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Category: RV News

  • 110th FRVA Convention: New Branding, Same Excitement

    110th FRVA Convention: New Branding, Same Excitement

    Almost 1,500 RVs participated in the Family RV Association’s 110th International Convention and RV Expo in Perry, Georgia. At the four-day event, the organization acknowledged industry challenges, its rebrand, and its renewed focus on community.

    Though overall membership is down, there were 352 first-time attendees at the gathering, according to FRVA president Paul Mitchell, who feels the association is on the right track. “I really got some great vibes out of everyone I’ve talked to. I feel this is one of the best conventions we’ve done in a few years.”

     

    What Is the FRVA?

    The Family RV Association (FRVA) is a member-driven organization that offers discount programs, organizes gatherings, and provides resources such as an encyclopedic web-based learning center.

    One of the most popular – and most unique – member programs is the Medical & Travel Assist insurance benefit which, in addition to standard travel coverage, also transports a member’s RV and family back home if there is a medical emergency on the road. Also popular among members are the significant savings across all aspects of camping life, including tires, campgrounds, maintenance, and repair. But the sense of community and fellowship is what keeps members coming back to its national conventions and many regional gatherings.

    Founded as the Family Motor Coach Association in 1963 by a gathering of bus conversion owners, the organization previously catered exclusively to motorhome owners. Shifting industry trends prompted a vote in 2017 to include owners of other types of RVs, culminating in an official rebranding in September 2024.

    Like many in-person all-volunteer organizations, membership is down. With well over 100,000 members at its height, the FRVA currently has about 55,000 and is losing about 1,000 members per month. While some members simply age out of the lifestyle, there are many reasons why others don’t renew.

    “Things are expensive – driving around in a diesel pusher isn’t cheap,” said vendor Jim Metry of SoftCell water softeners. “Tampa is the worst Tampa I have ever had – there were some changes and the vendors really felt it,” he added, referring to the Florida RV SuperShow in January that saw roughly 10 percent fewer attendees this year.

     

    What’s at the FRVA Convention?

    Vendors and booths run the gamut at the FRVA convention, with everything from travel clubs, caravans tours, to upfits and gadgets – and of course, brand-new RVs. Need a break from shopping? You’ll find seminars on topics such as personal safety, boondocking, crafts, and many other topics besides.

    In attendance at the convention in Perry, Georgia, were Patrice and Kevin McCabe from the TV show RV There Yet? in a separate hall with additional vendors, RVs and seminars. “We were delighted that they gave us an entire building,” said Patrice McCabe, “We believe a better-educated consumer can make better decisions with their money. Our concept is to educate the consumer so they can make better decisions. It can be daunting for someone walking up to a booth whereas the seminars can really help people.”

    Bernie Culliton of Camper’s Inn RV expressed a positive outlook, noting many serious intenders among those taking tours of the RVs on the show floor. “Typically we see a lot of trade-ins here. The people at an FRVA Convention are generally RVers so they’ve already arrived with something.” The only wrench in the works? The current economic uncertainty surrounding tariffs, which has an enormous impact on the cost and operation of motor vehicles.

    When’s the Next FRVA Convention?

    The FRVA has two major national conventions per year with the second one this year scheduled for Gillette, Wyoming, on July 16–19. There are also regional and special-interest chapters across North America with their own gatherings and organized caravans.

  • RVers Share Travel Spots, Stresses, and Factors for 2025 in Survey

    RVers Share Travel Spots, Stresses, and Factors for 2025 in Survey

    What are the travel trends for RVers in 2025?  Progressive and Harvest Hosts joined forces to collaborate and to research these trends. Recently, they published a 2025 RV Travel Trends report detailing their findings, which shares insights into preferences among the respondents in addition to their priorities. 

    Based on over 2,000 responses collected in 2024, the survey found that 92 percent of respondents planned to travel the same amount or more in 2025 compared to 2024. However, despite campground availability being identified as a top source of anxiety, 45 percent said they planned their trips less than two months ahead of time.

     If there’s one key lesson to take away from the survey, it might be to plan your itinerary well in advance.

     

    Alaska: Top Bucket-List Destination Across All Age Groups

    When it comes to bucket-list destinations, Alaska ranked at the very top for all age groups, with 22 percent of all respondents naming it as their number-one pick. Canada, New England, Florida, and Yellowstone National Park rounded out the top five in this category. But for their 2025 itinerary, however, the Northeast stood out, with 24 percent listing it as their top destination.

