Black Folks Camp Too

This article was originally published by RV News.

Black Folks Camp Too was launched in 2019 to increase diversity in the outdoor industry. Its mission is to make it easier, more interesting and more fun for black people to go camping. The organization, founded by Earl. B. Hunter Jr., has a core belief that participating in the camping lifestyle and outdoor activities will help reduce barriers for black people and help foster more inclusive communities.

Black Folks Camp Too is growing its network of outdoor and RV industry leaders. Current partners include:

• Browns RV Superstore in McBee, South Carolina.
• RV Connections in Panama City, Florida.
• Mid-State RV in Byron, Georgia.
• Vancouver RV in Vancouver, Washington.
• Bob Ledford’s Adventure Motorhomes in Greer, South Carolina
• The Cradle of Forestry in America Interpretive Association in Pisgah Forest, North Carolina.

The organization seeks additional partner companies in the outdoor industry who are committed to this diversity cause. These partners see the benefits of diversifying their customer base to increase sales and grow their businesses.

Black Folks Camp Too was founded following Hunter’s three-month camping trip across the U.S. and Canada with his son. Their journey spanned 20 states and 49 campgrounds, yet Hunter and his son saw only one other black family camping.

“Black folks have families, time and money,” Hunter said. “I believe the industry can and will benefit from our unique inclusion style positioning as we sincerely invite more black folks to enjoy the outdoor lifestyle.”

In addition to youth outreach programs, keynote speeches and growing social media and online presence, Hunter is engaging with black people who are inspired by his passion for camping and spending time in nature. Later this month, Black Folks Camp Too will generate awareness in Charlotte, North Carolina. He will network among an expected 250,000 attendees at the Central Intercollegiate Athletic Association (CIAA) men’s basketball tournament for Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCU). Mr. Hunter and his marketing team will be advocating for black people to participate in the outdoors from a stunning 36-foot type A motorhome. The motorhome tour is in partnership with Brown’s RV Superstore and Bob Ledford’s Adventure Motorhomes.

“Black folks are the fastest growing segment in the camping and RV industries and this audience will be vital for continued growth over the next five years,” Hunter said. “There is a deep generational fear and a significant knowledge gap about the outdoors among black people—as well as a lack of invitation to participate. Our team of marketing and social media experts can help outdoor brands and retailers, campgrounds, RV dealers, national and state parks—and anyone else looking drive sales and expand their business through diversity.”