Are you thinking about opening a campground or looking to improve your existing one? One of the most important aspects of a successful campground is offering desirable amenities. Campers are looking for more than just a place to pitch their tent or park their RV - they want a memorable and nostalgic outdoor experience with all the necessary amenities. Here we will discuss the top 10 must-have campground amenities that will attract campers and keep them coming back year after year.
Why Are Campground Amenities Important?
Clean and well-maintained campground amenities are essential for attracting and retaining campers. In today's world, people are looking for more than just a basic camping experience. According to KOA North American Camping and Outdoor Hospitality Report 2023, 59% of campers say that outdoor themed resorts rank the highest in individualized experiences with the highest levels of hospitality. This is especially important for millennials and high-income households who have placed a lot of value in outdoor hospitality experiences. They want to be able to enjoy outdoor activities, relax, and have access to modern conveniences. By offering a variety of amenities, you can cater to a wider range of campers and increase your campground's appeal.
Food and Beverage Service
Approximately 36% of campers are seeking new culinary experiences on their camping trips (KOA North American Camping and Outdoor Hospitality Report 2023). Offering an onsite restaurant, partnering with caterers and local food trucks will lure those camping enthusiasts seeking delectable delights. There are plenty of creative food and beverage service options from locally sourced ingredients, an exclusive campground brewery to east coast food trucks, for example.
36%
of campers are seeking new culinary experiences on their camping trips.
Modern Restrooms and Showers
Gone are the days of roughing it in the woods with no access to modern amenities. Today's campers expect clean and modern restrooms and showers at their campsite. Make sure to regularly clean and maintain these facilities to keep your campers happy and comfortable.
Wi-Fi and Cell Service
In today's digital age, access to Wi-Fi and cell service is necessary for many campers. While some may be looking to disconnect and enjoy nature, others may need to stay connected for work, emergencies or for streaming services. Offering Wi-Fi and cell service can also be a selling point for your campground, especially for younger generations. Wi-fi is especially important in remote locations where the cell phone tower service is spotty and inconsistent. It also promotes longer stays if reliable wi-fi is available for people to work remotely.
Camp Store
A camp store is a convenient amenity for campers to have on-site and a good source of additional revenue for your campground business. Offering a wide range of fun consumables such as unique ice cream flavors, nostalgic candy, shaved ice, souvenirs, etc. will add to the camping experience. Also be sure to stock practical items such as bug spray, sunscreen, RV toilet paper and other camping supplies for convenience. Stocking your shelves with essentials and fun consumables will keep your guest satisfaction high.
Laundry Facilities
Offering a laundry room with washers and dryers can be a huge convenience for your guests who want an extended stay. It can also be a great way to generate additional income for your campground.
Pet-Friendly Amenities
Many campers like to bring their furry friends along on their camping trips. By offering pet-friendly amenities such as off-leash dog parks and pet washing stations, you can attract more campers and make their stay more enjoyable.
Campfire Rings and Picnic Tables
Campfires and picnics are a quintessential part of the camping experience. Make sure to provide campfire rings and picnic tables at each campsite for your guests to enjoy. These amenities also encourage socializing and create a sense of community among campers.
Playground and Recreational Areas
Families with children will appreciate having a playground and recreational areas at the campground. These amenities provide a safe and fun place for kids to play and make new friends. You can also consider adding sports courts or equipment for activities like basketball, volleyball, or horseshoes.
RV Hookups
For RV campers, having access to RV hookups is a must. Make sure to offer a variety of hookups, including water, electricity, and sewer, to accommodate different types of RVs. You can also consider offering pull-through sites for easier access.
Entertainment and Outdoor Activities
According to 2023 North American Camping and Outdoor Hospitality report, around 80% of campers will try a new form of camping they are unfamiliar with such as natural events (40%) and culinary experiences (36%). With these statistics in mind, there are endless possibilities to keep your campers engaged. Offering onsite activities for all ages and interests such as seafood nights, movie nights, ziplining, horseback riding, rock climbing, chili cook-offs, fishing derbies, yoga, live music, outdoor games, etc. will offer memorable experiences for campers. Other options would include kayak, paddleboard, bike and paddleboat rental services. These activities are a wonderful way to bring campers together and create a sense of community. Do not underestimate the value of creating unique camping experiences. People will share those experiences with others (free marketing) and entice others to make reservations at your campground.
The Path Forward
By offering these 10 must-have campground amenities, you can attract more campers and provide them with a memorable outdoor experience. Remember to regularly maintain and update these amenities to keep your campground competitive and appealing to campers. With the right amenities, your campground can become a top destination for outdoor enthusiasts.
From campground developments to RV storage and full-scale commercial developments, we invite you to connect with Bolson Engineering and Environmental Services. Together, we can turn your vision into reality. Don't miss out on the incredible potential that awaits you in the world of development - take the first step towards success by reaching out to us today.
