More than one million households started camping last year, and your campground could attract a slice of that proverbial pie with a few amenity adjustments. When you own a campground, you have a lot more money-making opportunities at your disposal than you might think. Sure, renting out campground space will remain your strongest financial asset, but consider integrating auxiliary products and services to boost your bottom line. Think of it as becoming a one-stop-shop location for outdoor enjoyment; customers are likely already seeking out these products and services, but are forced to visit nearby competition if you don’t offer them. Here are some ideas to step up your game for the coming camping season.
Stage or Theater - building a stage in your park opens up a world of possibilities for future campground activities. Invited bands or singers are much more likely to accept if they have a stage to play on, which can also be used for plays, talent shows, and kickoff event on holiday weekends. Check out Theater in the Pines Campground within the Uinta-Wasatch-Cache National Forest, whose outdoor amphitheater is a big attraction.
Splash Grounds - it may seem counterintuitive to add a water feature to your park if you are already near a lake or large body of water, but specific splashground features like water slides, splash showers, and a game area could really increase visitor numbers during those hot summer months. Frontier Town, situated along the Sinepuxent Bay in Maryland, boasts a lazy river, wading pool, and cactus fountains.
Sports - adding a basketball court, horseshoe area, or volleyball dune would be a huge draw for both families and large groups of campers, giving them an activity that does not cost your park any additional time or money. Sports Lake Campground in Indiana is aptly named for the numerous activities they offer, including mini golf, disk golf, basketball, shuffleboard, and an arcade.
Obstacle Course - does your campground or park host a summer camp, or would you like to? Aa obstacle course is a great way to get both kids and parents outside, and engaged in an activity. An obstacle course could also be available to rent out to nearby fitness groups for training or their own events. Many parks set up temporary obstacle courses for the summer, but if you’re interested in building a permanent course that stays up year round, check out the Confidence Course used by the Army at Fort Leonard Wood, Missouri.
General Store - people forget things when packing for a trip, it just happens sometimes. By providing a one-stop-shop experience for your clients, they will experience the ease of not having to leave the grounds for something simple like a bandaid or tylenol. Stocking your camp store with snacks, drinks, and even small souvenirs can dramatically increase revenue as well. The Lost Lake Resort store in Oregon offers just about everything from beer & wine, toys, and single-day fishing licenses.
If your campground or RV Park already has cool features, we would love to hear about them or even feature them in a blog. Email us at howdy@letsbonfire.com to submit your park and as always, happy camping!
