The camping equipment industry in the US thrives on a growing demand for outdoor recreation and adventure. This sector includes manufacturers of tents, backpacks, sleeping bags, and cooking gear, as well as companies offering RVs and accessories. With a rise in eco-friendly and innovative products, the industry is adapting to a more environmentally conscious consumer base, ensuring sustainability in both hardware and practices. Trends such as glamping and technology integration, like smart gadgets for camping, are reshaping offerings. As more people seek the great outdoors, the camping equipment industry is poised for expansion and evolution.


This list features 16 notable investors specializing in the camping equipment sector, ranging from private equity firms to corporate investors. Their headquarters span across key US cities like New York, Chicago, and Minneapolis, with firm sizes varying from small teams to large organizations. Established between 1961 and 2023, these firms have been active, collectively tallying over 300 investments in 2024 alone. Noteworthy investors include THOR Industries and Camping World, highlighting a robust interest in the outdoor leisure market amidst evolving consumer preferences and increased activity in eco-sustainable offerings.


Top 16 Camping Equipment Investors in the US


1. Government of Canada

  • Website: canada.ca
  • Type: Corporate
  • Headquarters: Canada, Kentucky, United States (USA)
  • Founded year: 1999
  • Headcount: 10001+
  • Number of deals in 2024: 137
  • LinkedIn: government-of-canada

The Government of Canada is a public entity that provides a wide range of services and information to Canadian citizens and residents, addressing needs such as employment, immigration, health care, and taxation. Founded in 1999, it operates through multiple departments and agencies to ensure access to essential services and support for individuals and businesses across the country. In recent years, the Government of Canada has been involved in several transactions that directly support the camping industry, including grants to Four Seasons Algonquin Cabins, Pourvoirie De la Lièvre, Nicolet River Campground, and Camping Aventure Megantic. These grants, which range from smaller amounts to significant funding like $3,100,000 for Camping coop des Érables de Montmagny, demonstrate the government's commitment to enhancing camping facilities and promoting outdoor activities, thereby contributing to the camping equipment sector.


2. The Middleby Corporation

  • Website: middleby.com
  • Type: Corporate
  • Headquarters: Elgin, Illinois, United States (USA)
  • Founded year: 1888
  • Headcount: 5001-10000
  • Number of deals in 2024: 5
  • LinkedIn: middleby-corporation

The Middleby Corporation is a corporate investor based in Elgin, Illinois, specializing in the manufacturing of commercial and residential cooking and industrial process equipment. Founded in 1888, the company has a long history of providing innovative solutions for foodservice operators and consumers, focusing on enhancing efficiency and quality in food preparation. In recent years, Middleby has expanded its portfolio through strategic acquisitions in the outdoor cooking market, including Masterbuilt Manufacturing and Kamado Joe, which are well-known for their outdoor cooking products. These acquisitions, particularly the $385 million deal for Kamado Joe, highlight Middleby's commitment to enhancing its presence in the outdoor cooking segment, which is closely related to camping activities. Additionally, their acquisition of Lynx Grills further emphasizes their focus on high-quality cooking equipment that can be utilized in outdoor settings, making them a relevant player in the camping equipment space.


3. The Riverside Company


The Riverside Company is a private equity investment firm based in New York, specializing in providing flexible capital solutions and strategic guidance to smaller middle-market businesses across various industries. Founded in 1988, Riverside manages a diverse portfolio of over 140 companies globally. Notably, Riverside has made significant investments in the outdoor and cycling sectors, including the acquisition of Bike24, a German online retailer that focuses on cycling and outdoor products. This investment highlights Riverside's interest in the outdoor recreation market, which is closely related to camping equipment. Additionally, their acquisition of Reima, a company that specializes in outdoor clothing for children, further demonstrates their engagement in the outdoor space. These transactions suggest that Riverside is well-positioned to consider investments in the camping equipment industry.


4. Kkr

  • Website: kkr.com
  • Type: Private Equity
  • Headquarters: New York, New York, United States (USA)
  • Founded year: 1976
  • Headcount: 1001-5000
  • Number of deals in 2024: 74
  • LinkedIn: kkr

KKR & Co. Inc. is a prominent investment firm based in New York, specializing in private equity, credit, infrastructure, and real estate. Founded in 1976, KKR has built a reputation for providing asset management solutions to both institutional investors and individual clients. The firm operates globally, leveraging its extensive expertise to navigate complex investment landscapes. Notably, KKR has made strategic acquisitions in the outdoor and camping equipment sector, including the acquisition of Academy Sports Outdoors in 2011 and Mills Fleet Farm in 2016, both of which are retailers that offer a wide range of camping gear. Additionally, KKR's investment in RVshare, a leading RV rental platform, further emphasizes their commitment to the outdoor recreation market. These transactions highlight KKR's active role in the camping equipment industry, making them a relevant investor in this space.


