RV Parks and Campgrounds

The 7,248 RV parks and campgrounds in the US provide sites to accommodate campers and camping equipment, including tents and trailers. Major revenue categories include fees for RV and tent sites and room or unit accommodations. Other sources of revenue include meals, snacks, and beverages; membership fees and dues; other rental fees; and groceries.

Seasonality

Business can be highly seasonal, depending on market-specific dynamics and weather conditions.

Dependence On RV Ownership

RV ownership trends can affect demand for stays in RV parks.

Aug 12, 2026 - Campers Adjust Plans Against Extreme Hot Temperatures

• Extreme heat could reshape seasonal demand for campgrounds, with around 4 in 10 Americans saying hot temperatures affected their travel or vacation plans. That's up from about one-quarter in 2024, while 7 in 10 say heat has affected their family's outdoor activities, according to an AP-NORC poll. National Park Service research also found that visitation declines when average monthly temperatures exceed about 80°F. Campers may respond by shifting trips to cooler regions and higher elevations, while campgrounds near lakes and other water recreation destinations may prove more resilient during hot periods. Extreme heat can also increase wildfire and smoke exposure. A study from environmental group Resources for the Future analyzed 1,000 western US campgrounds and estimated that 400,000 campground visitor-days per year were adversly affected by wildfire smoke. These shifts could extend the camping season in some markets while making traditional summer demand less predictable in hotter locales.
• Nearly 60% of campers camped for free at least once in the past year, according to The Dyrt’s 2026 Camping Report, underscoring the growing appeal of budget-friendly outdoor recreation. The report found that dispersed camping on public lands was the most popular option, used by 79% of those who camped for free, while 73% - primarily RVers and van-lifers - spent nights at rest stops or parking lots. Nearly two-thirds (63%) stayed at free established campgrounds, and many also camped on friends’ or family members’ property (36%) or their own land (28%). With more than 600 million acres of public land available for free camping in the US, The Dyrt encourages campers to research local regulations, stay limits, and permit requirements before heading out. The company also reminds campers to follow Leave No Trace principles to help preserve public lands and ensure these free camping opportunities remain available.
• The camping industry has found its footing after the pandemic, with participation holding steady even as how people camp continues to evolve, according to the 2026 Camping & Outdoor Hospitality Report from Kampgrounds of America. More than 52 million North American households are camping - still 24% above 2019 - but many are going less often, pointing to a clear opportunity to boost frequency. The audience is also shifting: Baby Boomers are showing up in greater numbers, while younger campers are pulling back, largely due to cost concerns. Even so, the business remains strong, generating $66 billion in local spending alongside solid per-visitor profits. Interest in glamping and alternative accommodations is growing, pet-friendly travel remains a major draw, and new campers are still entering the market. At the same time, motivations are changing, with more people turning to camping for simple, unstructured time in nature and its mental health benefits.
• This year’s annual survey from camping information company The Dyrt shows huge interest and competition in the RV parks and campgrounds industry. More than half of campers said they’ll choose an RV or trailer for their trips, highlighting the ongoing popularity of RV camping’s blend of comfort and outdoor adventure. More than 50% of respondents also reported having trouble booking campsites because campgrounds were full, signaling heavy demand on park and campground capacity. The report noted 82.4 million Americans camped in 2025 - the second-highest on record - including 2.6 million first-timers, which is helping drive interest in campground stays and RVing alike. Shifts in reservation behavior, like more short-notice cancellations and early departures, are also emerging challenges campground operators are watching as they manage increasingly competitive bookings.

Industry size & Structure

The average RV park and campground company operates out of a single location, employs about 6-8 workers, and generates about $1.1 million annually.

• The RV park and campground industry consists of about 7,245 firms that employ about 48,990 workers and generate about $8.5 billion annually.
• The majority of companies in the industry (95%) have 20 or fewer employees.
• The industry includes chains, franchises, and independent operators.
• Commercial parks and campgrounds are privately-owned. Public facilities are owned by government entities, such as the National Park Service and USDA National Forest Services.
• Large companies include KOA (Kampgrounds of America), Thousand Trails, and Jellystone Park.