MC Fireside Chats, an Outdoor Hospitality Podcast

The May 6th, 2026, episode of MC Fireside Chats, hosted by Scott Bahr (President of Cairn Consulting Group), featured a deep dive into the 2026 outlook for the outdoor hospitality and RV industries. The panel included Eleonore Hamm (President of RVDA of Canada), Simon Neal (Founder & CEO of CampMap), John Lindley (CEO of the Michigan Association of RVs & Campgrounds), and Kevin Long (CEO of The Dyrt). The discussion centered on the impact of rising fuel costs, shifting traveler demographics, and the evolving expectations of modern campers.

Scott Bahr opened the session by noting a "mixed bag" of reports from campground owners, suggesting that location currently dictates success more than in previous years. Kevin Long shared data from The Dyrt, noting that Google search volume for camping was down in April compared to the previous year, highlighting a potential cooling of interest or a shift in how consumers are planning their trips. Eleonore Hamm observed similar trends in Canada, where high gas prices (reaching $2.20 a liter in Vancouver) are leading travelers to book shorter trips closer to home rather than canceling altogether.

The panel discussed the shrinking travel radius of the average camper. Simon Neal cited a European report showing a 50-kilometer decrease in average holiday travel distance, with a significant majority of campers choosing to stay within their own country. John Lindley noted that in Michigan, campgrounds are seeing cancellations from out-of-state visitors but a surge in last-minute bookings from in-state residents, suggesting that the desire to recreate remains strong despite economic pressures.

The conversation shifted to the "era of the casual participant." Scott Bahr highlighted research showing that since 2019, the percentage of campers taking only one trip per year has increased by 257%, while avid campers (three or more trips) have declined. This trend poses a challenge for occupancy, as the industry must find ways to increase the frequency of participation among new entrants who may not feel a strong emotional connection to the outdoors.

John Lindley and Eleonore Hamm addressed the rise in RV rentals and the shift toward lighter, more affordable towable units. Dealers are seeing increased demand for units that do not require heavy-duty trucks, allowing consumers to enter the lifestyle without changing their primary vehicle. Simon Neal added that the European market has long thrived on smaller, more efficient hardware, providing a potential roadmap for North American trends toward economy and minimalism.

The panelists debated the impact of "sanitized" outdoor experiences, such as glamping and high-end cabins. Scott Bahr argued that while these accommodations make camping accessible, they can reduce the level of nature immersion that builds long-term loyalty. Simon Neal noted that in Europe, "posh cabins" are now in direct competition with hotel rooms, offering a middle ground for leisure travelers who want the benefits of an outdoor community without the ruggedness of traditional camping.

Reservation frustrations were a key topic, particularly regarding state park systems. John Lindley described the intense competition for sites in Michigan, where consumers often feel locked out of popular dates. He emphasized that this frustration presents an opportunity for private campgrounds to market themselves as flexible alternatives, filling the vacuum for travelers who are willing to be spontaneous with their locations.

Customer behavior regarding flexibility was identified as a permanent change post-COVID. Eleonore Hamm and Simon Neal agreed that free cancellation and the ability to "pivot" plans are now top priorities for guests. Simon Neal suggested that offering premium flexible booking options is a "win-win" for operators and guests alike, as it provides peace of mind in an unpredictable economic environment.

The importance of education and "onboarding" for new RVers was highlighted as a way to lower barriers to entry. Eleonore Hamm discussed the success of "RV Learning Weekends" and the use of "ambassadors" by Go RVing to show real-life usage. Scott Bahr noted that younger generations often feel intimidated by the technical aspects of RVing, such as parking and hookups, making dealership training programs more vital than ever.

In closing, the group touched on the "shared responsibility" of the industry. John Lindley summarized a philosophy from the RV Power Breakfast: manufacturers must build quality, dealers must simplify the sale, and campgrounds must provide hospitable service. If each segment excels, the industry will remain resilient. Before the session ended, Eleonore Hamm and John Lindley invited members to share their "burning issues" to help guide their advocacy efforts with state and federal governments.

The April 29th, 2026, episode of MC Fireside Chats brought together a unique panel of industry professionals to discuss the future of camping, app integrations, and shifting guest demographics. Host Brian Searl steered the conversation while broadcasting on-the-go from the Florida-Alabama conference. The collaborative session highlighted how the industry is evolving as different generations and international platforms intersect with traditional family-owned campgrounds.

