1910 saw a huge boom when inexpensive automobiles began to appear on the market. Income began to rise too, and this led to an explosion in car sales. At the same time, vacations became much more widespread. Horses became motor vehicles and the middle class began to embrace camping more than ever before. Camping has very deep roots within America, dating back to Native American tribes, who often camp to engage in a new way of life. The outdoors was seen as a way to gain spirituality and sustenance. This connection to the land would continue to lay the foundation for camping influences in the future.
The Rise of Recreational Vehicles
The 20th century saw a huge spike in innovation. This included the general development of motorized vehicles that could later go on to be adapted for camping. Various pioneers, including Roland Conklin and Thomas H. Boone went on to create motorized campers, and as interest grew, the need for designated camping spaces increased. Private landowners saw themselves opening farms and estates to travelers so that they could provide basic accommodation, such as a place to park, and access to clean water. These early campgrounds might have lacked standard amenities but they did lay down the groundwork for more functional RV parks that would later serve a community of roadtrippers.
The Development of RV Parks
As more and more people took to the road in their RVs, the need for having a reliable place to stay became more evident. In 1962, the KOA, or Kampgrounds of America, was established. This helped to provide a place rich with amenities, as well as a level of predictability and comfort to those who wanted to travel in an RV. People had access to water, sewage hookups, electricity and basic amenities. Simple parking spaces became the norm, and these campgrounds soon became comprehensive destinations.
The 1970s Marked a Pivotal Movement for Camping
The 1970s saw a turning point for campers in America and Canada. Swimming pools and group activities, such as fishing and even yoga became more prevalent. This caused people to flood to campsites as now they provided more than just a means to live on the road. They gave people the chance to take part in a number of recreational activities, making the concept of camping much more exciting. As time went on, the inclusion of WiFi saw a boom in the number of people who went camping. This allowed guests to enjoy video streaming, and it also facilitated access to gaming portal websites. Guests were soon able to enjoy all of the comforts of home but on the road and this helped to cement the concept of camping as being enjoyable for a diverse range of people.
Modern Amenities
Technological advancements have also helped to revolutionize campgrounds and recreational vehicles. Campers are now seen as being luxury homes on wheels and features such as air conditioning, entertainment systems and kitchen appliances are all included as standard offerings. You also have RVs that are designed to accommodate bigger groups of people. Camping ground offerings have also changed. The evolution of RVs and changing traveler preferences have also influenced the market, Traditional RV parks have adopted amenities to cater to special interests. This includes having pet-friendly parks as well as retreats for adults only. You even have campgrounds that are designed for horse enthusiasts. Shortly after, the concept of glamping emerged, ensuring that people who wanted to experience a more luxurious form of camping, were able to do so.
Campgrounds had to change to accommodate things like this too, allowing the construction of yurts and pods, alongside parking spaces for RVs and motor vehicles. Even though campgrounds have come quite a way since 1910, it’s evident to see that the changes that have been made, have helped camping appeal to a much bigger audience. This has helped to bolster the market while ensuring that landowners have a number of choices as to what type of campground they want to provide.
