The February 19, 2025, episode of MC Fireside Chats, hosted by Brian Searl, featured a discussion on business operations and management, bringing together industry experts and key players in the outdoor hospitality space. The panel included recurring guests Jeff Hoffman of Camp Strategy, Mike Harrison of CRR Hospitality, and Sandy Ellingson, a technology consultant and advocate for campgrounds. Special guests for the episode were Eric Stumberg, co-founder and CEO of TengoInternet, and Kelly Jones, Vice President of Operations at Great Escapes RV Resorts. Jeff Hoffman, known for his expertise in assisting campground owners with operational efficiency, discussed the importance of having structured systems in place to reduce stress and improve team effectiveness. He emphasized that successful business operations start with well-established procedures that align with the needs of both employees and guests. Jeff highlighted the significance of listening to employees, as they are often the first to identify potential problems and solutions. Mike Harrison, representing CRR Hospitality, shared insights into the necessity of balancing on-property culture with remote corporate culture. He detailed how CRR integrates technology to streamline operations while ensuring human engagement remains a priority. Mike stressed that associate engagement directly impacts guest experiences, emphasizing the importance of intentional team-building efforts and recognition programs that foster a positive work environment. Kelly Jones, with extensive experience in campground operations, discussed how Great Escapes RV Resorts prioritizes team development as the foundation for providing top-tier guest services. She elaborated on how structured training sessions and ongoing educational programs help create a culture of trust and collaboration among employees. Kelly also spoke about the generational differences in the workforce and how understanding these differences can lead to better communication and teamwork. Sandy Ellingson offered a broader perspective on how campgrounds can implement effective team-building strategies. She recounted experiences of helping parks restructure their teams by aligning employees with roles that match their skills and interests, leading to higher efficiency and job satisfaction. She also highlighted how industry conferences provide opportunities for networking and knowledge-sharing, which can significantly benefit campground operators. Eric Stumberg provided valuable insights into the role of technology in enhancing campground operations. He discussed how connectivity solutions, such as reliable internet and digital tools, contribute to both guest satisfaction and operational efficiency. Eric explained that technology should be an enabler rather than a replacement for human interaction, helping employees focus on delivering exceptional customer service while automating routine tasks. The conversation also explored how technology can be used to improve employee experiences. From mobile apps that assist with scheduling and communication to advanced property management systems that reduce administrative burdens, the panelists agreed that technology plays a crucial role in fostering a productive work environment. They noted that when employees have access to the right tools, they can focus more on guest interactions and delivering memorable experiences. A key takeaway from the discussion was the importance of adapting business strategies to meet evolving industry trends. The panelists emphasized that campground owners should be open to change and invest in continuous learning to stay ahead of the competition. Conferences and industry events serve as vital platforms for sharing best practices and discovering new ways to optimize operations. As the episode wrapped up, each panelist encouraged campground owners to embrace a holistic approach to business operations by integrating team-building initiatives with technology-driven solutions. They reiterated that success in the industry hinges on creating a strong, engaged workforce that is empowered by efficient processes and innovative tools. Overall, the episode underscored the importance of balancing traditional hospitality values with modern operational advancements. By investing in team development and leveraging technology effectively, campground owners can enhance both employee satisfaction and guest experiences, ultimately driving long-term success in the outdoor hospitality industry.

