play: incremental gains, recession-resistant income, and the satisfaction of operating in a business that helps people enjoy the great outdoors. With the right strategy, an RV park investment in 2025 can indeed become both a profitable venture and a rewarding asset to own in the years ahead.

Modern RV park development exemplified: A premium campground with full hookup sites, paved pads, and landscaped green zones for high guest satisfaction and operational efficiency.

Conclusion

The outlook for the RV park and campground sector in 2025 is bright yet grounded. We see an industry that has matured from its pandemic spike but continues to evolve in response to new traveler demands. Data-driven trends – from rising revenues and occupancies to shifting demographics – paint a picture of sustained opportunity for those who invest wisely. Whether you’re a seasoned real estate developer or a first-time campground owner, success in this field will come from understanding your market’s nuances: the seasonality, the customer mix, the competitive landscape, and the experience you provide. By leveraging industry insights (from IBISWorld reports to CoStar analytics) and staying adaptable, investors can navigate the challenges and capitalize on the growth in this $10.9B industry. The lure of the open road and the freedom of camping remain deeply ingrained in American culture – and now extend to younger generations, remote workers, and luxury travelers alike. That broad appeal, combined with limited new supply, suggests that RV parks will continue to enjoy strong demand and solid returns. In the end, an RV park is more than just a real estate investment; it’s an investment in experiences and lifestyle. And as long as Americans seek adventure under the stars, the RV park sector’s journey will continue on an upward path, mile after mile.

Sources:

1. IBISWorld, “Campgrounds & RV Parks in the US – Industry Report,” May 2025.

2. IBISWorld, industry data excerpt on revenue growth and forecast.

3. IBISWorld, generational revenue breakdown and analysis.

4. IBISWorld, discussion on affluent campers and upscale amenity trends.

5. MMCG Investment Research, “RV Park Market Outlook 2025–2030,” June 2024 – occupancy trends, supply constraints, and demand drivers.

6. Kampgrounds of America (KOA) Planning Guide, “How Much Land for a Campground,” 2024 – site layout and land use best practices.

7. RVBusiness News, “Campground Market Softens; Brokers Optimistic About 2025,” Dec 18, 2024 – industry sales and cap rate commentary.

8. Houlihan Lokey, “Real Estate Without a Roof – Fall 2024,” (Industry overview) – profitability and occupancy statistics.

9. Karstens RV Resort Blog, “The Future of RV Parks: EV Chargers, Solar & Smart Amenities,” Sep 2025 – sustainability and tech amenities trends.

10. CRR Hospitality, “RV Park Layout Optimization,” 2025 – design and clustering strategies for efficient park layouts.