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Good Sam Enterprises
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Good Sam Enterprises
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Good Sam Enterprises (formerly Affinity Group or AGI) is a provider of membership clubs, as well as subscription-based products, services and publications, targeted toward recreational vehicle and other outdoor enthusiasts in the United States and Canada. Additionally, the company operates 187 stores of Camping World, a leading RV-related specialty retailer, and RV.net, an RV-focused website.

Key Information

The company is the composite of several distinct businesses acquired through a leveraged buildup in the 1980s and 1990s and traces its earliest predecessors back to 1935.

The company is based in Lincolnshire, Illinois with major operations in Englewood, Colorado and is owned by Camping World.

History

[edit]

AGI's antecedents date back to 1935, with the first publication of Woodall's Travel Trailer Magazine,[1] followed by the publication of the first Woodall's directory in 1948. The Good Sam Club was founded in 1966, the same year that the first Camping World location opened in Bowling Green, Kentucky. Coast to Coast Resorts (“Coast to Coast”) and the Golf Card were introduced in 1972 and 1974, respectively.[2][3]

Historical Affinity Group logo
Last Affinity Group logo

On December 23, 1988, the direct predecessor of AGI acquired a company called American Bakeries Company, owned by investor Stephen Adams, for approximately $138 million.[citation needed] Adams was a noted private equity investor in the 1980s completing rollups of billboard assets to form Adams Outdoor Advertising and he also owns or has owned various banking, bottling, publishing as well as television and radio companies.[4][5] At the time of the merger, the sole operating assets of American Bakeries Company were TL Enterprises, Inc. and Camp Coast to Coast, Inc. These entities consisted of what is today the Good Sam Club, Coast to Coast, AGI's subscription-based products and services business and the Company's RV-related publications, with the exception of the Woodall's titles.[6][7]

From 1990 through 1997, the Company made a number of significant acquisitions that expanded AGI's scale and presence. In 1990, the Company acquired Golf Card International, Inc. for approximately $18 million. Subsequently, in May 1994, AGI acquired Woodall Publishing Company, L.P. and Woodall World of Travel, L.P. (collectively Woodall's) for approximately $11.5 million.

In October 1993, AGI completed a leveraged recapitalization consisting of a $50 million credit facility and a $120 million of 11½% AGI senior subordinated notes due 2003. As part of the recapitalization, Stephen Adams increased his fully diluted ownership from approximately 71% to approximately 97%.

In 1995, AGI acquired San Francisco Thrift and Loan (founded in 1982) and the company's headquarters were relocated to Ventura, California. In 1997 the bank was renamed Affinity Bank and in 1999, AGI transferred ownership to Affinity Bank Holdings, Inc. a separate entity controlled by Adams.[8]

U.S. bank regulators closed Affinity Bank of Ventura, California on August 28, 2009. The Federal Deposit Insurance Corp said Affinity had $1 billion in assets and about $922 million in deposits. Pacific Western Bank of San Diego agreed to assume all the deposits of Affinity. Affinity Bank had 10 branches. The FDIC estimates Affinity's failure will cost its deposit insurance fund $254 million.

In March 1997, as part of the Company's $130 million offering of the holding company notes due 2007, AGI acquired Camping World, Inc. and Ehlert Publishing for approximately $123 million and $22.3 million, respectively.[9][10][11]

Subsequently, the Company focused on integrating its operations and repaying indebtedness. In October 1998, the Company issued $200 million of senior secured credit facilities to repay its then existing senior credit facility as well as the AGI Subordinated Notes, and in December 2001 the Company completed a $52.3 million property sale / leaseback transaction, the proceeds of which were used to repay senior indebtedness.

On August 15, 2009, AGI failed to make a $6.2 million interest payment to bondholders, and Standard & Poors subsequently lowered AGI's credit rating to D. Standard & Poor reported that they had taken this view because bondholders will be receiving less than par value for the notes and because of the company's highly leveraged financial profile, weak operating outlook, and limited liquidity given the near-term maturity of its senior credit facility. In May 2011, AGI announced that it was changing the company's name to Good Sam Enterprises.[12] Ehlert Publishing was spun off by 2013 as a separate company under the control of the Adams family.[13]

In early October 2016, Camping World raised $251 million in an initial public offering. The 11.4 million shares sold for $22 each. Marcus Lemonis co-owns the company with private equity firm Crestview Partners and plans to retain "substantial control" through his ownership of ML Acquisition and ML R.V. Group.[14]

