OKEMOS, MI--(Marketwired - Aug 27, 2014) - Although the summer is winding down, many campgrounds are gearing up for a busy fall season, especially as the recreation vehicle industry continues to grow.
According to the Recreation Vehicle Industry Association's 2013 Industry Profile, released in July, RV shipments reached 321,000 their highest level since 2007, and a 12.4 percent increase compared to 2012. Additionally, Michigan is third highest in the country for RV shipments.
Campgrounds are seeing the effects of this growth. Janie Linscott, manager at Hidden Ridge RV Resort just south of Grand Rapids, said many of their fall weeks started filling up by July. The campground hosts special themed weekends and their Halloween events, one aimed at younger children and one for traditional Halloween activities like haunted houses and trails, costume contests and site decoration contests, are among the most popular.
"It's a good time," she said. "It's kind of a break after kids get back into the routine of school. I think they just enjoy another fun weekend before the snow flies. It's actually our busiest weekend of the year."
The change in temperature doesn't deter RVers on the east side of the state, either. Dave Watts of Harbortown RV Resort in Monroe said the campground's Halloween celebrations have earned it the nickname "The Halloween Campground" by some.
"The fall season is a great time to camp," Watts said. "People like all the activities that we do for our Halloween weekends, which started with one weekend and grew to five, and enjoy the cooler weather for great campfires."
From fall colors tours to winery getaways to apple orchard visits, camping is a great way to explore Michigan's autumnal delights. To find a campground and celebrate one of Michigan's favorite camping seasons, visit www.marvac.org.
The Michigan Association of Recreation Vehicles and Campgrounds (MARVAC) is a statewide, non-profit organization dedicated to encouraging growth in the recreation vehicle and private campground industries while contributing to the quality of Michigan tourism. For more information, visit MARVAC's website, www.marvac.org. MARVAC, 2222 Association Drive, Okemos, Mich. 48864-5978; 517.349.8881