The latest episode of MC Fireside Chats, hosted by Brian Searl, brought together industry experts Kevin Thueson, Zach Stoltenberg, and Garrett Brown for a deep dive into campground development, investment strategies, and guest experience personalization. Garrett Brown, owner of Cameron Ranch Glamping near Houston, Texas, introduced his property, which consists of four high-end glamping structures. Brown emphasized the importance of working with reputable architects to streamline permitting processes and plan for future expansions effectively. He highlighted the necessity of having a clear guest avatar in mind to tailor experiences that drive repeat bookings and word-of-mouth marketing. Kevin Thueson, representing KCN Campgrounds, shared his experience in campground investment, managing KOA franchises, and scaling operations across multiple states. He stressed the value of detailed site evaluations before acquisitions and the importance of structured growth plans. Thueson emphasized that purchasing existing campgrounds offers insights into historical performance, ensuring a predictable investment return compared to ground-up developments. Zach Stoltenberg announced the launch of his new independent outdoor hospitality studio in partnership with LJA, an established engineering firm. This new venture aims to integrate architecture, landscape architecture, and civil engineering to offer comprehensive design solutions for resort and hospitality development. Stoltenberg outlined the significance of a well-planned design process, ensuring long-term feasibility and compliance with zoning and permitting requirements. The discussion touched on the importance of architects in campground planning, even for seemingly simple projects. Stoltenberg elaborated on the necessity of a phased site plan, future-proofing expansions, and ensuring compliance with regulatory requirements. He emphasized that a structured design approach can prevent costly mistakes and expedite the approval process. Thueson elaborated on KCN’s process of evaluating campgrounds before acquisition, analyzing guest demographics, and determining necessary infrastructure upgrades. He shared that market research, guest feedback, and competitive analysis play crucial roles in decision-making. Thueson also highlighted the importance of delivering high-quality experiences rather than merely competing on price. Garrett Brown detailed his approach to guest experience personalization, explaining how Cameron Ranch Glamping incorporates private amenities like hot tubs and saunas to differentiate itself. He shared an innovative method of using AI-generated personalized songs for guests, which has significantly boosted engagement and word-of-mouth marketing. Brown emphasized that minor personal touches create lasting impressions, driving customer loyalty and increasing organic referrals. A significant portion of the discussion focused on the need for operators to understand and adapt to evolving guest expectations. Stoltenberg explained that consistency in branding, messaging, and guest experience builds trust, which is vital for long-term success. He stressed that effective campground development goes beyond physical design—it requires a seamless and engaging customer journey from booking to departure. The conversation also highlighted the challenges of working with different planning and zoning authorities. Thueson shared his experiences navigating varying regulatory landscapes, emphasizing the importance of hiring professionals who understand local requirements. He reiterated that investing in expert consultation early on can save time and money in the long run. As the episode wrapped up, the panelists agreed that the outdoor hospitality industry is continuously evolving, requiring operators to stay ahead of market trends and guest expectations. Brian Searl suggested a follow-up discussion on personalized guest experiences in a future episode, inviting Garrett Brown to share more insights on innovative engagement strategies. This episode underscored the intricate balance between strategic planning, guest experience, and regulatory navigation in the outdoor hospitality industry. By leveraging professional expertise and innovative guest engagement techniques, campground operators can create sustainable and profitable businesses while enhancing the overall camping experience for guests.

In the February 5th episode of MC Fireside Chats, host Brian Searl welcomed recurring guests Mark Koep, Founder of Campground Views, and Scott Bahr, Principal of Cairn Consulting Group. The special guest for the episode was Angie Whitcomb, President and CEO of Hospitality Minnesota, marking the show’s first episode under its revamped format. Brian kicked off the discussion with lighthearted remarks about his studio setup before diving into key industry topics. Brian introduced Angie Whitcomb, clarifying her name after a humorous mix-up in his notes. Angie provided an overview of Hospitality Minnesota, a statewide association representing over 3,500 members across restaurants, hotels, resorts, and campgrounds. She shared that the organization was formed through a merger of three separate associations just before the COVID-19 pandemic, which shifted their focus from growth to crisis management. Angie emphasized the association’s advocacy efforts, supporting businesses of all sizes with resources and legislative representation. Mark Koep discussed the current state of the camping industry as it transitions into what he termed a “normal” year following the disruptions caused by COVID-19 and the U.S. election cycle. He noted that many park owners who entered the industry during the pandemic boom are now realizing that attracting guests requires consistent marketing efforts. The industry, he explained, is moving away from the automatic high demand seen during the pandemic and facing a more competitive environment. Scott Bahr provided insights from his ongoing research for the upcoming Outdoor Hospitality Report, scheduled for release later in the spring. He noted that while some traditional outdoor activities are waning, new trends are emerging. Scott compared the post-COVID landscape to a natural disaster recovery, where old structures are cleared, making room for new growth. He highlighted the rising popularity of car camping and the associated products, such as rooftop tents and vehicle-attached shelters, which are reshaping outdoor travel