In late October 2016, Good Sam Enterprises acquired five consumer tradeshows from Odyssey Management, expanding its media and events activities, according to Camping World Holdings.[15]

Strategic review

[edit]

In January 2024, Camping World Holdings announced it was reviewing potential strategic alternatives for its Good Sam business, including a possible sale, spin-off, or other disposition, and stated that no decision had been made and no deadline had been set for the review process.[16]

Financial partnerships

[edit]

In December 2025, Good Sam announced an expanded partnership with Octane Lending to support branded financing ("Good Sam Powered by Octane") across Camping World's dealership locations and digital purchasing platforms; the announcement also said Good Sam participated in Octane's Series F funding round.[17]

Programs and offerings

[edit]

An investor presentation describing the Good Sam business lists program categories that include emergency assistance (such as roadside assistance and travel assistance), financial protection programs (including extended service plans and an insurance agency), tire and maintenance programs, and campground/destination and loyalty products (including memberships, travel guides, and Coast to Coast Resorts). Good Sam offers a variety of products and services for RV owners and outdoor travelers, including roadside assistance and protection products, insurance programs, campground and destination services, and rewards programs targeted at members of the Good Sam Club and affiliated networks.[18][19][20]

See also

[edit]

References

[edit]
[edit]
Revisions and contributorsEdit on WikipediaRead on Wikipedia

Good Sam Enterprises

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from Grokipedia
Good Sam Enterprises is an American company specializing in membership clubs, roadside assistance, insurance, extended service plans, and campground networks for recreational vehicle (RV) owners and travelers. Its core Good Sam Club was founded in 1966 as a community inspired by the biblical Good Samaritan to promote mutual aid among motorists. Originally established to foster a network of RV enthusiasts sharing travel experiences and support, the company grew from a small group placing identifying stickers on vehicles to a major provider serving millions of members over nearly six decades. The holding company, originally known as Affinity Group Inc. (formed in 1992), rebranded to Good Sam Enterprises in May 2011 under the leadership of , who became CEO in 2010 and later integrated it into broader RV ecosystem operations. Today, as a of , Inc., headquartered in , with key operations in , Good Sam Enterprises offers comprehensive benefits including 24/7 , discounts at over 2,000 affiliated campgrounds, vehicle warranties, emergency medical coverage, and financial protection products tailored to the RV lifestyle. The organization reached a milestone of two million members in 2018 and continues to serve over 2 million members as of 2024, underscoring its role as a leading steward of the RV community.

History

Founding and Early Development

Affinity Group, Inc. (AGI), the direct predecessor to Good Sam Enterprises, was incorporated as a corporation on September 25, 1986, to oversee membership-based services and publications primarily targeted at (RV) owners. However, the company's foundational elements originated earlier with the development of RV-specific offerings through affiliated entities. Trailer Life magazine, a seminal publication in the RV sector, was launched in July 1941 as Western Trailer Life by the Trailer Manufacturers Association to promote and support the nascent and trailer industry. In 1966, the publishers of Trailer Life established the Good Sam Club as a dedicated roadside assistance and community program for RVers, inspired by the biblical parable of the Good Samaritan, which emphasized helping travelers in need. This initiative marked a shift from general membership services to specialized RV support, fostering a network of volunteers who pledged mutual aid on the road. The club quickly became a central component of the emerging RV ecosystem, aligning with the post-World War II surge in leisure travel and vehicle ownership. By the late , the had expanded its core services to include basic travel protection features such as emergency towing, assistance, and battery jump-starts, addressing common challenges faced by RVers. Membership grew steadily from its initial small base of enthusiasts, reaching thousands by the end of the decade and reflecting the broader popularization of RVing as an affordable family vacation option. In 1968, the club introduced its campground affiliation network, providing discounted stays at participating sites to enhance member benefits and community ties. During the , under Trailer Life Enterprises (TLE), the organizational umbrella for these operations, Trailer Life magazine solidified its role as a key resource, offering practical advice on RV maintenance, travel destinations, and lifestyle tips to support the club's growing membership. This period saw continued evolution toward integrated RV services, setting the stage for future consolidation while prioritizing community-driven assistance over broad general clubs.

