For decades, RV resorts and campgrounds offered the basics: a place to park, hook up utilities, and maybe roast marshmallows over a fire pit. But over the last 15 years, outdoor accommodations have transformed into a thriving industry focused on guest experience. What was once a simple overnight stay is now a curated getaway, blending nature with modern comforts. Welcome to the era of outdoor hospitality.
The shift isn’t just about new lodging options—it’s about how travelers view outdoor stays. It’s no longer just about location; it’s about the experience. This evolution is shaping the way RV resorts, glamping sites, and outdoor rentals operate, catering to an entirely new generation of travelers.
Why the Outdoor Hospitality Industry is Booming
Several key factors have driven this transformation, and understanding these trends helps RV resorts and outdoor property owners stay competitive in a rapidly evolving market.
1. Experience-Based Travel is Now the Standard
Today’s travelers aren’t just booking a place to stay—they’re booking an experience. The rise of experiential travel means guests want more than just a parking space for their RV. They seek unique, Instagram-worthy stays that immerse them in nature without sacrificing comfort.
Glamping domes, treehouses, A-frame cabins, and luxury yurts have surged in popularity. These accommodations make outdoor hospitality feel like a destination, rather than a stopover. Campgrounds and RV resorts that offer unique, upscale experiences are seeing higher occupancy rates and repeat guests.
2. The Pandemic Reshaped Travel Preferences—Permanently
The COVID-19 pandemic accelerated the demand for socially distanced, open-air travel. RV parks, glamping resorts, and outdoor rentals saw record bookings as travelers sought safe alternatives to hotels and crowded destinations.
Even after travel restrictions lifted, this newfound appreciation for outdoor accommodations remained. Travelers who might never have considered an RV stay or a glamping experience now prefer nature-focused destinations over traditional hotels. Resorts that embrace this shift by offering upgraded amenities, unique stays, and a seamless booking experience will continue to attract this growing audience.
3. Tech-Driven Convenience is Changing Guest Expectations
In today’s digital-first world, travelers expect seamless, tech-enabled booking and stay experiences—just as they do with hotels and vacation rentals. Features like:
- 📱 Mobile-friendly reservations
- 📩 Automated confirmations
- 🚪 Contactless check-ins
- 💬 Real-time guest communication
have become standard in modern hospitality.
However, the outdoor hospitality industry is still catching up. Currently, only about 25% of RV sites, glamping stays, and campgrounds are bookable online—a significantly lower percentage compared to hotels and vacation rentals. This gap presents a huge opportunity for outdoor rental businesses to modernize their operations.
For RV resorts and outdoor rental businesses, adopting the right technology enhances guest satisfaction, increases efficiency, and captures more bookings. Platforms like Janiis make it possible to:
- ✔ Simplify reservations
- ✔ Manage guest interactions
- ✔ Optimize revenue
Resorts that integrate smart solutions not only meet modern expectations but also unlock new opportunities for growth and guest loyalty.
The Future of Outdoor Hospitality
The outdoor rental industry isn’t just growing—it’s evolving. Properties that embrace experience-driven travel, modern technology, and alternative accommodations will lead the way in the next phase of outdoor hospitality.
Ready to Future-Proof Your Outdoor Rental Business?
Janiis helps RV resorts, glamping sites, and outdoor rental businesses manage reservations, revenue, and guest experiences—all in one seamless platform.
📅 Schedule a Demo Today to see how Janiis can help your property thrive in the modern outdoor hospitality era.
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The Art of the Perfect Listing: Make Your Outdoor Rental Stand Out