Owning and operating a campground franchise is just like operating any other business. It takes planning, constant maintenance, and a flexibility to solve any problems that arise. These basic tips will make your campsite a well-oiled machine from the very beginning.
Create A Sense Of Community
In many ways, operating a campground is just like managing a hotel or a bed and breakfast. You need to have good people skills so that you know how to anticipate the campers’ needs and how to communicate effectively with them. Campers come from all over the country, and even all over the world, so giving them support in whatever they need will make them feel welcome, and hopefully, they’ll want to return. Plan events like ice cream socials or movie nights and hold celebrations for holidays like the Fourth of July or Memorial Day. Oftentimes campers don’t have plans for their evenings, so providing these activities will keep them engaged and get them to socialize with other campers.
Make It Family-Friendly
According to a study by Kampgrounds of America, about 20% of campers cited a campsite being “kid friendly” as something they value. This family-focused requirement encapsulates setting campground rules such as having designated smoking areas and firearms restrictions, as well as holding the aforementioned events for children to enjoy. Many families are looking for daytime activities as well for their little ones, so your campsite business could hold scavenger hunts, nature hikes, hay rides, and craft classes. Outfit your campsite with technological amenities such as Wi-Fi and cable television to attract families who want to experience camping but need to be connected to the outside world.
Have Some Handy Skills
Campground owners face problems daily and if you don’t hire out for maintenance, you will have to do it yourself. Knowing the basics of plumbing and electricity is useful in case of clogged pipes or burst outlets. Be prepared to work long hours, as any of these problems and many more can crop up at any time of day. Of course, you will also have to know how to handle any furry intruders, like coyotes and bears, and what type of measures you will have to take in those cases.
When you want to run a fun, engaging business, owning a campground could be perfect for you. Every day will bring new challenges and you’ll get to meet people from near and far who have come just to stay at your campground.
