OHI announced OHIConnect, the first regional conference of its kind, designed to bring affordable and industry-leading professional development directly to members.
Scheduled to take place March 26 at Cherry Hill Park in College Park, Md., (outside of DC), this event will provide RV park and campground owners and operators with significant opportunities to connect, learn and grow, according to a release. Open to owners, operators and invited business partners, OHIConnect is ideal for those navigating financial challenges, wanting to sharpen their strategic vision, or those who are just entering the industry.
Created to meet members where they are, OHIConnect combines collaborative networking and engaging education in an accessible and affordable format. By utilizing member parks as host facilities, this conference underscores OHI’s commitment to supporting its community. Registration for OHI members is $175 and includes an additional free registration for a guest. Non-member pricing is also available.
The event will explore industry trends, challenges, and opportunities, emphasizing data-driven decision-making to help RV parks and campgrounds thrive. These peer-to-peer learning sessions will be facilitated by industry leaders and are organized to address unique business challenges with actionable solutions for parks of all types.
Morning sessions will focus on park size-specific discussions around revenue growth and cost reduction, while afternoon workshops will cover topics such as advanced marketing strategies, crisis preparedness and guest relations. Each 75-minute session balances facilitated learning with interactive collaboration, ensuring functional takeaways.
An optional Capitol Hill Experience is available as an add-on for all attendees. The Capitol Hill Experience will include a trip to nearby Washington, DC, on March 27, giving attendees an opportunity to get an up-close look at OHI’s recent advocacy efforts, with a chance to engage in meaningful Capitol Hill discussions and amplify the Outdoor Hospitality Industry’s voice.
The Maryland Association of Campgrounds’ (MAC) annual meeting will take place the same week in the same location on-site at Cherry Hill Park prior to OHIConnect. All MAC members are encouraged to attend both events for a unique shared experience for outdoor hospitality businesses.
Sponsorship opportunities are available at Gold, Silver, and Bronze levels, providing an excellent way to gain visibility among outdoor hospitality professionals.
About OHI
OHI (formerly National ARVC), the leader in the Outdoor Hospitality Industry, is the only national association dedicated to representing the interests and needs of private RV parks and campgrounds across North America. OHI is deeply committed to providing its more than 3,000 members with exclusive access to continuing education, networking, business and marketing tools, member-only benefits and discounts, and advocacy at the local, state and national levels.
BILLINGS, Mont. – Kampgrounds of America, Inc. (KOA), the world’s largest network of privately owned campgrounds, has announced Erik Hoeffs as the new Senior Director of Franchise Field Operations. Erik brings decades of experience in franchise operations, strategic planning, and team leadership to KOA, where he will oversee the newly reimagined Franchise Field Operations Team.
As KOA continues to strengthen its franchise service model, Erik’s leadership will be pivotal in implementing systems, policies, and procedures to provide enhanced support to franchise owners. His track record of operational excellence and dedication to a people-centered leadership approach position him to strengthen KOA’s franchise network.
“I’m inspired by the passion of the KOA franchise network and look forward to working alongside the Field Operations Team to ensure every franchisee feels supported, valued, and equipped for success,” said Erik Hoeffs, Senior Director, Franchise Field Operations at KOA. “I look forward to meeting campground owners all over North America. Together, we’ll honor KOA’s legacy while driving innovative growth.”
Most recently, Erik served as National Franchise Operations Director at GNC, where he led a team supporting 750 franchise locations nationwide. His strategic approach improved operational efficiency, increased profitability, and enhanced the franchisee experience. Erik’s ability to foster collaboration and his dedication to creating impactful training programs have consistently set him apart as a leader in the franchise industry.
“Erik’s experience working successfully with cross-departmental partners in quality assurance and franchise development will elevate our system by driving brand consistency, world-class hospitality, and revenue growth,” shared Kim Wootteon, Vice President, Commercial Strategy at KOA. “His innovative leadership will enhance how we support our franchise partners, directly impacting franchisee satisfaction and retention. We are delighted to have Erik joining the team.”