Setting the stage for the discussion, the panelists introduced their respective roles and backgrounds in the outdoor hospitality industry. Ashley Cary, a third-generation campground operator from Hidden Acres Family Campground, emphasized her family's 50-year history in Connecticut and her active involvement with OHI. Meanwhile, Duncan Winship provided the perspective of a seasoned owner who has been running Papoose Pond Camping in Maine for over a decade alongside his wife.

Bringing an international perspective to the panel, Marie Nichols discussed her work with the European-based app Park4night. Celebrating its 15th anniversary this year, the app has grown into a community of over 9 million users across 100 countries. Nichols highlighted that they are experiencing massive growth in North America, noting a significant surge in both U.S. and Canadian listings since 2024.

Brian Searl steered the conversation toward how digital applications and mapping platforms can best serve campground owners, asking Nichols about the type of data her app provides. Nichols explained that the platform offers a community-driven model where owners can list for free or opt for paid tiers to track their performance and increase their visibility among global travelers.

Responding to these features, Duncan Winship detailed what he would expect as a campground operator from such digital exposure and data. He noted that understanding the throughput, visual appeal, and vehicle types of guests visiting his park is vital. This information helps him target specific demographics, such as identifying if certain unique accommodations perform better with specific types of camper vans.

Ashley Cary added to the operational discussion by reflecting on the heavy demands placed on smaller family businesses and the need to streamline marketing efforts. She emphasized that time is the most valuable asset for operators, making it essential to invest in platforms that actually provide value. Cary also underscored the importance of data, especially concerning external factors like the weather, which uniquely impact outdoor hospitality compared to traditional hotels.

Building on Cary’s points, Brian Searl compared the fragmented nature of the U.S. camping market to the highly consolidated hotel industry. Duncan Winship agreed with this observation, noting that the sheer geographical diversification of campgrounds makes every park completely unique. They discussed how owners must carefully select their marketing channels to ensure their marketing budgets yield a strong return on investment.

The conversation then shifted toward the changing expectations of younger generations entering the camping community. Ashley Cary pointed out that Gen Z is drawn to the nostalgia of camping but also requires modern connectivity like Wi-Fi. She explained that there is a common misconception that younger people only want to be on their screens when, in reality, they highly value the opportunity to unplug and disconnect in nature.

Brian Searl elaborated on these generational preferences by suggesting that parks should avoid completely siloing long-term and short-term guests. He proposed that campground operators should create environments that allow all campers to self-select their level of socialization. Searl shared the idea of using simple, non-intrusive signals, such as green lanterns, to show other campers that a guest is open to conversation and community building.

The chat concluded with a warm and lighthearted wrap-up where the participants asked each other fun questions. Duncan Winship asked Cary about her preferred s'more candy, which led to a playful debate about whether a hot dog is a sandwich. Marie Nichols then asked Cary about her dream European destination, highlighting Italy, before the show wrapped up with information on where listeners can find their respective platforms and get involved in the industry.

In the recent episode of MC Fireside Chats, Brian Searl hosts a discussion on the intersection of artificial intelligence and outdoor hospitality with guests Blair Noel, Thierry Tombelle, and Matt Whitermore. Brian opens the session by addressing the inherent tension between high-tech tools and the "unplugged" nature of camping.

He suggests that AI should act as an invisible intelligence layer that enhances the stay without being intrusive. Matt Whitermore notes how quickly the landscape is shifting, admitting that a month in the AI world feels like an eternity.

Matt admits his own skepticism toward voice bots evaporated in just a few months as they became essential force multipliers. These tools help manage rising payroll and utility costs across his portfolio of dozens of properties.

The conversation shifts toward the creative and psychological aspects of the guest experience with Thierry Tombelle. He emphasizes that technology in glamping must be purposeful and truly serve the human element.

Thierry shares an example of using simple remote alarms for tent zippers to provide psychological comfort to guests. He believes the industry's future lies in "augmented staff" rather than total automation.

In this model, employees like gardeners or chefs use AI assistants to solve complex problems behind the scenes. This ensures the guest still interacts primarily with a human face while receiving high-level service.