behaviors. The discussion shifted to economic conditions affecting the hospitality industry. Angie highlighted Minnesota’s unique challenges, including aggressive minimum wage laws, the absence of a tip credit, and a persistent labor shortage affecting hospitality businesses. Despite reports of increased revenues, many businesses are struggling with profitability due to rising operational costs. Angie stressed that inflation, wage mandates, and workforce shortages are creating financial pressures for both large and small hospitality businesses. Brian and Mark discussed how economic shifts are influencing consumer behavior. Angie pointed out that travelers are becoming more selective, seeking greater value and unique experiences for their money. This trend is evident across campgrounds, hotels, and restaurants, where guests are looking for personalized, memorable experiences rather than just standard amenities. She shared examples from Minnesota, where businesses that focus on exceptional customer service and meaningful guest interactions are outperforming competitors. The conversation explored how technology, particularly artificial intelligence (AI), is transforming the industry. Brian and Mark emphasized that AI can help campground owners analyze customer data, predict trends, and enhance marketing strategies. Mark suggested that campground operators should actively seek feedback from guests to understand why they choose specific destinations, as this information can inform marketing and service improvements. They discussed how AI tools can simplify this process, making advanced data analysis accessible to small business owners. Angie, Brian, and Mark delved into the broader implications of AI and technological advancements, not just for business operations but also for education and workforce development. Angie expressed concerns about the traditional education system’s ability to prepare students for the rapidly changing job market. Brian highlighted the importance of critical thinking and adaptability, suggesting that future success will depend on individuals’ ability to learn and pivot quickly in response to technological advancements. Toward the end of the episode, Brian posed a thought-provoking question: if business owners could make one change to stand out in 2025, what should it be? Angie responded that the key is not a specific amenity but the intangible element of genuine hospitality. She emphasized that personalized service, emotional connections, and memorable guest experiences are what truly set businesses apart. Mark agreed, adding that understanding guest motivations and adapting to their evolving needs is essential for long-term success. The episode wrapped up with reflections on how the outdoor hospitality industry must adapt to shifting economic conditions, technological changes, and evolving consumer preferences. The conversation underscored the importance of data-driven decision-making, personalized guest experiences, and continuous learning to stay competitive in a rapidly transforming landscape. This episode offers valuable insights for campground owners, hospitality professionals, and industry stakeholders navigating the future of outdoor recreation and hospitality.

In this episode of MC Fireside Chats, host Brian Searl welcomed Josef Hjelmaker, CEO of Electric Outdoors, Robert Preston, CEO and Founder of Unhitched Management, and Matt and Karina Torres, owners of Bayshore RV Park, to discuss their experiences and insights into the outdoor hospitality and RV park industries. The conversation covered everything from business growth and sustainability to unique guest experiences and the future of the industry. Robert Preston shared his journey from a military pilot to a real estate investor, now owning 14 RV parks through Climb Capital and Unhitched Management. His focus is on fostering a sense of community within his parks, providing spaces where guests can disconnect from daily life and reconnect with nature and each other. He emphasized the importance of safe, clean, and welcoming environments in creating a successful RV park experience. His management philosophy revolves around treating employees well so they, in turn, provide exceptional hospitality to guests. He also spoke about his approach to acquiring and scaling parks, explaining that his growth is based on finding good deals while ensuring that each new acquisition enhances the efficiency and effectiveness of his existing properties. Josef Hjelmaker introduced Electric Outdoors, a company focused on sustainability and innovation in outdoor hospitality. His company develops portable, self-sustaining destination platforms that generate their own energy, manage water, and handle waste independently. The units, designed to be placed in remote or off-grid locations, offer a new way to camp without requiring traditional infrastructure or permits. He explained how these platforms provide flexibility for landowners and park operators, allowing them to create new camping experiences in places previously inaccessible to RVs and traditional campers. The conversation also touched on the growing role of electric vehicles in outdoor recreation, with Josef discussing how his technology supports off-grid stays while accommodating the needs of EV travelers. He highlighted the importance of digital integration, explaining how his platforms use connectivity to enhance user experience through booking, energy management, and local activity recommendations. Matt and Karina Torres shared their experience of acquiring and revitalizing Bayshore RV Park on the Washington coast. Their journey began when Matt, a former framer and general contractor, and Karina, with a background in property management, combined their skills to turn their park into a thriving business. They emphasized the importance of hands-on management, directly engaging with guests to provide personalized service and a welcoming atmosphere. They spoke about their approach to balancing long-term and transient guests, their focus on creating unique experiences such as easy access to crabbing in Willapa Bay, and their strategy for reinvesting profits back into the park. They also discussed their long-term goal of eventually hiring a dedicated manager so they can expand to additional properties while ensuring their guests continue to receive the same level of care and hospitality. The discussion highlighted the changing landscape of the outdoor