by Patrick Hardy, CEM, MBCP, CRM September 28, 2023 While there is always discussion of an emergency in the media in RV parks and campgrounds around the world, there is little discussion on the life cycle of one. Dramatic photographs of rescues from floodwaters and interviews are always a common theme, however, for an organization, the life cycle is much more nuanced and complex. There are 5 Milestones in an emergency that will provide you with the ability to be more resilient for the next one. While they run in a simple chronology, in many cases each will have concurrent elements that will ..read more

Following the devastating aftermath of the post-tropical storm Fiona that struck last September, the Prince Edward Island (P.E.I., Canada) National Park is poised for a significant revival.  The federal government has pledged close to CA$12 million in investment funds to breathe new life into the park’s battered sites, ushering in what park officials describe as a new era of resilience and renewal. The destruction left behind by storm Fiona was both extensive and heartbreaking. Jason Lindsay, the park’s asset manager, graphically described how a ten-meter strip of the precious dune ecosys ..read more

Mountain View County Council (Alberta, Canada) has requested that the administration provide information on the taxation of recreational vehicles (RVs) in the municipality.  Mike Krieger, manager of assessment services, presented the 2023 market assessment report at a recent council meeting, held both in person and online. Coun. Peggy Johnson inquired about the tax category for RVs, and Krieger confirmed that they fall under the residential property class.  Johnson further asked whether RVs are taxed based on market value, to which Krieger replied, “They would be, yes.” When question ..read more

The Government of Saskatchewan is investing CA$14 million in provincial park facility and infrastructure improvements in 2023-24.  This investment is part of the government’s ongoing efforts to make provincial parks more beautiful, welcoming, and accessible for everyone.  The projects that will be completed this fiscal year include a new day-use pavilion for Rowan’s Ravine, new campground service centers at Blackstrap and Makwa Lake Provincial Parks, construction of a new Visitor Reception Centre at Crooked Lake Provincial Park, the second phase of a campground development in Meadow ..read more

Campnab, a campsite availability tracker that monitors sold-out parks in the U.S. and Canada for cancellations announced that it has reached a milestone of sending 3.5 million cancellation alerts for sold-out campgrounds. Developed by Eric Shelkie and Eric Karjaluoto, Campnab was initially conceived as a simple solution to a problem faced by many: the frustration of coveted camping grounds being sold out. Born out of necessity as a basement side project, this unique platform has since burgeoned into an essential tool that monitors availability for over 350,000 campsites across almost 15,000 ca ..read more

A fire ban has been enforced in Algonquin Provincial Park, prohibiting the use of fires, charcoal grills, portable stoves, and barbecues.  The fire ban affects all developed campgrounds, interior/backcountry camping, picnic and day-use areas, trails, and cottages within the park. Additionally, Biolite and wood charcoal stoves are also prohibited. However, portable propane and naphtha stoves or barbecues with controlled valve fuel sources are still permitted. Park authorities will be conducting regular patrols to ensure compliance with the fire ban and to enforce penalties for any violatio ..read more

In a recent planning meeting held on May 23, the staff of Gravenhurst recommended that the development application proposal for the Finest Kind Enterprises campground on Kilworthy Road be deferred.  As per a report, the proposal, which sought amendments to the Special Provision to the Commercial Recreation Zone, raised significant concerns among members of the public and triggered a thoughtful discussion among council members. The application, if approved, would allow for the establishment of up to 80 campsites featuring bunkies, four 4-season cottages, and a swimming pool. Additionally ..read more

Pathfinder Ventures Inc. has announced its Q1 2023 financial results, highlighting a record occupancy for the May Long Weekend.  Pathfinder’s Q1 2023 financial highlights include 50% occupancy, 14,799 occupied site nights, a revenue of CA$512,384, and operating expenses amounting to CA$1,156,050. Pathfinder has announced that this past May long weekend brought the company’s highest occupancy on record in the month of May. All Camp-Resorts were at full capacity from May 19-21, with a 4% increase YoY in occupied site nights.  Responding to the high reservation demand, Pathfinder was ab ..read more

As the camping season kicks into high gear with the arrival of warmer weather, a new trend is captivating outdoor enthusiasts who seek a touch of luxury amidst nature’s splendor.  Glamping is quickly gaining popularity as an enticing option for those craving the great outdoors without compromising on comfort. Offering a wealth of amenities and unique accommodations, glamping experiences are capturing the hearts of both seasoned adventurers and novices alike. One remarkable destination where glamping enthusiasts can immerse themselves in a camping resort with a glamorous twist is Bingemans ..read more

The Canadian Camping and RV Council (CCRVC) has entered a new era as they warmly welcome Cara Csizmadia as the newly appointed president. Csizmadia, an experienced industry professional and a dedicated member of the CCRVC team, will now spearhead the organization representing the interests of campground owners across the nation. Csizmadia succeeds Shane Devenish, who faithfully led the CCRVC for eight years as executive director. The pair have collaborated since 2019, with Devenish providing the benefit of his knowledge, experience, and support to prepare Csizmadia for the transition. Devenish ..read more