Blair Noel from Newbook highlights the logistical power of data, explaining how AI identifies revenue gaps humans are often too busy to spot. He notes that many operators sit on a goldmine of information they never have time to analyze.

Brian builds on this by suggesting that "intelligence" is more important than the "AI" label itself. He proposes systems that track gas prices or weather patterns to provide proactive advice to travelers.

The panel also discusses the technical side of integrations, specifically how APIs allow operators to bypass messy spreadsheets. This allows for direct, actionable answers regarding housekeeping schedules and occupancy.

They agree that the ultimate goal is to use these advanced tools to return to the core of hospitality. By removing the friction of the back office, owners can focus on providing a seamless and authentic outdoor experience.

The April 15th, 2026, episode of MC Fireside Chats, hosted by Brian Searl of Insider Perks and Modern Campground, brought together a panel of industry leaders to discuss the complexities of scaling outdoor hospitality brands, the integration of advanced technology, and the rising demand for luxury wellness amenities. Brian Searl opened the conversation by introducing recurring guest Robert Preston, the CEO and Founder of Unhitched RV and Climb Capital, and new guest Cody Fall, the Chief Operations Officer of Happy Grounds Campgrounds. The group was soon joined by Angele Miller, Co-Founder of Creekside RnR, who provided a fascinating look into the high-end glamping market in New Brunswick, Canada.

The dialogue initially focused on the intersection of technology and business operations, with Robert Preston and Brian Searl diving into the shifting landscape of artificial intelligence. Robert discussed the challenges of rising API costs for models like Claude and his strategic pivot toward local, hard-device-hosted models to maintain data security while managing the "monotony" of tax season and investor relations. This technological foundation set the stage for a larger conversation about efficiency as Cody Fall described how Happy Grounds Campgrounds has scaled from one to 16 locations since 2022. Cody addressed the "shadow enemy" of corporate perception, explaining that while seasonal campers often resist the change brought by new ownership, professional investment is frequently the only thing saving distressed properties from aging infrastructure and eventual closure.

Angele Miller shared the impressive growth of Creekside RnR, which has evolved into a premier wellness destination. She detailed the opening of a massive Nordic spa, a specialized wellness center offering vitamin IV therapy and lymphatic drainage, and a new restaurant centered around fire cuisine. Angele told a unique story about the construction of their salt cave, which required sourcing massive concrete culverts usually reserved for septic systems, highlighting the innovation required to create "luxury in nature." Her experience served as a live case study for Brian Searl’s observation that lodging and glamping are currently seeing higher occupancy rates and nightly premiums than traditional RV sites, as younger demographics seek outdoor experiences without the need to own or transport heavy equipment.

As the discussion moved toward future trends, Robert Preston and Cody Fall debated the long-term habits of different generations. Robert suggested that while Gen Z and Millennials may currently show different camping patterns, the fundamental human attraction to water, food, and fire remains a constant that will sustain the industry. The panel concluded with an "inside baseball" look at their organizational charts. Cody explained how Happy Grounds utilizes a centralized sales and service center to handle guest inquiries, ensuring on-site managers aren't pulled away from property maintenance. Robert shared that Unhitched RV, which has grown to 34 properties with a goal of 50 by year-end, uses a tiered system of area and regional managers to maintain standards. Collectively, Brian Searl and his guests painted a picture of an industry in a state of professionalization, where data-driven strategies and high-touch hospitality are becoming the new standard for success.

The April 8th, 2026, episode of MC Fireside Chats, hosted by Brian Searl, provided a comprehensive look at how outdoor hospitality operators are leveraging automation and premium accommodations to elevate the guest experience. Joined by returning guests Jeremy Johnson and Zach Stoltenberg, alongside industry experts Zac Cummings, Matt Kraeuter, and AL and Sabine Betschart, the panel explored the delicate balance between high-tech convenience and preserving the natural charm of camping. Despite a brief moment of host audio troubleshooting that kept the live-stream authentic, the conversation delivered high-value insights on streamlining operations, designing purpose-built cabins, and preparing for future infrastructure compliance.

