Camping Segment : Nearly eight million U.S. households own at least one RV. This is a stunning 58% rise since 1980, according to a recent University of Michigan study. One in 12 U.S. vehicle-owning households now owns at least one RV and camp on a regular basis. By 2010, RVs will be owned by 8.5 million camping households – an 8% increase, outpacing overall U.S. household growth of 6%. This burgeoning activity has not only led to the need for more tents, RVs and parks, but also for gadgets. The term, “roughing it,” in the camping world today can be interpreted as not having a television. Today, campers bring their cell phones, MP3 players and computers. To power these devices would require batteries or solar recharging devices. This is an enormous opportunity to educate and market to millions of willing and able consumers. Other quick facts about campers: - 54% bring their pet with them when camping - 93% bring a camera - Top two activities are walking and reading - Camping vacations are 26-74% less expensive than traditional vacations