hospitality industry and the increasing importance of offering more than just a place to stay. The guests agreed that creating meaningful experiences for visitors, whether through high-touch customer service, sustainable accommodations, or fostering a sense of community, is key to long-term success. Brian Searl noted that the industry has thrived for years with minimal effort due to economic conditions, but moving forward, park owners will need to be more intentional about guest experiences to maintain and grow their businesses. He pointed out that travelers are looking for something unique, and parks that can deliver on that will be the ones that stand out in an increasingly competitive market. The conversation also touched on the challenges and rewards of park ownership. Robert spoke about the balance between growth and operational efficiency, explaining that his goal is not just to acquire more properties but to ensure each park is well-run and financially sustainable. He emphasized the importance of hiring entrepreneurial-minded managers who treat the business as their own and make decisions that benefit both guests and ownership. Matt and Karina reflected on their initial struggles and learning experiences, including the realization that hiring the wrong staff can impact guest satisfaction. They shared how they adjusted their management approach to be more involved, ensuring that guests feel valued from the moment they arrive. As the discussion wrapped up, Brian announced the launch of a new podcast called Outwired, which will focus on data, AI, and technology in outdoor hospitality. The show will feature unfiltered discussions on industry trends, innovations, and challenges, with co-hosts Greg Emmert from Camp Strategy and Scott Bahr from Cairn Consulting Group. The episode ended with a shared enthusiasm for the future of the outdoor hospitality industry, with all guests expressing optimism about the opportunities ahead for park owners who are willing to innovate and prioritize guest experiences. The insights from this episode underscored the industry’s evolution, with sustainability, community-building, and technology playing a growing role in shaping the next generation of outdoor accommodations.

The January 22, 2025, episode of MC Fireside Chats, hosted by Brian Searl, brought together a panel of experts to discuss the RV industry, glamping, and outdoor hospitality trends. Panelists included Eleonore Hamm, President of RVDA Canada; Shane Devenish, Executive Director of the Canadian Recreational Vehicle Association; Angele Miller, Co-Founder of Creekside RNR Glamping; and Greg Emmert, Consultant at Camp Strategy. The conversation delved into consumer trends, industry challenges, and the need for better storytelling in the RV and glamping sectors. Brian introduced the revamped show format and engaged panelists in a light-hearted discussion about the new intro. The group shared their respective roles and perspectives within their industries. Eleonore and Shane highlighted their focus on advocacy, education, and industry collaboration in Canada, while Angele shared her experiences running a glamping resort, emphasizing the importance of meeting rising consumer expectations. Angele discussed the increasing consumer demand for luxury amenities such as saunas and hot tubs at glamping resorts. She noted that guests are seeking highly personalized experiences, making it crucial for operators to continuously innovate. Brian and Greg agreed, noting that the RV park and campground industry is experiencing a similar shift toward high-end, customized experiences. Greg emphasized the importance of campground owners identifying their “why” to stand out in a competitive market. He encouraged operators to focus on unique offerings that resonate with guests. Angele shared how her resort builds customer loyalty by personalizing experiences, such as remembering special occasions, which Greg praised as a model for other operators. Eleonore and Shane spoke about their advocacy efforts in Canada, particularly in light of challenges like pending legislation and economic uncertainty. They highlighted the close collaboration among Canadian RV associations, contrasting it with the larger, more segmented U.S. market. The panel discussed economic concerns, including inflation, exchange rates, and potential tariffs, and their impact on consumer confidence. Shane expressed cautious optimism about RV sales in 2025, while Eleonore noted that affordability remains a key message in their marketing efforts. Angele shared insights on how economic pressures are affecting the glamping industry, with some operators scaling back or closing for the winter. The conversation turned to managing consumer expectations and addressing negative feedback. Shane and Greg discussed the challenges of dealing with complaints, emphasizing the need for empathy and perspective. Angele added that proactive communication and attention to detail can help mitigate dissatisfaction and build loyalty. The group explored trends in RV manufacturing, with Shane noting that consumer demand drives product offerings. Eleonore pointed out that while fifth wheels showed growth in 2024, manufacturers respond to a variety of consumer preferences, from lightweight towables to larger, more luxurious units. Greg drew parallels between the RV industry’s challenges and Angele’s approach to affordability in glamping. While RV manufacturers face logistical and economic hurdles in building affordable units, Angele shared how her resort strikes a balance between luxury and cost-effectiveness to remain competitive. Brian raised concerns about how the RV industry’s positive stories, beyond shipment numbers, are underrepresented in campground-related media. Eleonore and Shane agreed on the need for broader communication, with Eleonore suggesting better integration of resources to share meaningful industry insights. The panelists expressed cautious optimism for 2025. Shane predicted stable demand for RVs, while Angele anticipated steady interest in outdoor experiences, albeit with shifts in consumer spending. The group agreed that adaptability and a focus on consumer needs would be critical for success. The episode concluded with Brian thanking the panelists and inviting the audience to explore more through their respective organizations. It was a dynamic discussion that shed light on both challenges and opportunities in the RV and glamping sectors.

