AutoCamp, a boutique outdoor hospitality brand operating nine US locations, raised $1.2 million in under 30 days from 353 investors through the DealMaker crowdfunding platform as the United States turns 250 this weekend. The high-end camping company reported room revenue up 20% over last year and 90% occupancy heading into the Fourth of July weekend, with average daily room rates up 15%. The capital raise aims to fuel growth as demand for outdoor travel experiences rises, with Airbnb reporting searches for stays near national parks up 35% in 2026 and Hilton's 2026 trends report showing 37% of travelers prioritize spending time in nature.
AutoCamp Reports 20% Revenue Growth and 90% Occupancy
AutoCamp operates nine locations across the United States, from Joshua Tree in California to Cape Cod, Massachusetts. The company offers Airstream suites, polished cabins, fire pits, design-forward amenities and access to outdoor destinations. Chief commercial officer Bryan Terzi told CNBC the company's appeal centers on a luxury camping experience requiring no tents, grills or camping gear. "It's really kind of that cross-section of tapping into people's nostalgia of what they remember from when they were young but also creating an environment to make memories with their families and children," Terzi stated. Heading into the Fourth of July weekend, the company reported 90% occupancy across its portfolio with average daily room rates up 15%.
AutoCamp Raises $1.2 Million Through DealMaker Crowdfunding Platform
Using the DealMaker crowdfunding platform, AutoCamp raised $1.2 million in less than 30 days from 353 investors, many of them past guests. DealMaker stated it was one of the fastest raises the platform has seen, with exceptional early investor interest. The US Securities and Exchange Commission permits regulated crowdfunding of up to $5 million annually through an SEC-registered platform. Investment materials include warnings that positions can be illiquid, speculative and difficult to value. This month, a $10,000 investment in AutoCamp comes with 2% bonus for additional shares on top of the 4% shares the investor receives, plus a $400 gift card to be used on the booking platform.
Outdoor Travel Demand Rises Across Hospitality Sector
Visitor interest in AutoCamp coincides with rising demand for visits to America's parks. Airbnb said it saw searches for stays near a national park up 35% in 2026. The company said nature and outdoor experiences are the top-booked experience category. According to Hilton's 2026 trends report, 37% of travelers said that spending time in nature is a top reason they travel. Hilton has a partnership with AutoCamp as part of a broader strategy to invest in experiential offerings. Hilton said it saw a 30% rise in direct bookings with AutoCamp on its platform, with nearly half booked with Hilton Honors loyalty points.
Hospitality Companies Adopt Crowdfunding Models
AutoCamp joins a recent wave of hospitality companies delving into fractional ownership. Overthrow Hospitality, a plant-based food and beverage company, raised nearly a million dollars from 403 investors using the investment crowdfunding service StartEngine. MAF Hospitality, an Italian-inspired restaurant, vintner and hotel brand, offers investment opportunities through Wefunder. Rebecca Kacaba, CEO and co-founder of DealMaker, stated that customers get a real sense of participation in something they care about. "They're putting money into businesses they understand firsthand: tangible products, real experiences, brands they've already interacted with. That alignment between consumer behavior and investment is something retail investors find increasingly appealing," Kacaba said. Terzi stated that customers staying with AutoCamp, then investing with the company, tell friends about their experience and investment in the brand's growth.
FAQ
What did AutoCamp raise through its crowdfunding campaign?
AutoCamp raised $1.2 million in less than 30 days from 353 investors through the DealMaker crowdfunding platform. DealMaker stated it was one of the fastest raises the platform has seen.
How is AutoCamp performing heading into the Fourth of July weekend?
AutoCamp reported room revenue up 20% over last year and 90% occupancy across its portfolio heading into the Fourth of July weekend, with average daily room rates up 15%.
Why is demand for outdoor hospitality experiences rising?
Airbnb reported searches for stays near a national park up 35% in 2026, and Hilton's 2026 trends report showed 37% of travelers said spending time in nature is a top reason they travel. Airbnb stated nature and outdoor experiences are the top-booked experience category.
