MC Fireside Chats - February 4th, 2026

The recent episode of MC Fireside Chats, which aired on February 4th, 2026, focused on the critical role of data and analytics within the outdoor hospitality industry. Host Brian Searl, CEO of Modern Campground and Insider Perks, led the discussion alongside a robust panel of industry veterans and newcomers, emphasizing how rapidly market forces are shifting. The episode served as a platform to introduce a new report on Gen Z camping habits while also exploring early 2026 booking trends and international market dynamics.

Rafael Correa, President and CFO of Blue Water Development Corp, kicked off the industry insights by sharing early 2026 trends from his portfolio of nearly 60 RV resorts. He noted a significant uptick in booking pace since the start of the year, particularly in transient RV stays, which had previously been a lagging subset. Correa emphasized that while it is early in the season, the momentum suggests a positive growth trajectory for the industry as it adapts to the "new normal" of guest behavior.

Scott Bahr, President of Cairn Consulting Group, provided a data-driven perspective on these trends, noting that consumer sentiment is at its highest point in three years. He explained that many campers have adjusted their lifestyles to economic uncertainty, choosing to "downgrade" site types or prepare meals at the campground rather than eating out. Bahr highlighted that affordability remains a primary driver for the industry and stressed the importance of operators effectively communicating these cost-saving measures to potential guests.

Phil Ingrassia, President of the RVDA in the United States, and Eleonore Hamm, President of the RVDA of Canada, shared observations from recent consumer RV shows. Ingrassia noted that manufacturers are responding to economic pressures by producing more entry-level, lightweight towables at accessible price points. Hamm echoed this, reporting that while total sales volume in dollars might be lower due to the shift toward entry-level products, attendance at Canadian shows remains steady, and there is a noticeable return of younger families to the market.

Simon Neal, Founder and CEO of CampMap, shifted the geographical focus by sharing 2025 pricing data from the European market. He illustrated how nightly site prices in Europe vary significantly by region, with warmer southern climates like Italy and Croatia commanding the highest rates. Neal’s data showed a steady year-over-year price growth of 4% to 6% across Europe, providing a useful benchmark for North American operators to compare against their own pricing strategies and growth.

Declan Mimnagh, Owner of RoomStay, introduced the perspective of a conversion checkout platform, discussing the increasing aggression of Online Travel Agencies (OTAs) in the outdoor hospitality space. He warned that as OTAs like Expedia and Booking.com lean heavily into AI and sophisticated marketing, independent park owners must prioritize direct booking strategies to protect their bottom line. Mimnagh specifically pointed out that savvy Gen Z consumers are adept at "stacking" discounts and loyalty rewards, making it harder for parks to maintain price parity.

The conversation then delved deeply into a new Gen Z research report presented by Brian Searl and Scott Bahr. Bahr revealed startling data showing that Gen Z is the generation least emotionally connected to the outdoors and the most risk-averse. Unlike previous generations who grew up with unstructured outdoor play, many Gen Z adults had their first camping experiences in highly serviced environments like cabins or glamping tents, which has fundamentally changed their relationship with nature and their willingness to take spontaneous trips.

Simon Stockner, co-owner of Kispiox River Lodge, provided a boots-on-the-ground look at a boutique operation in Northern British Columbia. While his current demographic leans older, Stockner discussed his efforts to...