Kampgrounds of America Inc.

Campers are more diverse than ever. In a continuing trend, campers are becoming more representative of many diverse populations and communities of people. What's more, a full 60% of first-time campers in 2020 are from non-white groups, the highest rate since the inception of this report. The proportion of first-time campers exploded in 2020. At a rate five times that observed in 2019, this influx of first-time campers can likely be attributed to the COVID-19 pandemic and the sentiment that camping is a safe, socially-distanced way to travel. Not only are more people camping, they're also camping more oen. Campers are reporting an increase in camping nights compared to past years and, similarly, those planning to spend more nights camping in 2021 have also increased. Across the board, couples with children are driving the enthusiasm and interest in camping. Whether it's new camping families who joined the fold in 2020 and intend to keep camping (63%) or campers with kids who plan to camp more in 2021 (64%), couples with children are camping's best advocates. In fact, 63% indicate they would recommend camping to others as a way to travel and explore. Couples with children are also fueling interest in RV experiences. With few travel options, the interest in trying new camping experiences increases. Campers of all experience levels are craving unique ways to get outdoors in 2021, whether it's a new camper interested in RVing (58%) or a veteran camper wanting to try a glamping experience (48%). Interest in RVs and the RV lifestyle is at an all-time high. Continuing a growing trend, the use of RVs as a primary way to camp has grown steadily since the inception of this report in 2014 and now reflects an all- time high of approximately 13 million households. Most notably, among RV campers, ownership has risen a dramatic 12 percentage points since 2019, which can largely be attributed to concerns related to COVID-19. RV owners also have an increased interest in upgrading their RV in the coming year, especially those who are new to the lifestyle (52%). This further supports the increase we saw in 2020, especially as campers take more trips and find their rig may not meet their current camping style. The growth of remote work and virtual schooling due to COVID-19 makes access to technology while camping more important than ever. Particularly among first-time campers (57%), whose decision to camp is likely a direct result of the pandemic, the ability to stay connected impacts the length of camping trips. On average, access to cellular and Wi-Fi service generates six additional camper nights. COVID-19 and the distribution of the vaccine will continue to impact camping in 2021. Two-thirds of all camper households indicate the availability of vaccines will allow them to camp more and take different types of trips. In fact, 39% of campers say the COVID-19 vaccine will allow them to camp more in 2021. Overall, vaccines have a positive impact on campers' desire to get out more oen in the year ahead. K E Y F I N D I N G S 2 T H E 2 0 2 1 N O R T H A M E R I C A N C A M P I N G R E P O R T

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