Episode Summary

In this second episode of Outwired, host Brian Searl is joined by co-hosts Scott Bahr (Cairn Consulting Group) and Greg Emmert (Camp Strategy) for a lively, in-depth chat on the latest trends, challenges, and insights within the outdoor hospitality industry. From the surprising rise of car camping and foraging to declining RV registrations and Campground show attendance, the panel examines how campground owners can adapt, innovate, and thrive—especially in an evolving economy.

Topics Covered

“Featured Bird of the Week” Segment

• Returning segment showcasing AI-generated bird imagery
• Discussion of AI’s limitations in image generation (e.g., missing toes on birds!)
• Humor, light-hearted banter, and a segue into broader uses of AI

Industry Events & Campground Show Attendance

• Observations about lower attendance at campground owner shows and conferences
• Potential reasons: overlapping events, economic factors, and shifting industry priorities
• The importance of networking at smaller shows, state associations, and local meetups

Shifts in the Campground & Outdoor Hospitality Market

• The concept of “realism” replacing blind optimism: owners facing data-driven realities
• Anecdotal evidence of buyers still seeking campground acquisitions despite higher interest rates
• Leveraging creativity, hospitality, and fresh marketing approaches to maintain revenue

Emerging Camping Trends & Changing Consumer Behavior

• Rising popularity of car camping and rooftop tents (sharp growth curves)
• Increased interest in unique experiences such as forest bathing, foraging, and nature immersion
• Discussion on how these new demographics are seeking comfort, convenience, and cost-effectiveness

How to Capture These “New” Campers

• Emphasizing authenticity: guided nature walks, foraging tours, star-gazing, birdwatching, etc.
• Partnering with local businesses to offer fresh experiences (breweries, beekeepers, artisans)
• Using creativity and niche programming to differentiate your park from the competition

RV Industry Insights & Data

• RV registrations down ~7% year over year
• Potential reasons: economic inflation, higher storage costs, rising interest rates, urban demographics
• Longer trips vs. more frequent short trips—how owners can adjust to traveler trends

Hospitality & Premium Pricing

• Myth-busting “occupancy is king”: raising rates strategically and providing high-end experiences may be more profitable than full sites at lower prices
• The importance of top-tier customer service, staff training, and genuine human connection
• Building a positive culture: how staff satisfaction translates into guest satisfaction

Practical Tips & Action Steps

• Improving basic marketing assets: Google Business Profile, social media pages, and updated websites
• Conducting simple market research with AI tools (ChatGPT) to brainstorm events, partnerships, or activities that align with your region
• Focusing on your existing customers: upselling extra nights, offering personalized experiences, and requesting honest feedback to refine your approach

Key Takeaways

• Adapt to New Demographics: Many travelers are gravitating toward simpler, more immersive outdoor experiences—recognize them as future RVers and repeat guests.
• Collaboration Works: From foraging guides to local artisans, partnerships expand your offerings without demanding huge internal resources.
• Hospitality Is Everything: Personalized attention, staff training, and genuine care often matter more than flashy amenities for driving repeat business.
• Embrace AI & Data: Tools like ChatGPT can spark creative ideas for events, marketing angles, and onsite activities—just ensure your final execution is authentic and high-quality.
• Stay Realistic, Not Fearful: Economic conditions may be shifting, but the interest in camping and outdoor experiences remains strong. Focusing on experiential value can help offset potential downturns.

Notable Quotes

• Scott Bahr: “It’s not about panicking; it’s about working harder to capture a changing, more cautious audience.”
• Brian Searl: “People don’t just want to see ‘book now’ on social media. They want genuine value before they ever spend a dime.”
• Greg Emmert: “Sometimes the best conversation happens in the hallway rather than a scheduled session—it’s the networking that truly matters.”

Resources & Mentions

• Cairn Consulting Group – Scott Bahr’s firm offering data-driven insights for the outdoor hospitality industry
• Camp Strategy – Greg Emmert’s consultancy focusing on park operations, development, and marketing
• Local Activities & Partnerships – Examples include foraging classes, guided birdwatching, pollinator gardens, stargazing, local artisan workshops
• AI Tools – ChatGPT, DALL·E, KREA, etc., highlighted for brainstorming marketing content and creative programming ideas

Tune in next time for more deep dives into the outdoor hospitality industry, plus fresh perspectives on data, marketing, and real-world strategies for campground owners and operators. Have a question or topic you’d like us to cover? Reach out on our social channels. We’d love to hear from you!