5. THOR Industries, Inc.

  • Website: thorindustries.com
  • Type: Corporate
  • Headquarters: Elkhart, Indiana, United States (USA)
  • Founded year: 1980
  • Headcount: 10001+
  • Number of deals in 2024: 1
  • LinkedIn: thor-industries

THOR Industries, Inc. is a leading manufacturer of recreational vehicles (RVs) based in Elkhart, Indiana, founded in 1980. The company specializes in a diverse range of towable and motorized RVs, catering to consumers seeking reliable and comfortable vehicles for outdoor adventures. THOR emphasizes the importance of connecting with nature and family experiences through its products. The company has made several strategic acquisitions to enhance its market presence in the camping equipment sector, including the acquisition of Jayco Corp. for approximately $576 million in 2016, which bolstered its offerings in travel and camping trailers. Other notable acquisitions include Keystone RV Company in 2001, Livin' Lite RV in 2013, and Hymer AG in 2018, further expanding its portfolio in the RV market. These transactions highlight THOR's commitment to providing a wide range of camping-related products and services, reinforcing its position as a key player in the camping equipment industry.


6. 500 Global

  • Website: 500.co
  • Type: Venture Capital
  • Headquarters: San Francisco, California, United States (USA)
  • Founded year: 2010
  • Headcount: 201-500
  • Number of deals in 2024: 98
  • LinkedIn: 500-startups

500 Global is a venture capital firm and startup accelerator founded in 2010, based in San Francisco, California. The firm specializes in investing in early-stage technology companies, providing funding, mentorship, and resources to help founders scale their businesses. Notably, 500 Global has made significant investments in companies related to outdoor activities, such as AllTrails, which raised $400K in seed funding to expand its digital network focused on the outdoors. Additionally, they have invested in Bespoke Post, a subscription service that curates luxury items, including those related to outdoor and lifestyle experiences. These transactions highlight 500 Global's engagement with the outdoor and camping sectors, despite their broader focus on technology startups.


7. Camping World

  • Website: campingworld.com
  • Type: Corporate
  • Headquarters: Lincolnshire, Illinois, United States (USA)
  • Founded year: 1966
  • Headcount: 10001+
  • LinkedIn: campingworld

Camping World Holdings, Inc. is a corporate investor based in Lincolnshire, Illinois, specializing in the retail of recreational vehicles (RVs), RV parts, and camping supplies. Founded in 1966, the company serves RV owners and outdoor enthusiasts by providing a wide range of products and services designed to enhance camping and outdoor experiences. Notable transactions include the acquisition of TheHouse.com, an online retailer of outdoor gear, which aligns with Camping World's strategy to enhance its e-commerce presence in the active lifestyle market. Additionally, the acquisition of Gander Mountain and Overton's Inc. for $37.75 million showcases Camping World's commitment to expanding its offerings in camping and outdoor equipment. Other relevant acquisitions include Travelcamp, a regional RV dealership group, and Nomad Reservations, further solidifying Camping World's position in the camping and RV industry.


8. Vista Outdoor Inc.


Vista Outdoor Inc. is a corporate investor based in Anoka, Minnesota, founded in 1916. The company designs, manufactures, and markets a diverse range of sporting and outdoor products, catering to outdoor enthusiasts with high-quality and innovative offerings. Vista Outdoor operates through a portfolio of renowned brands, focusing on performance-driven goods. Notably, the company has made significant acquisitions in the camping equipment sector, including Camp Chef, a leading provider of outdoor cooking solutions, acquired for $74 million in 2016. Additionally, Vista acquired QuietKat, which specializes in electric bikes for outdoor use, further solidifying its presence in the camping market. Other relevant acquisitions include CamelBak Products, known for hydration solutions, and Stone Glacier, which focuses on ultralight backcountry gear. These transactions highlight Vista Outdoor's strategic focus on expanding its influence in the outdoor and camping equipment industry.


