How to Start a Campground Business in 2024
Last Updated: 12/17/2023
Opening a campground has always been a dream of mine. After years of working office jobs, I’m finally going for it and starting my own campground business! There’s a lot to prepare before opening day, but this is my guide to getting a campground up and running.
Finding the Perfect Spot
Location is key — I’ll need to find a beautiful, peaceful spot with plenty of trees, trails, and space between sites. It should be an easy drive from local towns and cities so campers can stock up on supplies. I’ll research local zoning laws to make sure campgrounds are permitted. Before committing, I plan to visit the site at busy times to get a feel for noise, traffic and other factors.
Creating a Business Plan
Next up is the business plan — this will estimate demand for a new campground and projected income and expenses. I’ll outline all the amenities and facilities I plan to offer. The business plan will be crucial for getting financing to cover startup costs.
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Getting Licensed and Permitted
I need to make sure I have the proper licenses and permits, which vary by state and county. I’ll likely need a general business license, food service permit if offering food, septic system approval, and more. I’ll research exactly what’s required and get all necessary licenses.
Designing the Perfect Campground
This is my favorite part — mapping out the campground design! I’ll plan out campsites, RV spots, restrooms, trails and other amenities. I’ll also designate open areas for games and gatherings. Careful site planning will ensure guests have an amazing time.
Preparing the Grounds and Facilities
Before opening, I need to prepare the campground grounds — clearing sites, gravelling roads, installing utility hookups and septic systems. I’ll also need to build restrooms, set up WiFi, mark campsites and get everything ready to start welcoming campers.
Spreading the Word
Marketing will be critical, so I plan to create brochures, flyers, social media posts and ads showcasing what the campground has to offer. I’ll have a website where people can view sites and amenities and book reservations online. I’ll spread the word locally so people know about my new business.
Training Friendly Staff
I’ll hire energetic, outdoorsy people to give top-notch customer service to campers. Training will cover campground policies, handling payments, reservations, giving directions and resolving issues. I want my staff to create an amazing experience.
Opening Day!
Finally, opening day will arrive! I’ll welcome the very first campers, learning as I go how to make their stays memorable. I can’t wait to get feedback and continue improving the campground. It will take a lot of hard work, but helping people enjoy the outdoors will make it all worthwhile.
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Campground Financial Forecasts
Startup Expenses
Monthly Operating Expenses
Revenue Forecast
Frequently Asked Questions About Starting a Campground Business
If you’re considering opening your own campground, you probably have plenty of questions about getting started and running the business. Here are answers to some of the key frequently asked questions:
What type of insurance will I need to operate a campground?
You’ll need both liability insurance and property insurance. Liability insurance protects against injury lawsuits from campground guests. Property insurance covers damage to campground structures and amenities. Work with an insurance agent to find appropriate policies.
How much will it cost to start a campground?
Startup costs vary widely based on size and amenities offered. Budget for land purchase/lease, construction, permits, equipment like utility hookups, plus operating costs for at least the first year. Most campgrounds require at least $100,000 to begin, with luxury RV parks costing over $1 million.
What kind of profit margins can a campground generate?
Typical campground profit margins range from 10–35%. Factors like location, competition, amenities and sites offered impact earnings potential. Develop a detailed business plan with revenue and expense projections to estimate your potential profits.
Do I need a background in hospitality or tourism to run a campground?
No specific background is required, but some experience in business management, customer service and hospitality are extremely helpful. If you don’t have this experience, consider hiring a general manager with the appropriate expertise.
How much maintenance and upkeep does a campground require?
Campgrounds require ongoing maintenance like mowing, landscaping, cleaning restrooms, trail maintenance, repairing amenities, and site improvements. Staffing for maintenance or contracting outside services is advised. Budget accordingly.
I’ve never owned a business before — how challenging is running a campground?
Owning a campground has unique challenges like seasonal income, customer service demands, and outdoor maintenance. While experience helps, many first-time business owners can succeed with detailed planning, hard work, and persistence. Connect with campground owner associations for guidance.
Will a campground be profitable in the first year?
Most campgrounds take 2–3 years to turn highly profitable as word spreads and customer base grows. Keep startup costs low, project realistic revenues, get financing to cover initial losses, and have patience reaching profitability. The investment and effort pay off for most owners eventually.
What permits and licenses do I need to open a campground?
Requirements vary by state and local regulations. Most require a general business license, zoning permit, health/sanitation permits for restrooms and food service, lodging license if providing cabins, and approval of utility systems on the property.
How can I best market and advertise my new campground?
Advertising online through social media, your website, camping directories, and travel sites is crucial. Also distribute brochures and flyers locally, advertise in newspapers or radio, host events to get the community excited about the new business, and rely heavily on word-of-mouth marketing.