The January 15, 2025, episode of MC Fireside Chats delivered an insightful discussion on the intersection of business operations, innovation, and the future of outdoor hospitality. Hosted by Brian Searl, the session brought together industry experts, including Jeff Hoffman, Brent Parker, Mia Johnson, and Mike Sorensen, each contributing their perspectives on challenges and opportunities within the campground and RV park sectors. Brian began with an acknowledgment of the show’s new format and lightheartedly commented on the chaos of setting up his studio, mentioning his attempts to improve with new additions like a fiddle-leaf fig plant. After briefly introducing the guests, Brian set the tone by highlighting the focus on business operations and management strategies. Jeff Hoffman, a recurring guest and managing member of Camp Strategy, outlined his consultancy’s role in helping campgrounds achieve profitability. Jeff emphasized that 2025 would be critical for the industry, predicting shifts in revenue streams, camper demand, and operational challenges. He highlighted trends in RV sales, noting a rise in used sales, which he attributed to tighter budgets among consumers. Jeff called for the panel’s input on how demand and revenue might evolve, especially concerning long-term and transient site utilization. Mia Johnson, a seasoned campground broker and attorney, drew from her extensive experience, explaining that in regions like the Northeast, demand for seasonal sites remains robust due to stringent regulations limiting new campground development. She elaborated on her legal and brokerage background, sharing insights into helping campground owners grow revenue and value. Mia noted a growing trend of investors entering the industry, which she believes will reshape ownership and operations in the next decade. She also stressed the importance of long-term strategic planning and leveraging software tools to optimize business decisions. Brent Parker, owner of Open Campground, shared his unique perspective as a provider of cloud-based property management software. Brent explained his observations of campgrounds transitioning from short-term to long-term stays, driven by the desire for stable income and reduced operational complexity. He described how his software allows parks to recoup costs efficiently, emphasizing flexibility in pricing models to accommodate different campground setups. His insights on the benefits of passing certain costs directly to guests resonated with the discussion. Mike Sorensen, CEO of Wild Energy, addressed the critical issue of utility metering, particularly electricity. He explained how metering benefits both campground owners and guests, providing accurate billing and reducing overall consumption. Mike shared a case study highlighting the financial advantages of implementing utility meters and the importance of regulatory compliance in billing practices. He also hinted at future developments, such as water metering, to help campgrounds manage expenses and conserve resources. The discussion delved into evolving trends in campground operations, particularly the growing divide between transient and long-term stays. Mia emphasized that conversion between these models requires thoughtful planning, considering factors like existing reservations and market demand. Jeff and Brent discussed how operational costs and revenue potential influence these decisions, highlighting the complexities of balancing profitability with guest satisfaction. Brian skillfully facilitated the conversation, adding humor and insights while steering the discussion toward critical industry topics like leveraging technology for efficiency and meeting changing consumer expectations. As the session wound down, the panelists reflected on opportunities for innovation, such as utilizing AI, modernizing Wi-Fi infrastructure, and enhancing guest experiences through smarter operational strategies. The episode concluded with a lighthearted exchange among the panelists, underscoring the camaraderie and shared passion for improving the industry. Contact details for each expert were shared, ensuring listeners could follow up for further insights. The discussion set a high bar for future episodes, promising valuable takeaways for campground owners, operators, and industry professionals alike.