Erik holds a bachelor’s degree in business management from Western Governors University and is also a licensed real estate professional in California. In his free time, he enjoys outdoor adventures like camping, mountain biking, and exploring new destinations.
For more information, please visit the KOA website.
ATLANTA – Repay Holdings Corporation (NASDAQ: RPAY), a leading provider of vertically-integrated payment solutions, announced a new integration with Lightspeed DMS, a leading recreational dealer management software (DMS) provider. This collaboration marks REPAY’s first major expansion beyond the traditional automotive industry, offering revenue- and productivity-driving payment automation to a wider range of retailers and dealerships, according to a release.
This new integration with Lightspeed DMS extends REPAY’s vendor payment automation functionality and brings a range of benefits to businesses leveraging the Lightspeed DMS platform. Through REPAY’s advanced automation capabilities, dealerships can ensure on-time payments while maintaining strong positive relationships with their vendors. In addition, by replacing traditional paper checks with digital payments such as virtual cards and ACH, this solution modernizes accounts payable (AP) processes and significantly increases payment security over traditional check printing practices.
“Our partnership with REPAY brings a new level of efficiency to our dealer management system,” said Troy Thibodeau, Chief Marketing and Products Officer at Lightspeed. “By integrating REPAY’s advanced AP technology, we can offer streamlined vendor payments and financial benefits to the businesses that depend on Lightspeed. This collaboration allows us to provide a more seamless and modern payment experience, which is crucial to our customers’ ability to maintain strong relationships with the vehicle manufacturers and partners they depend on.”
For dealership AP professionals, REPAY’s automation technology is a means of driving productivity and ensuring timely execution of vendor payments, eliminating many of the manual processes involved in handling payments that create errors or delays. This automation saves valuable time and resources, allowing teams to focus on more strategic tasks and improving overall efficiency within the organization. By streamlining these processes, dealerships of any size can achieve greater operational efficiency and enhance their financial management goals.
“This integration simplifies payment processes by consolidating all dealership vendor payments into a single platform and workflow, enhancing accuracy and delivering a level of payment security dealerships expect,” said Darin Horrocks, Executive Vice President, Business Payments at REPAY. “We are committed to helping businesses transform their payment processes, and this collaboration sets a new standard for efficiency and payment security in dealership management and payment operations.”
About REPAY
REPAY provides integrated payment processing solutions to verticals that have specific transaction processing needs. REPAY’s proprietary, integrated payment technology platform reduces the complexity of electronic payments for clients, while enhancing the overall experience for consumers and businesses.
About Lightspeed DMS LLC
Lightspeed is an all-in-one solution designed to revolutionize dealership management. With Lightspeed, dealerships in the Powersport, Marine, RV, Trailer, Outdoor Power Equipment, and Golf Car industries seamlessly integrate their operations through our comprehensive Dealer Management Solution (DMS). Lightspeed has been empowering over 4,000+ dealers across North America with cutting-edge technology and unparalleled support. From sales to parts, service to rental, and accounting to CRM, Lightspeed offers a unified platform that streamlines every aspect of their client’s business. Lightspeed provides a cohesive ecosystem where every tool and feature originate from the same source, ensuring compatibility and efficiency.
IRVINE, Calif. – Saritasa has unveiled a new video testimonial highlighting the company’s successful collaboration with Winegard, a renowned technology company. The partnership showcases how Saritasa empowered Winegard to overcome software development challenges and deliver innovative solutions for its customers, according to a release.
“About three or four years ago, we started looking for a software partner because we were trying to accelerate our mobile app and our cloud development specifically around the RV Halo initiative,” said Scott Blindt, Director of Application Development at Winegard. “The breadth of what Saritasa can deliver puts them head and shoulders above some of the competition that I’ve interviewed before.”
Winegard, a leader in hardware manufacturing with a legacy of innovative wireless solutions, lacked the internal resources to develop the sophisticated software solutions required to meet the evolving needs of its clients. Saritasa stepped in to fill this gap, implementing scalable development processes and creating both a consumer-focused mobile app, RV Halo, and B2B fleet management software.
“Saritasa empowers businesses to do more, better, through technology,” said Artem Razvodov, Director of Project Management at Saritasa. “Our partnership with Winegard is a testament to the value we bring as a technology partner that acts as an extension of your business.”
