The outdoor hospitality industry is moving forward in many exciting ways, and one of the most noticeable shifts is the rise of electric vehicles. EVs are becoming more mainstream and are not just for trendsetters. According to Bloomberg.com, as of mid-2025, EVs and plug-in hybrids account for more than 25% of all new car sales globally. In May alone, global EV sales reached 1.6 million units, a 24% year-over-year increase, with over 7.2 million sold so far this year. They are showing up at campgrounds, resorts, and RV parks more often, and they are starting to shape guest expectations.
At Outdoor Hospitality Group, we work with developers and operators across the country to plan, design, and launch successful outdoor destinations. As part of that work, we are seeing increased demand for EV infrastructure and future-focused amenities. EVs are becoming a key consideration in site planning, especially as more travelers hit the road in electric cars, trucks, and, eventually, RVs.
Why EV Infrastructure Is Gaining Ground
There are now millions of EVs on American roads, and the number continues to grow each year. Travelers want to explore without worrying about where they will charge their vehicles. For campground and resort owners, offering EV charging can help meet this growing need and set their property apart.
In many cases, guests are already asking about EV charging before they book. For some, it is a deciding factor. This presents a major opportunity for outdoor destinations that want to stand out as modern and eco-conscious. Offering charging stations also reflects a commitment to sustainability, which resonates strongly with younger travelers and families who are thinking more about their environmental impact.
Challenges for Rural and Remote Properties
Of course, installing EV chargers is not as simple as adding another hook-up. Rural locations often have limited electrical capacity, and utility upgrades can be costly. In some cases, it may take coordination with the local power company or even a phased infrastructure plan to make it possible.
There is also the question of charger type. Level 1 chargers are affordable and easy to install but slow. Level 2 chargers are faster and more appealing for guests but require more power. DC fast chargers offer the highest speed but are expensive and may not be realistic for small or mid-sized parks.
On top of that, operators need to decide how to manage EV charging. Should it be included in the nightly rate? Should there be a usage fee? Will chargers be for guests only or open to the public during the day? All of these decisions affect operations, pricing, and utility management.
The Bigger Picture: Electric RVs and Park Equipment
EVs are not just limited to guest cars. RV manufacturers are developing electric motorhomes and towables, and although they are not widespread yet, we expect to see them become more common over the next few years. Properties that begin planning for this shift now will be better prepared as adoption increases.
There is also potential to electrify operations. Many parks are switching to electric golf carts, utility vehicles, and maintenance equipment. These changes reduce fuel costs and help reduce the property’s carbon footprint.
How OHG Supports EV Planning
At Outdoor Hospitality Group, we can integrate EV planning into our site design and consulting services. Whether a client wants to install a couple of chargers near the welcome center or develop a long-term strategy for an all-electric resort, we help assess power needs, layout options, and potential funding sources.
EVs are here to stay, and that is a good thing. With the right planning, campgrounds and resorts can welcome this technology in a way that benefits both guests and operators.
