As the evening chill sets in at your RV park, guests gather around the campfire, wrapped in blankets and sipping hot cocoa. They chat about their day, sharing stories of the local adventures they’ve had. But what if those stories could be even richer, filled with new and exciting experiences, all while boosting your park’s appeal? Partnering with local businesses is your key to making that happen.
Think of your park as the central hub of an adventure, with local businesses acting as the spokes that enhance your guests’ stay. Visitors are looking for more than just a place to park their RV or pitch their tent—they’re craving activities, delicious meals, and unique experiences. That’s where partnerships come into play.
Start with local restaurants. Guests arriving after a long drive are often tired and hungry but may not want to cook. By partnering with nearby eateries, you can offer a discount or special menu to entice them. Handing a guest a coupon for 10% off at the local diner not only saves them money but also gives them a welcoming introduction to the area’s flavors.
Next, consider tourist attractions in your area. Your region likely has hidden gems that guests may not know about. Partner with local museums, historic sites, or theme parks to offer discounted entry fees. A guest could spend the day exploring a nearby historic village and return to your park full of stories about their journey back in time.
Adventure activities are another treasure trove of opportunities. Whether your area offers kayaking, horseback riding, or rock climbing, partnering with adventure companies lets you offer exclusive packages to your guests. Instead of just recommending a hike, you could hand a family a brochure for a local zip-lining company with a special discount. Suddenly, their stay becomes much more exciting.
Encourage guests to explore local shops as well. Partner with a charming bookstore, a quirky gift shop, or a local market. Visitors who love discovering unique finds will appreciate a special deal, and they’ll return to your park with bags full of treasures and stories of their local shopping experience.
Wellness and relaxation options can elevate the guest experience too. Partner with a nearby spa or yoga studio. After a long day of exploring, a guest might appreciate a discount for a soothing massage, leaving them relaxed and grateful for your recommendation.
Think about the arts and culture scene. Local theaters, galleries, and music venues are great partners. A partnership could mean discounted tickets for your guests, adding a touch of culture to their trip. Imagine your guest, a lover of the arts, delighted to discover a local play they otherwise might’ve missed.
Don’t forget about seasonal events. From local festivals to holiday markets, partnering with event organizers allows you to offer special tickets or access to your guests. Families might plan their visit around a pumpkin festival, and your park becomes their perfect basecamp.
Collaborate with local guides for nature tours or historical walks. Guests can enjoy a bird-watching tour with an expert or explore your town’s history through a guided walk. These experiences add depth and knowledge to their stay, turning it into an unforgettable adventure.
Cross-promotion with local farms and orchards is another way to enhance your guests’ experience. Picture a family spending the day picking apples or buying fresh honey from a nearby farm. These hands-on, local activities leave a lasting impression long after the trip ends.
Remember to highlight these partnerships on social media and your website. Share guest stories and photos of their experiences, whether it’s rock climbing or enjoying a candle-lit dinner at a local bistro. These personal stories resonate with potential visitors and add authenticity to your promotions.
Maintain open communication with your partners to ensure the offerings remain valuable and exciting. A successful partnership requires coordination and adaptability, so be ready to adjust based on guest feedback.
Train your team to be local experts. When guests ask for recommendations, your employees should be able to offer enthusiastic suggestions backed by your partnerships. A well-informed team can turn a simple question into a memorable experience.
Your RV park is more than just a place to stay—it’s the starting point for countless adventures. By weaving local businesses into the fabric of your guests’ stay, you create a richer experience that will keep visitors coming back.