Expansion into RV Services

Following its founding in 1966, Good Sam Enterprises, through its core , began diversifying its offerings in the to better serve the burgeoning (RV) community amid rising interest in mobile travel lifestyles. A key initiative was the launch of the Trailer Life Directory in , which provided comprehensive ratings and information on over 11,700 RV parks and campgrounds across , serving as an essential resource for members planning trips. This directory not only facilitated safer and more informed travel but also positioned the company as a central hub for RV infrastructure knowledge during a period when RV ownership surged due to economic prosperity and cultural shifts toward . By the late 1970s, the company expanded further with the development of the Good Sam Network, a discount program that offered members savings at participating RV parks, campgrounds, and service stations, eventually encompassing over 2,000 private campgrounds. This network enhanced member value by providing practical benefits like reduced camping fees and fuel discounts, directly supporting the club's ethos of mutual aid among RVers. Complementing these services, Good Sam introduced RV insurance programs in 1978, which included coverage tailored to vehicle maintenance and travel risks, laying the groundwork for later extended service plans that addressed repair needs beyond standard warranties. These additions capitalized on the RV market's expansion, where annual sales and ownership grew steadily through the decade. The company's entry into specialized publishing further solidified its role in the RV sector, with magazine increasing to nine issues per year in 1977 to meet demand from motorized RV enthusiasts. Originally launched as an annual buyer's guide in 1968 by Trailer Life Publishing (the parent entity), evolved into a bimonthly and then more frequent publication, reaching over 120,000 subscribers by the mid-1980s and featuring in-depth coverage of RV innovations, travel tips, and lifestyle trends. This publishing arm targeted the growing demographic of RV users, who benefited from educational content amid the recreational vehicle boom that saw U.S. RV shipments peak at approximately 65,000 units in 1973 before a decline, recovering to over 200,000 units by the mid-1980s. These expansions contributed to significant gains for Good Sam, with club membership climbing to over 480,000 by 1986, representing a substantial portion of the North American RV owner base and generating one-third of the company's revenues from membership-related services. The focus on through targeted RV products helped Good Sam navigate the industry's volatility, including a brief downturn in the early , by fostering loyalty and establishing dominance in roadside support and travel resources during the overall RV enthusiasm of the era.

Acquisitions and Ownership Shifts

In 1988, Stephen Adams, through his company American Bakeries Company, acquired TL Enterprises, Inc. (publisher of Trailer Life magazine) and Camp Coast to Coast, Inc. for approximately $138 million. This deal integrated Good Sam's membership services with Camp Coast to Coast's network of over 400 campgrounds and its 200,000 members, significantly expanding access to RV destinations and enhancing publication offerings for enthusiasts. By October 1993, Affinity Group Inc. (AGI), formed in 1992 to oversee Good Sam, TL Enterprises, and Camp Coast to Coast, underwent a leveraged recapitalization involving a $50 million credit facility and $120 million in senior subordinated notes. As part of this , Adams increased his fully diluted ownership in AGI from approximately 71% to 97%, consolidating control and enabling streamlined decision-making across the group's RV-focused entities. In 1997, AGI further expanded through the acquisitions of , Inc. for $123 million and Ehlert Publishing, Inc. for $22.3 million. , with its 26 retail stores and mail-order catalog specializing in RV supplies, complemented AGI's membership and publishing arms by adding direct retail channels. Ehlert Publishing brought additional magazines, such as and WaterCraft World, diversifying AGI's media portfolio beyond core RV content. These acquisitions fostered operational synergies, including unified RV supply chains that reduced costs through integrated sourcing and distribution between retail, membership perks, and publications. For instance, Camping World's retail network extended discounts to Good Sam and President's Club members, while shared marketing with RV manufacturers strengthened and across the portfolio.