RV Halo is a comprehensive ecosystem that allows RV owners to seamlessly control and monitor various aspects of their vehicles. Through native iOS and Android applications, users can manage security cameras, adjust temperature settings, interface with the RV-C system, and receive real-time notifications about their RV’s status.
Key features of the RV Halo platform include:
Personalized Gamification: Users can earn points and rewards by participating in RV Halo Rally. Rally features include earning geo-based stickers, badges and also competing against other RVers.
Offline Functionality: The system is designed to operate even without an internet connection, ensuring continuous usability in remote locations.
Comprehensive Monitoring: Real-time alerts for events like water leaks, temperature fluctuations, or unauthorized access provide users with peace of mind.
“Winegard has big plans for the next two, to five, to ten years. Saritasa helps us deliver that faster and more reliably,” added Blindt.
About Saritasa
Saritasa is a full-service custom software development firm offering mobile app, web, backend, IoT, and AR/VR development services. The company’s clients include a variety of innovative startups and enterprises across multiple verticals, including life sciences, commercial, industrial, and high technology. Saritasa strives to bridge the gap between technology and business by creating a technology company with a business mindset. Saritasa prides itself as a reliable technology partner with its team of experts, consultants, and advisors who bring innovative solutions to businesses. Learn more at www.saritasa.com.
About Winegard
Winegard is an American technology company that powers connectivity and enables independence. For over 65 years, Winegard Company has pioneered wireless solutions for people’s evolving needs, including its notable work with NASA on the Apollo 11 mission when the first humans explored the moon. Today it provides leading cloud, AI, and 5G technology that erases the lines between technology and the human experience. Winegard’s solutions connect, monitor, and control devices in places people want to live, work, and play. Headquartered in Burlington, Iowa, Winegard also has locations in Illinois, Indiana, Idaho, and Oregon. Learn more atwww.winegard.com.
FAIRFAX, Va. – The Recreational Vehicle Dealers Association (RVDA) announced an exclusive webinar, which will take place at 2 p.m., Wednesday, Feb. 19, to discuss how RV dealers can identify cost-savings features and develop a new, creative way to generate passive, recurring donation streams to support charitable groups in their local community.
The webinar, titled “Maximizing Profitability: Free Expense Optimization that Elevates Brand, Culture, Growth, and Profit” will feature Jamie Bianchini, CEO of Purpose in Expenses (PIE) which is the world’s first and only purpose-driven business services broker helping RV dealerships to align their operating expenses with their company’s mission and achieve their goals.
The 45-minute webinar is open to RVDA members and industry professionals. To learn more and register click here.
Phil Ingrassia
Attendees will discover game-changing insights including:
How RV Dealerships across the nation are savings six-figures ($100K+) on various expenses while unlocking new donation streams to their chosen nonprofit partners.
How embedding purpose into everyday services like phone, internet, payment processing, and email can elevate brand, culture, profitability, and growth.
Important market data confirms the importance of increasing purpose to attract and retain both customers and employees.
“We are excited to continue our collaboration with Purpose in Expenses to offer this timely and valuable webinar on how dealers can save money and better support their communities,” said RVDA President Phil Ingrassia. “PIE has proven their innovative offerings in multiple RVDA member dealerships, and we are excited to share how other members can adopt these proven strategies to enhance profitability, growth, and make a local impact.”
PIE co-founder Jamie Bianchini
“As expenses increase and margins shrink in the RV industry, we’re delighted to share how dealerships can enhance financial performance while delighting staff and customers,” said PIE co-founder Jamie Bianchini. “We are long-time RV owners with a passion for helping RV dealerships and their communities thrive with our proven, innovative offerings.”
About RVDA
RVDA is the national association representing RV dealers, service centers, and related businesses. RVDA works to promote the interests of its members by providing education, advocacy, and member services designed to foster a strong RV marketplace. For more information, click here.