Jeremy Johnson, Owner of Camp Kona Hills, kicked off the discussion by highlighting new automation tools like Campspot's license plate readers, noting that seamless, contactless check-ins are quickly becoming a baseline consumer expectation akin to an Airbnb stay. AL Betschart, Co-owner of Countryside Campground, agreed but stressed that from an operator's perspective, technology must be highly intuitive and straightforward to manage. He cited his use of Schlage smart locks and Roku TVs with auto-wipe guest modes as cost-effective alternatives to paying hefty API fees to link disparate property management systems. Building on this, Zach Stoltenberg, Associate Principal of Architecture at LJA, observed that to bypass integration headaches entirely, some developers are abandoning traditional campground software in favor of hotel-grade platforms that inherently support automated lighting, HVAC controls, and seamless food and beverage charging.

Shifting the focus to the intersection of luxury accommodations and nature, Matt Kraeuter, CEO of Great Outdoor Cottages, pointed out that park model cabins compete directly with hotels rather than rustic RV pads. He emphasized the massive financial incentive for operators, noting that converting a dirt pad into a premium cabin can transform a $4,000-a-year revenue stream into a $40,000-a-year powerhouse, complete with significant tax benefits. Zac Cummings, Director of Growth and Marketing for Sweet-Haus Cabins, added that younger generations and families now expect these higher-end amenities, meaning manufacturers must partner closely with parks to integrate them seamlessly. To ensure guests don't just stay inside these comfortable units, Sabine Betschart shared her strategy of using low-tech "hooks"—like a wishing tree, hidden trail gnomes, and a barefoot walking path—to entice families out into the woods. Echoing this back-to-nature sentiment, Johnson shared recent Airbnb data showing a massive Gen Z demand for rural stays, explaining that his park focuses on "purpose-built" design that integrates cabins directly into the landscape, right down to adding mudrooms to accommodate heavy winter camping.

The conversation took a regulatory and design-focused turn as the panel examined the future of infrastructure compliance. Stoltenberg warned operators to brace for imminent building code shifts—particularly in fire-prone states—that will soon mandate Class A fire-rated roofs and materials for all structures, while also advocating for elevated, hassle-free site designs like push-button propane fire pits over traditional wood fires. AL Betschart highlighted a surging demand for accessible tourism, sharing his recent journey of retrofitting a hay wagon with a wheelchair lift and noting that manufacturers need to create adaptable, flippable cabin floorplans to fit the utility layouts of older campgrounds. Cummings agreed, reiterating that modern manufacturers must assist owners with these very layout and ADA compliance hurdles. Brian Searl concluded the episode by emphasizing that whether an operator is navigating fire codes, designing for winter use, or choosing the right software, the ultimate blueprint for success lies in deeply understanding the specific needs of their target guest before making a single investment.

The April 1st, 2026, episode of MC Fireside Chats, hosted by Brian Searl, offered a deep dive into the shifting landscape of outdoor hospitality as the industry prepares for the summer season. Joined by recurring experts Phil Ingrassia, Scott Bahr, and Simon Neal, the discussion focused on how economic pressures and geopolitical tensions are influencing traveler behavior and dealership operations. While technical glitches briefly hampered the show's intro, the panel quickly pivoted to a series of optimistic data points regarding consumer resilience and the therapeutic value of the outdoors.

Phil Ingrassia, President of the RVDA, shared surprising news from the Wall Street Journal, noting that US consumer sentiment held steady despite the onset of war and rising fuel costs. He suggested that higher tax refunds this year might provide a necessary boost for discretionary purchases like RVs and marine vacations. Ingrassia also highlighted a strategic shift in manufacturing, where leaders like Thor and Winnebago are carefully balancing production with actual retail demand to avoid the inventory gluts seen in previous cycles. This cautious approach by dealers to "right-size" their inventory is intended to maintain long-term market health and protect margins.

Scott Bahr, President of Cairn Consulting Group, reinforced this positive outlook by explaining that outdoor recreation often thrives during times of crisis because it serves as a vital stress-reliever. His research into historical events like 9/11 and the Iraq war showed that National Park visitation actually tends to increase during such periods. Bahr also shared recent interview data indicating that while some travelers may stay closer to home, the majority of RVers refuse to let higher gas prices cancel their plans entirely. He encouraged campground owners to pivot their marketing toward the "escapism" and relaxation the industry provides, staying top-of-mind as booking windows continue to shorten.