The January 8, 2025, episode of MC Fireside Chats, hosted by Brian Searl, kicked off the year with an engaging discussion on enhancing guest experiences in outdoor hospitality. The panel, featuring Kevin Thueson, Joe Duemig, Casey Cochran, Scott Foos, Brittany Mathis, and Lelah Campo, explored themes of personalization, technology, and operational excellence, offering diverse strategies for meeting evolving camper expectations. Kevin Thueson opened by sharing his journey from owning a single KOA franchise to managing nine properties under KCN Campground. He highlighted the importance of continuously revisiting guest touchpoints, adapting to changing expectations, and empowering his team to deliver memorable experiences. Kevin emphasized that scalability doesn’t mean sacrificing personalization; instead, it requires a disciplined focus on guest feedback and operational refinement. Joe Duemig, CEO of AppMyCommunity, underscored the value of technology in enhancing guest engagement. He encouraged campground owners to regularly test their booking systems to identify and eliminate friction points. Joe shared how individualized mobile apps can simplify communication and streamline operations, making it easier for campgrounds to deliver tailored experiences while maintaining efficiency. Casey Cochran from Camp Spot brought a data-driven perspective to the discussion. He explained how tracking booking trends and guest feedback can inform operational decisions, from optimizing site descriptions to improving conversion rates. Casey stressed the need to balance automation with personal touches, noting that technology should serve as a tool to enhance—not replace—the human element of hospitality. Personalization was a key theme explored by Scott Foos, CEO of Horizon Outdoor Hospitality. He described how small gestures, such as staff helping with a campfire or offering personalized greetings, can create meaningful connections with guests. Scott emphasized that these interactions are often what set exceptional campgrounds apart, fostering loyalty in an industry increasingly driven by guest expectations. Lelah Campo, owner of two campgrounds in Connecticut, shared her approach to blending automation with human touch. She described the use of tools like pre-arrival texts to proactively address guest concerns and policies like travel credits to manage cancellations. Lelah stressed that technology must enhance both the guest and staff experience, noting the importance of regularly evaluating systems to maintain relevance. Brittany Mathis echoed the importance of thoughtfulness in building guest loyalty, sharing how small, creative gestures like personalized stickers for returning guests can have a significant impact. She also highlighted the importance of empowering her team to handle difficult interactions while ensuring they feel supported. Brittany’s focus on creating a welcoming atmosphere has helped her campground stand out as a community-oriented destination. The panel collectively addressed the growing challenges of cancellations and demanding guests, emphasizing the importance of clear communication and setting realistic policies. Kevin and Scott pointed out that empowering staff to handle conflicts creatively not only strengthens guest relationships but also boosts team morale, fostering a positive and resilient work culture. Data and feedback emerged as essential tools for continuous improvement. The panelists advocated for tracking booking and cancellation trends while leveraging post-stay surveys to refine operations. Scott highlighted the importance of combining data-driven insights with real-world interactions to ensure that feedback translates into actionable enhancements. The discussion concluded with a vision for the future of outdoor hospitality, where personalization becomes the cornerstone of guest experiences. The panel envisioned a world where AI-driven insights and tailored communication redefine service standards, allowing campgrounds to anticipate guest needs while maintaining a human touch. This integration of innovation and empathy was seen as the key to creating memorable stays. Ultimately, the episode emphasized that enhancing guest experiences requires a holistic approach. From leveraging technology and data to creating genuine connections, the panel offered actionable strategies for operators of all sizes. The key takeaway was clear: blending innovation with thoughtful, guest-centered care is the path to long-term success in outdoor hospitality.