About Purpose in Expenses
PIE is a global movement helping business leaders transform expenses into donations to elevate community impact, culture, brand, growth, and profitability. Now in their fifth year of operations, PIE has proven its game-changing expense optimization model in many of the world’s leading purpose-driven businesses. PIE is proud to partner with Care Camps Foundation by helping RV dealerships give the gift of nature to kids with cancer. For more information on how RV dealers can benefit from using Purpose in Expenses, click here.
TROY, Mich. – Champion Homes, Inc. (NYSE: SKY) announced financial results for its third quarter ended Dec. 28, 2024 (“fiscal 2025”).
Third Quarter Fiscal 2025 Highlights (compared to Third Quarter Fiscal 2024)
Net sales increased 15.3% to $644.9 million
U.S. homes sold increased 14.1% to 6,437
Backlog increased 7.6% compared to December 2023 and decreased 26.9% to $313 million from the sequential second quarter
Average selling price (“ASP”) per U.S. home sold increased 2.8% to $94,900
Gross profit margin expanded by 280 basis points to 28.1%
Net income increased by 31.0% to $61.5 million
Earnings per diluted share (“EPS”) increased 30.9% to $1.06
Adjusted EBITDA increased 25.7% to $83.3 million
Adjusted EBITDA margin expanded by 110 basis points to 12.9%
Net cash generated by operating activities of $50.4 million during the quarter
Repurchased $20.0 million of shares under the share repurchase program
“Champion’s strong performance this quarter reflects our ability to earn new customers and deliver profitable growth across our family of brands,” said Tim Larson, President and Chief Executive Officer of Champion Homes. “Since stepping into the role, I’ve been actively engaging with our employees, customers, partners, and shareholders to solicit feedback and identify opportunities to build on our strengths and drive long-term growth. I remain confident in the effectiveness of our strategy, including the expansion of our retail and digital presence, and strategic investments supporting the growth of community owners, independent retailers, and builder developers. As we respond to the evolving housing environment, we will continue to remain nimble and execute our differentiated strategy – including investing in technology and accelerating product innovation – while delivering sustained value for all our stakeholders.”
Third Quarter Fiscal 2025 Results
Net sales for the third quarter fiscal 2025 increased 15.3% to $644.9 million compared to the prior-year period. The number of U.S. homes sold in the third quarter fiscal 2025 increased 14.1% to 6,437 driven by an increase in demand across all sales channels. The ASP per U.S. home sold increased 2.8% to $94,900 due to an increase in the number of units sold through company-owned retail sales centers during the quarter. The number of Canadian factory-built homes sold in the quarter decreased to 209 homes compared to 249 homes in the prior-year period due to softening demand in certain markets.
Gross profit increased by 28.1% to $181.0 million in the third quarter fiscal 2025 compared to the prior-year period. Gross profit margin was 28.1% of net sales, a 280-basis point expansion compared to 25.3% in the third quarter fiscal 2024. Gross margin expansion reflects higher ASPs on new homes sold through company-owned retail sales centers which also generated a greater percentage of total revenue in addition to lower input costs and acquisition synergy capture when compared to the prior-year period.
Selling, general, and administrative expenses (“SG&A”) in the third quarter fiscal 2025 increased to $108.2 million from $85.1 million in the same period last year. SG&A during the quarter increased due to higher variable compensation from higher sales volumes and profitability as well as investments in people and information systems to support future growth. SG&A as a percentage of net sales was 16.8%, compared to 15.2% in the prior year period.
Net income increased by 31.0% to $61.5 million for the third quarter fiscal 2025 compared to the prior-year period. The increase in net income was driven by higher sales and gross profit partially offset by higher SG&A in the quarter.
Adjusted EBITDA for the third quarter fiscal 2025 increased by 25.7% to $83.3 million compared to the third quarter fiscal 2024. Adjusted EBITDA margin for the quarter was 12.9%, compared to 11.8% in the prior-year period.
As of December 28, 2024, Champion Homes had $581.8 million of cash and cash equivalents, an increase of $11.5 million in the current quarter. The Company repurchased and retired $20 million of its common stock during the third quarter under the previously announced repurchase program. On January 30, 2025, the Board of Directors refreshed the share repurchase authorization to provide for $100 million of potential future repurchases.
