Happy Saturday Friends!
We are back with our weekly edition of RV & Camping Industry updates.The RV and camping world continues to evolve with major news shaping the way nomads, travelers, and industry professionals move forward. From safety legislation sparked by tragedy to innovative product launches.
Tragedy Sparks Safety Reform in Texas
The RV community is still reeling from the devastating July 4 floods in Kerr County, Texas, which claimed 136 lives, including more than 40 at campgrounds and RV parks. The most severe loss occurred at the HTR TX Hill Country Campground, where 33 people died after warnings came too late.
In response, State Representative Drew Darby has introduced House Bill 19, requiring both private and public campgrounds to submit state-approved flood disaster plans.
Parks that fail to comply could face civil penalties of $1,000 per day.
Investigations also revealed that some parks had knowingly encroached on high-risk floodplain areas, raising serious concerns about safety standards and oversight. Read more
RV Business: Mergers, Leadership & Market Moves
The RV business world saw a wave of strategic moves this week:
- Bish’s RV acquired I-29 RV in South Dakota, expanding its dealership presence.
- Meyer Distributing acquired Arrow Distributing, strengthening its supply chain.
- Air Lift Company appointed a new Senior Vice President of Sales.
- Winnebago Industries announced leadership changes to sharpen strategic direction.
- Lazydays reported a Q2 net loss of $24.6 million year-over-year.
- Knaus Tabbert, a leading European RV maker, announced positive cash flow for the first half of 2025.
Learn more
Innovation on the Road: New Models & Electric RV Growth
RV manufacturers continue to push the industry forward with new technology and lightweight options:
- Lightship began production of its AE.1 Cosmos Edition, introducing fresh trim levels for its all-electric RV line.
- Forest River expanded its Puma Towable RV lineup with new models.
- Aliner introduced the Switchback Truck Camper, a lightweight unit designed for truck-based adventures.
- Truma North America announced free technician training at the upcoming Elkhart Open House.
Learn more
Aftermarket Conference & Industry Support
At the RV Aftermarket Conference in San Antonio, leaders highlighted innovation and celebrated top-performing aftermarket companies.
Meanwhile, the industry also focused on regulatory and educational efforts:
- The RV Industry Association (RVIA) held a Regulatory & Safety Compliance Seminar, reinforcing manufacturing standards.
- OHI announced applications are now open for the George O’Leary Outdoor Hospitality Scholarship.
- Go RVing kicked off its “RV-2-50” road trip campaign, celebrating historic destinations and promoting RV travel nationwide.
- RVnGO launched its own insurance company to cover RV rental liability and damage
Learn more
Market Trends: RV Values & Safety Tech
- Black Book’s August report noted mixed results in wholesale RV values, with some categories softening while others held steady.
- TowSmart teamed up with Autowbrake to create safer towing solutions, underscoring the industry’s focus on smart, connected travel.
- The National RV Training Academy (NRVTA) welcomed Amanda Anderson as a new student adviser, continuing efforts to strengthen technician education.
Learn more
As you can see, the RV and camping industry is constantly moving—sometimes with sobering reminders of safety and responsibility, and other times with exciting leaps in innovation and opportunity. Whether it’s new legislation, game-changing electric RVs, or shifts in dealership growth, there’s always something shaping life on the road. That’s why we’re here each week to keep you informed. Be sure to come back every Tuesday for our lifestyle blog posts and every Saturday for the latest RV and Camping Industry News Roundup—your one-stop source for staying connected to the RVing and nomad community.
Join our Move With Mack Crew email list and get Sunday inspiration and travel updates delivered straight to your inbox. Join here