The final 2024 episode of MC Fireside Chats brought together a dynamic panel of outdoor hospitality experts reflecting on the year’s achievements and sharing strategies for 2025. Hosted by Brian Searl, the panel included Sarah Krause, Kaylee Pace, Richard Chandler, Amir Harpaz, Matt Bragstad, Derry Green, Suzanne (Soo) Hammond, and Marcia Galvin. A key theme throughout the discussion was guest experience enhancements through storytelling, community involvement, and innovative offerings. The conversation opened with Matt Bragstad of Your Glamping Adventure, who celebrated a remarkable year marked by quadrupled accommodations. He attributed this success to social media influence and tourism partnerships, expressing confidence in glamping’s growing popularity heading into 2025. Building on the theme of adapting to market changes, Amir Harpaz from Harp Development predicted a shift toward long-term camping due to affordability concerns and evolving traveler preferences. He emphasized balancing park amenities with revenue strategies to remain competitive. Richard Chandler, owner of Glacier Valley Campground, echoed this sentiment by highlighting his campground’s success through themed events and a boosted social media presence. His proactive approach to extending the camping season and maximizing midweek occupancy became a focal point of his 2025 goals. Infrastructure upgrades and customer service also played a key role in operational success. Sarah Krause of Kinney Lake Campground shared her experience of a strong comeback year, supported by a top-tier team and planned improvements such as a customer-focused reservation system and a new campground management course. The discussion then turned to innovation through storytelling. Derry Green of The Secret Garden Glamping in the UK credited social media-driven storytelling for transforming his business, fueled by an investment from a reality TV pitch. He hinted at ambitious international expansion plans. Expanding on the power of authentic experiences, Suzanne (Soo) Hammond of Top of the Woods in Wales highlighted her eco-friendly corporate retreats and upcoming ventures, including a nature spa and a YouTube cooking channel. She underscored the value of local partnerships in shaping guest experiences. Kaylee Pace of Big Tex Campgrounds offered a personal perspective on managing business growth while raising a family. Hiring a manager allowed her to focus on strategic improvements inspired by industry conferences, setting a strong foundation for future growth. The discussion concluded with Marcia Galvin, President of the Northeast Campground Association, emphasizing nostalgia-driven family camping at Normandy Farms. Looking ahead, she stressed the importance of staff retention and meaningful guest engagement as essential pillars of long-term success. The conversation concluded with a collective focus on improving guest experiences through thoughtful design, innovative amenities, and personalized marketing strategies. The panel’s shared enthusiasm underscored a promising future for the outdoor hospitality industry in 2025.

In this episode of MC Fireside Chats, host Brian Searl, welcomed special guests, Laura Mooney, co-owner of Mohican Treehouse Resort in Ohio, and Bret Bullock, owner of Pine Harbor Campground in Wisconsin to discuss the evolving dynamics of outdoor hospitality, marketing innovations, and adapting to industry changes. Laura Mooney opened by describing her journey from purchasing rural property to establishing Mohican Treehouse Resort. Initially intended for family recreation, the property evolved into a premier treehouse getaway featuring custom-built accommodations. She highlighted the importance of creative marketing and leveraging media exposure, including being featured on the TV show Treehouse Masters. Bret Bullock shared his experience running Pine Harbor Campground, a seasonal operation with a focus on traditional camping. He discussed the initial challenges of entering the campground business, noting how the COVID-19 pandemic spurred unexpected growth as people sought outdoor escapes. Despite the plateau in recent years, he emphasized the significance of consistent upgrades and targeted advertising. The conversation shifted toward marketing strategies. Mooney emphasized the value of branding and search engine optimization (SEO), sharing how her team maintains an aggressive digital marketing strategy despite seasonal slowdowns. Bullock expressed interest in enhancing visibility through advertising and collaborating with local organizations to drive traffic. Both guests reflected on the financial challenges of operating in a weather-dependent industry. Bullock recounted how severe flooding in neighboring Minnesota disrupted his campground’s summer season. Mooney described how shifting economic conditions required constant monitoring of bookings and pricing adjustments. A key highlight was the discussion on ancillary revenue streams. Mooney detailed creative add-ons at her resort, such as private chef services, romance packages, and pet-friendly accommodations. Bullock acknowledged the potential in diversifying revenue but expressed a desire to maintain the campground’s traditional, rustic atmosphere. The impact of artificial intelligence (AI) emerged as a central theme. Host Brian Searl demonstrated how AI tools like ChatGPT can assist campground owners in marketing, business planning, and operational efficiency. Mooney shared how AI had already influenced her business, including naming new accommodations, while Bullock expressed enthusiasm about exploring AI-driven marketing solutions. The group explored the future of SEO and online visibility, emphasizing the growing role of voice search and AI-powered platforms. Mooney voiced concerns about adapting to emerging digital search trends, noting that staying competitive now requires more proactive digital engagement than ever before. The episode concluded with actionable advice for outdoor hospitality entrepreneurs: invest in marketing, embrace technological advancements, and continuously adapt to changing customer expectations. Both Mooney and Bullock underscored the importance of building a strong brand and creating memorable guest experiences. Overall, the December 11, 2024 episode of MC Fireside Chats provided valuable insights into the challenges and opportunities facing outdoor hospitality operators today, with practical lessons on resilience, innovation, and future-focused business strategies.