Conference Call and Webcast Information:
Champion Homes’ management will host a conference call tomorrow, February 5, 2025, at 8:00 a.m. Eastern Time, to discuss Champion Homes’ financial results and an update on current operations.
Investors and other interested parties can listen to a webcast of the live conference call by logging onto the Investor Relations section of Champion Homes’ website at ir.championhomes.com. The online replay will be available on the same website immediately following the call.
The conference call can also be accessed by dialing (877) 407-4018 (domestic) or (201) 689-8471 (international). A telephonic replay will be available approximately three hours after the call by dialing (844) 512-2921, or for international callers, (412) 317-6671. The passcode for the live call and the replay is 13750900. The replay will be available until 11:59 P.M. Eastern Time on February 19, 2025.
About Champion Homes, Inc.
Champion Homes, Inc. (NYSE: SKY) is a leading producer of factory-built housing in North America and employs approximately 9,000 people. With more than 70 years of homebuilding experience and 48 manufacturing facilities throughout the United States and western Canada, Champion Homes is well positioned with an innovative portfolio of manufactured and modular homes, ADUs, park-models and modular buildings for the single-family, multi-family, and hospitality sectors.
In addition to its core home building business, Champion Homes provides construction services to install and set-up factory-built homes, operates a factory-direct retail business with 72 retail locations across the United States, and operates Star Fleet Trucking, providing transportation services to the manufactured housing and other industries from several dispatch locations across the United States.
Champion Homes builds homes under some of the most well-known brand names in the factory-built housing industry including Skyline Homes, Champion Homes, Genesis Homes, Regional Homes, Athens Park Models, Dutch Housing, Atlantic Homes, Excel Homes, Homes of Merit, New Era, Redman Homes, ScotBilt Homes, Shore Park, Silvercrest, Titan Homes in the U.S. and Moduline and SRI Homes in western Canada.
BRISTOL, Ind. – Ember Recreational Vehicles introduced the E-Series Spark LE 12RK today, the latest addition to its innovative lineup of travel trailers, according to a release. Designed for RVers who crave adventure with the ease of towing and setup, the 12RK redefines what a compact travel trailer can offer.
At just 15’9” in length, the E-Series Spark LE 12RK is the perfect companion for those seeking a lightweight trailer that doesn’t skimp on features or quality and is backed by a 2-year limited warranty.
With a dry weight of only 1,830 pounds and a hitch weight of 205 pounds, it is towable by a wide range of vehicles, including small SUVs and trucks. Its compact footprint makes it ideal for first-time RV owners, people looking to ditch the tent and get off the ground, solo travelers, and couples ready to embark on adventures without worrying about size or weight restrictions.
Ashley Bontrager Lehman
“With the Spark LE, we created a tiny trailer that is lightweight and accessible without sacrificing the features and durability Ember RV is known for,” said Ashley Bontrager, Ember’s Founder and CEO. “This micro trailer series expands Ember’s customer base to even more diverse camping styles, introducing our brand to a new audience.”
Built on a high-strength, low-alloy HSLA Steel NXG Chassis, the Spark LE 12RK features a Dexter TORFLEX torsion axle with self-adjusting electric brakes and 15-inch off-road tires, ensuring smooth towing and superior handling over any terrain. Its seamless fiberglass construction with Azdel composite exterior walls, floor, and roof makes the trailer durable, lightweight, and ready to handle the elements.
The heavy-duty steel fenders double as a convenient step, providing easier access to the fully walkable roof. The standard 26-gallon freshwater tank can be paired with an optional tankless “On-Demand” water heater for added convenience and comfort. Already standard with a fully enclosed radiant barrier underbelly, customers can take it a step further with weatherproofing features like optional 18k BTU furnace, and optional 12V tank heater, ensuring the trailer is prepared for colder-weather camping.
The trailer’s compact rear kitchen packs a punch with the necessary amenities. The powder-coated steel countertop and storage are paired with a sink equipped with a faucet, sprayer, and outdoor shower functionality. A griddle with LP quick-connect allows for versatile cooking options – great for breakfast, lunch, and dinner! For those who opt to add the refrigerator option, the 1.7 cu. ft. mini fridge makes the kitchen area even more convenient.