    Broken down by individual states, the most popular destinations were, in order: Alaska, Florida, Maine, Utah, and Arizona. Looking to avoid long lines at national parks this year? You’ll want to steer clear of Yellowstone, Grand Canyon, Glacier, Yosemite, and Banff (in Alberta, Canada), which were the top picks.

     

    How Travelers Decide on a Destination

    What’s the first place you look when considering a vacation spot? According to the survey, the answer varies greatly by age, with 30 percent of those over 65 indicating that they use travel guides, compared to 13 percent of those 35–54 saying that they prefer to look up videos instead (29 percent). Amongst those 55–64, there was little preference, with all sources being equally considered, including internet searches, social media, RV memberships, and camping apps.

     

    Money Matters — But Less Than You Might Think

    Though finances rank in the top three considerations for RV travel across all age groups. (Except for those over 65, where it was edged out by inclement weather.) Only 10 percent of respondents said that it negatively impacted their travel plans in 2024. In fact, 16 percent actually traveled more.

    Seventy-one percent of RVers in the survey spend less than $10,000 per year on RV ownership costs. That figure includes camping fees, fuel, insurance, and more. Here there was great variation between age groups: 45 percent of those 35–54 reported spending over $10,000 over the course of the year, dipping to 22 percent of those over 65. The main determining factor, however, is whether respondents RV part-time (15 percent) or full-time (71 percent).

     

    Common RVer Complaints: Crowds, Climate, and Campgrounds

    What do RVers consider when booking a trip? Campground availability (mentioned by 45 percent of respondents). Local weather (44 percent). And their own health (39 percent). These three factors were top of mind for respondents. And once they get there, their biggest sources of anxiety are crowded campgrounds (59 percent), the outright lack of campsite availability (53 percent), and RV repairs and breakdowns (51 percent).

    Fifty-nine percent of respondents said RV travel apps provide considerable relief to these concerns, allowing them to quickly book alternative accommodations and plot RV-friendly routes that include plenty of opportunity to stop, fuel, and regroup.

     

    Who Were the Respondents?

    The survey was conducted in late 2024, polling email subscribers of Harvest Hosts and Escapees RV Club. Seventy-two percent of respondents were current or former Harvest Hosts members. Of the people who responded to the survey, 67 percent were 65 or older — and 77 percent were retired. Interestingly, Go RVing’s 2025 survey of 5,500 consumers found that the median age of RV owners had fallen to 49, with those 35–54 accounting for 46 percent of all owners.

    Potentially owing to the age of those who completed the survey, only five percent travel with children whereas 52 percent travel with pets. The number of respondents also skewed higher than market averages on ownership of Class A motorhomes. Motorized RVs sell about four percent of the market, but 26 percent of those who responded to the survey have a Class A motorhome. That made it the most represented category in the survey.

    Taken all together, then, some universal and enduring truths emerge. For one, campgrounds are busier than ever. And while modern camping apps can help you find nearby spots, the best strategy is to book well in advance. (Also, stay on top of your RV maintenance.)

  • Manufacturing Giant Lippert Acquires RVibrake Maker

    Manufacturing Giant Lippert Acquires RVibrake Maker

    Component manufacturer Lippert, known for its RV brands Curt, Furrion, and Magic Chef, has acquired RVi, the maker of RVibrake, which the company will incorporate into the Curt product line.

    The RVibrake is a device designed for RVers who flat-tow vehicles behind their motorhome, automatically applying the brakes on the towed vehicle based on an on-device accelerometer that detects deceleration, obviating the need for a connection, wired or otherwise, between the two vehicles.

    Speaking to RV News, Shane McNallie, senior vice president of Lippert Automotive Sales, expressed enthusiasm for the acquisition: “We are excited about this opportunity to expand the Curt offering of flat towing products. RVibrake has wonderful brand recognition in flat tow braking, and their technology is far ahead of anything else in the market.”

    RVi marks the latest acquisition by Lippert, which has accumulated an impressive portfolio of industry brands and technologies since the turn of the century. Its strategic investments have made it the largest supplier of parts in the RV business. In addition to manufacturing and end-user sales, the company also runs maintenance and repair seminars for RV owners.