Rebranding and Modern Integration

In May 2011, , LLC officially changed its name to Good Sam Enterprises, LLC through a Certificate of Amendment filed with the , aiming to highlight the prominence of its flagship brand within the RV community. This rebranding reflected a strategic shift to consolidate the company's identity around its core membership and services offerings, moving away from the broader moniker that encompassed various recreational affiliations. Post-rebranding, Good Sam Enterprises deepened its integration with , which had been acquired by its predecessor in 1997, through shared operational structures and executive alignments beginning in late 2010 under CEO . A key aspect of this integration occurred on January 1, 2012, when the merged with the Camping World President's Club to form a unified , enhancing member benefits such as discounts and across both entities. This operational synergy positioned Good Sam as a central within the evolving ecosystem, supporting cross-promotions in retail, services, and events. Camping World Holdings, Inc., established as the parent company, fully acquired and integrated Good Sam Enterprises, solidifying its role as a vital component of the group's revenue streams from memberships and related services. In October 2016, Camping World Holdings completed its on the , raising $251 million by selling 11.4 million shares at $22 each, with Good Sam's membership base and service portfolio significantly bolstering the company's overall valuation and market positioning in the RV sector. By 2025, Good Sam Enterprises had advanced its digital infrastructure to modernize member services, including ongoing enhancements to the Good Sam Travel app for campground reservations, route planning, and real-time roadside assistance, alongside the Good Sam Perks app for accessing exclusive discounts and rewards on a mobile platform. These updates, rolled out progressively from 2023 onward, enable members to manage accounts, earn loyalty points, and locate services digitally, aligning with broader industry trends toward app-based RV support.

Corporate Structure and Operations

Headquarters and Facilities

Good Sam Enterprises maintains its corporate headquarters in , which serves as the primary administrative center for strategic decision-making, executive operations, and overall within its parent company, , Inc. Located at 2 Marriott Drive, Lincolnshire, IL 60069, this facility coordinates key business functions, including finance, marketing, and integration of subsidiary services tailored to the RV and outdoor recreation sectors. A significant operational hub is situated in , at 64 Inverness Drive East, where core customer-facing activities are managed, including support and dispatch for members nationwide. This location handles 24/7 roadside emergency responses, extended service plan inquiries, and membership-related support, leveraging a dedicated call center infrastructure to ensure rapid assistance for travelers. The Englewood facility also processes subscription-based services, contributing to the seamless delivery of protection and travel aid programs. As part of its distribution and service ecosystem, Good Sam Enterprises relies on a nationwide network of 197 Camping World retail stores, which function as key points for product distribution, member engagement, and ancillary services like RV and accessories. These stores, spread across the , provide physical touchpoints for Good Sam members to access discounts, repairs, and promotional events, enhancing the integration of membership benefits with retail operations. The company's infrastructure extends to supporting campground affiliations via the Good Sam Network, encompassing over 2,000 partner sites that offer discounted stays and amenities to members. This extensive affiliation system, facilitated through centralized coordination from the headquarters and operational centers, enables standardized rating, booking, and quality assurance processes across participating locations in .

Leadership and Governance

Good Sam Enterprises operates under the leadership of Marcus A. Lemonis, who serves as Chairman and of its parent company, , Inc., a position he has held since the company's in 2016. Lemonis was appointed CEO in connection with the 2011 integration of Good Sam Enterprises (then known as , Inc.) with , where he has overseen the strategic vision, including the expansion of membership services and synergies between RV retail and roadside assistance offerings. The company's historical governance was shaped by founder Stephen Adams, who established in 1993 as a for the and related RV services, serving as Chairman until the 2011 ownership transfer to amid the broader corporate combination. Adams, a investor, influenced early decisions on acquisitions like in 1997, guiding the entity's growth into a comprehensive RV support network before stepping back following the integration. Under , as of 2025, the comprises individuals with deep expertise in the RV and industries, including Chairman Marcus A. Lemonis; K. Dillon Schickli, a director since 2006 with prior roles at Good Sam Enterprises; Brent L. Moody, Chairman since May 2025 with operational experience from RV dealerships; , Lead contributing financial and oversight; and other members such as Andris A. Baltins, Brian P. Cassidy, Michael W. Malone, and Kathleen S. Lane. This composition emphasizes strategic alignment with RV market dynamics, with directors like Schickli and Moody providing continuity from pre-merger operations to support decisions on service innovation and member engagement. Post-2011 and integration, Good Sam Enterprises has implemented policies prioritizing member through a comprehensive data protection framework, which outlines the collection, use, and disclosure of such as contact details and payment for service delivery and marketing, while offering opt-out options for communications and ad tracking. These policies comply with applicable laws, including restrictions on collecting from children under 16, and employ security measures to safeguard member information, though absolute security is not guaranteed. Additionally, service standards are enforced via a code of conduct that requires members to use services for personal, non-commercial purposes, prohibits illegal or offensive activities, and allows the company to suspend access for violations, ensuring high standards of community interaction and roadside assistance reliability.

