Camping in Muskoka, formerly known as Gravenhurst Muskoka KOA campground, has been a cherished destination for outdoor enthusiasts since 1971. The campground, owned by Paul Cook, offers a serene retreat in the heart of Muskoka, characterized by large trees, and a family-oriented atmosphere.
In an exclusive interview with Modern Campground, Paul Cook, owner of Camping in Muskoka, shared insights into the history, challenges, and future plans of the campground, providing valuable lessons for the outdoor hospitality industry.
“A Place to Get Away From it All”
Located in Gravenhurst (Ontario, Canada), Camping in Muskoka offers a natural setting with large trees appealing to those seeking a serene environment. Cook describes the campground as “a more family-oriented place, a place to get away from it all,” emphasizing a low-key and quiet atmosphere.
“We like to just try to keep it lowkey and quiet. We try to have a little bit of something for everyone. So we have cabins for people that don’t have any camping experience up to big sites with sewer hookups for people that have bigger trailers,” Cook added.
Cook’s journey into the campground industry began in his early twenties when he started working for his father-in-law. “I kind of married into it,” Cook recalls. “I[t] started as a summer job with him and met my wife at a staff party that we used to have at the end of every summer. We got married, and I worked for my father-in-law for several years.” Eventually, Cook and his wife took over the campground, purchasing it in 1990.
The campground faced various challenges over the decades. In the 80s and 90s, rowdy campers posed difficulties, and financial challenges were also prevalent, with the campground relying on operating loans to get through the winter months. However, the advent of online reservations has provided a steady income stream, alleviating some financial pressures.
Economic factors have recently impacted the business. Last year saw a slight downturn compared to the year before due to high interest rates and gasoline prices. Cook attributes this to decreased disposable income among potential campers.
Advice for prospective campground owners
Cook advises campground owners to anticipate increased regulatory scrutiny and suggests seeking professional help for permit applications and regulatory compliance. He notes that doing as much as possible independently to save money may no longer be viable. This shift highlights the growing complexity of operating in the campground industry.
“Getting permissions and approvals is getting a lot harder in Canada for sure. So I’d really work with a professional for that. If you’re applying for permits, the regulatory stuff, the sewage and the electrical and all the rest that goes along, anything that’s government controlled is probably getting a lot harder to get in place first,” the owner told Modern Campground.
Looking ahead, Camping in Muskoka has a succession plan involving Cook’s son and son-in-law, ensuring the business remains within the family for a third generation. Future expansion plans include potentially adding more cabins, which have proven popular and financially viable for the campground.
Cook’s experience highlights the importance of adaptability and foresight in the outdoor hospitality industry. The transition from seasonal financial instability to a more stable income model through online reservations demonstrates the impact of technological advancements. Additionally, his focus on maintaining a family-friendly environment while adapting to changing camper demographics provides a model for other campground operators.
The insights from Camping in Muskoka can benefit campground and outdoor hospitality operators by emphasizing the need for adaptability, regulatory compliance, and attracting a diverse camper base. Cook’s reflections offer valuable lessons in managing and growing a campground business amid evolving economic and regulatory landscapes.
Paul Cook’s journey from a summer job to owning and operating a successful campground illustrates the potential for long-term success in the industry. His commitment to maintaining a peaceful, family-oriented environment while planning for future growth sets a benchmark for other campground operators.
By learning from Cook’s experiences, campground and outdoor hospitality operators can better navigate the complexities of the industry and continue to provide memorable experiences for their guests.
Featured image by Camping in Muskoka via campinginmuskoka.com