  • Canadian RVers Are Shying Away From Cross-Border Travel

    Canadian RVers Are Shying Away From Cross-Border Travel

    Amid a combination of an unfavorable exchange rate, tariff threats, and political uncertainty, many Canadian travelers are choosing to stay home this year. The first sign of this was at the Quartzsite Sports Vacation and RV show, where the usual throngs of RVs with maple leaf flags just weren’t there.

    Why Are Canadians Staying Home?

    The U.S. Travel Association said that Canada is the top source of international visitors to the U.S. In 2024, there were 20.4 million visits from Canada generating $20.5 billion in spending and supporting 140,000 American jobs. The Association claims that a 10 percent reduction in Canadian travel could mean two million fewer visits and $2.1 billion in lost spending affecting some 14,000 jobs.

    According to Go RVing Canada, 74 percent of Canadians elected to stay within their own borders in 2024. How will that figure change? “You can imagine what that’s probably going to look like given the current climate,” says the trade organization’s president Christopher Mahony.

    According to Mahony, the pandemic spurred Canadians to vacation domestically and the trend has continued. With the weak Canadian dollar, the uncertainty over tariffs, and other news coming out of Washington, D.C., it’s unlikely we’ll see a reversal in current travel patterns.

    Mahony’s numbers were supported by a study by Deloitte on summer travel outlook that examined travel habits and plans. In the study Canadians are reported to average $2,405 in summer travel spending which, according to the document, does not include ice cream, fishing tackle, theater tickets, or pints of beer.

    But one of the telling statistics is that 88% prioritize safety as they’re booking travel, and the news is certainly doing nothing to reinforce that feeling. Further, about half expressed concern that they or their traveling companion might feel unwelcome due to language or cultural differences.

    Ponderosa Campground, located on the New Jersey Shore, is one destination that’s seeing cancellations. Speaking with NJ.com, campground owner Marcia Kelleher said Canadians make up a large portion of bookings, and many of them are regulars who visit every year. But she’s recently been getting cancellations by Canadians who are concerned about rising tensions, with potential visa issues and even border detentions making headlines. According to Kelleher, she’s not the only Jersey Shore campgrounds owner who has received such calls.

    RV Industry Also Feeling the Pinch

    Canada-based CTV News reports that many Canadian RV dealers planned to cancel their orders for RVs amid the threat of tariffs. This comes in the face of predictions by the RV Industry Association that 2025 sales are expected to increase. The tariff picture is ever-changing, with tariffs being announced, postponed, exempted, or even doubled – all in a few days. And that’s not including reciprocal measures by the Canadian federal and provincial governments.

    “We canceled $3 million in orders. Lots of dealers were similar,” said Andy Thomson, the owner of Can-Am RV near London, Ont. Another dealership, RV World in St. Thomas, Ont., made a similar move. “We’ve told our manufacturers if the tariffs come in, don’t ship us any product that the U.S. tariffs apply [to]. I mean our dollar is bad enough,” said Don Ferguson, owner of RV World.

    According to CTV, 12 percent of RVs built in the U.S. are shipped to Canada. “You can’t take 12 percent of sales away from any company and not go from a profit to a loss position,” said Thomson. “So there is going to be a lot of hurt everywhere.”

    So where are sales going? A number of Canadian buyers are refocusing their shopping on Canadian-made RVs such as Escape Trailer, Bigfoot, Prolite, Roadtrek, and Leisure Travel Vans. In fact, Canada has a solid choice of domestic-built RVs.

    A New Normal?

    While travel preferences and economic factors do contribute to the current decline of Canadian interest in cross-border travel, the impact of the political climate cannot be overstated, not just within the RV and tourism industries, but across all areas of trade. Without a dramatic course correction in the relationship between the U.S. and Canada, it’s unlikely that the trend will improve. For the next four years, the U.S. tourism industry will have to look within our borders to make up the shortfall in visitors and trade.

  • National Park Staffing Upheaval: How It Will Affect Your Vacation

    National Park Staffing Upheaval: How It Will Affect Your Vacation

    Recent cuts to the National Park Service (NPS) have created challenges for visitors, be it canceled reservations, increased wait times to enter parks, or a reduction in services. Though the government has pledged to increase seasonal staffing in response to backlash, long-term effects of this downsizing can already be felt. Here’s what you need to know if you’re visiting a national park this year.

    How Has Staffing Been Affected?

