KOA’s O’Rourke Warns RV Industry About Participation Gap
Toby O’Rourke, CEO of Kampgrounds of America, speaking at the RV Industry Power Breakfast in Elkhart on May 21, identified the participation gap as th...
Toby O’Rourke, CEO of Kampgrounds of America, speaking at the RV Industry Power Breakfast in Elkhart on May 21, identified the participation gap as the industry’s defining issue. KOA data shows camper numbers rose 24% since 2019 to 52 million in 2025, but camping frequency dropped: households camping once a year increased from 12% to 34%. O’Rourke noted 5–8% of RV owners didn’t use their vehicles last year, and acquiring new campers costs more than retaining existing ones.