The conversation took a global turn with Simon Neal, Founder and CEO of CampMap, who contrasted the American camping experience with the highly developed "resort style" common in Europe. Neal explained that in regions like Croatia, family-owned campgrounds have evolved into all-inclusive destinations featuring multiple restaurants, entertainment stages, and a mix of accommodations that cater to both budget tenters and luxury glampers. This led the panel to debate why such a model remains limited in the US, citing factors like land size and a traditional "blue-collar" social culture. Brian Searl concluded the episode by suggesting that even small, low-cost enhancements—like providing fresh garden herbs or facilitating delivery services—could help American operators bridge the gap and capture a wider audience.

The March 25, 2026 episode of MC Fireside Chats, hosted by Brian Searl of Insider Perks and Modern Campground, featured Peter Pilarski, founder of the Tourism AI Network and CIPR Communications, alongside Mike Lee, the solo developer and owner of the Campsite Tonight app. The conversation centered on how AI and evolving technology are reshaping discovery, marketing, and commerce for campground owners and tourism operators.

Peter Pilarski introduced the concept of "digital authority," describing it as the convergence of traditional PR and digital marketing into a single discipline aimed at making tourism businesses the definitive, trustworthy answer across both human searches and AI-driven queries. He emphasized that websites need to expand beyond marketing fluff and instead focus on answering real, specific questions travelers ask — everything from campsite amenities to nearby attractions — and that this content must be structured with tools like schema markup and FAQ sections so AI systems can easily parse and surface it. He also stressed the importance of entity consistency, meaning that a business's core identity and claims should be uniform across every digital touchpoint, from Google Business Profile to LinkedIn to press releases, so that AI tools and search engines build a coherent picture of who you are.

Mike Lee shared his perspective as a tech entrepreneur building Campsite Tonight, an app that aggregates campsite availability across dozens of fragmented public and private sources in the US and offers a premium feature that monitors for cancellations at high-demand locations like national parks, placing open sites into users' carts. He pushed back gently on the idea that consumers are ready to let AI handle purchasing decisions for camping, noting that campers tend to have highly specific, individualized preferences — proximity to bathrooms, shade, particular site numbers — that make fully agentic booking difficult in the near term. He did, however, validate the importance of structured data, sharing that when he reformatted about 40 to 50 of his website pages to present historical cancellation statistics and availability trends in a machine-readable way, his Google search impressions tripled without any other changes.

Brian Searl wove the discussion together, raising the point that much of the detailed campsite information campground owners possess is currently buried behind JavaScript-heavy booking engines that AI tools cannot read, making it invisible to anyone searching through ChatGPT or similar platforms. He also explored the tension between bot detection and the coming wave of personal AI agents acting on behalf of consumers, questioning where businesses and public lands should draw the line between blocking automated behavior and accommodating legitimate agent-driven browsing. He noted that the interface for tools like Campsite Tonight may evolve — potentially piping data into conversational AI platforms or wearable devices — even if the underlying business model remains strong.

The three speakers converged on several practical takeaways for small business owners feeling overwhelmed. Peter recommended starting with a fully updated Google Business Profile, treating it like a social media account with frequent photo uploads and current information, then moving to enriching website content with specific, verifiable details and structured data. Mike advised campground owners to identify their single biggest problem — whether it's on-site experience or discovery — and focus energy there rather than trying to do everything at once. Both guests and Brian agreed that the businesses most likely to thrive are those that do genuinely good work, communicate transparently about what they offer, and make that information easy for both humans and machines to find and trust.

The episode of MC Fireside Chats from March 18th, 2026, hosted by Brian Searl, brings together a panel of outdoor hospitality industry leaders to discuss current market trends, operational strategies, and the integration of new technologies. The recurring guest panel includes Jeff Hoffman from Camp Strategy, Mike Harrison from CRR Hospitality, and Robert Preston from Unhitched RV. They are joined by special guest Stacy Dam, the CEO and co-founder of Set Your Sites.

The conversation opens with a discussion on macroeconomic factors, specifically rising fuel prices and inflation. Robert Preston notes a recent personal trip where gas prices spiked significantly, raising the question of how travel costs might impact the camping industry. Brian Searl adds that compounding inflation, such as a reported 50% increase in wholesale vegetable prices, is something campground operators need to monitor closely.

