Road Tripping Into the Future: Startup Aims to Build Infrastructure for the 'Road Life' Boom

By Michelle Bell

November 06, 2025

RENO, Nev. – The open road is calling, and a growing number of Americans are answering – not just for vacation, but for a lifestyle. Fueled by the rise of remote work and a desire for experiential travel, the ‘road life’ – encompassing RVing, van dwelling, and overlanding – is booming. But supporting this rapidly expanding community requires more than just scenic routes and picturesque campsites. A new company, Overland Oasis, is betting on the need for dedicated infrastructure – a network of ‘resupply stations’ designed to cater specifically to the needs of these modern nomads.

Founded by veteran traveler Adam Corlin, Overland Oasis envisions a network of locations throughout the American West, offering essential services like water and wastewater disposal, vehicle washes, showers, laundry facilities, EV charging, high-speed WiFi, and secure overnight parking. The company is currently seeking investors to fund the initial phase of 15 locations, recognizing a significant gap in the market.

The Rise of the ‘Road Life’ and a Growing Infrastructure Need

The surge in remote work, accelerated by the pandemic, has fundamentally altered how and where people live and work. “We’re seeing a confluence of factors driving this trend,” explains a travel industry analyst who wished to remain anonymous. “People are realizing they don’t need to be tied to a specific location for their job, and they’re seeking experiences over possessions.” This has led to a dramatic increase in the popularity of RVing, van dwelling, and overlanding – a lifestyle that prioritizes exploration and self-sufficiency.

According to the RV Industry Association, there are currently 11.2 million RV-owning households in the United States. And, while traditional RV demographics skewed older, that’s changing rapidly. The median age of RV travelers has fallen from 65 to 48 in recent years, indicating a younger generation embracing the lifestyle. Further fueling the demand are the 40 million annual visitors to national parks, many of whom are traveling in RVs and campers, alongside an estimated 81 million campers and adventure motorcyclists.

However, existing infrastructure hasn’t kept pace. Traditional RV parks are often crowded, lack modern amenities like EV charging, and are frequently located away from major travel routes. Truck stops, while offering some basic services, aren’t designed to accommodate the specific needs of RVers and overlanders.

“The current system is fragmented and inadequate,” says one full-time RVer who has been traveling the country for the past three years. “Finding a place to reliably dump tanks, get a shower, and recharge devices can be a real challenge, especially when you’re boondocking or traveling off the beaten path.”

Overland Oasis: A Model for Modern Travel Infrastructure?

Overland Oasis aims to fill this gap by creating a network of strategically located ‘resupply stations’ that offer a comprehensive suite of services. Corlin envisions these locations as more than just pit stops; he sees them as community hubs where travelers can connect, share experiences, and access essential resources.

“We’re designing these stations to be a one-stop shop for everything road travelers need,” Corlin explains in a press release. “From basic maintenance to high-speed internet, we want to provide a seamless and convenient experience.”

Analysts suggest the company’s business model is promising, but faces several challenges. “The initial investment in building these stations will be significant,” says a venture capitalist specializing in travel tech. “They’ll need to secure prime locations, obtain the necessary permits, and invest in the latest technology.”

Another key challenge will be maintaining a consistent level of quality across all locations. “Travelers are discerning, and they expect a certain standard of service,” says a travel blogger who has reviewed hundreds of RV parks and campgrounds. “If Overland Oasis wants to build a loyal following, they’ll need to ensure that all of their stations are clean, well-maintained, and staffed by friendly and knowledgeable employees.”

Beyond Convenience: Building a Community

Overland Oasis isn’t just focused on providing essential services; it also aims to foster a sense of community among road travelers. The company plans to incorporate communal spaces at each station, such as fire pits, picnic areas, and co-working spaces, to encourage interaction and collaboration.

“We believe that the road life is about more than just traveling from place to place,” Corlin explains. “It’s about connecting with like-minded people and sharing experiences.”

This emphasis on community building is a smart move, according to experts. “Travelers are increasingly seeking authentic experiences and opportunities to connect with others,” says a sociologist specializing in travel and tourism. “By creating a sense of community, Overland Oasis can differentiate itself from the competition and build a loyal following.”

The Future of Travel Infrastructure

As the ‘road life’ continues to grow in popularity, the need for dedicated infrastructure will only become more acute. Overland Oasis is betting that it can capitalize on this trend by creating a network of ‘resupply stations’ that cater specifically to the needs of modern nomads. While challenges remain, the company’s innovative approach and emphasis on community building suggest that it could play a significant role in shaping the future of travel infrastructure. Whether it succeeds will depend on its ability to secure funding, maintain quality, and build a loyal following – but if it can overcome these hurdles, Overland Oasis could be onto something truly transformative.