The sun was just beginning to set as Emily locked up the small bookshop she managed in town. She had been daydreaming about a quick escape from her busy life—somewhere nearby, where she could unwind and perhaps even spend a night under the stars. Just a short drive away, an RV park could transform her day trip into an unforgettable overnight adventure.
If you own a campground, RV park, or glamping resort, you have stories like Emily’s unfolding around you every day. Locals are looking for a brief getaway, a place to escape the hustle and bustle without the hassle of a long journey. Tapping into this market means speaking to their need for convenience and comfort, and you can do this through innovative marketing tailored to local and regional travelers.
Start by using the power of storytelling. Highlight real stories of visitors who came for a day and decided to stay the night, charmed by a peaceful morning or a stunning starlit sky. Share these relatable experiences through social media and your website, allowing potential guests to picture themselves extending their visit.
Consider hosting events that cater to the tastes and interests of your local community. Events like a barbecue cook-off, a local artists’ market, or an outdoor movie night can draw in day visitors. By creating an engaging atmosphere, you not only attract them for the day but give them a reason to linger. And when the night falls and the stars come out, they just might decide that turning in for the night at your cozy campground is the perfect ending.
Think about the comfort of an overnight stay and how to showcase it. Highlight the unique aspects of staying at your location, like waking up to birdsong or sipping a hot coffee as the sun rises. Use visuals—photos and videos—to show these serene moments on your social media pages. When potential guests can picture themselves waking up in your paradise, they’re more likely to make the jump from a day trip to an overnight stay.
Special offers and packages can be a great incentive. Offer a discount for day visitors who decide to stay the night. Perhaps include a breakfast option or a guided nature walk the following morning. These small additions can tip the scales for someone on the fence about staying. Present these offers in your marketing materials, making them hard to resist.
Don’t forget about partnerships. Collaborate with local businesses to create bundled experiences. Imagine a package that includes a stay at your campground, dinner at a nearby restaurant, and a visit to a local attraction. This not only boosts your visibility but also creates a sense of community, showing that your campground is the gateway to a larger adventure.
Leverage technology to keep your guests informed and engaged. Use email newsletters to share upcoming events, special offers, and stories. A gentle reminder in their inbox about an upcoming stargazing night or a local festival can nudge them towards planning a visit. Make the booking process seamless and mobile-friendly so that the decision to stay overnight can be made impulsively and easily.
Engage with your community both online and offline. Attend local events, sponsor a school sports team, or host a charity event at your location. Building these local ties not only enhances your reputation but also reinforces your campground as a welcoming space within the community.
When Emily finally arrived at that RV park for a quick look, she was greeted with warm smiles and the inviting aroma of a campfire. She found herself drawn into a community event—a local band playing under the stars. It was more than she’d expected, and as the night unfolded, she realized she didn’t want to leave. The park had become more than just a stop; it was an experience.
This is the type of experience you can create for your guests. By focusing on the local market and offering easy, comfortable escapes, you can turn day trips into lasting memories that keep guests coming back for more.