Despite these economic concerns, Mike Harrison points out that the outdoor hospitality industry has historically been insulated from economic downturns. When budgets tighten, consumers often trade expensive hotel vacations for more economical camping trips. Additionally, he notes that average travel distances have already shortened in recent years, mitigating some of the sting of higher fuel costs.

Building on the idea of shorter travel distances, Robert Preston explains that his company shifted its strategy years ago to focus heavily on long-term guests and properties located near dense population centers. By operating in tertiary markets primarily in the Southeast, his parks rely on guests traveling 150 miles or less, rendering national fuel price spikes relatively inconsequential to their overall occupancy.

When asked if these close-to-home travelers present an opportunity for glamping and cabin rentals, Mike Harrison emphasizes that glamping is an entirely different market from traditional RV camping. He notes that glamping falls into a luxury segment that has seen massive, multi-year growth. It operates more like a boutique hotel alternative and requires separate marketing and operational strategies compared to standard RV sites.

To help operators prepare for market shifts, Mike Harrison introduces a blunt but effective analogy: "Are you fat?" He uses this to explain that campground owners must first acknowledge their business shortcomings by diving into their data, reviewing monthly P&Ls, and looking at basic reporting before they can craft a strategy to improve revenue.

Robert Preston softens Mike’s analogy to "looking in the mirror," stressing that operators often misdiagnose their problems. He highlights the concept of system constraints, pointing out that a park can have millions invested in amenities and cutting-edge marketing, but if the primary constraint is a grumpy employee answering the phones, the entire business will underperform.

Special guest Stacy Dam shifts the conversation toward camper friction. She introduces her company, Set Your Sites, which was born out of a frustrating personal experience of being denied a walk-up site due to outdated administrative rules. Her technology aims to eliminate the traditional cash box, providing real-time digital booking for walk-up campers and preventing software blackout periods that needlessly lock out same-day guests.

Stacy’s product sparks a debate on the necessity of fully digital check-ins. Robert Preston cautions against treating RVers like hotel guests; he argues that someone navigating a 45-foot rig still wants the reassurance of a human conversation and a quick visual of their site before committing to pulling in. He warns that over-automating the arrival process could alienate traditional campers.

Mike Harrison agrees that human interaction is vital but counters that operators must cater to diverse demographics. While Boomers and Gen X guests appreciate front desk chatter, Millennial and Gen Z campers increasingly expect frictionless, entirely digital check-ins. He argues that campgrounds failing to implement digital options like smart locks and gate codes will eventually be left behind by younger consumers.

Despite differing views on automation, the entire panel agrees that technology should enhance, not replace, the human element. Jeff Hoffman emphasizes that simple human touches—like training staff to use specific, welcoming phone scripts—can drastically increase conversions. Stacy Dam echoes this, noting that automating tedious tasks allows campground staff to step out from behind the desk and deliver proactive, surprise-and-delight hospitality.

The chat wraps up with a round-robin Q&A. When asked about future industry disruptions, Mike Harrison points to the rapid evolution of AI and the accelerating consolidation of independent "Mom and Pop" campgrounds by larger corporate entities. Finally, Jeff Hoffman shares that he is currently gathering data to track the lifecycle of the used RV market to better forecast long-term campsite supply and demand.

The MC Fireside Chats episode aired on March 11th, 2026, featuring a dynamic panel of outdoor hospitality leaders who gathered to discuss the evolving landscape of campgrounds, RV parks, and glamping resorts. Host Brian Searl, the Founder and CEO of Insider Perks and Modern Campground, led the conversation from the Wisconsin WACO campground conference, emphasizing the show's role as a premier source for industry trends and expert insights. The panel included recurring guests such as Jayne Cohen, the Founder and CEO of Campground Consulting Group, and Casey Cochran, the Vice President of Partnerships at Campspot. They were joined by Jeremy Johnson, co-owner of Camp Kona Hills, and special guests Shawn Verbrugghe of Wunderland Resort and Serg Mashkov from Lancaster Log Cabins. This diverse group aimed to unpack the transformation of the outdoor hospitality industry, focusing on shifting guest expectations and new revenue opportunities.

