7 Business Ideas for Avid Campers in 2024

1. Custom Camping Gear and Apparel

The Idea: Create and sell high-quality, custom camping gear and apparel, tailored to the needs of outdoor enthusiasts.

How it makes money: Sales of custom-designed gear, online direct-to-consumer sales, or wholesale to outdoor retail stores.

Why now? As camping continues to gain popularity, there's a market for specialized gear that stands out for its quality and innovation.

Technical difficulty: 6 out of 10

Best for: Campers with a knack for design and a thorough understanding of what makes gear functional and durable.

2. Campsite and Retreat Center

The Idea: Develop a campsite or retreat center that offers a unique outdoor experience with various amenities and activities.

How it makes money: Rental fees for camping spots, hosting workshops, and retreats, and providing additional services like guided tours or adventure sports.

Why now? The trend towards "glamping" and nature retreats is booming, as people seek comfortable yet authentic outdoor experiences.

Technical difficulty: 7 out of 10

Best for: Avid campers who want to share their love for the outdoors and can manage a hospitality-driven business.

3. Mobile Camping Supplies Shop

The Idea: Operate a mobile shop that provides camping supplies and essentials directly to campgrounds and popular outdoor locations.

How it makes money: Sales of camping supplies, convenience items, and offering rental equipment.

Why now? Campers appreciate the convenience of on-site access to supplies, reducing the need for pre-trip planning and packing.

Technical difficulty: 5 out of 10

Best for: Those with retail experience who enjoy the flexibility of a business on wheels and interacting with a community of campers.

4. Outdoor Adventure Blog and Content Creation

The Idea: Share camping adventures and tips through a blog, YouTube channel, or podcast, and create content that inspires others to explore.

How it makes money: Advertising revenue, affiliate marketing, sponsored content, and selling branded merchandise or digital guides.

Why now? Content creation allows for building a brand and audience that can be leveraged for various revenue streams.

Technical difficulty: 4 out of 10

Best for: Campers who have a talent for storytelling, photography, or videography and can share their experiences with an online audience.

5. Camping Education and Safety Workshops

The Idea: Organize and conduct workshops that teach camping skills, outdoor survival techniques, and environmental stewardship.

How it makes money: Fees for workshops, online courses, and offering certification programs for outdoor education.

Why now? With an increased interest in outdoor activities, people are seeking knowledge to safely and sustainably enjoy nature.

Technical difficulty: 5 out of 10

Best for: Seasoned campers with solid knowledge of outdoor skills and a passion for education and conservation.

6. Campground Consulting Services

The Idea: Offer consultancy services to new or existing campgrounds to optimize their layout, services, and marketing.

How it makes money: Consulting fees, project management fees for campground development or revamps, and creating marketing strategies for clients.

Why now? The camping industry is competitive, and campgrounds need expert advice to attract and retain guests.

Technical difficulty: 7 out of 10

Best for: Individuals with experience in the camping or hospitality sector who can offer insights into successful campground operations.

7. Eco-Friendly Camping Product Development

The Idea: Develop and sell eco-friendly camping products that minimize environmental impact, such as biodegradable utensils or solar-powered gear.

How it makes money: Product sales, online store, or partnerships with outdoor and camping retailers.

Why now? As awareness of environmental issues grows, campers are looking for products that align with their green values.