Woodall’s Campground Directory was once the go-to resource for RV enthusiasts seeking information about campgrounds across North America. The directory provided detailed information about campgrounds, including amenities, rates, and nearby attractions. However, in recent years, the directory has disappeared from the market, leaving many RVers wondering what happened.
For decades, Woodall’s Campground Directory was a staple in the RV community, providing valuable information to those looking to explore the great outdoors. So, what happened to this beloved resource? In this article, we will explore the history of Woodall’s Campground Directory and the reasons behind its disappearance.
Woodall’s Campground Directory was a popular print and online resource for campers to find and review campgrounds across the United States and Canada. However, in 2014, the directory was acquired by Camping World Holdings Inc. and was merged with the Good Sam Club, another camping resource. Since then, the Woodall’s brand has been discontinued, and its services are now offered under the Good Sam Club umbrella.
What Happened to Woodall’s Campground Directory?
Woodall’s Campground Directory was once a go-to resource for RV enthusiasts and campers looking for reliable information on campgrounds across North America. It was a trusted source for over 80 years, providing campers with detailed information on more than 12,000 campgrounds, RV parks, and resorts. However, in recent years, the directory has disappeared from the market, leaving many campers wondering what happened.
The History of Woodall’s Campground Directory
Woodall’s Campground Directory was first published in 1935 by Charles A. Woodall, who was an avid camper himself. Over the years, the directory became a trusted resource for campers, providing them with accurate and up-to-date information on campgrounds and RV parks across North America.
The directory was known for its comprehensive listings, which included detailed information on each campground, such as amenities, rates, and directions. The directory also provided helpful tips and advice for campers, such as how to choose the right campground and how to plan a successful camping trip.
The Acquisition by Good Sam Club
In 2013, Woodall’s Campground Directory was acquired by the Good Sam Club, which is owned by Camping World Holdings, Inc. The acquisition included both the print and online versions of the directory.
At the time of the acquisition, many campers were concerned that the directory would change and become less reliable. However, Good Sam Club assured customers that they would maintain the high standards set by Woodall’s and that the directory would continue to provide accurate and up-to-date information on campgrounds and RV parks.
The Discontinuation of Woodall’s Campground Directory
Despite Good Sam Club’s assurances, Woodall’s Campground Directory was discontinued in 2015. The decision to discontinue the directory was made by Camping World Holdings, Inc., who cited declining sales as the reason for the discontinuation.
Many campers were disappointed by the discontinuation of the directory, as it had been a trusted resource for many years. However, Good Sam Club continued to provide campground information through their online directory and mobile app.
The Benefits of Good Sam Club’s Online Directory
Good Sam Club’s online directory is a comprehensive resource for campers, providing them with detailed information on campgrounds and RV parks across North America. The directory includes user reviews and ratings, as well as information on amenities, rates, and directions.
One of the benefits of Good Sam Club’s online directory is that it is constantly updated, ensuring that campers have access to the most up-to-date information on campgrounds and RV parks. The directory also includes helpful tips and advice for campers, such as how to plan a successful camping trip and how to choose the right campground.
The Differences Between Woodall’s and Good Sam Club’s Directories
While Woodall’s and Good Sam Club’s directories both provided information on campgrounds and RV parks, there were some differences between the two.
One of the main differences was the size of the directories. Woodall’s directory was known for its comprehensive listings, which included detailed information on more than 12,000 campgrounds, RV parks, and resorts. Good Sam Club’s directory, on the other hand, includes information on over 8,000 campgrounds and RV parks.
Another difference was the level of detail provided in the listings. Woodall’s directory was known for its detailed and comprehensive listings, which included information on amenities, rates, and directions. Good Sam Club’s directory also provides this information, but the level of detail may not be as extensive.
The Future of Campground Directories
With the discontinuation of Woodall’s Campground Directory, many campers are wondering what the future holds for campground directories. While there are still several directories available, such as Good Sam Club’s online directory, it is unclear whether any one directory will be able to replace Woodall’s.
However, with the rise of social media and online review sites, campers now have access to a wealth of information on campgrounds and RV parks. Websites such as Yelp and TripAdvisor provide user reviews and ratings, allowing campers to get a better idea of what to expect from a campground or RV park.
The Bottom Line
Woodall’s Campground Directory was a trusted resource for campers for over 80 years. While it may no longer be available, there are still several directories and online resources available to help campers plan their next camping trip. Whether you prefer a comprehensive directory or user reviews and ratings, there is a resource out there to help you find the perfect campground or RV park for your next adventure.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Woodall’s Campground Directory?
Woodall’s Campground Directory was a popular print and online resource for camping and RV enthusiasts. It provided comprehensive information about campgrounds, RV parks, and resorts across North America, including amenities, rates, and reviews. The directory was known for its accuracy and up-to-date information, making it a go-to resource for travelers.
However, Woodall’s Campground Directory is no longer in operation. The company stopped publishing its print directory and ceased operations of its website in 2018, leaving many campers wondering what happened.
Why did Woodall’s Campground Directory cease operations?
There are several reasons why Woodall’s Campground Directory ceased operations. One factor was the shift towards digital resources for travelers. Many campers now rely on online review sites and mobile apps to find information about campgrounds and RV parks. This made it difficult for Woodall’s to compete with newer, more technology-focused resources.
Another factor was the decline in print advertising revenue. As more advertisers shifted towards online advertising, print directories like Woodall’s struggled to attract advertisers and generate revenue. This made it difficult for the company to sustain its operations.
Is there a replacement for Woodall’s Campground Directory?
While there is no exact replacement for Woodall’s Campground Directory, there are several other resources that provide similar information for campers and RV enthusiasts. Some popular options include Good Sam Club, RV Park Reviews, and Campendium. These resources offer information about campgrounds, RV parks, and resorts across North America, including photos, reviews, and ratings from other travelers.
What should I do if I have a Woodall’s Campground Directory?
If you have a copy of Woodall’s Campground Directory, it may still be useful for planning your next camping trip. However, keep in mind that the information may be outdated or inaccurate, since the directory has not been updated since 2018. You may want to cross-reference the information with other resources to ensure that the campground or RV park you are interested in is still in operation and has the amenities you need.
Can I access Woodall’s Campground Directory online?
No, Woodall’s Campground Directory is no longer available online. The company shut down its website in 2018, and the domain is no longer active. However, you may still be able to find archived versions of the website through web archives or other digital resources. Keep in mind that the information on these archived versions may be outdated or inaccurate.
In conclusion, the Woodall’s Campground Directory was a popular guidebook for campers and RV enthusiasts for decades. However, it faced several challenges in the digital age that led to its eventual discontinuation.
The rise of online resources and mobile apps made it easier for travelers to access campground information in real-time. This shift in consumer behavior made it difficult for print publications like Woodall’s to remain relevant and profitable.
Additionally, the company faced financial difficulties and ownership changes in the years leading up to its demise. Despite its loyal fan base and historical significance, Woodall’s Campground Directory ultimately became a casualty of the changing times.
