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If you’re sitting on a few acres of undeveloped land, you’re also sitting on a potentially powerful revenue stream. In the last decade, outdoor recreation has seen an unprecedented boom. From classic campgrounds to luxury glamping resorts, landowners across the U.S. are tapping into the outdoor hospitality industry—and many are seeing a return on investment faster than they expected.
Travel trends are shifting. Post-2020, people crave open spaces, fresh air, and authentic experiences more than ever. According to Kampgrounds of America (KOA), over 58 million households went camping in 2023—up significantly from previous years. And it’s not just roughing it anymore. From vanlifers to digital nomads, the demand for unique outdoor stays is growing across multiple market segments.
Campgrounds and glamping sites are filling that need, offering everything from traditional tent spots to high-end yurts, tiny homes, and cabins.
Unlike urban real estate or commercial developments, campground businesses often require lower upfront investment.
With smart planning, landowners can launch a site in phases:
Modular decks, for instance, let you build sturdy, attractive infrastructure incrementally—perfect for testing concepts or growing on demand. Because modular decks are fast to install and require minimal site disturbance, they keep development timelines and costs in check.
ROI often comes quicker than in other industries thanks to:
Unlike fixed real estate, a campground can evolve with your goals. Want to keep it rustic? Stick with dry tent camping. Want to move upmarket? Add power hookups, platform decks, or luxury canvas tents.
This adaptability means your investment can stay aligned with market demands and personal ambition. You don’t need to have it all figured out on day one—the model allows for growth.
For some, a campground becomes a full-time business. For others, it’s a side project with real financial rewards. If you already own land or a rural property, a well-maintained campground can generate seasonal or year-round income with relatively low operational stress.
Platforms, for example, reduce wear on the landscape and provide low-maintenance, long-term utility. With the right systems in place (e.g., automated booking, low-maintenance decking), running a campground becomes more about hospitality than heavy labor.
The beauty of this business is its universal appeal. Outdoor experiences are ageless and cross-demographic.
Your campground could cater to:
With thoughtful site design and quality infrastructure—like decks that elevate comfort and reduce mud—you can create experiences that guests rave about (and return to).
Campground businesses often contribute to the local economy, support sustainable land use, and provide access to nature for a wider audience. Many landowners appreciate that they can earn income while also preserving and sharing their land’s natural beauty.
Platforms and modular decks also reduce soil compaction, erosion, and environmental degradation compared to tents pitched directly on the ground or poured concrete pads.
Whether you’re planning your first tent pad or a 20-unit glamping resort, your infrastructure matters. Sturdy, beautiful decking makes a great first impression and solves a host of practical issues (from uneven ground to guest comfort). It’s one of the best long-term investments for turning raw land into a polished product.
Working with professionals who specialize in outdoor structures ensures your campground begins on solid footing—literally and figuratively.
Investing in a campground is more than a business—it’s a chance to create a place where people recharge, reconnect, and make memories. With demand for outdoor experiences on the rise and modular infrastructure making setup easier than ever, now is the perfect time to turn your patch of land into a profitable, purposeful venture.