In a rural Australian town, a caravan park is making waves with its innovative approach to fees. The Coonalpyn Caravan Park, located southeast of Adelaide, has implemented a payment system that’s catching the attention of travelers.
Visitors have reported that while parking at the caravan park itself is free, they can opt to pay for additional amenities. Power connection is available for $15, and hot showers can be accessed for $5. This payment model offers patrons flexibility in their stay.
The new system, introduced in January 2022, consists of 18 contactless payment units installed throughout the park. These EFTPOS machines allow visitors to pay for hot showers, which activate for a 5-minute period upon payment. This ensures fair usage and eliminates the need for an honor-based payment system.
Previously, the park relied on an “honesty box” for collecting fees, which often led to issues with theft and non-payment. The digital system aims to address these challenges while offering a more convenient option for modern travelers.
The Coonalpyn Caravan Park boasts 22 powered and 20 unpowered sites, catering to a variety of preferences. The facility is both pet and RV friendly. According to Coorong District Council’s website, amenities at a nearby park that can “keep the kids active and entertained” include a swimming pool, BBQ areas, a playground, and a BMX track.
Feedback from caravan park users has been largely positive, with many praising the “simplicity” and convenience of the new payment method. Some visitors have suggested that this system could benefit other small towns, potentially encouraging tourism in rural areas.
The adoption of this technology at Coonalpyn Caravan Park demonstrates how embracing modern solutions can enhance the visitor experience. By offering a mix of free basic amenities with optional paid services, the park is creating a more appealing and efficient environment for contemporary travelers, potentially setting a new standard for caravan parks across Australia.