Workforce and Organizational Scale

Good Sam Enterprises employed approximately 1,700 people as of 2022, a figure that has since grown in tandem with retail expansions under its parent company, , Inc. The company operates through a divisional structure that includes dedicated teams for services such as and travel protection, retail operations encompassing campground networks and merchandise, and publishing units responsible for magazines and targeted at RV enthusiasts. Employment emphasizes roles filled by RV specialists who provide technical expertise on recreational vehicles, customer support representatives handling member inquiries, and field technicians dispatched for on-site roadside interventions. To ensure effective response capabilities, the organization invests in training programs for its service teams, focusing on protocols for managing travel-related emergencies including vehicle breakdowns and medical referrals.

Products and Services

Membership Clubs

The , the flagship membership program of Good Sam Enterprises, was founded in 1966 following a subscriber's letter published in the magazine Trailer News (later Trailer Life), which proposed a system of decals for trustworthy RVers to signal mutual assistance on the road. Inspired by the , the club's publisher adopted the idea, creating the first "Good Sam" bumper stickers featuring a haloed, smiling figure to foster a supportive community among owners. Initially focused on RV enthusiasts, the club quickly grew by chartering local chapters, such as the first regional group, the Ute Salt Shakers, in 1968, emphasizing camaraderie and roadside aid. The club offers tiered membership levels tailored to RVers, providing discounts on fuel, camping, and repairs as core benefits. The Basic tier is free upon signing up for a Good Sam account and includes 1% back in points on qualifying purchases at partner retailers like Camping World. The Standard tier, priced at $39 annually, adds 5% back in points, 10% discounts at over 2,000 participating campgrounds, and 10 cents per gallon off fuel at Pilot Flying J locations. The Elite tier, at $99 annually (regularly $149), builds on Standard benefits with enhanced perks such as free overnight stays at select campgrounds, access to the RV ProCare maintenance suite for repairs, and concierge services for trip coordination. Enrollment is straightforward, completed online via the Good Sam website, where new members receive a digital membership card and number via email within 48 hours, along with access to a personalized dashboard for managing perks. Beyond discounts, membership perks emphasize and planning, including trip planning tools through the Good Sam app and website for routing, campground searches, and reservations, as well as participation in community events like RV rallies, tours, and shows that promote socialization among members. With approximately 1.8 million members as of December 2024, the club serves as North America's largest RV , hosting events such as state-level gatherings and national rallies to build lasting connections. Over time, the has evolved to include auto options, extending its protective services beyond pure RV focus to cover automobiles through add-on plans that integrate with core membership benefits. This expansion reflects the company's broader mission to support all travelers, while maintaining its RV-centric roots.

Roadside Assistance and Travel Protection

Good Sam Enterprises offers 24/7 tailored for recreational vehicles (RVs), automobiles, and trucks, providing essential emergency support to keep travelers moving. This service encompasses a range of interventions, including , changes, battery jump-starts, delivery, lockout assistance, winching, and RV-specific repairs such as slide-out adjustments or appliance diagnostics, often performed by on-site technicians or mobile repair units. Available through various membership plans starting at $64.95 annually for the Standard plan, these services emphasize rapid response and nationwide coverage, including , , , and the U.S. . A key feature of Good Sam's roadside assistance is its towing provisions, which include unlimited distance to the nearest qualified service center for premium plans like Platinum, ensuring no additional mileage fees or out-of-pocket costs for covered events. The program operates through an extensive network of over 40,000 independent specialists and service providers across , enabling efficient dispatch and quality assurance through vetted partnerships. Response mechanisms are enhanced by GPS locator technology, which pinpoints the member's exact location during calls to the toll-free dispatch line (1-800-947-0770), facilitating faster arrival times and real-time service updates. Complementing immediate roadside aid, Good Sam provides Extended Service Plans (ESP) as mechanical breakdown for and RV repairs, extending beyond standard manufacturer warranties to cover unexpected failures in engines, transmissions, electrical systems, and more. These plans offer flexible pay-as-you-go options, with coverage available for new up to $750,000 for towable RVs and $1 million for motorhomes depending on vehicle type, and used models based on current , administered through insurance-backed policies that reimburse repair costs at authorized facilities. ESP includes access to a preferred provider network for streamlined claims processing, focusing on high-cost components without deductibles in many cases. For broader travel protection, Good Sam's TravelAssist program addresses medical emergencies and related disruptions, coordinating hospital referrals, family travel reimbursements (up to $100 per day for incidentals), and vehicle return services if the owner is incapacitated. This includes pet support benefits, such as boarding or return transportation, integrated seamlessly with roadside services to provide comprehensive safeguards for extended trips. While premium members receive discounts on related services like rentals or hotels, the core emphasis remains on on-demand emergency response rather than ongoing perks.

