What Is Camping World? Your Ultimate Guide to RV & Outdoor Gear

Camping World is a one-stop shop for all things RV and outdoors. They sell recreational vehicles, RV accessories, camping supplies, and offer RV service and maintenance at their Camping World locations. This guide will provide a comprehensive look at Camping World, including its history, services, and what you can expect as a customer.

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Exploring Camping World: A Deep Dive

Camping World is a large retailer specializing in products and services for the recreational vehicle (RV) and outdoor markets. It aims to be the go-to destination for RV enthusiasts, providing a wide range of goods and assistance to make the RV lifestyle easier and more enjoyable.

A Look at Camping World History

Camping World started as a small business in 1966 in Bowling Green, Kentucky. It was founded by David Garvin. At first, it was a small store that sold air conditioners for RVs.

• The Early Years (1960s-1990s): Camping World focused on selling RV parts and accessories. They built a catalog business to reach customers nationwide.
• Expansion and Acquisition (1990s-2000s): The company grew by buying other RV-related businesses. This helped them offer more products and services.
• Going Public (2016): Camping World went public in 2016, trading under the ticker symbol “CWH.” This provided capital for further expansion and acquisitions.
• Present Day: Camping World continues to be a dominant force in the RV industry, with Camping World locations across the United States. They offer RV sales, RV service, and a wide array of camping supplies.

What Does Camping World Offer?

Camping World provides a broad spectrum of products and services tailored to the RV and outdoor lifestyle. Here’s a detailed breakdown:

• RV Sales: One of Camping World’s primary offerings is the sale of new and used recreational vehicles. They carry a variety of brands and models. You can find everything from small travel trailers to large Class A motorhomes.

• RV Service and Maintenance: Keeping your RV in good condition is essential, and Camping World provides RV service and maintenance at most of their locations. Their services include:

  • Routine maintenance (oil changes, inspections)
  • Repairs (engine, plumbing, electrical)
  • Body work
  • Warranty repairs

  • Camping Supplies: Camping World offers a wide selection of camping supplies, including:

  • Tents

  • Sleeping bags
  • Camp furniture
  • Cooking equipment
  • Lighting

  • RV Accessories: Enhancing your RV experience often means adding accessories. Camping World provides a vast array of RV accessories, such as:

  • Awnings

  • Satellite dishes
  • Generators
  • Hitches
  • Towing equipment
  • Parts: Finding the right parts for your RV is crucial for repairs and maintenance. Camping World carries a wide variety of RV parts, from common replacement items to hard-to-find components.
  • Installation: Many Camping World locations offer installation services for the products they sell, such as hitches, satellite dishes, and awnings.
  • Financial Services: Camping World provides financial services, which can include loans and insurance to help customers purchase RVs.

Finding Camping World Locations

Finding a Camping World near me is usually quite easy. They have a vast network of locations across the United States. You can find locations by:

• Using the Camping World Website: The Camping World website has a store locator tool. Just enter your zip code to find nearby locations.
• Using Online Maps: Google Maps and other online mapping services can help you find Camping World locations in your area.
• Checking the Camping World App: The Camping World app includes a store locator feature.

What About RV Sales at Camping World?

RV sales are a major part of Camping World’s business. They offer a diverse inventory of recreational vehicles to suit various needs and budgets.

• New RVs: Camping World carries new RVs from many different manufacturers. These include popular brands like:

  • Thor Motor Coach
  • Forest River
  • Winnebago
  • Jayco
  • Used RVs: In addition to new RVs, Camping World also sells used recreational vehicles. Buying a used RV can be a more affordable option. Used RVs undergo inspections to ensure they are in good condition.

  • RV Types: Camping World offers a wide variety of RV types, including:

  • Class A Motorhomes: These are the largest type of RV, built on a motor vehicle chassis.

  • Class B Motorhomes (Camper Vans): These are smaller, more maneuverable RVs built on van chassis.
  • Class C Motorhomes: These are built on a cutaway chassis, with an over-cab sleeping area.
  • Travel Trailers: These are towed behind a truck or SUV.
  • Fifth Wheel Trailers: These are towed with a special hitch in the bed of a pickup truck.
  • Pop-Up Campers: These are lightweight trailers that fold down for towing and storage.

  • The RV Buying Process: Buying an RV from Camping World involves several steps:

  • Research: Start by researching the type of RV that meets your needs and budget.

  • Visit a Dealership: Visit a Camping World location to view RVs in person.
  • Financing: If needed, apply for RV financing through Camping World or another lender.
  • Inspection: Carefully inspect the RV before making a purchase.
  • Negotiation: Negotiate the price and terms of the sale.
  • Purchase: Complete the paperwork and take delivery of your RV.

RV Service: What to Expect

RV service is an essential part of RV ownership, and Camping World provides a range of services to keep your RV running smoothly.

• Types of Services: Camping World offers many different RV services, including:

  • Preventative Maintenance: Regular maintenance helps prevent problems and extends the life of your RV. This includes oil changes, filter replacements, and inspections.
  • Repairs: Camping World can handle a wide range of RV repairs, including engine work, plumbing repairs, and electrical repairs.
  • Body Work: If your RV has been damaged in an accident, Camping World can perform body work to restore it to its original condition.
  • Warranty Work: Camping World is authorized to perform warranty work on many RV brands.

