RV Industry Trends: What 2025 Data Tells Us About 2026

The RV industry entered 2025 with questions about whether post-pandemic demand would sustain. As we close the year and look toward 2026, the data paints a picture of a maturing industry with strong fundamentals and evolving demographics.

See also our RV park investing guide and snowbird season outlook. Shipment forecasts are published by the RV Industry Association.

RV Shipments: Finding the New Normal

After the pandemic boom saw shipments exceed 600,000 units in 2021, the industry has normalized to more sustainable levels. 2025 shipments are projected at approximately 380,000 units—down from pandemic highs but significantly above pre-2020 averages of 350,000. Importantly, towable RVs (travel trailers and fifth wheels) have maintained stronger demand than motorized units, reflecting price-sensitive consumer preferences.

Record RV Ownership

Despite moderated shipments, total RV ownership continues to grow. RVIA estimates 11.8 million RV-owning households in 2025, an all-time high. This installed base drives sustained demand for campground and RV park accommodations. Key ownership statistics:

• 35% of RV owners are under age 45 (up from 22% in 2015)
• First-time buyer share remained strong at 40% of 2025 purchases
• Average ownership duration: 8.3 years (creating sustained park demand)
• Hispanic household RV ownership growth: +12% since 2020

Campground Occupancy and Rates

According to Kampgrounds of America (KOA) and industry data aggregators, 2025 saw continued healthy demand:

• Average occupancy: 52% (full-year, all sites) vs. 50% in 2024
• Peak season occupancy: 78% (Memorial Day through Labor Day)
• Average daily rate growth: +6.2% year-over-year
• RevPAR growth: +8.5% (combining rate and occupancy gains)

Notably, shoulder season demand (April-May and September-October) has strengthened as remote work flexibility enables longer travel windows.

Demographic Shifts

The RV traveler demographic continues to evolve:

• Millennials: Now the largest cohort of new RV buyers, seeking affordable vacation alternatives and outdoor experiences
• Remote workers: "Work from anywhere" policies have created a class of extended-stay guests who stay 2-4 weeks at a time
• Retiring Boomers: Continue to drive full-time RV living and snowbird migration patterns
• Families: Multi-generational camping trips have increased 25% since 2019

Supply Constraints Continue

New RV park development remains challenging. Only an estimated 150-200 new parks opened in 2025, while demand continues to grow. Factors limiting new supply include:

• Zoning restrictions in desirable locations
• Construction costs up 35% from 2020 levels
• Environmental permitting complexity
• Extended development timelines (2-4 years typical)

Looking Ahead to 2026

We expect continued healthy demand for quality RV park accommodations in 2026. The combination of record RV ownership, constrained supply, and broadening demographics creates a favorable operating environment. Operators who invest in amenities, maintain quality infrastructure, and implement effective revenue management should see continued NOI growth. For investors, the sector offers attractive risk-adjusted returns with meaningful operational improvement opportunities.