    As part of a broader cost-slashing campaign by the Department of Government Efficiency, about 1,000 new hires had their offers rescinded in February. With the NPS employing roughly 20,000 people in total, this amounted to a 5% reduction in headcount, further straining an agency whose workforce had already declined 15% since 2010, even though park attendance has gone up 16% over that same period.

    Just two days later, in response to the uproar that followed, the government announced a 21% increase to seasonal staffing, from the three-year average of 6,350 positions to 7,700. The agency is also planning to hire back at least 50 of the people affected by the initial cut. Though both the re-hiring and boost to seasonal staff are not without challenges: as reported by Jason Epperson from RV Miles, permanent staff who would be hiring and training new employees were themselves let go, such as at Grand Teton National Park, where 16 out of 17 supervisors were fired.

    Though two federal judges have handed down orders to reinstate fired probationary workers, the government is appealing these rulings, so it’s not clear if or when these jobs will be restored.

    How Do the Changes Affect the Parks?

    It is estimated that over 325 million individuals visit the nation’s 433 National Park Service units that include parks, historic sites, and other attractions each year. To meet the demand, the NPS and other public agencies routinely add seasonal workers as the weather gets warmer and the parks reopen. In addition, there are a huge number of volunteers. Together with the permanent staff, they maintain the parks and guide visitors, among other responsibilities.

    There are other crucial employees, however, whom most visitors never interact with. Nate Vince, a locksmith who was fired from Yosemite National Park, was in charge of all locked doors, gates, and safes in the park, which is roughly the size of Rhode Island. Though you may have never encountered him unless you were accidentally locked in a toilet, he was the only person who installed and maintained all those locks and played a key role in the park’s security.

    How Will This Affect Visitors?

    The most immediate effects can be felt even before you arrive at the park. At Gettysburg National Military Park in Pennsylvania, the layoff gutted the team that managed reservations for visiting historic farm houses. Prospective visitors received notifications that their reservations had been canceled indefinitely. Meanwhile, the wait to enter the Grand Canyon has doubled since four employees were removed from the south entrance where about 90 percent of the park’s visitors pass through.

    At many parks, visitor center hours have been cut and tours have been canceled. Visitors should keep an eye out for canceled or delayed park programming, canceled reservations or delays in confirmation, and reduced staff presence at the parks. Confirm your itinerary and all reservations before you leave for the park, and be prepared for unexpected delays.

  • Is It the Right Time to Buy an RV? The Numbers Are In

    Is It the Right Time to Buy an RV? The Numbers Are In

    “Is now a good time to buy an RV?” That’s a question many shoppers are pondering as the weather gets nicer. The answer depends on many variables, but one that factors into every transaction? Price.

    “With spring right around the corner, we expect RV values to stabilize and perhaps even increase as dealers begin to purchase used units to ensure their lots are fully stocked,” noted Eric Lawrence, principal automotive analyst, specialty vehicles at Black Book.

    Auction sales show towables and motorhomes on different trajectories

    In January, the average price of towable RVs (such as travel trailers, fifth wheels) sold at auction fell to $15,915, down $1,168 (or 6.8%) compared to December. According to market commentary published by vehicle price analysis firm Black Book, this was the third consecutive month of this downward trend. That being said, the total number of towables sold actually increased by 6.2%.

    Motorhomes, on the other hand, saw the opposite pattern. The average selling price of motorhomes at auction was $63,346, up $2,739 (4.5%) from December; but the total number sold decreased by 1.7%. 

    In short, auctions are seeing more towables sold at lower prices, and fewer motorhomes sold at higher prices. Looking at figures from twelve months ago, motorhomes sold for $53,551 on average, while towables went for around $18,329 – suggesting that the price trends seen in January are nothing new.

    While current auction prices and volumes paint a mixed picture, the RV industry shipped more units overall this January, again with towables making the biggest strides, according to the RV Industry Association (RVIA). With shipments on the rise, dealer inventory should also be more robust, with towable RVs in the lead as usual – good news for RV shoppers who are looking for a deal.

    “January’s shipment numbers reflect the continued, steady growth we anticipated for the RV industry as we begin 2025. While we remain cautiously optimistic, these early indicators are encouraging and suggest the enduring appeal of the RV lifestyle,” said RV Industry Association President and CEO, Craig Kirby.

