Recession expected to benefit B.C. campgrounds

In depressed financial times, one sector of the B.C. economy is anticipating a boom this summer.

Parks and campground operators expect to be very busy as people look for more frugal vacations.

Chris Dadson, president of Kootenay Rockies Tourism, said visitors are expected to come in droves this year.

"People will be looking for cheaper fixed-roof accommodation or doing more camping. It's just part of the economy but also part of an attitude. It's more minimalist these days," he said.

Josh Penny, who speaks for the British Columbia Lodging and Campgrounds Association, said he has already seen an increase in bookings for campsites.

"We are hearing from our members that there is a 10 to 15 per cent increase in the number of people that are RV'ing and we expect to see that same increase in the number of people camping in tents as well," Penny said.

The increase is due partly to the economy, he said, but lower gasoline prices are also drawing more people out.

Barring poor weather or forest fires, Penny said 2009 should be a banner year for camping in B.C.