What will camping be like in 2030?
From retractable roofs to voice control, here’s what campgrounds will be like in the future
Campgrounds now regularly have WiFi. That’s a fact, and for anyone over the age of 30, it seems weird. After all, isn’t the whole point of camping to get away from normal, ultra-connected life?
Campgrounds are changing fast, and this week the Kampgrounds of America (KOA) has unveiled what it thinks they will look like in 2030.
Its Campground of the Future concept includes more technology, more sustainable construction, and campgrounds engulfed within nature in desert, ocean, mountain, urban and forest settings.
Campground of the Future: auto-check in and voice control
KOA expects there to be automated site selection and check in as standard at Campground of the Future, as well as on-site automated voice command technology for ordering services, signing up for experiences or delivery of necessities such as firewood.
Campground of the Future: hiking trails and shared space
Expect more on-site recreation activities, such as hiking trails that leave and return directly from and to campgrounds, as well as more water features and more gathering spaces for groups. Campfire, anyone?
Campground of the Future: yurts, tents, and treehouses
As well as predicting retractable roofs on cabins to allow on-demand stargazing, KOA’s surveys indicate that 32 percent of Gen Xers and 29 percent of millennials would like to experience more unique lodging experiences like treehouses, safari tents, and yurts.
“With the increase in camping popularity comes a greater need to ensure the longevity of camping through smart design and preservation of nature,” said Toby O’Rourke CEO of the KOA. “We believe that thoughtful use of technology and devotion to sustainably growing camping offerings will meet the increased expectations of campers, while further enhancing that connection with nature that camping provides.”