    Emissions legislation throws a wrench in the works

    While the RV marketplace shows a promising start to the year, RV shoppers should be aware of regulatory restrictions that could impact motorhome availability in some states. Advanced Clean Truck (ACT) regulation requires that, by 2035, all new vehicles over 8,500 pounds (effectively all motorized RVs) produce zero emissions. Despite technical advances in the transport sector, no current motorhome powertrain is compliant with the regulation, which has been adopted by California and ten other states; additionally, no current zero-emissions chassis is rated for use with motorhomes.

    While the ACT is meant to phase in over the next ten years, an amendment adopted in October 2024 prevents non-compliant new RVs from being registered in California, starting with units of the 2025 model year – other participating states will likely impose the same restriction in the near future.

    As of writing, only 7–11% of vehicle sales must be of zero-emissions vehicles; however, since motorhomes are manufactured on commercial chassis and represent a relatively small portion of a chassis manufacturer’s sales, builders of these chassis may prioritize other markets. Also because of their relatively small market share, there’s no guarantee that an amendment will be introduced to carve out an exclusion in the ACT for motorhomes.

    As a result of this uncertainty, two dealers who spoke with RV Trader indicated that they were not planning on placing orders for motorized RVs until there is further guidance and a clear path forward.

    A market in flux – but still growing

    So, is now a good time to go RV shopping? Yes, especially if you’re looking for a towable RV, as you can take advantage of lower prices and greater inventory. If you’re considering a motorhome, shop with an eye to the future – with prices climbing and regulatory pressure mounting, now may be the best time to pull the trigger. Whichever class of RV you’re shopping for, fear not: given the growth in new RV shipments and healthy inventory of used models, you’re sure to find the perfect one for your next adventure.

  • Overlanding Spearheads Rise in Vehicle-Based Camping

    Overlanding Spearheads Rise in Vehicle-Based Camping

    It’s no secret that campsites are more crowded. Indeed, a new breed of camper has emerged, according to a study by Modern Campground. These newcomers have embraced vehicle-based camping, they’re more cost-conscious, and they’re more likely to take part in activities like forest bathing and foraging rather than hiking.

    The Rise of Vehicle-Based Camping

    While tent camping continues to maintain steady interest, it was surpassed by vehicle-based camping in 2020, which has been gaining traction since 2015. Note that this growth did not extend to RV camping, which peaked around 2021 and has since returned to pre-2020 levels. The most dramatic drop, however, was seen in the number of backpackers, which has fallen over 25% since 2015.

    Vehicle-based camping offers several advantages over traditional camping and backpacking – less physical exertion, better protection from the elements, to name a couple – while offering better access to nature compared to motorhomes and travel trailers. Interest in rooftop tents has grown alongside, whether for comfort or acceptance at campgrounds that do not allow visitors to sleep in their vehicles. The big game-changer, however, is the meteoric rise of overlanding in recent years, which eschews the traditional campground experience and has spawned an booming market of equipment and accessories to support and enhance off-grid excursions.

    Cost-Consciousness Changing Booking Types

    Part of the appeal of vehicle-based camping is its low cost of entry. Travel costs have risen every quarter since January 2022, and campers who using their everyday vehicle can avoid additional expenses associated with a travel trailer or motorhome: fuel, maintenance, or a larger campsite.

    Conversely, budget-conscious campers are also looking at all-inclusive resorts and saving money through bundle discounts. These campers are not necessarily looking for a hotel-like experience; they mainly want to avoid unexpected expenses that they haven’t accounted for. The priority placed on planning and preparation can also be seen in their increased investment in equipment that improves their experience when going off-grid or dispersed camping. 

    A Shift in Outdoor Engagement

    Another significant shift noted in the report is the change in the types of outdoor activities campers are engaging in. The number of campers interested in hiking has tumbled precipitously, down over 75% since 2020. According to the report, “guests are seeking deeper connections with nature, as evidenced by the increasing popularity of forest bathing and foraging. This indicates a shift from high-adrenaline activities to more reflective, purposeful engagements with the natural environment.”

    The Future of Camping: Intention and Immersion

    The data collected in the 2025 MC Hospitality Highlights report highlights that today’s campers are planning more intentional, budget-conscious trips, seeking immersive and meaningful outdoor experiences. As overlanding continues to drive the growth of vehicle-based camping, the industry must adapt to these evolving preferences. Campers are no longer just seeking a place to stay – they’re looking for ways to connect with the natural world in a deeper, more thoughtful way. This shift in mindset is shaping the future of camping, making it an exciting time for both outdoor enthusiasts and the campground industry alike.

