Camping has always been a popular outdoor activity, but in recent years, it has seen a surge in popularity. With more people looking to disconnect from technology and reconnect with nature, campgrounds have become a hot spot for outdoor adventures and recreational activities.
As the camping industry continues to grow, campground owners and managers are constantly looking for ways to improve their facilities and attract more visitors. Here we’ll explore the top campground amenities trends that are expected to dominate the industry in 2024.
The Rise of Glamping
Glamping, or glamorous camping, has been gaining popularity in recent years and is expected to continue to rise in the coming years. Glamping offers a more luxurious camping experience, with amenities such as comfortable beds, electricity, and even hot tubs.
Campground owners are starting to invest in glamping accommodations to attract a wider range of visitors, including those who may not be interested in traditional camping. These accommodations can range from safari-style tents to treehouses and even tiny homes.
Glamping not only offers a unique and comfortable experience for visitors, but it also allows campground owners to charge higher rates, increasing their revenue.
Unique Accommodations
Unique accommodations continue to trend in 2024 with many campers seeking new experiences. Glamping offers a wider range of unique options such as off-the-grid camping or year-round options as compared to traditional camping.
Here are some of the unique Alberta and BC accommodation development trends that we are seeing in 2024:
Storybook Cottages
Charmed Resorts at Pigeon lake, Alberta is opening Summer of 2024 with unique storybook cottages for rent. Each cottage is inspired by fairytales such as Peter Pan, Alice in Wonderland and Snow White.
Charmed Resorts located near Pigeon Lake, Alberta is scheduled to open Summer of 2024.
Tree Houses
Wildwood Cabin and Treehouse has treehouses for rent near Cranbrook, BC. This beautiful secluded getaway in the trees is designed mostly for couples who wish to unwind and reconnect with plenty of available activities nearby.
Wildwood tree house rental located near Cranbrook, BC.
Geodomes
Glamp Good offers a series of unique and modern geodomes off the grid near Edmonton, Red Deer and Calgary, Alberta. With skylight windows, you can sleep under the stars in the comfort of king sized bed in the middle of the forest.
Luxury Tents
GlampingHub offers a safari tent in Kneehill County, Alberta with a unique medieval vibe. Medieval costumes are provided to guests who wish to get in character and take a deep dive into something different.
Yurts
Elk Island Retreat offers yurt rentals for off-the-grid campers who want the some of the modern comforts of home without having to purchase all the camping equipment. A cook shelter, bbq, picnic table and wash station are some of the modern amenities offered.
Often these unique accommodations are blended with RV and tent campground so that campground owners are not exclusively appealing to one subtype of glamper or camper. By offering a mix of accommodations, you will have a wider audience of prospective clients. Finding the correct balance of glamping, RVs and Tent sites will always be a challenge and campground owners will find that booking software and other technology will make your business model more flexible.
Incorporating Technology
While camping is often seen as a way to disconnect from technology, the use of technology in campgrounds is becoming more prevalent. Campground owners are incorporating technology to improve the overall camping experience for their visitors.
This can include amenities such as Wi-Fi, charging stations, and smart devices in accommodations. Some campgrounds are even using technology to streamline the check-in process and provide visitors with information about the campground and nearby attractions.
Incorporating technology not only enhances the camping experience for visitors but also allows campground owners to gather data and make data-driven decisions to improve their facilities.
Eco-Friendly Amenities
With the increasing focus on sustainability and protecting the environment, eco-friendly amenities are becoming a top trend in campgrounds. Campground owners are implementing eco-friendly practices and amenities to attract environmentally-conscious visitors.
This can include solar-powered lighting, composting toilets, and recycling programs. Some campgrounds are even using sustainable building materials for their accommodations, such as reclaimed wood and recycled materials.
By incorporating eco-friendly amenities, campgrounds can not only attract a specific type of visitor but also reduce their environmental impact and contribute to a more sustainable future.
Outdoor Recreation Activities and Amenities
One of the main reasons people go camping is to participate in outdoor recreational activities. In 2024, we can expect to see an increase in the variety of activities offered at campgrounds.
Campground owners are investing in amenities such as zip lines, rock climbing walls, and water sports equipment to provide visitors with a wide range of outdoor adventures. This not only attracts more visitors but also encourages them to stay longer and spend more money at the campground.
Other amenities we are seeing include:
- Jumping Pillows
- Horseback Riding
- Animals Farms with Unique Animals (i.e. Zonkey, Yak)
- Swimming Pools
- Outdoor Kitchens
- Yoga Studios
- Playgrounds
- Biking and Hiking Trails
- Pet-Friendly Accommodations
- Fishing Docks
- Spa Treatments
- Food Trucks and Food Themes
- Golf
- Fitness Centers
- Waterslides
- Nordic Sauna
When developing a campground, be sure to give some forethought on what amenities will attract your target audience. It is imperative that you partner with an experienced civil engineer early on your campground development so that the supportive infrastructure is in place to make your vision a reality.
Pet-Friendly Amenities
For many people, their pets are a part of the family, and they want to bring them along on their camping trips. As a result, pet-friendly amenities are becoming a top trend in campgrounds.
Campground owners are investing in amenities such as dog parks, pet washing stations, and even pet-friendly accommodations. This not only attracts pet owners but also allows them to stay longer and spend more money at the campground.
Beach at Spruce Point Park near Kinuso, Alberta
Wellness-Focused Amenities
With the increasing focus on health and wellness, campgrounds are starting to offer amenities that cater to this trend. This can include yoga and meditation classes, hiking and biking trails, and even spa services.
These amenities not only attract visitors who are looking for a wellness-focused vacation but also provide an opportunity for campground owners to generate additional revenue.
Accessibility for All
Inclusivity and accessibility are becoming more important in all industries, and campgrounds are no exception. In 2024, we can expect to see an increase in the number of campgrounds that offer accessible amenities for visitors with disabilities.
This can include wheelchair-accessible accommodations, accessible trails and activities, and even sensory-friendly areas for visitors with sensory sensitivities. By making their facilities more accessible, campgrounds can attract a wider range of visitors and provide a more inclusive experience for all.
Unique Dining Options
While traditional camping often involves cooking over a campfire, many campgrounds are starting to offer unique dining options for their visitors. This can include food trucks, on-site restaurants, breweries, custom ice cream flavors and even farm-to-table dining experiences.
These dining options not only provide convenience for visitors but also add to the overall experience of camping. Campground owners can also partner with local businesses to offer unique and delicious dining options for their visitors.
Food trucks add to the camping experience.
The Path Forward
As the camping industry continues to grow, campground owners and managers must stay on top of the latest trends to attract visitors and stay competitive. In 2024, we can expect to see a rise in glamping, the incorporation of technology, eco-friendly amenities, and a focus on outdoor recreation and wellness.
By investing in these trends, campground owners can provide a unique and enjoyable experience for their visitors, leading to increased revenue and a loyal customer base.
If you are looking for experienced civil engineering company for your campground development in Edmonton and across Alberta, be sure to engage with Bolson Engineering and Environmental Services. We will be happy to consult with you as your trusted engineering partner.
