For RV parks, campgrounds, and glamping resorts, Earth Day is a moment to celebrate nature. It’s a reminder that protecting the environment is also smart business. Today’s travelers care deeply about sustainability, and their decisions from bookings to google reviews show it.
According to Booking.com’s 2023 Sustainable Travel Report, 76% of global travelers want to travel more sustainably (GSTC), and 73% are more likely to choose a property with visible sustainability credentials (Nielsen). This isn’t a passing trend; it’s a shift in consumer behavior that’s opening up new opportunities for parks that are willing to think green.
Now we know sustainability is a selling point. Whether it’s switching to energy-efficient lighting, installing low-flow showerheads, or offering recycling bins around your park, eco-friendly upgrades resonate with guests and can drive more bookings.
A report from Expedia found that nearly half of travelers are willing to spend more on sustainable travel options and nearly 70% of consumers would be willing to sacrifice convenience to be a more sustainable traveler, especially Millennials and Gen Z. These generations are looking for destinations that reflect their values, and they’re likely to share their experiences online meaning one compost station or pollinator garden could inspire a whole thread of five-star reviews and Instagram posts.
The real win? Going green attracts more guests and it can lower your operating costs.
• LED lighting uses up to 75% less energy and lasts 25x longer than traditional bulbs. (DepartmentofEnergy)
• Low-flow toilets and showerheads can cut water usage by 20% or more, slashing utility bills.(EPA)
• Composting and recycling reduce waste volume and the cost/frequency of trash pickups. (SBC)
• Native landscaping reduces maintenance time and water needs.(Mollers)
And beyond cost savings, green practices boost guest satisfaction. When visitors know their stay supports a business that’s doing good, they’re more likely to return. So, highlight your efforts in your marketing by adding a “sustainability” section to your website, post about your green initiatives on social media, and train your team to communicate your values with guests.
When thinking about going green, don’t overlook your vendors either. The suppliers and vendors supporting your park play a big role in your sustainability story. Choosing cleaning suppliers that offer biodegradable options or working with manufacturers who prioritize recycled materials can reinforce your values and strengthen your brand.
Even better? Products featuring sustainability attributes can achieve a revenue increase of 6% to over 25% compared to those without such emphasis (Dayrize). That means stocking your camp store with eco-conscious goods or partnering with sustainability-forward vendors isn’t just a feel-good move, it’s a smart business strategy.
You don’t need to overhaul your entire infrastructure to start seeing the benefits, though. Many OHI members are already adopting thoughtful, cost-effective changes that are great for their operations and the environment
Here are a few inspiring actions already in place at parks across the country:
• Hosting “trail build” weekends with discounted stays for volunteers
• Installing compost stations for campers to use for food scraps and coffee grounds
• Offering take-home seed pots as crafts or favors
• Planting pollinator gardens with help from local grants and nature groups
• Launching a Nature Club for kids with environmental learning activities
• Banning herbicides and pesticides among seasonal/permanant campers
• Partnering with beekeepers and selling local honey in the camp store
• Only use recycled cups for events
• BYO mug to events like coffee hours and eliminating throw-away items like Styrofoam
• Obtain a grant to plant native species along water sources to reduce runoff and protect aquatic wildlife with volunteers digging and planting.
Each of these actions contributes to a bigger story of stewardship, community involvement, and long-term savings.
If you’re ready to go a step further, OHI’s Plan-It Green Friendly Park Program offers a way to showcase your commitment. Parks that meet a minimum number of eco-friendly criteria are recognized as Plan-It Green Friendly Parks—an industry designation that signals to guests and peers alike that your sustainability efforts are thoughtful and intentional.
You don’t have to be a sustainability expert to make an impact. Even small, consistent changes can build a brand identity that travelers trust and support. If your park is already implementing green practices, you’re on the right track. Just don’t forget to talk about it! Your guests want to support businesses that align with their values.
Now let’s think of the big picture. This shift toward sustainability isn’t happening in isolation. The U.S. sustainable tourism market was valued at $730 billion in 2023 and is projected to reach $3.1 trillion by 2034, growing at a CAGR of 14.08% (Precedence Research).
Sustainable tourism — also known as ecotourism — is all about minimizing harm while maximizing positive impact. That includes everything from conserving natural resources and protecting biodiversity to supporting local cultures and economies.
As this movement continues to grow, parks that weave sustainability into every layer of their operation, from campground practices to vendor relationships, will be better positioned to thrive.
This Earth Day, rethink what “Green” can mean for you and your outdoor hospitality business. Going green is an environmental win, yes, but it’s also a strategic business decision. Whether you’re just awakening your sustainability journey or looking to level up your efforts, sustainability offers a path to greater guest loyalty, lower costs, and long-term growth. And remember: every step counts.