A primary focus of the discussion was the economic outlook for 2026, specifically regarding how fluctuating gas prices and shifting booking windows might influence travel behavior. Casey Cochran shared data-driven insights from Campspot, noting that while some transient business might show signs of softening, many operators are successfully pivoting toward seasonal stays to secure guaranteed revenue. The panel debated whether consumers have become "hardened" to higher fuel costs, with Jayne Cohen drawing on her fifty years of industry experience to argue that families prioritize their vacation time over almost any other expense. She suggested that campers are more likely to cut back on dining out than to cancel a trip entirely, reinforcing the idea that outdoor hospitality remains a resilient and economical choice during uncertain financial times.

The conversation then shifted toward the increasing demand for luxury and "Instagrammable" accommodations within the glamping and RV sectors. Serg Mashkov highlighted a significant industry turn toward high-end amenities, noting that guests are no longer satisfied with basic rustic cabins and instead seek features like glass shower doors and tile finishes. He revealed that Lancaster Log Cabins is currently rebranding to "Lancaster Cabins" to better reflect this modern push while still maintaining their traditional rustic offerings. This trend toward more sophisticated rental units allows park owners to drive a higher Average Daily Rate by catering to a general public that may be new to the camping world but desires a polished, photogenic experience.

Jayne Cohen expanded on the financial benefits of accommodation "stratification," which involves offering a range of units from basic to premium. She explained that by utilizing a "good, better, best" system, owners can capture extra revenue through dynamic pricing based on a unit’s specific location, size, or proximity to amenities like a pool or waterfront. This approach aligns with the current market where guests are willing to pay a premium for perceived value and superior customer service. Cohen emphasized that in the modern era, property management systems have made it easier than ever for operators to implement these flexible rates and stay competitive.

Shawn Verbrugghe provided a deep dive into the philosophy behind Wunderland Resort, emphasizing the importance of uniqueness, privacy, and sustainability. He described his property as an "eco-adventure resort" that focuses on experiential hospitality rather than just providing a place to sleep. Verbrugghe shared that his glamping units are currently outperforming other accommodation types because they offer a distinct experience that resonates with outdoor enthusiasts. By focusing on a specific guest "avatar"—such as creative individuals or adventure seekers—he is able to build a brand that stands out in a crowded marketplace.

A unique highlight of the episode was the discussion on "programming" and how intentional activities can transform a guest's stay. Verbrugghe detailed several innovative concepts at his resort, including "blackout foraging tours" where guests use night-vision goggles to explore the forest. He also introduced the "Soul Trail," a guided experience designed to disconnect guests from their phones and reconnect them with their senses and nature. The panel agreed that these types of creative, purpose-built experiences are what truly capture the modern traveler’s interest, especially for parks that may not have natural destination features like a beach or mountain range.

The topic of digital connectivity sparked an interesting debate, as Wi-Fi has transitioned from a luxury to a fundamental utility expectation. While most parks must now provide high-speed internet to remain competitive, Verbrugghe explained his success with "digital detox" weekends where guests are encouraged to surrender their phones upon check-in. He stressed that transparency is key; as long as the lack of Wi-Fi in certain areas is communicated clearly from the start, guests are often fully accepting and even appreciative of the chance to unplug. This balanced approach allows operators to cater to both the need for connectivity and the desire for a genuine escape from technology.

Jeremy Johnson shared his perspective as a newer operator in Marquette, Michigan, where he deals with the challenges of high seasonal demand and local regulatory shifts. He noted that his property at Camp Kona Hills solves a local problem by providing a purpose-built place for tourists to stay, preventing them from encroaching on residential neighborhoods. Johnson’s experience highlights the growing need for professionally managed campgrounds in high-traffic tourist areas. He and the other panelists emphasized that the industry's growth should be driven by creativity and the underutilization of beautiful land, turning old quarries or forest edges into high-value destinations.

Looking toward the future, Jayne Cohen identified the return of "lot sale" parks as a significant trend to watch in 2026. After nearly a decade of little activity in this sector, she reported conducting multiple studies for new developments where individuals purchase their own RV lots. These high-end projects often include luxury features like marina slips, outdoor kitchens, and specialized covers for motorhomes. This shift indicates a growing market for long-term ownership within the outdoor hospitality space, providing a new avenue for developers to explore beyond traditional short-term rentals.