Inside, the 12RK offers a cozy yet functional living space that prioritizes comfort and practicality. Rest comfortably on its dual 28” x 84” teddy bear mattresses, which can be used separately or combined into a spacious California Queen-sized bed (56” x 84”). Above, a rainproof 12V Maxx-Air roof fan ensures proper ventilation, keeping the interior fresh and comfortable. To enhance your experience, the interior is carpet-free, making it easy to clean when the mattresses are removed. Other interior amenities include energy-efficient LED lighting, USB-A/C ports, and 12V power outlets that ensure you stay connected on the road, along with well-designed cubbies to store your personal belongings.
For adventurers who want to unplug, the optional Off-Grid Solar Package elevates the Spark LE 12RK into a true off-grid companion. The package includes two 200W roof-mounted solar panels (400W total), a 2000W pure sine wave inverter, and a Victron MPPT solar controller. Combined with the SPARK LE’s off-road tires and generous water capacity, this optional off-grid solar package allows campers to explore even the most remote destinations while enjoying some comforts of home.
Ember RV understands that every traveler’s needs are different, so the Spark LE 12RK is highly customizable. Available options include an 18K BTU furnace and 8K BTU wall-mounted air conditioner for temperature control, tankless “On-Demand” water heater, a 270° Batwing Awning or 6.5’ manual awning with LED light for additional shade and shelter, and a roof rack system designed to carry kayaks, bikes, or other outdoor gear.
The E-Series Spark LE 12RK is Ember RV’s answer to the growing demand for compact, versatile travel trailers that cater to today’s adventurers. Whether you’re a weekend warrior or a seasoned camper, the Spark LE combines off-grid capability with modern comforts in a compact, easily towable package.
The Ember E-Series SPARK LE 12RK is available now at Ember RV dealerships across the country. For more information, visit the Ember RV website at https://www.emberrv.com/rvs/e-series/12rk/.
Overall, values continued to decline in the 4th quarter and are following seasonal patterns as they did in the previous year. Except for fifth wheel trailers, values for all other RV types were notably lower than the previous year.
Looking at individual segments, the most recent 10 years of Standard Hitch trailer values averaged 5.3% lower in the November-December period compared to September-October, and 3.6% lower year-over-year.
Fifth Wheel units averaged 5.6% lower in November- December compared to September-October, and 1.5% lower year-over-year. In the Motorhome segment, Class A vehicles averaged 4.2% lower in November-December compared to September-October, and 1.5% lower year- over-year. Class C motorhomes averaged 4.8% lower in November-December compared to September-October, and 4.7% lower year-over-year. Camping Trailer values were 6.5% lower in November-December compared to September-October and 8.4% lower year-over-year. Truck Campers averaged 3.4% lower in November-December compared to September-October and 4.7% lower year- over-year. Depreciation in the second half of 2024 was generally higher than in 2023.
EDITOR’S NOTE: The RV industry has sought to close the de minimis loophole as foreign companies use the exemption to flood the U.S. market with inexpensive RV parts and accessories. In addition, the Trump Administrations proposed tariffs on Canada and Mexico, and those countries’ retaliatory tariffs, have been placed on a 30-day hold as officials continue to negotiate.
NEW YORK/LONDON – Shein, Temu and Amazon Haul prices are likely to rise for American shoppers, analysts and industry experts said, after U.S. President Donald Trump this week shut a trade loophole that has been used to ship low-value packages duty-free from China, according to a Reuters report.
Fast-fashion retailer Shein and online dollar-store Temu, both of which sell products ranging from toys to smartphones, have grown rapidly in the U.S. thanks in part to the “de minimis” exemption enabling them to keep prices low.
Temu and Shein together likely accounted for more than 30% of all packages shipped to the United States each day under the de minimis provision, the U.S. congressional committee on China said in a June 2023 report. Both Temu, a subsidiary of Chinese e-commerce giant PDD Holdings, and Singapore-headquartered Shein have taken measures such as sourcing more products from outside China, opening U.S. warehouses and bringing more U.S. sellers on board, to mitigate the impact.
