New Escapees Owner Joel Holland Reflects on ’25 Escapade – RVBusiness – Breaking RV Industry News
EDITOR’S NOTE: RVBusiness partnered with Harvest Hosts CEO Joel Holland to have him write the following report from the 2025 Escapade, the annual gathering of the Escapees RV Owners club. Harvest Hosts, the membership-based organization that matches RVers with campsites on private landowners, acquired Escapees in August of 2024, and the 2025 Escapade represented the first significant event since that transaction.
What an unforgettable week we just had at Escapade 2025 in Tucson, Ariz.! With the theme Let’s Fiesta, we transformed the Pima County Fairgrounds into a vibrant celebration of RV life, community and adventure.
This was the first Escapade since Escapees joined the Harvest Hosts family, and the fiesta theme could not have been more fitting. From the moment I arrived, I felt the energy, warmth and excitement that makes this community so special. Whether it was dancing at the lively evening entertainment, sharing stories over tacos, or engaging in insightful conversations about the future of Escapees, this event was truly one for the books.
One of my favorite parts of the week? Jumping into my golf cart, picking up attendees, and giving them rides. It was the perfect way to meet so many Escapees members, hear their incredible RVing stories, and gather valuable feedback on what the members want to see in this amazing community going forward. The friendship, laughter and camaraderie throughout the week were a true reminder of why we are so excited to have Escapees as part of the Harvest Hosts family.
As an experienced RVer, I thought I knew it all — until I attended the seminars. The topics ranged from solar power and boondocking strategies to RV safety and travel planning. There was truly something for every kind of RVer. After a full day of learning, I made sure to reward myself by partaking in the legendary Escapade happy hours – because what’s a fiesta without a little celebration?
One of the biggest surprises of the week? Escapees Got Talent. I had a front row seat to the show and was blown away by how many talented members we have in this community! The enthusiasm and creativity on display made for one of the most memorable nights of the event.
We also had Harvest Hosts representatives on-site, assisting members with the new website and helping them sign up for our All-Access Plan — a new membership option designed to bring even more value to Escapees members by bundling Escapees, Harvest Hosts and Boondockers Welcome into one seamless experience. This plan offers RVers the best of both worlds — unique camping experiences combined with the most supportive RV community out there. The launch of All-Access in early March brought the Escapees family to over 70,000 active memberships, making it the largest social RV club in the world. And we’re just getting started!
A major highlight of the event was our Escapees & Harvest Hosts update session, where we shared our exciting plans for the future of Escapees. As I told the audience at Escapade, our goal is simple: to honor and carry on (founder) Kay Peterson’s vision. We are deeply committed to preserving everything that makes this community incredible while expanding benefits, enhancing events and making membership even more rewarding. Following the session, we held a Q&A where thoughtful questions and valuable feedback flowed freely. There were also smaller listening sessions where members could share their thoughts on the past, present, and future of Escapees. These conversations will play a key role in ensuring the bright future of the club.
I want to personally thank our incredible exhibitors, sponsors, and attendees who make Escapees such a success. I also want to give a special callout to the amazing volunteers that help bring this event to life. The event would not have been possible without your participation. From the vendors showcasing innovative RV products to the tireless volunteers who kept everything running smoothly – thank you!
Don’t miss out on Escapade 2026, which will be held in Fryeburg, Maine, in June 2026. Get ready for lobster, scenic views, and unforgettable memories. We can’t wait to see you there!
Viva Escapees!
Joel Holland
CEO, Harvest Hosts
