The camping and hospitality industry remains strong with an expectation that more winter Texans will be returning to campgrounds this fall and winter than last year. The strength in the industry is reflected in the increase in TACO campground membership renewals and new memberships. TACO is just finishing its annual renewal campaign and campground membership is at an all-time high of 450 campground members and nearly 90 vendor members.

TACO is working on the finishing touches for the 2023 TEXAS RV Travel & Camping Guide, to be sent to the press at the end of this month. The new TACO Guides will be available for distribution beginning in January.

The October webinar in the Texas Campgrounds Educational Series took place yesterday (Oct. 11) and featured a preview of TACO’s activities leading up to the 2023 legislative session in Texas. Webinar speakers included Ron Hinkle, TACO’s legislative consultant; Randall Dally, TACO’s president; and Brian Schaeffer, TACO’s executive director and CEO. 

“Thanks to all the organizers, great info and I appreciate y’alls dedication to the industry and helping us,” noted Schaeffer. “Extremely well done. Kudos all around.”

Schaeffer reviewed a few successes from the past, as well as efforts from the last legislative session. Then members were given a behind the scene peek at legislative efforts coming in the 2023 legislative session, plus other legislative efforts the team is hard at work to address. This includes topics such as water billing (think per site fees), liability bills, property taxes, standards and the New TACO Legal Handbook.

TACO is also planning for the 2023 TACO Spring Meeting and Trade Show from April 25 and 26. They already have a few speakers lined up for this event in Conroe, Texas. So, mark your calendars!