Last Updated on March 31, 2023 by Jess
Online social networking platforms have changed the way we interact with each other. It’s never been easier to connect with loved ones and meet people with similar interests. Love them or hate them, they’re not going away anytime soon. Or will they?
Recently, RVillage, a major social networking platform for RVers, announced its closure. Reactions in the RV community to this announcement were mixed.
So why is it the end of this well-known online platform? Let’s find out.
What is RVillage?
RVillage was a social networking platform for RVers and anyone interested in the RV lifestyle. Curtis and Carolyn Ray launched the service in 2014 and grew it to more than 200,000 members before selling the company to Togo Group in 2020.
Users could connect with others, share their adventures, and learn about events and news in the RV industry. The platform included various forums, groups, and event listings that users could browse. One of the most notable features, however, was the ability to connect with users by location.
Users could update their location and see other users near them. This was especially popular with families and travelers looking for ways to connect. It allowed users to control their privacy and who could see their location.
About Thor
Thor Industries, Inc. is a major manufacturer of RVs, motorhomes and trailers. The company was founded in 1980 and is headquartered in the RV capital of the world, Elkhart, Ind.
Over the past 40-plus years, the company has become the world’s largest manufacturer of RVs. The company has over 200 subsidiaries, 150 manufacturing facilities and over 25,000 employees worldwide. Among the best-known brands in their portfolio are Airstream, Dutchmen, Keystone and Heartland.
However, Thor Industries also has a strong presence in the production of buses and commercial vehicles. Their extensive portfolio also includes brands such as Champion Bus, Goshen Coach and ElDorado National.
Throughout its history, Thor has made strategic investments to acquire companies. This has given the company a better view of critical supply chain infrastructure. It has also helped the company become one of the largest players in the RV industry.
Read more: RVillage is not the only brand Thor owns! See how many RV brands Thor Industries owns
Who is the Togo group?
Togo Group is one of Thor Industries’ 200+ subsidiaries. It provides digital tools and services specifically for the outdoor recreation industry, particularly the RV community. It was founded in 2018 by its parent company Roadpass Digital.
Togo Group’s goal is to empower RV enthusiasts to use technology to make outdoor recreation more enjoyable, accessible and safe. The company offers some incredible resources that take the stress and worry out of various aspects of RVing.
What is Roadpass Digital?
Roadpass Digital is a technology platform focused on outdoor tourism and road travel. The RV community is their main audience, as most of their technology revolves around this niche. The company is responsible for some of the most popular apps in the RV industry.
Apps include Campendium, Overnight RV Parking, Roadtrippers, RVillage and Togo RV. However, the company is constantly in flux, and you never know when it will acquire a new company or launch its own.
The end of the road for RVillage
On March 1, 2023, RVillage users received an unexpected email in their inbox. The email said, “Unfortunately, the time has come for us to say goodbye to RVillage. The RVillage website, applications and support will be discontinued on March 31, 2023.”
It informed users that the website, mobile apps, and support for the entire platform will be discontinued. They provided users with links to help them answer any questions they may have and how to contact support for unanswered questions.
RVillage had its ducks in a row to help with this important announcement. Although the decision was unexpected for some users, it was not a spur-of-the-moment decision. Creating a plan and making resources available to users would have taken some time.
What’s next for RVillage users?
Fortunately, RVillage appreciates the relationships that have been built on the platform over the past eight years. They encouraged users to join the RVillage community Facebook group, where they can stay in touch after the March 31 closure.
The end of RVillage, while unfortunate, is a natural part of innovation. It’s the reason MySpace and Vine no longer exist.
Technological innovation is propelling us into the future. While many people use Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok today, it’s only a matter of time before the next big thing replaces them, too.
Other apps owned by Thor
Thor Industries owns Roadpass Digital, which includes a number of incredible apps. We all have these apps on our phones and use them regularly on our adventures.
If you haven’t installed these apps yet, what are you waiting for? Learn more about them and why you need them here!
Campendium
Campendium is a website and mobile app that connects users to an extensive RV database. It contains campgrounds, RV parks, and other valuable resources that make life with an RV easier. Whether you’re looking for a free pitch, a place to refuel or a luxury RV park, Campendium will help you find it quickly.
This app is great because it includes an extensive library of important information. In addition, you can see updated news and get tips for different places based on user-generated reviews. The many filters make it easy to narrow down the results and help you plan your next RV adventure.
Of all the RV apps on our phones, Campendium is the most used. We love being able to quickly and easily locate campsites near us or at a future destination. This allows us to work smarter, not harder, when navigating open roads.
Please note: Compendium is an essential app for campers! See what other RV apps every camper should have
Roadtrippers
Roadtrippers is a website and mobile app that helps travelers plan itineraries for road trips. Their extensive database includes landmarks, attractions, and different types of accommodations. You can find campsites, RV parks or hotels on the map.
Many RV enthusiasts love this app because it takes the stress and worry out of planning travel days. The app makes sure you stick to RV-friendly routes so you don’t end up in a dangerous situation.
Whether your next adventure lasts a weekend or several months, let Roadtrippers be your guide. The app does just about everything except drive the vehicle for you.
Togo camper
Want to stay organized while enjoying life in your RV? Then Togo RV is the app for you! With this app for your cell phone you can keep up to date on maintenance, book campsites and get in touch with a mobile technician if something doesn’t go as planned.
Built-in GPS navigation provides turn-by-turn directions and stores more than 15,000 known overnight RV sites. You can create custom checklists for travel days, packing lists, and setting up your campsite.
Plus, you no longer have to worry about forgetting or skipping an important task that will interfere with your trip. RV life can get chaotic at times. However, Togo RV helps you manage the chaos so you can experience the enjoyable moments of RV travel more often.
Goodbye RVillage, it was fun
While we are sad to say goodbye to the RVillage community, it has been fun.
The app has allowed users to discover new places, make friends, and share tips. Many users have tried new and exciting things because of the relationships made on the platform.
We say goodbye to RVillage, but we know that the memories and the fruits of the platform will not disappear. Despite the loss of a virtual meeting place, the community will continue to thrive. Goodbye and good luck, RVillage!