RMS, the leading hospitality platform for hotels, serviced apartments, vacation rentals, and outdoor accommodations, today released its 2025 State of Outdoor Hospitality Report. Based on responses from over 550 U.S. campers, from tent traditionalists to van-lifers and RVers, the report reveals that upscale outdoor stays have finally broken the “canvas ceiling.”
Options such as luxury yurts, domes, and treehouses now account for 29% of first-choice accommodations, a five-point rise over 2024 and, for the first time, equal to tents.
While enthusiasm for camping remains strong, concerns about government staffing cuts are rising with 43% of respondents worried these reductions could erode the national park experience. Economic pressures are also front of mind, with 45% saying financial uncertainty may limit their trips in the year ahead.
Generational preferences continue to shape the landscape. Glamping attracts nearly a third of Gen Z campers, while Millennials lean into tents, and Gen X and Boomers gravitate toward RVs. Most respondents are occasional campers, taking one or two trips a year, yet 58% say they would camp more often if time and money allowed.
The report also found that technology is reshaping how outdoor stays are booked. 64% of travelers now book directly on a campground’s website, and fewer than one in ten use a desktop. Fast follow-up matters, too, with 61% of respondents reporting that receiving a confirmation email or text as “extremely” or “very” important.
Adam Seskis, CEO at RMS said: “The fact that glamping has now matched traditional camping as a top accommodation choice is a clear sign that comfort and convenience are no longer just nice-to-haves, they’re now expected.
“This report shows that for campsite operators three things matter most. First, ensure your booking experience is effortless on a phone as most guests won’t switch to a computer. Second, treat automated messages such as confirmations and pre-arrival notes as opportunities to add value, whether that’s a welcome hamper for glampers or an extended-stay offer for RV guests. Third, keep pricing transparent and deposits flexible so guests feel confident booking even when budgets are tight.
“In summary, keep mobile booking simple, add thoughtful extras, and be clear on pricing to set yourself up well for the year ahead.”
Beyond logistics, the report reveals how camper motivations vary by segment. Glampers and van campers are the most budget-conscious, but also the most likely to pay for comfort-enhancing extras such as welcome hampers, premium linens and bookable hot-tub sessions. RVers prioritize reliable hookups and on-site activities as top priorities. Meanwhile, younger tent campers are increasingly influenced by social media, although stunning scenery remains the number one draw across all groups, cited by nearly half of all respondents.
The 2025 State of the Outdoor Hospitality Report not only details these findings but also offers actionable tips for operators on how to capitalize on them, from optimising mobile checkout flows to curating premium add-ons that resonate with glampers. The full report, along with a first look at RMS’s new branding, can be downloaded free of charge at https://www.rmscloud.com/rms-resources-2025-state-of-outdoor-hospitality-report
