Weathering the Storm: Strategies for Campgrounds to Thrive in Any Climate

Adverse weather conditions, such as prolonged rain, extreme heat, and flooding, significantly impact campground attendance, with many campers opting to delay or cancel plans. The August 2024 MC Hospitality Highlights report, compiled with data from a Cairn Consulting Group survey and interviews with campers, provides insights into how campgrounds can mitigate the negative effects of weather on guest volume. Over the past year, six out of ten campers have adjusted their plans due to weather, with one in five canceling or delaying trips. Interestingly, hot temperatures and cold weather are more likely to alter plans than storms or rain, particularly for non-RVers.

Campgrounds can enhance the guest experience during rainy days by offering indoor amenities like common rooms, game rooms, and fitness centers. Organized activities such as workshops, kids’ clubs, and group games provide entertainment regardless of the weather. Additionally, services like laundry facilities, Wi-Fi, and sheltered areas ensure comfort and convenience. For extreme heat, cooling facilities such as splash pads, air-conditioned common areas, and water stations are essential. Activities scheduled during cooler parts of the day and indoor workshops help guests stay comfortable.

In cold weather, campgrounds can provide warm accommodation options like heated cabins, insulated yurts, and winterized RV sites. Offering amenities such as fire pits, heated blankets, and enclosed common areas can keep guests warm and comfortable. Activities like guided winter hikes and hot beverage stations add to the winter camping experience. Safety services, including first aid stations and warm clothing rentals, are crucial for guest well-being.

Implementing a weather guarantee can boost customer trust and loyalty. Campgrounds can offer full or partial refunds, rescheduling options, or credits for future stays in case of severe weather conditions. Clear communication and flexible cancellation policies are key to effectively managing weather-related issues. By adopting these strategies, campgrounds can maintain high guest satisfaction and build a positive reputation even in challenging weather conditions.

Key Insights:

• A significant portion of campers, approximately six out of ten, adjust their travel plans due to weather conditions, with a notable percentage canceling or delaying trips.

• Campers are most likely to alter their plans due to extreme heat, followed by cold temperatures, with severe storms and rain being less influential.

• RV campers are generally less affected by weather conditions due to the climate-controlled environment of their accommodations.

• Campgrounds can enhance guest satisfaction on rainy days by providing indoor facilities and activities, such as game rooms, movie marathons, and workshops.

• During periods of extreme heat, offering cooling amenities like splash pads, shaded areas, and hydration stations can help guests stay comfortable and safe.

• In cold weather, campgrounds can provide warm accommodations and amenities, such as heated cabins, hot beverage stations, and winter sports activities, to ensure guest comfort.

• Implementing a weather guarantee can increase guest trust and satisfaction, offering peace of mind through flexible cancellation policies and compensation for weather-related disruptions.