American says it’s crazy campgrounds are now as expensive as staying in hotels
– Historically, 80% of campgrounds involved small “mom-and-pop” operators, but by 2022, 80% OF BUYERS were outside investors, private equity firms
– Private equity firms have shifted to purchasing RV parks and campgrounds
An estimated 1,500 campgrounds nationwide have been purchased or are significantly backed by private equity groups as of 2025
Here are just a few private equity examples
– Blue Water Development quadrupled its portfolio to 34 RV resorts and campgrounds in three years, with a $400 million development pipeline.
– Turnstone Group and Blue Vista Capital Management pursued $200 million in acquisitions and developments.
– National Land Lease Capital acquired properties like Bald Mountain Camping Resort for $5 million and planned a $25 million RV park development.
– Cedarline Outdoor, backed by Halmos Capital Partners, acquired at least 3 KOA campgrounds, including one in Jonestown, PA, for $3.5 million.
“Why are campground stays the same cost as a hotel? When did this happen and why? I don’t understand it. It used to be cheaper to stay in a campground than it did the hotel. I don’t get it.”