Insurance Offerings

Good Sam Enterprises provides specialized products through the Good Sam Insurance Agency, offering coverage for recreational vehicles (RVs), automobiles, homes, and boats designed specifically for travelers and vehicle owners. These policies emphasize flexibility, with options for customizable deductibles that allow policyholders to adjust coverage levels based on their needs and tolerance. A key feature is full-timer RV coverage, tailored for individuals who use their RV as a for at least six months annually, accommodating nomadic lifestyles with comprehensive including liability, collision, and safeguards. Policies also integrate options, enabling seamless addition of emergency services to enhance . Unique elements include full replacement cost coverage for new RVs in their first five model years and protection for permanent attachments and personal effects. Since the 1990s, the agency has partnered with major underwriters primarily through National General Group carriers, with historical collaborations including Progressive, Foremost Insurance Group, and to handle policy issuance and claims processing, ensuring reliable support through a network of top-rated carriers. This collaboration allows for competitive quotes and specialized handling for RV-related incidents, drawing on decades of experience in serving the RV community.

Publications and Digital Media

Good Sam Enterprises has long been a key provider of print publications tailored to the RV community, with major titles acquired and expanded starting in the late . In 1988, the company's predecessor, TL Enterprises (later part of Inc., or AGI), acquired Trailer Life Publishing, which included the flagship Trailer Life magazine founded in 1941 and its sister publication , launched in the to focus on motorized RVs. These magazines offered in-depth reviews of recreational vehicles, advice, and features, achieving significant circulation among RV owners—Trailer Life exceeded 300,000 subscribers and surpassed 120,000 by the late . In 1994, AGI further expanded its portfolio by acquiring Woodall Publications for an undisclosed amount, incorporating the iconic Woodall's Campground Directory—first published in 1948—and seven regional titles such as Carolina RV and Florida RV Traveler, which provided campground ratings, travel itineraries, and regional news. These publications emphasized practical content for RV enthusiasts, including maintenance tips for vehicle upkeep, detailed destination guides to campsites and routes, and coverage of industry news like regulatory changes and new model releases. Annual editions of the Woodall's Campground Directory, for instance, listed thousands of verified sites with amenities and ratings, serving as essential planning tools. Circulation remained robust into the 2000s, with Trailer Life maintaining its position as North America's most popular RV magazine, though exact figures varied with market trends. The content not only educated readers on safe travel and repairs but also promoted Good Sam's membership benefits, fostering . Transitioning to digital media, Good Sam Enterprises launched RV.net in 2000 as a central online hub, evolving it into a vibrant platform with such as forums for peer advice, campground reviews from members, and interactive guides. RV.net has been integrated into the Good Sam Community forums at community.goodsam.com, maintaining user-driven elements like reviews and forums to engage the RV community. Accessible via community.goodsam.com, the site hosted discussions on everything from RV modifications to trip planning, drawing millions of visits annually by the early and supporting online sales growth of over 86% in 2012 alone. Post-2010, the company accelerated its digital shift amid declining print demand, introducing subscription-based digital editions and apps for Trailer Life and content. By 2020, Good Sam discontinued the print versions of these magazines with their December issues, redirecting resources to a unified digital platform, RV.com, launched alongside the new RV Magazine title. RV Magazine was rebranded as Wildsam Magazine in , which continues with print and digital issues, becoming an exclusive member benefit from January 2026. Subscriptions automatically converted to digital access, emphasizing articles on , destinations, and , while retaining user-driven elements like reviews and forums to engage the RV community.