Trump’s halt to Section 321 de minimis is part of his implementation of an additional 10% tariff on China and 25% tariffs on Canada and Mexico, which were paused for a month. Nearly half of all packages shipped under de minimis come from China, according to the same committee report.
Amazon set up Amazon Haul in November. This allows shoppers to purchase $5 handbags and $10 sweaters from China-based sellers, although they face longer shipping times. While Trump’s crackdown on de minimis is likely to bruise Amazon Haul, said CFRA analyst Arun Sundaram, it is a new, and very small part of Amazon’s overall e-commerce business.
The devastating Southern California fires this past January have left thousands of people without homes. The two Los Angeles-area fires — Pacific Palisades Fire and Eaton Fire — fueled by relentless winds reaching up to 100 mph, damaged or destroyed more than 16,000 homes and other structures. Many of these displaced folks are struggling with finding affordable interim housing and price gouging. And for those fortunate to have a home to return to, they are looking at months or even longer to tackle the massive cleanup and being saddled with thousands of dollars in restoration costs while seeking temporary housing.
Some of these fire victims are renting or buying an RV as an alternative to stationary places to live. Living in an RV on the property while their home is being rebuilt is a good option for the owner as they can be there to have a sense of familiarity while watching the reconstruction process. RVBusiness discovered some RV rental companies and dealerships in Southern California that have stepped up to help victims of these fires by offering discounts.
Living on the destroyed or damaged property in an RV also solves the issue of time limits for certain RV parks and campground closures. California State Parks, for instance, typically have a maximum camping stay of 30 days per calendar year. At this writing, most of Angeles National Forest (Eaton Fire) had just reopened to the public, but many of the popular trails and campgrounds will remain closed until the end of 2025 to recover. Malibu RV Park on Pacific Coast Highway was not affected by the Pacific Palisades Fire and is open for business. As a private campground, they have a six-month limit. The campground is offering a 20% discount on monthly rates for fire victims, and there were spaces available at this writing.
Los Angeles county-owned RV parks impose a three-week-long limit, which was temporarily lifted on January 28 by the Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors. Said a spokesperson at Bonelli Bluffs RV Resort and Campground in San Dimas, a county-owned RV park, “Fire victims only can stay for 90 days, leave for one day and come back for 20 more days for a total of 110 days.” Discounts are offered at Bonelli, as well as at the also-county-owned Dockweiler State Beach in Playa del Rey, located about 22 miles from where the Pacific Palisades Fire erupted.
According to Angel at privately owned Off the Grid RV Ranch in Lake Hughes in Northern Los Angeles County, fire victims only can stay up to nine months and then move to another site within the campground if one is available (sites are currently available). Off the Grid reopened last year after being closed for renovations and all 113 sites are equipped with sewer, water and electricity. The park accepts all size RVs year 2000 and newer.
A spokeswoman for Ventura Ranch KOA in Santa Paula said that RVers need to be approved if staying 90 days or more. Ventura Ranch is a franchise location so other KOAs may have different maximums.
RV Rental Discounts for Fire Victims
Based in the Los Angeles area, Chill RV is offering 60% off rentals through March 31 for folks affected by fire (and the date may get extended depending on need). The company rents only luxury, top-of-the-line 19- and 25-foot Mercedes Sprinter Class Bs and Cs so they can sit on standard driveways. Nika, a company spokesperson, said that some of these people are parking on the driveways of their homes that were partially damaged so they can feel connected to their homes and be able to be there for the rebuilding. Depending on the model motorhome, Chill RV’s rentals can sleep up to six and have a toilet, a shower and two TVs. Also very important for many of these displaced families is that these motorhomes are pet-friendly. Nika went on to explain that some Californians may not be aware of this but homeowner’s insurance will cover the RV rental through Additional Living Expenses (ALE) since they are required to pay for temporary housing, and that includes RVs.
RVBusiness spoke with Tinno at Tinno’s RV Rentals in Chino and he is offering discounts to those affected by the fires and will deliver the trailer to where needed and set it up. The company rents only Airstream trailers in various lengths.
