Study: RV Industry Generates $159B Annually for US Economy

Facing a prolonged grape surplus, some North Coast farm and vineyard operators in California are diversifying income through agritourism, including RV camping and farm stays. Mark and Tammy Lipps, owners of The Ripe Choice Farm Stay and Catering near Lakeport, relocated from Manhattan Beach in 2020 and now host weddings, cooking classes, and overnight guests on their six-acre property. Camping platforms like Hipcamp and Harvest Hosts have become a key revenue source, attracting travelers seeking rural experiences.

The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) has relaunched its First Time Camper Program for 2026. The program is free and applications are accepted through June 12. Lottery winners receive a tent, sleeping bags, camp chairs, a lantern, and firewood, along with guidance from a DEC Camping Ambassador. The program runs at seven campgrounds in the Adirondacks and Catskills from July 10 to August 23.

Tiger's Trail RV Resort in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, has appointed Horizon Outdoor Hospitality as its full-service manager, effective June 1. The resort, opened in 2023, features 220 RV sites and 10 cottages. Horizon will oversee operations, marketing, and revenue strategy. This marks the company's first managed property in Louisiana.

A Portland couple has filed a lawsuit seeking up to $200,000 against their neighbor, alleging that a foul odor from a tiny home on her property caused health issues. According to reports, the smell may have originated from an overflowing chemical toilet releasing toxic fumes. The plaintiffs report respiratory problems, dizziness, and injuries including knee surgery, and demand removal of the tiny home or its connection to the sewer system.

Nonprofit Elevate Branson launched an affordable housing project in Branson, Missouri — a tiny house village. The first phase includes 8 fully furnished homes, rented at $495 per month with utilities included. Upon completion, the village will have about 70 tiny houses, becoming one of the largest permanent tiny house communities in the US.

The Durango City Council adopted a fine and fee schedule in May, allowing police to enforce illegal parking of recreational vehicles, boats, and crafts on public streets. Fines are $50 for a first offense, $100 for a second, and $250 for a third, with further violations making the RV eligible for impoundment. Vehicles may be parked on the street for up to 72 hours within a seven-day period before being subject to citation. The ordinance eliminates the previous loophole of simply moving the RV to another on-street space to avoid scrutiny.