9. Deep Tech Fund (an Alumni Ventures Fund)

  • Website: av.vc
  • Type: Venture Capital
  • Headquarters: Manchester, New Hampshire, United States (USA)
  • Founded year: 2023
  • Headcount: 51-200
  • Number of deals in 2024: 258
  • LinkedIn: deep-tech-fund-av-focused-fund

Deep Tech Fund (an Alumni Ventures Fund) is a venture capital firm based in Manchester, New Hampshire, founded in 2023. It provides accredited investors and institutions with access to professionally-managed, diversified venture portfolios. With a network of over 10,000 investors, the firm focuses on connecting them with high-quality investment opportunities in the startup ecosystem. Among its notable transactions, the fund has invested in Klymit, which raised funds in a venture round in 2014 and is recognized for its camping gear products. Additionally, the fund has invested in Getaway, which raised funds in a Series A round in 2018 and offers unique outdoor experiences, further emphasizing its engagement in the camping equipment sector. The fund's diverse portfolio and focus on innovative startups align well with the interests of camping enthusiasts and outdoor adventurers.


10. Northstar Capital

  • Website: northstarcapital.com
  • Type: Private Equity
  • Headquarters: Minneapolis, Minnesota, United States (USA)
  • Founded year: 1993
  • Headcount: 11-50
  • Number of deals in 2024: 1
  • LinkedIn: northstar-capital

Northstar Capital is an investment management firm based in Minneapolis, Minnesota, specializing in junior capital investments and equity co-investments for lower middle market companies. Founded in 1993, the firm has raised nearly $2 billion in capital and focuses on providing tailored financing solutions to financial sponsors, business owners, and management teams across various industries, including healthcare and consumer goods. Notably, Northstar Capital has invested in companies relevant to the camping equipment sector, such as Classic Accessories, which raised $4 million in a private equity round in 2016, and Rite in the Rain, known for its outdoor writing products, which also received private equity funding. These transactions highlight Northstar's engagement with businesses that cater to outdoor and camping enthusiasts, reinforcing their relevance in this niche market.


11. Norwest Equity Partners (NEP)

  • Website: nep.com
  • Type: Private Equity
  • Headquarters: Minneapolis, Minnesota, United States (USA)
  • Founded year: 1961
  • Headcount: 11-50
  • Number of deals in 2024: 1
  • LinkedIn: norwest-equity-partners

Norwest Equity Partners (NEP) is a private equity investment firm based in Minneapolis, Minnesota, founded in 1961. The firm specializes in providing capital and strategic guidance to businesses across various sectors, focusing on building industry leaders through long-term partnerships and sustainable growth. NEP has been involved in several notable transactions relevant to the camping equipment context, including their investment in Christy Sports, which raised funds in 2015 and is known for its outdoor and camping gear. Additionally, NEP's investment in recteq, a company specializing in pellet grills, aligns with the outdoor lifestyle and cooking segment, further emphasizing their engagement in the outdoor equipment market. Other investments, such as those in Bowtech, Pelican Products, and Warn Industries, showcase NEP's diverse portfolio, which includes companies that cater to outdoor enthusiasts and adventure seekers.


12. L Catterton

  • Website: lcatterton.com
  • Type: Private Equity
  • Headquarters: United States (USA)
  • Founded year: 1989
  • Headcount: 201-500
  • Number of deals in 2024: 23
  • LinkedIn: l-catterton

L Catterton is a private equity firm specializing in investment management, focusing on consumer brands across various sectors. Founded in 1989, the firm partners with middle market companies and high-growth enterprises, providing capital and strategic guidance to enhance brand equity and market presence. With a strong emphasis on consumer insights, L Catterton aims to drive growth and innovation within its portfolio companies. Notably, L Catterton has made significant investments in the camping and outdoor sector, including the acquisition of Taxa Outdoors, which manufactures lightweight mobile habitats for outdoor adventures, and Storyteller Overland, which focuses on overland camping vehicles. These investments highlight L Catterton's commitment to enhancing the outdoor experience and expanding its portfolio in the camping equipment industry.


13. Summit Partners

  • Website: summitpartners.com
  • Type: Private Equity
  • Headquarters: Boston, Massachusetts, United States (USA)
  • Founded year: 1984
  • Headcount: 51-200
  • Number of deals in 2024: 13
  • LinkedIn: summit-partners

Summit Partners is a private equity investment firm based in Boston, Massachusetts, founded in 1984. The firm specializes in growth equity, providing capital and resources to category-leading companies primarily in technology, healthcare, and life sciences. However, Summit Partners has also made significant investments in the outdoor and camping equipment sector. Notably, they invested in Keystone RV Company and Grand Design RV, both of which are key players in the recreational vehicle market, catering to camping enthusiasts. Furthermore, their investment in onX Maps, which focuses on enhancing outdoor navigation and experiences, showcases their commitment to supporting companies that cater to outdoor enthusiasts. This diverse portfolio highlights Summit Partners' ability to identify and support growth opportunities across various industries, including camping and outdoor recreation.


