The world of outdoor travel is evolving fast. According to the 2025 KOA Camping & Outdoor Hospitality Report, campers today want more than just a place to pitch a tent — they’re seeking comfort, connection, and curated experiences. At Outdoor Adventure Retreats, we’re always paying attention to where the industry is headed so we can offer more of what our guests love most.
Here are six major 2025 camping trends and how we’re bringing them to life across our family of campgrounds, RV parks and marinas in Florida, Georgia, and the Carolinas.
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Pet-Friendly Everything 🐾
More than half of all campers now travel with a pet, making pet-friendliness a top priority in outdoor hospitality. It’s not just about allowing dogs — guests want spaces where their furry companions feel just as welcome as they do. For many families, pets are part of the adventure, and campgrounds that accommodate them stand out.
How we’re staying ahead:
- Our glamping tents at Wilderness Cove are pet-friendly, allowing guests to bring their pups for a cozy mountain escape.
- Wanee Lake Golf & RV and Crescent Fish Camp both offer enclosed dog runs to provide your pets with open green space to walk and play.
- All OAR locations offer pet-friendly cabins and vacation homes. All RV sites are pet-friendly as well.
- We provide clear pet policies and welcome tips to make travel easier for four-legged guests.
Looking for pet travel tips? Check out the American Kennel Club’s guide to camping with dogs.
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Glamping Is the New Hotel Stay
Glamping isn’t just a trend — it’s a full-blown movement. From canvas tents with real beds to luxury cabins with kitchens and bathrooms, glamping continues to attract a new generation of campers who want the experience of nature without giving up comfort. Many are ditching hotel rooms in favor of more immersive stays with cozy campfires and stargazing.
How we’re staying ahead:
- Wilderness Cove offers rustic and premium glamping tents with real beds, porches, and fire pits, just steps from the Green River.
- Our Deluxe Cabins at Cotton Patch Landing feature kitchenettes, bathrooms, and creekside views, perfect for families or couples.
- Crescent Fish Camp was recognized by Campspot out of more than 2,700 campgrounds as a Top Glamping Destination in the U.S. for its Waterfront Tiny Homes which provide scenic, private settings.
Need inspiration for your next glamping trip? Browse Glamping.com for ideas and destination guides.
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Closer to Home, Closer to Nature
With rising costs and tighter travel windows, more campers are choosing trips within 150 miles of home. Regional camping isn’t a compromise — it’s a chance to escape quickly, affordably, and without the hassle of long-haul planning. Quick weekend getaways are fueling much of the industry’s growth, especially among young families and working couples.
How we’re staying ahead:
- All of our properties are within easy driving distance from major metro areas like Atlanta, Charlotte, Jacksonville, Orlando, Asheville and Greenville.
- We design our marketing to reach weekenders and last-minute travelers looking for a quick outdoor reset.
- We promote flexible booking policies and easy add-ons to encourage spontaneous escapes.
Want help finding campgrounds near you? Recreation.gov is a great tool for locating campsites by region and interest.
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Wellness by Water ✨
According to KOA’s report, over 50% of campers say being near water improves their mental well-being. The sound of a flowing river or the calm of a lake can be just as healing as any spa treatment. Outdoor retreats near water are gaining popularity among couples, solo travelers, and families alike who are looking for peaceful, grounding experiences.
How we’re staying ahead:
- At Wilderness Cove, guests can paddle or tube the Green River just minutes from their campsite. Many guests start their morning with a river walk and end their day roasting s’mores under the stars.
- Crescent Fish Camp offers peaceful lakefront RV sites and dock access to Crescent Lake for fishing, boating, and sunset watching.
- Cotton Patch Landing sits directly on Blount’s Creek, with private boat slips and kayak access for paddling through the pines.
- At Wanee Lake, a full-sized 9-hole golf course encircles a private 7-acre spring fed lake giving guests the option to cast a line and spend time fishing when they’re not golfing or enjoying the clubhouse pool.
Interested in exploring the health benefits of water-based recreation? This article from REI dives into the details.
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WiFi = Longer Stays
WiFi might not be romantic, but it’s real. Campers — especially Gen Z, Millennials, and digital nomads — are staying longer at campgrounds with strong internet, blending work, school and play in one flexible space. Whether it’s attending a Zoom call from a picnic table or homeschooling by the fire, campers want to stay connected.
How we’re staying ahead:
- We’re actively upgrading WiFi across properties to support longer guest stays.
- Our glamping and cabin accommodations are designed for work-friendly comfort, offering tables, outlets, and quiet settings.
- We’re exploring adding coworking nooks and quiet lounges at select locations.
- Guest feedback continues to drive improvements in both speed and access points.
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Value = Loyalty
Inflation may be slowing down, but campers are still choosing outdoor travel for its value. Camping and glamping are seen as ways to enjoy rich, memorable experiences without blowing the budget. The emotional ROI is high, and guests are becoming more loyal to brands that consistently deliver great experiences at a fair price.
How we’re staying ahead:
- Our new Unlimited Weekly Golf Package at Wanee Lake offers unlimited rounds with a cart for just $75 for campground guests.
- Seasonal discounts, camp credits, and multi-night deals help guests stretch their budget.
- Onsite amenities like pools, grills, game rooms and kayak rentals add value without extra cost.
- We encourage longer stays by offering competitive weekly and monthly rates.
Ready to Explore the Outdoors with Us?
Outdoor Adventure Retreats is proud to offer comfort-focused, family-friendly, and pet-welcoming stays across the Southeast. Whether you’re glamping by the river, fishing at sunrise, or golfing into the sunset, your perfect getaway is waiting.
Start planning your 2025 escape at www.OutdoorAdventureRetreats.com.