The December 4, 2024, episode of MC Fireside Chats explored the challenges and opportunities facing the outdoor hospitality industry as it prepares for 2025. Hosted by Brian Searl, the episode featured insights from Scott Bahr, Sandy Ellingson, and Mike Harrison, who collectively emphasized the importance of adapting to shifting consumer behaviors and market conditions. The conversation highlighted key trends, including the decline of traditional camping formats and the growing popularity of alternatives such as glamping and car camping. These shifts underscore the need for campground operators to rethink their strategies and embrace innovation. Scott Bahr opened the discussion with a deep dive into the data, revealing a consistent decline in traditional RVing and camping interest over the past two years. While some markets remain stable, the overall outlook for 2025 suggests a continued downturn. Bahr highlighted how economic factors such as inflation and interest rates, combined with an oversupply of parks, have amplified the challenges. He urged park owners to analyze consumer trends closely and adapt their offerings to align with changing preferences. Mike Harrison provided additional insights into the economic pressures facing the industry. He pointed out that developers and operators who overpaid for properties during the pandemic-driven boom are now grappling with underperformance. Harrison stressed the importance of realism and adaptability, particularly for operators looking to succeed in a more competitive and cost-conscious environment. He advocated for a focus on long-term stays and building partnerships with niche markets, such as traveling professionals and seasonal workers, to ensure stable revenue streams. The conversation also explored how marketing practices must evolve. Harrison and Searl both emphasized the need to leverage technology, including AI, SEO, and social media, to reach broader audiences. However, they noted that traditional strategies, such as Google Ads, are losing relevance as consumer behavior shifts toward more sophisticated, AI-driven search tools. Searl warned that operators must prepare for a rapidly changing digital landscape where visibility will depend on enhanced online presence and targeted messaging. Sandy Ellingson highlighted the need for inclusivity and accessibility in the industry. She stressed that attracting younger generations and first-time campers requires rethinking the entry points into outdoor hospitality. Ellingson pointed out that many parks have eliminated tent camping in favor of higher-revenue RV sites, which may exclude potential new campers. She encouraged operators to embrace emerging trends like car camping and package experiences to draw in diverse demographics, particularly Gen Z, who seek authentic and community-oriented experiences. Another key theme was the role of technology in driving efficiency and enhancing guest experiences. Ellingson noted that while larger resorts are already utilizing advanced tools, smaller mom-and-pop parks lag behind. She urged operators to invest in solutions that streamline operations, improve booking processes, and create memorable guest experiences. These innovations, she argued, are crucial for staying competitive in an increasingly sophisticated market. The group also addressed the need for campground operators to focus on experiential offerings. As consumers prioritize experiences over traditional camping, operators must create multifaceted revenue streams. Examples included food and beverage services, guided outdoor activities, and immersive amenities that add value to a guest’s stay. This shift could also help parks generate loyalty, as guests are more likely to return when they feel they are receiving a comprehensive experience. Bahr and Harrison acknowledged the resistance to change among some operators, particularly smaller park owners. This reluctance to adopt modern practices, such as embracing alternative camping styles or implementing dynamic pricing, could hinder long-term success. They all agreed that education and collaboration across the industry are necessary to bridge this gap and help operators understand the benefits of innovation. The episode concluded with a forward-looking discussion on the transformative potential of AI in the industry. Searl predicted that AI would redefine how guests discover and book outdoor experiences, enabling smarter decision-making and more efficient operations. However, he also cautioned that operators who fail to adapt quickly risk falling behind in a fast-moving market. Ultimately, the episode served as a call to action for the outdoor hospitality industry. They encouraged operators to approach 2025 with a mindset of flexibility and innovation, leveraging data and technology to meet evolving consumer needs. By doing so, they can position themselves not just to survive but to thrive in a rapidly changing market.