The inaugural OHI Connect event brought together RV park and campground owners and operators for a peer-to-peer, workshop-focused event designed to foster connection, share industry insights and develop actionable solutions.
Hosted at Cherry Hill Park, an OHI-member campground in the Washington D.C. area, the event also featured a meaningful advocacy experience on Capitol Hill, and the event proved to be a resounding success.
“Connecting the dots is no easy task,” said David Basler, OHI’s chief strategy officer. “When you’re in the thick of it, the challenges of running a campground are numerous and the solutions can seem overwhelming. OHI Connect was designed to bridge the gap between everyday challenges and actionable solutions. We want to equip OHI members with the tools, strategies and relationships they need to thrive.”
Attendees participated in expert-led workshops and discussions focused on revenue growth, cost reduction, crisis management and marketing strategies. The interactive sessions provided real-world takeaways, and the event created a valuable environment of camaraderie.
One attendee noted, “This is so great! I’ve been in the industry all my life, and I didn’t think there was anything new to learn.”
A key highlight of OHI Connect was the Capitol Hill Experience, where participants traveled to descended upon congressional offices to engage with legislators and gain a deeper understanding of national advocacy efforts impacting our industry. These conversations reinforced OHI’s commitment to representing the Outdoor Hospitality Industry and amplifying the voices of its members.
“The event was a super creative regional solution to collaborating with and learning from industry peers,” said Ali Rasmussen, CEO and creative director of Spacious Skies Campgrounds. “I appreciated the opportunity to participate and to bring along a few of my stellar team members.”
The success of OHI Connect was made possible through the generous support of industry-leading sponsors, including Newbook, AccessParks, Cavco Industries, Leavitt Recreation and Hospitality Insurance, TengoInternet, Business Finance Depot, Staylist, Influence Digital, Firefly Reservations, Campspot, and CRR Hospitality. Their contributions helped create a dynamic learning environment filled with valuable discussions and networking opportunities. Additionally, the event’s facilitators, including top professionals from across the industry, led insightful sessions that provided attendees with actionable strategies to implement at their parks.
OHI extended its gratitude to all attendees, facilitators, hosts and sponsors who made this event possible. A special thank you to Cherry Hill Park and the Gurevich family for hosting the event and providing an outstanding venue that fostered learning, networking and connection. Their hospitality and support contributed greatly to the success of OHI Connect.
For more information about OHI and other upcoming events, visit ohi.org.