Metro RV in Burbank offers Class A and B motorhome and travel trailer rentals and is offering various discounts depending upon length of time needed to rent. Carly at Metro said, “We are finding that people are living in an RV in their driveways to see if they can salvage anything from their homes.” The company will deliver the RV if needed. Carly said that they are working with insurance companies directly, plus they are offering free bedding and no cleaning fees. Service animals are okay and they will allow other qualifying pets (no puppies, for instance).
On El Monte RV’s rental page an alert says “Emergency temporary housing details” and monthly rental prices are listed for its Class As (31 to 34 feet) and Class Cs (21 to 31 feet). Currently, it is offering 20% off rentals for people affected by fire. And this: “We will be providing free delivery and kitchen and bedding supplies for free and a long-term discount.”
As RVB previously reported, Mike Thompson’s RV donated $50,000 to California Wildfires 2025 through the American Red Cross. The RV superstores, with five locations in California, also delivered pallets of protein bars and shakes to firefighters and first responders during the fires. Giant RV is making a generous donation to support the various organized relief efforts for every RV sold from all four Giant RV locations in Southern California during January through March 2025. This initiative aims to aid those who have lost their homes and belongings in the recent fires and the donation will be presented in the name of each customer who purchases an RV. Even a company in the Lone Star State has jumped in to assist. BTR Outfitters in Abilene, Texas, is offering its entire inventory of conversion vans at wholesale prices to help those displaced by the California fires.
Nonprofit Delivering Donated RVs
Started in 2018 after the Camp Fire in Northern California, the deadliest fire in California history, EmergencyRV.org has helped more than 255 families who have lost their homes to natural disasters all over the U.S. and Hawaii. After hearing about the Camp Fire, Founder Woody Faircloth started a GoFundMe account and raised money to buy a motorhome, which he filled with supplies, then drove from Denver, Colorado, to Northern California with his then-six-year-old daughter Luna to give the RV to a family who lost everything. A local news station aired a 30-second story on the father and daughter driving the RV to California and “by the time we got there, we had four RVs to deliver to families,” said Faircloth.
Explained Faircloth, “We do this through the generosity of fellow Americans who donate RVs and a great group of volunteers. Shelter is a basic human need, and we want to help those folks; we want to help our neighbors.” (The company is a 501c3.) Faircloth said, “One kind gesture turned into a blessing of helping so many families and I’m blessed to be doing this.”
EmergencyRV.org’s founder continued, “Right now we are focused on Southern California families affected by the fires and western North Carolina by Hurricane Helene. We have 150 families on our waiting list in the Los Angeles area and over 400 on our list in North Carolina where we have delivered and gifted 90 RVs in the last three months.” So far, Faircloth has handed over the keys and titles to five refurbished RVs to people who lost homes in the Pacific Palisades and Eaton fires and “we are delivering several more RVs this week.” One donated RV went to a firefighter who just lost his Altadena home in the Eaton Fire.
The company takes donated RVs and financial donations to help with repairs, transporting and stocking the RVs through emergencyrv.org/take-action. Survivor intake forms can be found at emergencyrv.org/contact.
RV Purchase Discounts
David, owner of Galaxy Campers in Ontario, Calif., is offering 25% off new campers and travel trailers to fire victims. He carries Lance trailers and campers and Forest River Vibe trailers from 14 to 33 feet.
RVB talked with Jon at DeMartini RV Sales in Grass Valley who said, “Yes, we are helping out fire victims and are happy to offer deals to folks who lost their homes.” DeMartini sells mostly Class A coaches.
Airstream Los Angeles in San Gabriel is “working with fire victims to offer discounts on used and new trailers and free delivery. We are holding some Airstreams until safe to put them on the property.”
Simi RV in Simi Valley is also offering reduced rates for fire victims purchasing an RV.
Rentals Options
Other options for those seeking a temporary home on wheels include renting RVs directly through owners on peer-to-peer sites like RVshare, Outdoorsy and Good Sam. OutWander partners with RV rental companies and Cruise America has its own fleet of rental RVs. And websites like RVLife.com allows folks to browse thousands of campgrounds by state under its “Features” section.
