The campground industry is growing. The tourism industry’s fastest-growing sector. This is a good choice for entrepreneurs who are looking for ideas for business that relate to the outdoors.
How to open a campground business
Campgrounds have a booming business and campers wait for new ones. Here’s what you need to do if a campground is on your list of ideas for small businesses.
1. Find Land
You will need to find acreage that is not restricted in terms of campground development. When researching potential campgrounds, be sure to thoroughly check into local ordinances and zoning regulations for the property.
To learn more, prospective new owners can meet with their local zoning boards in their county or city.
2. Property Permits
Water supply and septic system will be two of your main needs. Permits are required for each of these.
You will need to include a bathroom for campers in any campground, even if it is simple. This is not an “amenity” – this is a requirement.
A permit is also required to supply fresh water via water connections to campers. This can be done with one centrally located hydrant. It is important to test the water before campers start using it.
Check local building codes, and any permits that may be required for your business, before adding structures like cabins, offices, or tiny homes.
3. Buy Insurance
You’ll also need business property and general liability insurance. If your campground office is a part of your home, you’ll also need business property coverage.
You’ll have to increase the amount of your liability insurance if you decide to add a swimming pool.
4. Create a Business Plan
Begin with a mission and then a summary of your business. You’ll explain how you intend to grow and start your business in the executive summary.
The next step is to look at the financials of your business. Estimate your income and expenditure, as well capital expenditure budgets.
For campgrounds, the most common business structure is the Limited Liability Corporation (LLC).
5. Start Site Preparation Work
Install the services that your guests need once you have the location and permit. Campers will expect to have access to fresh water and bathroom facilities.
6. Marketing Your Campsite
Use local radio and social media. You can keep specific audiences interested in your business by announcing local events or specials for camping.
Campground Business Story
Mike and Andrea Steele, tired of the politics in their company, bought an old, dilapidated campground in Sigel. Pennsylvania. In just a few short years, they grew from 24 rustic campsites to over 100. You can read more about their experience with How to Start a Campground.
Step 1: Location
The Steele’s purchased a former campsite. This is an option. You can also use your land to purchase vacant land.
Before purchasing, always check with the local government to see if you can use the land for your campground. Zoning laws can restrict the use of land for RV parks. Do your due diligence and conduct a market study, which includes local attractions as well as other businesses that could attract potential customers. Other attractions include art shows or vineyards.
Step 2 – Infrastructure
Steele’s already had the basics, like electricity on site. They had to meet the requirements of state agencies such as Department of Environmental Protection to set up water and septic systems when they started their Camper’s Paradise business.
Step 3: Lodging
It is the least expensive way to open a campground. You can offer rustic tent sites where people can camp in their own tents.
From there, you can upgrade. You could add a “glamping tent” such as a Yurt. You can then add cabins or RV hookups to water, electricity, and sewer. You can add service buildings to your campground, like a laundromat, camp store, and bathhouse.
You’ll also need permits for projects involving water and sewer.