The episode concluded with a sense of optimism for the younger generation's passion for the outdoors and the industry's ability to adapt to their needs. The panelists encouraged operators to move away from "lazy" management and toward a model of constant elevation and creativity. Brian Searl reminded the audience that MC Fireside Chats continues to air every Wednesday at 2 PM EST, providing a platform for industry experts to share strategies that help campground owners thrive in a fast-changing market. Whether through innovative cabin designs, unique guest programming, or strategic financial management, the show remains a vital resource for anyone involved in outdoor hospitality.

The outdoor hospitality industry is bracing for a year of "guarded optimism" as operators navigate shifting booking windows and economic fluctuations, according to experts on the March 4 episode of MC Fireside Chats. Scott Bahr, president of Cairn Consulting Group, noted that while the industry is seeing some optimism flatten, the current trend suggests a continued shortening of the booking timeline for guests. Bahr observed that some travelers may be "downgrading" their experiences due to economic pressures, though gas price spikes generally impact attitudes more than immediate travel behavior.

Blue Water President and CFO Rafael Correa reported a "nice pace of transient pickup" across his company's portfolio of nearly 60 RV parks, though he characterized the growth as "mild" compared to previous years. Correa highlighted that properties near significant demand generators, such as waterfront locations, continue to lead the market in recovery. However, he noted a persistent "drag" on properties located near the Canadian border, which remain sensitive to international travel patterns and economic conditions in that region.

European trends appear to mirror the North American market, with CampMap Founder and CEO Simon Neal reporting a 5% decrease in volume and turnover for January bookings in France. Neal pointed out that while these early signals for summer stays are negative, the overall average site price in Europe remains comparable to the U.S. at approximately $60. He emphasized that geography and climate remain the primary drivers for the significant pricing disparities seen between different countries and states.

The discussion also addressed the critical importance of operational "blocking and tackling" for independent owners like Diane Bealer, owner of Little Village Retreat. Bealer, whose glamping resort near Zion National Park is slated to close at the end of 2026, shared candid insights into the challenges of leasing versus owning land and the necessity of accurate market research. Despite the closure, Bealer expressed strong support for the industry, noting that the experience provided invaluable life skills for her family and children.

Correa emphasized that for many operators, success in a potentially down market depends on implementing disciplined pricing and marketing strategies rather than "getting exotic" with new offerings. He argued that a 10% decline in camper nights would be "borderline catastrophic" for the asset class but noted that the industry's lifestyle-driven nature provides a buffer against violent economic swings. Brian Searl, founder of Insider Perks and Modern Campground, added that smart revenue management could help operators maintain revenue levels even if occupancy dips.

A newly released pricing report sparked debate among the panelists regarding the adoption of dynamic pricing in the sector. The data revealed a surprisingly narrow gap in pricing between weekdays and weekends, as well as pull-through versus back-in sites. Correa suggested this indicates a significant opportunity for operators to "take some bets on themselves" by better stratifying their rates and betting on the unique value of their specific locations and amenities.

Site map clarity and user experience were identified as essential tools for conversion in a competitive market. Neal cautioned against "overcomplicating" the booking process with too many site types, which can confuse potential guests and lead to abandoned bookings. Bealer echoed this sentiment, stating that any questions a guest might have should be answered clearly during the digital booking process to ensure a seamless path to reservation.

Looking toward the future, the experts discussed the role of artificial intelligence in enhancing guest communication and data collection. Searl noted that while it is difficult to isolate AI's direct impact on conversion rates, early data shows a significant multiplier on the return on investment for automated chat tools. These technologies are increasingly being used to surface the top questions guests are asking, allowing owners to refine their operations and marketing materials.

As the 2026 season approaches, the consensus among the participants remained focused on the long-term resilience of outdoor hospitality. Searl described the industry as one of the strongest asset classes for the coming decades, as the rise of digital "slop" and AI-generated content drives more people to seek authentic experiences in nature. The panelists concluded that while 2026 may require more strategic effort than the post-pandemic boom years, the fundamental demand for outdoor recreation remains a permanent fixture of human behavior.

This news is vital for industry professionals because it highlights the transition from the "easy growth" era of the pandemic to a more sophisticated, data-driven operational landscape. Understanding these macro trends—ranging from international booking slumps to the untapped potential of dynamic pricing—allows campground owners and RV park operators to adjust their toolkits and marketing strategies to remain profitable in an uncertain economy.