  • Dozens of Vehicles Disabled in Consecutive Circle K Fuel Mix-Ups

    Dozens of Vehicles Disabled in Consecutive Circle K Fuel Mix-Ups

    Following a cross-drop error in January that led to at least 14 vehicles being accidentally filled with diesel instead of gasoline (or vice versa) in Avon, Ohio, another Circle K station has suffered the same issue – this time thousands of miles away in Phoenix, Arizona. At least 25 motorists were left with broken-down cars and heft repair bills following the mix-up. Though these seem to be one-off, isolated incidents, the statistics say it happens more often than you might think. 

    What is a “cross-drop”?

    A cross-drop happens when the wrong type of fuel is pumped from a delivery truck into a storage tank, due either to unclear labeling or just human error. It’s a major headache when it happens, since the tank will need to be taken out of service until the contaminated fuel is cleaned up, knocking out the supply of at least one grade of fuel at the station.

    What happens when you mix diesel and gasoline?

    An internal combustion engine runs on tiny explosions, and gasoline and diesel combust differently. Of the two, gasoline is more volatile and explodes more readily. When gasoline is put into a diesel engine, premature combustion can occur, causing what’s commonly referred to as “engine knock”, and this will damage the engine over time. On the other hand, when diesel is put into a gas engine the engine will likely stop or stall because of the diesel not combusting. But that’s just one part of the problem.

    Diesel is thicker than gasoline, which means it can can clog and damage a gas engine’s injection system and other components. Conversely, because gasoline lacks the lubricating quality of diesel, it can lead to premature wear of powertrain components. Everything the fuel touches, between the tank and the engine, and from the engine to the exhaust can and will be affected when the wrong type of fuel is used.

    Big-ticket items on the repair bill include: engine, catalytic converter, fuel pump, and fuel injectors. And don’t forget the cost of labor – because whatever doesn’t get replaced will still need to be flushed out and cleaned. One of the Circle K customers affected by the mix-up was given a repair estimate of over $6,000.

    This is the reason why fuel stations clearly distinguish their gas and diesel nozzles, whether it’s the color, the physical placement on either side of the pump, or a different nozzle diameter. But none of that helps if the problem is with the fuel itself.

    What to do if this happens to you

    If you haven’t started the vehicle yet – don’t! If you’re already underway, pull over as soon as possible and turn the engine off. Get a tow to a mechanic to have the fuel system flushed and inspected for damage. If you just filled up and you hear any unusual noises from the engine, see a warning light, or experience sudden loss of acceleration, stop the car. It might be tempting to limp to the nearest shop, but this can make the damage worse. It’s not worth risking $6,000 in repairs for a $60 tow.

    If the fault falls on the gas station, as in these two cases, make sure to call the company’s customer support number. “We will help them through the claims process, including the necessary documentation. After reviewing and verifying the claim, we’ll reimburse customers for any repairs or associated costs related to this issue,” reads a statement from Circle K regarding the incident.

    Cross-drops are more frequent than you might think

    As one of the most expensive mistakes a gas station can experience, many safeguards have been established to prevent a cross-drop. But mistakes can and do happen – at a rate of one in 45,000 fuel drops. That’s less likely than Asteroid 2024 YR4 hitting Earth, and means that 99.998% of deliveries are completed without incident. But considering there are over 100,000 retail fuel stations in the US, with each receiving a few deliveries a week, the math says it happens about once, maybe twice a day, somewhere in the country; we simply don’t hear about them because they’re caught in time.

  • Survey Says: Fewer No-Shows and Cancellations as Campers Get More Responsible

    Survey Says: Fewer No-Shows and Cancellations as Campers Get More Responsible

    Despite ongoing complaints of no-shows at many campgrounds, particularly public places, the incidence of campers bailing on their reservations has in fact decreased significantly this past year, according to web booking service The Dyrt. The company’s 2025 Camping Report – which surveyed campers who use its app, camping property managers, and residents across the US – states that cancellations and no-shows dropped by 16.7% in 2024 compared to 2023. Additionally, 70.7% of campers reported using all of their reservations for the year, an 11.8% increase.