Retail and Campground Networks

Good Sam Enterprises operates a network of retail outlets primarily through its subsidiary , which was acquired in 1997 by the company's predecessor, , and has since expanded into the largest RV dealership chain in the United States. As of late 2025, maintains approximately 200 superstores nationwide, specializing in the sales of new and used recreational vehicles (RVs), along with parts, accessories, and outdoor gear tailored to RV enthusiasts. These superstores serve as key consumer access points, offering comprehensive shopping experiences that combine vehicle purchases with essential maintenance supplies and lifestyle products. The Good Sam Campground Network complements this retail infrastructure by partnering with over 2,000 RV parks and campgrounds across , enabling members to access discounted stays at participating sites. Eligible users receive a standard 10% discount on nightly RV site rates at these locations, excluding additional fees such as utilities or reservations. Reservations for these sites can be facilitated through the Good Sam mobile app, online directory, or by phone, streamlining trip planning for travelers. Retail operations integrate seamlessly with broader Good Sam services, allowing customers to enroll in extended warranties and plans directly in-store during RV purchases or service visits. Superstores frequently host demo events, where visitors can test-drive RVs and explore accessories in a hands-on setting, enhancing the connection between retail sales and practical travel preparation. Recent expansions include dedicated service centers at select locations, providing maintenance and repairs for both RVs and tow vehicles to support ongoing customer mobility.

Financial Overview

Revenue and Economic Impact

Good Sam Enterprises, as a key segment of , Inc., derives its primarily from membership fees, insurance premiums, , extended service plans, and integrated retail sales through dealership partnerships. In 2024, the Good Sam Services and Plans segment generated $194.6 million in , while the Good Sam Club segment added $46.1 million, resulting in a combined total of approximately $240.7 million. These figures reflect the business's focus on recurring streams that support RV owners and travelers, with high gross margins of 63.7% for services and plans and 89.6% for club memberships. A detailed breakdown of income streams, based on data ended September 30, 2023, shows approximately 51% derived from outdoor enthusiast activities including memberships and publications such as Trailer Life and magazines, 32% from data and CRM activities encompassing marketing and service integrations, and 17% from direct dealership and retail contributions. Within the services and plans category, and tire/wheel protection accounted for about 40% ($79 million), extended service plans for 21% ($41 million), and , assistance, and financing for another 21% ($41 million). This diversified structure underscores the company's emphasis on high-margin, subscription-based offerings that drive customer loyalty and stable cash flows. Good Sam Enterprises plays a vital economic role in the RV industry by enabling safe and affordable for millions of members through its network of over 2,000 participating campgrounds and partnerships with suppliers and service providers. These collaborations facilitate supplier ecosystems, from parts distribution to campground operations, indirectly supporting job creation across the sector; the broader RV industry, bolstered by entities like Good Sam, contributes $140 billion annually to the U.S. economy and sustains nearly 680,000 jobs nationwide. With around 280-400 employees dedicated to its operations, Good Sam enhances industry resilience by promoting RV adoption and tourism-related spending. Following the surge in domestic travel demand after 2020, Good Sam experienced notable growth, particularly in core services, with compound annual growth rates of 14% for and tire/wheel protection and 13% for extended service plans from 2019 to the third quarter of 2023. This expansion aligned with the RV industry's post-pandemic boom, where heightened interest in drove increased memberships and plan enrollments, further solidifying Good Sam's position as a stable revenue contributor amid fluctuating vehicle sales.

Key Financial Milestones

In 1988, investor Stephen Adams acquired Trailer Life Enterprises, the parent of the , which stabilized the company's finances and enabled subsequent expansions into membership services and publications. This ownership shift laid the groundwork for the formation of Affinity Group Inc. in 1992, consolidating operations under Adams' control and fostering growth in the RV sector. Following financial challenges in the late , the company underwent a rebranding in late 2010 when became CEO of Affinity Group Inc., renaming it Good Sam Enterprises in 2011 to better align with its core RV community focus. This restructuring improved profitability by streamlining operations and emphasizing services, with gross margins in the segment rising to 62.5% by 2022. management efforts intensified post-rebranding, including the integration of entities like FreedomRoads, which reduced overall leverage and positioned the company for public market entry. The 2016 initial public offering of Camping World Holdings, Inc., which incorporated Good Sam Enterprises, raised $251 million, with net proceeds of $243.8 million used to repay $200.4 million in debt, valuing the combined assets—including Good Sam's membership base and service portfolio—at a significant scale that supported ongoing expansion. Good Sam Enterprises experienced revenue peaks aligned with RV industry booms, such as the mid-2000s surge when total company revenue reached $431.1 million in 2002 amid rising RV ownership. Similarly, during the 2021-2023 period fueled by post-pandemic travel demand, Good Sam's segment revenue grew from $183.6 million in 2021 to $192.1 million in 2022, reflecting increased membership and uptake.

