From Pandemic Escape to Prime Investment
What started as a socially distant escape during the pandemic has now turned into a highly sought-after vacation destination — and investors have taken notice.
RV parks were a top vacation destination during the pandemic, with camping, glamping, and hiking getaways surging in popularity. Between 2019 and 2023, the number of hikers grew by 23%, and campers increased by 30%.
RV sales followed suit, with more than 600,000 wholesale shipments of RVs in 2021, up 19% from the previous record of 505,000 in 2017.
This trend isn't slowing down. More travelers plan to hit the road with an impressive 9.6 million households intending to buy an RV in the next five years.
The Evolution of RV Parks
And as vacation habits have shifted, a diverse group of buyers have set their sights on RV parks as the next big acquisition opportunity.
While RV parks of the past were little more than pad sites and utility hookups, now many RV parks have transformed into what are essentially luxury resorts, adding on upscale amenities like pools, arcades, bowling alleys, spas, golf, bars, restaurants, pickleball courts, picnic areas, nature paths, and dog parks.
Attracting a New Generation of Travelers
These new amenities have attracted more than just your average camper, bringing in a new clientele of leisure travelers and younger travelers. Of the 16.9 million Americans who plan to purchase an RV by 2030, 73% of those buyers are under the age of 55. Younger generations are entering the market.
Karen Redfern, Go RVing's chief marketing officer, said in a News and Insights report of RVIA, "Younger consumers want flexibility, convenience, and memorable experiences — and RVs deliver on all of that."
Millions traveled for the 2024 total solar eclipse, and concerts, sporting events, National Parks, and food destinations all fuel a growing surge in experience-centered vacations. Investors see the potential.
Why RV Parks Are Attractive to Investors
Low Development Costs and BYOL Model
RV parks have relatively low development costs. Essentially, RV parks are BYOL — bring your own lodging — eliminating a significant investment cost for items such as upkeep, room cleaning, linens, and more.
Accessible Entry Point for All Investor Types
Mom-and-pop-owned RV parks dominate the landscape. With lower upfront costs, first-time investors and entrepreneurs can enter the RV park market and create unique, experience-driven destinations.
However, the accelerated growth opportunities in the RV sector have also attracted private equity groups and larger brands, looking to capitalize on this growing trend.
Major Investment Activity in the Sector
Institutional Capital Moving In
For instance, RREAF Holdings, a commercial real estate firm based in Dallas, made a $157 million deal to acquire and redevelop five RV parks in Texas, Alabama, and Florida in 2023, followed by a second round of acquisitions and redevelopment for $550 million.
More recently, in 2025, Highway West Vacations, a collection of hotels, lodges, cabins, and glamping resorts, expanded its footprint in Northern California by acquiring three new properties: Avila Pismo RV Resort & Campground, Costanoa, and Lake Siskiyou Camp Resort.
Success Story: Camp Margaritaville
Camp Margaritaville RV Resort in Henderson, Louisiana, is a prime example. Transitioning from the Cajun Palms RV Resort, Camp Margaritaville RV Resort offers 425 RV sites and 25 glamping cabins with all-inclusive luxury amenities, including three pools, private cabanas, adults-only hot tub, swim-up bar, License to Chill Bar, restaurant, mini golf, waterpark, basketball and pickleball courts, a dog park, and more.
Market Growth and Future Outlook
The RV park industry revenue has grown at a CAGR of 8.3% over the past five years and is expected to reach an estimated $10.9 billion in 2025.
RV travel continues to rise in popularity, with 60% of travelers planning a road trip or RV vacation this year, according to RVshare's 2025 Travel Trend Report.
The Bottom Line
The open road is calling, and both travelers and investors are answering. RV parks are no longer just stopovers — they are destinations.
As travelers continue to seek out experience-driven vacations that balance adventure and comfort, investors can capitalize on the demand. With low overhead, strong returns, and a rapidly expanding customer base, RV parks offer a great opportunity for investors of all levels to tap into this growing market.
Share This Article