  • Scheduling Service: You can usually schedule RV service by:

  • Calling the Service Department: Contact the service department at your local Camping World location.

  • Using the Online Portal: Some Camping World locations offer online service scheduling.
  • Service Costs: The cost of RV service varies depending on the type of service and the parts required. It’s always a good idea to get a quote before authorizing any work.

Camping World Stock: A Brief Overview

Camping World Holdings, Inc. is a publicly traded company. Its stock can be found under the ticker symbol “CWH.”

• Stock Performance: The performance of Camping World stock can be influenced by several factors, including:

  • RV sales trends
  • Economic conditions
  • Company performance
  • Industry trends
  • Investing in Camping World: Investing in Camping World stock involves risks, as with any investment. It’s important to do your own research and consider your investment goals before investing.

Camping World Reviews: What Customers Say

Camping World reviews offer insights into the customer experience. These reviews can be found on:

• Camping World Website: The Camping World website often features customer reviews of products and services.
• Third-Party Review Sites: Sites like Yelp, Google Reviews, and the Better Business Bureau provide customer reviews of Camping World locations.
• RV Forums: RV forums and online communities often have discussions about Camping World.

Analyzing Camping World reviews can give you a better idea of what to expect from their products and services. Look for common themes and patterns in the reviews. Note both positive and negative feedback.

Table: Analyzing Customer Reviews

Category	Positive Feedback	Negative Feedback
RV Sales	Knowledgeable staff, good selection of RVs, smooth purchase process	High-pressure sales tactics, misleading information, issues with financing
RV Service	Quick and efficient repairs, friendly service	Long wait times, poor communication, expensive repairs
Camping Supplies	Wide selection of products, competitive prices	Limited stock, disorganized stores, poor customer service

Comparing Camping World to Competitors

Camping World isn’t the only player in the RV and outdoor market. Here are some of its major competitors:

• RV Dealerships: Many independent RV dealerships compete with Camping World. These dealerships may offer a more personalized shopping experience.
• Outdoor Retailers: Retailers like REI and Bass Pro Shops sell camping supplies and outdoor gear, competing with Camping World in that segment.
• Online Retailers: Online retailers like Amazon offer a wide selection of camping supplies and RV accessories, often at competitive prices.

Table: Comparison of Camping World and Competitors

Feature	Camping World	Independent RV Dealerships	Outdoor Retailers (REI, Bass Pro)	Online Retailers (Amazon)
RV Sales	Yes	Yes	No	No
RV Service	Yes	Yes	No	No
Camping Supplies	Yes	Limited	Yes	Yes
RV Accessories	Yes	Limited	Limited	Yes
Price	Varies	Varies	Often Higher	Often Lower
Selection	Wide	More Limited	Focused on Camping/Hiking	Very Wide
Customer Service	Varies; dependent on location	Can be more personalized	Knowledgeable staff on outdoor gear	Automated; limited human interaction
Convenience	Many locations across the US	Fewer locations	Limited Locations, but strong online presence	Very convenient; ships to your door

Fathoming the Benefits and Drawbacks of Shopping at Camping World

Shopping at Camping World has advantages and disadvantages that shoppers should consider.

Benefits:

• One-Stop Shopping: Camping World is a convenient place to buy an RV, get it serviced, and purchase camping supplies.
• Wide Selection: They offer a huge selection of RVs, accessories, and camping gear.
• Financing Options: Camping World provides financing to help customers buy RVs.
• Service and Repair: They offer RV service and repair at most of their locations.

Drawbacks:

• Customer Service: Customer service can be inconsistent. Some locations have great service, while others have issues.
• Pricing: Prices can be higher than at some competitors, especially online retailers.
• Sales Tactics: Some customers have reported high-pressure sales tactics.
• Service Quality: The quality of RV service can vary.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Camping World

• What is Camping World’s return policy?
  • Camping World’s return policy varies depending on the product. Generally, you can return most items within 30 days of purchase. Check the specific return policy for the item you’re buying.
• Can I finance an RV through Camping World?
  • Yes, Camping World offers RV financing through its financial services department. They work with multiple lenders to find the best rates and terms for you.
• Does Camping World offer RV rentals?
  • No, Camping World does not typically offer RV rentals directly. However, they may partner with RV rental companies in some locations.
• How can I find Camping World locations near me?
  • You can find Camping World locations by using the store locator on their website, using online maps, or checking the Camping World app.
• Does Camping World Price Match?
  • Camping World’s price matching policy can vary. It’s recommended to inquire at your local Camping World location about their current price matching guidelines.
• What are the opening hours of Camping World?
  • Opening hours can vary by location. It’s best to check the hours of your local Camping World on their website or by calling them.
• Does Camping World offer a loyalty program?
  • Yes, Camping World offers a loyalty program called the Good Sam Rewards Visa. This program provides points, discounts, and other benefits.
• Is it possible to order online from Camping World and pick up in store?
  • Yes, Camping World offers online ordering with in-store pickup at many of its locations. Check their website for availability.