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  23. https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.goodsam.travel.android&hl=en_US
  24. https://www.globaldata.com/company-profile/camping-world-holdings-inc/locations/
  25. https://www.bbb.org/us/co/englewood/profile/roadside-assistance/good-sam-enterprises-llc-1296-75000910
  26. https://www.datanyze.com/companies/good-sam/16368623
  27. https://rvbusiness.com/camping-world-reports-record-breaking-q3-2025-results/
  28. https://investor.campingworld.com/press-releases/press-release-details/2025/Camping-World-Holdings-Inc--Reports-Second-Quarter-2025-Results-Grows-Net-Income-and-Adjusted-EBITDA-by-More-Than-30-Driven-by-Strong-Cost-Execution-and-All-Time-Quarterly-Volume-Record-of-Over-45000-Units-Momentum-Continues-Through-July/default.aspx
  29. https://campgroundsolutions.goodsam.com/
  30. https://investor.campingworld.com/governance/board-of-directors/person-details/default.aspx?ItemId=a5d117db-a707-462e-9148-c9b196709e97
  31. https://www.forbes.com/sites/danschawbel/2014/03/11/marcus-lemonis-his-entrepreneur-journey-and-investing-habits/
  32. https://www.marketscreener.com/insider/STEPHEN-ADAMS-A00L8U/
  33. https://rvbusiness.com/affinity-group-good-sam-exec-steve-adams-passes-away/
  34. https://www.morningstar.com/stocks/xnys/cwh/executive
  35. https://www.goodsam.com/privacy-policy
  36. https://www.goodsam.com/code-of-conduct
  37. https://www.naics.com/company-profile-page/?co=1492
  38. https://www.annualreports.com/HostedData/AnnualReportArchive/c/NYSE_CWH_2018.pdf
  39. https://www.indeed.com/cmp/Good-Sam-Enterprises
  40. https://roadside.goodsam.com/faqs
  41. https://www.goodsam.com/faq
  42. https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1669779/000155837025001939/cwh-20241231x10k.htm
  43. https://www.goodsam.com/events
  44. https://blog.goodsam.com/good-sam-membership-guide/
  45. https://roadside.goodsam.com/auto-plan-benefits
  46. https://roadside.goodsam.com/
  47. https://roadside.goodsam.com/plan-benefits
  48. https://blog.goodsam.com/goodsamroadsideassistance/
  49. https://www.goodsamesp.com/benefits-extended-service/
  50. https://www.goodsamesp.com/fifth-wheel-extended-warranty/
  51. https://www.goodsamesp.com/motorhome-warranties/
  52. https://www.goodsamesp.com/articles/ppn/?effortid=INEM2D9Z
  53. https://travelassist.goodsam.com/plan-benefits
  54. https://www.goodsamrvinsurance.com/rv-insurance
  55. https://www.goodsamrvinsurance.com/rv-insurance/full-timer-insurance
  56. https://www.goodsam.com/insurance
  57. https://www.goodsamrvinsurance.com/about-us
  58. https://woodallscm.com/trailer-life-to-mark-75th-anniversary/
  59. https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20200908005122/en/Good-Sam-to-Launch-New-RV-and-Outdoor-Consumer-Platform
  60. https://www.rv.com/faq/
  61. https://rvbusiness.com/rv-magazine-announces-rebranding-to-wildsam-magazine/
  62. https://community.goodsam.com/
  63. https://bstrategyhub.com/who-owns-camping-world/
  64. https://www.goodsam.com/campgrounds-rv-parks
  65. https://www.campingworld.com/protection.html
  66. https://www.campingworld.com/
  67. https://rv.campingworld.com/service
  68. https://s21.q4cdn.com/284878455/files/doc_presentations/2024/01/16/Good-Sam-Presentation-January-2024-FINAL.pdf
  69. https://www.rvia.org/rvs-move-america-economic-impact-study
  70. https://rocketreach.co/good-sam-profile_b45a99edfc65f74d
  71. https://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/1669779/000155837023001813/cwh-20221231x10k.htm
  72. https://investor.campingworld.com/press-releases/press-release-details/2016/Camping-World-Holdings-Inc-Announces-Closing-of-Initial-Public-Offering/default.aspx
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