"... they don't have to make conservation their top priority. So you combine those 2, and they are really doing some innovative things around camping."

The increasing demand for camping in natural parks has impacted the future of camping. Companies are taking notice and working to proactively prepare for this growing interest. During this conversation, Donald Forgione joins to talk about camping trends and innovations and how it's evolving to meet the growing demand.

There continues to a growing interest around camping in natural, state, and national parks. Industry leaders like KOA, Winnebago, and Airstream are collaborating to cater to this growing trend. Some less common camping concepts Donald and I discuss include urban and rooftop campgrounds. The camping landscape is ever evolving, and parks need to be able to anticipate the interests of their visitors.

Something that should never be overlooked is the importance of inclusivity and ensuring access to parks for all individuals, irrespective of their background or camping equipment. Educational programs, such as the ones offered at the conference I recently attended, offer fantastic opportunities to get a better perspective on camping trends. Guest speakers, researchers, and professors share their expertise in a way that paints a better picture of what to expect and how they can support one another.

Government entities can learn from the innovative approaches of private entities in camping and parks. In return, they can be a great resource providing unique offerings like dark skies and immersion in natural resources. Much like the collaborative and supportive nature of the conference, directors, support staff, assistant directors, and field operations people should make the time to gather with the intent to share ideas and learn from one another.

Make sure to listen to this episode for a unique perspective around the future of camping and the remarkable work of the National Association of State Park Directors. If you aren't a park leader, it's still a great conversation that will likely inspire you to explore the great outdoors.

Resources

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Episode Highlights

[00:07:40] Innovative ways build back better, environmentally.

[00:12:43] Future campsites: natural, state, national parks.

[00:16:11] Government camping invites private sector, offers more.

[00:19:58] Marginalized communities, expensive campers, variety of amperage.

[00:26:25] National Association of State Park Directors (NASPD), also known as America's State Parks, hosts conferences, brings in experts, and provides training.