14. BRS & Co.


BRS & Co. is a private equity firm based in New York, founded in 1995, specializing in managing assets for lower middle market consumer companies. They provide strategic advice and operational support to management teams, focusing on driving sustainable growth through investments and acquisitions. BRS has a notable presence in the outdoor sector, having completed several relevant transactions, including the acquisition of Gamo Outdoor, a company involved in outdoor sports, and Royal Robbins, known for outdoor apparel. Additionally, they acquired Daisy Outdoor Products, a manufacturer of youth airguns, which are often used in outdoor recreational activities. These investments highlight BRS's commitment to the outdoor and camping equipment market, making them a significant player in this space.


15. Platinum Equity

  • Website: platinumequity.com
  • Type: Private Equity
  • Headquarters: Beverly Hills, California, United States (USA)
  • Founded year: 1995
  • Headcount: 201-500
  • Number of deals in 2024: 20
  • LinkedIn: platinum-equity

Platinum Equity is a private equity firm based in Beverly Hills, California, specializing in mergers, acquisitions, and operations management. Founded in 1995, the firm focuses on investing in established companies across various industries, providing them with capital and operational expertise to enhance their growth and profitability. With a portfolio of approximately 50 companies and managing over $48 billion in assets, Platinum Equity has made significant acquisitions in the outdoor recreation market, including GSM Outdoors, the parent company of several fishing brands, which they acquired in July 2024. This acquisition aligns with their strategy to support growth in outdoor activities. Additionally, they have acquired companies like Tarter Farm and Ranch Equipment, which, while primarily focused on farm equipment, indicates their interest in outdoor-related sectors. Their diverse investment strategy and recent transactions suggest a potential interest in the camping equipment industry.


16. TechNexus Venture Collaborative

  • Website: technexus.com
  • Type: Venture Capital
  • Headquarters: Chicago, Illinois, United States (USA)
  • Founded year: 2007
  • Headcount: 11-50
  • Number of deals in 2024: 5
  • LinkedIn: technexus

TechNexus Venture Collaborative is a venture capital firm based in Chicago, Illinois, founded in 2007. The firm focuses on creating growth opportunities for corporations and entrepreneurs through joint ventures, investment funds, and a collaboration center aimed at fostering innovation and market entry for startups. Notably, TechNexus has been involved in several transactions relevant to the camping equipment industry, particularly with The Dyrt, a camping app that has raised significant funding in multiple rounds, including a Series A and Series B. Their investments in The Dyrt highlight their commitment to supporting ventures that cater to the camping community. Additionally, they have invested in Catch Co., which, while not exclusively a camping company, operates in the outdoor recreation space, further indicating their interest in related sectors.



Camping Equipment Insights: Key Investors in the US


InvestorHeadquarterSizeFoundedDeals 2024
Government of CanadaCanada, Kentucky, United States (USA)10001+1999137
The Middleby CorporationElgin, Illinois, United States (USA)5001-1000018885
The Riverside CompanyNew York, New York, United States (USA)201-500198812
KkrNew York, New York, United States (USA)1001-5000197674
THOR Industries, Inc.Elkhart, Indiana, United States (USA)10001+19801
500 GlobalSan Francisco, California, United States (USA)201-500201098
Camping WorldLincolnshire, Illinois, United States (USA)10001+19660
Vista Outdoor Inc.Anoka, Minnesota, United States (USA)1-1019160
Deep Tech Fund (an Alumni Ventures Fund)Manchester, New Hampshire, United States (USA)51-2002023258
Northstar CapitalMinneapolis, Minnesota, United States (USA)11-5019931
Norwest Equity Partners (NEP)Minneapolis, Minnesota, United States (USA)11-5019611
L CattertonUnited States (USA)201-500198923
Summit PartnersBoston, Massachusetts, United States (USA)51-200198413
BRS & Co.New York, New York, United States (USA)11-5019950
Platinum EquityBeverly Hills, California, United States (USA)201-500199520
TechNexus Venture CollaborativeChicago, Illinois, United States (USA)11-5020075


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