MC Fireside Chats - September 20th, 2023

MC Fireside Chats

In a recent episode of MC Fireside Chats, hosted by Brian Searle of Insider Perks, industry luminaries convened to dive into the rapidly shifting camping trends. Among the standout contributors was Amy Bashor, who introduced "Standing Pines," an upscale RV resort destined to become a hallmark destination in Hartsville, South Carolina by 2024. Her ambitious project, with its promise of a luxury camping experience, indicates the direction in which the industry might be heading.

Joe Duemig discussed the features of "App My Community", shedding light on the benefits of specialized campground apps. Whitney Scott of KOA shared compelling data that reflected emerging camping behaviors, highlighting a KOA report showing 73% camper activity during Labor Day and an increasing preference for winter camping.

Scott Janney then presented "Magazine Jukebox," a cutting-edge digital entertainment platform tailor-made for commercial venues, blending video games, magazines, and trivia, all effortlessly accessible via a QR code scan. Candice McNamara showcased "Staylist", a property management software that guarantees seamless integration across diverse platforms. She further enhanced her contribution by sharing personal anecdotes from her RV adventures during her tenure at Amazon.

A salient part of the dialogue centered on the KOA report, which underscored the impacts of unpredictable weather events like wildfires and hurricanes on traditional camping bookings. The trend indicates campers' growing tendency towards last-minute bookings in light of the unpredictable climate shifts. Brian shared his personal brushes with wildfires in Lake Shuswap, BC, underscoring the importance of adaptability in booking frameworks. Candace, with her insights, proposed potential software solutions for such climate-driven challenges, emphasizing options like weather-specific insurance and the need for clear, flexible cancellation policies.

Recognizing opportunities amidst adversity, it was highlighted how campgrounds can serve communities post-disasters, such as by accommodating emergency workers. With occurrences like California wildfires, previously seen as localized issues, now emerging as more widespread concerns, campgrounds are increasingly devising expansive emergency response strategies.

Scott Janney further elucidated the relevance of "Magazine Jukebox" in campgrounds. Catering to diverse age groups, the platform ensures an uninterrupted reading experience, especially beneficial during uncooperative weather conditions. The platform has been received warmly, with feedback suggesting it significantly elevates the guest experience, offering campgrounds an added advantage.

In conclusion, the camping industry is undergoing a profound transformation, driven by innovative ventures, shifting climate patterns, and evolving customer preferences. These insightful discussions on MC Fireside Chats underscore the industry's resilience, adaptability, and commitment to continually enhancing the camping experience for enthusiasts worldwide.