Novi MI, August 28, 2025
News Summary
The Michigan Association of Recreation Vehicles and Campgrounds (MARVAC) held its annual meeting to address legislative challenges and opportunities in the RV industry. The event included the installation of a new board, a keynote address from State Senator Aric Nesbitt, and discussions on partnerships and regulations affecting campground owners. MARVAC’s initiatives aim to streamline processes for RV dealerships and enhance member services, reflecting the importance of the RV sector in Michigan’s economy, which supports many jobs and generates significant contributions to the state.
Novi, Michigan – The Michigan Association of Recreation Vehicles and Campgrounds (MARVAC) successfully conducted its annual meeting this week, highlighting key legislative challenges and opportunities within the RV industry. During the event, which took place at the Suburban Collection Showplace, MARVAC installed its board of directors for the 2025-26 term and hosted the Tim DeWitt HARVEST Foundation golf outing.
MARVAC, which plays a vital role in representing the RV and camping community in Michigan, organized this year’s meeting in collaboration with the Michigan Manufacturing Housing Association (MMHA). John Lindley, MARVAC’s President and CEO, delivered a comprehensive address outlining the current state of the association. He emphasized critical issues surrounding partnerships and legislative topics impacting members.
In his presentation, Lindley shared recent developments, such as a partnership with Hospitality Connections, which aims to provide additional benefits and services to affiliated state associations. He brought attention to ongoing legislative matters, particularly those concerning regulations from the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy (EGLE) that could adversely affect campground owners. Key discussions revolved around the necessary definitions of permanent structures and occupancy standards.
Furthermore, Lindley announced MARVAC’s initiative to work with the Secretary of State’s office to streamline the paperwork processes for RV dealerships, thereby enhancing operational efficiency.
Adding value to the meeting, State Senator Aric Nesbitt delivered a keynote address. As a Republican candidate for governor for the upcoming 2026 election, he criticized current policies under Democratic Governor Gretchen Whitmer’s administration. Nesbitt expressed concerns about Michigan’s population growth, revealing a stark contrast to neighboring Indiana, which has gained about 900,000 residents compared to Michigan’s modest 70,000 increase in recent years.
The meeting culminated in a golf outing at the Links of Novi, aimed at raising funds for the HARVEST Education Foundation. This nonprofit organization focuses on providing scholarships and educational opportunities for individuals pursuing careers in the RV, campground, and manufactured housing sectors.
MARVAC has a rich history, having been founded in 1941, and currently consists of 52 RV dealer locations, 109 campgrounds, and 66 business members. The RV and campground industry in Michigan supports approximately 18,795 jobs and accounts for nearly $970 million in wages. Michigan is also noteworthy for being among the top states for RV deliveries, with over 16,571 RVs shipped in 2020. Additionally, as of April 2019, there were more than 1,354 licensed RV parks and campgrounds in the state, offering around 157,000 campsites.
A study conducted by Michigan State University noted that 10% of pleasure travelers in the state are campers, indicating a strong demand for RV and campground services. Lindley stressed the importance of continuously gathering feedback from members to ensure MARVAC’s initiatives align with their needs. The association aims to boost membership rates by enhancing service quality, viewing current demand as a pivotal opportunity for growth and evolution within the industry.
FAQ Section
What is MARVAC?
The Michigan Association of Recreation Vehicles and Campgrounds (MARVAC) represents the RV and campground community in Michigan, advocating for their interests and providing resources and support.
What were the main topics discussed at this year’s annual meeting?
Key topics included recent partnerships, legislative challenges from the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy, and efforts to streamline paperwork processes for RV dealerships.
What is the significance of the HARVEST Education Foundation?
The HARVEST Education Foundation is a nonprofit that provides scholarships and educational support for individuals pursuing careers in the RV, campground, and manufactured housing industries.
How does the RV and camping industry impact Michigan’s economy?
The RV and campground industry supports approximately 18,795 jobs and generates nearly $970 million in wages, reflecting a substantial economic contribution to the state.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Additional Resources
- RV Business: MARVAC Installs New Officers, Hosts Golf Outing Fundraiser
- Wikipedia: Recreational Vehicle
- Woodall’s: Q&A with New MARVAC President & CEO John Lindley
- Google Search: Michigan Recreational Vehicle Industry
- Woodall’s: Record-Setting Detroit RV Show – Good Sign for 2025?
- Google Scholar: RV Industry Michigan
- RV Business: MARVAC’s Knowledge Summit to Address GMI Issues
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Campgrounds
- RV Business: MARVAC Summits Address Ground Monitor Interrupters
- Google News: RV Industry Fundraising