    The decrease in campers canceling or breaking their reservations was seen across all categories tracked by the survey – including campers who arrived one or more days late (3.7%, down 0.5% from 2023), and those who left the campsite early (12.8%, down 3.9%). Of the campers who remembered to cancel their reservation – accounting for 32.7% of survey respondents – fewer than one-quarter did so less than two days in advance (6.9% overall, down 3.8%).

    Interestingly, there appears to be a correlation between a camper’s reported income and their likelihood of no-showing a reservation (though this too is self-reported). The overall percentage of campers who said they did not show up to a reservation in 2024 was 4%. However, this rate was higher, at 5.8%, among those who earned more than $250,000 per year – 45% greater than the norm. In the next income bracket, $101,000–$250,000, the rate was 4.4%. For those earning $50,000–$100,000, the rate was 3.2%. Finally, only 2.1% of the group earning under $50,000 annually admitted to no-showing a reservation in 2024.

    “I think there’s increasing awareness of the fact that it hurts other campers to reserve a campsite and leave it empty and the camping community is stepping up to do better,” says The Dyrt founder Sarah Smith, who also cites recent legislation in California and Washington, which limits stay lengths and caps total nights, as factors encouraging campers to cancel well in advance. The new rules also mean that fewer frivolous reservations are made in the first place.

    “The fact that cancellations and no-shows went down significantly is very encouraging,” says The Dyrt CEO Kevin Long. “Fewer sites are going to waste, more campers are able to secure a spot, and property owners and managers have more predictability. It’s a positive for everybody.”

  • Senators Warn: Hiring Freeze May Lead to National Park Closures

    Senators Warn: Hiring Freeze May Lead to National Park Closures

    In the wake of the federal government’s cutbacks on hiring, 22 senators sent a letter to newly-confirmed U.S. Secretary of the Interior Doug Burgum warning that the deep staffing cuts could bring about national park closures. The letter was prompted by a January 20 federal hiring freeze. The freeze resulted in more than 2,000 job offers to seasonal Park Service employees being rescinded. The administration has also offered early retirement and resignation options to millions of federal employees. That offer would apply to all federal employees who work for the Park Service. The Democratic senators have denounced these cuts and fear national park closures could be the result.

    According to an article in SFGate, the letter from the senators stated that, “If a significant number of National Park Service employees take one of the offers — or further terminations are made — park staffing will be in chaos.” The senators wrote, “Not only does this threaten the full suite of visitor services, but could close entire parks altogether.”

    National park closures, however, have not been stated as an objective of the current hiring freeze under the Trump administration.

     

    Park Service Employees Resign, Seasonal Workers Reduced

    That letter was shared with SFGate by Don Neubacher. Neaubacher is a former Yosemite superintendent and member of the executive council of the Coalition to Protect America’s National Parks. He is credited with stating that around 1,900 Park Service employees have already resigned. “That’s a little less than 10 percent of the park’s workforce,”

    In a typical summer, the Park Service will bring on more than 6,000 seasonal employees according to the letter. Whether this could result in national park closures remains speculative.

    “Without seasonal staff during this peak season, visitor centers may close, bathrooms will be filthy, campgrounds may close, guided tours will be cut back or altogether cancelled, emergency response times will drop, and visitor services like safety advice, trail recommendations, and interpretation will be unavailable,” they wrote.

     

    Staffing Already Down as Visitation Increases

    Staffing is down 20 percent already since 2010, but visitation has increased by 16 percent. According to the letter, an estimated 415,000 jobs and $55.6 billion in total economic output in the national economy are created as a result of people visiting the parks. 

    “Americans showing up to national parks this summer and for years to come don’t deserve to have their vacations ruined by a completely preventable — and completely irresponsible — staffing shortage. And local economies don’t deserve to have their livelihoods destroyed for political gain.”

    The U.S. senators who signed the letter are Senators Jeff Merkley, Angus King, Patty Murray, Martin Heinrich, Jon Ossof, John Fetterman, Mark Warner, Jack Reed, Ron Wyden, Jeanne Shaheen, Bernie Sanders, Richard Durbin, Richard Blumenthal, Kirsten Gillibrand, Edward Markey, Chris Van Hollen, Mazie Hirono, Cory Booker, Tim Kaine, Alex Padilla, Maria Cantwell, and John Hickenlooper.