Imagine this: a family rolls into your campground in their gleaming RV, eyes wide with excitement, as they spot the perfect camping spot nestled under the shade of a grand oak tree. They’re not just passing through; they’re on a budget-friendly adventure. They’re also not just customers; they’re part of a growing movement known as boondocking. And you, as the owner of a campground, RV park, or glamping resort, hold a key to welcoming them in a way that benefits everyone.
Boondocking, or free camping, is becoming increasingly popular among travelers seeking a more rustic, off-the-grid experience. But how does this trend align with your business model? Let’s take a walk through the forest of ideas together and see how you can embrace this trend without giving away the farm.
First, let’s take a peek into the heart of boondocking. Picture a young couple, Emma and Jack, who’ve converted an old van into their tiny home on wheels. They crave the freedom of the open road and the serenity of untouched nature. They’re not looking for the frills of full-hookup sites. Instead, they treasure simplicity and the chance to explore hidden gems. By offering free or low-cost camping spots, you cater to adventurers like Emma and Jack, drawing them into your campground’s orbit.
Now, visualize a bustling summer weekend. Your premium spots with electric and water hookups are full, but you’ve set aside a few primitive sites for boondockers. These sites require minimal maintenance—perhaps just a flat area and some basic signage. You’ve just created an opportunity to attract more guests without the need for extra infrastructure.
But, how do you make sure this is a win-win situation for both your business and the campers? Let’s illustrate this with an imaginative story about a campground owner named Sarah. Sarah decided to allocate a handful of spots for free camping. She posted about it on social media, highlighting the beauty of waking up to a sunrise over the lake without any distractions. Soon, word spread, and her campground saw an uptick in visitors.
Sarah didn’t stop there. She realized these boondockers often needed other services—things like potable water, access to showers, and even a place to dump their waste. By offering these amenities for a small fee, Sarah created a new revenue stream. She set up a simple system where boondockers could pay a few dollars to fill their water tanks or use the showers. The result was a balanced approach: free camping spots that drew people in, and added services that generated income.
Think about your own campground. Maybe you have a meadow on the edge of your property that’s underutilized. This could be transformed into a serene boondocking area. Clear some paths, set up a few picnic tables, and you’ve created a welcoming space for those seeking a more natural experience.
Let’s dive into another scenario. Imagine a family of four, the Smiths, who are traveling across the state in their RV. They pull into your campground because they’ve heard you offer free spots for a night. They stay, explore the nearby hiking trails, and spend some money at your small camp store buying snacks and souvenirs. By the time they leave, they’ve contributed to your business in more ways than just paying for a site.
You can also think about partnerships. For example, collaborating with local businesses to offer discounts or special deals for your campers. If the nearby diner knows you’re sending them customers, they might be willing to give a discount to those staying at your campground. It’s a symbiotic relationship that benefits everyone involved.
Another layer to consider is the community aspect. By inviting boondockers, you’re fostering a diverse community of campers. This can create a vibrant atmosphere where stories are shared around the campfire and friendships are forged. This sense of community can become one of your campground’s biggest selling points, attracting more people to your site.
Let’s not forget about the environmental impact. Boondocking aligns with the principles of minimal impact camping. By promoting responsible camping practices, you’re helping to preserve the natural beauty of your campground. Create clear guidelines for boondockers, emphasizing the importance of leaving no trace. This ensures that your property remains pristine for future guests.
Consider also the marketing angle. Highlighting your free camping spots in your promotional materials and online presence can set you apart from other campgrounds. It shows that you’re adaptable and in tune with the latest camping trends. Use vibrant photos of past happy campers enjoying their stay to draw new visitors in.
Finally, let’s talk about feedback. Encourage your boondocking guests to share their experiences. Whether it’s through online reviews or a suggestion box at your campground, this feedback can provide valuable insights. Maybe there’s a particular spot they loved, or perhaps they have suggestions for improvements. Listening to your guests helps you refine your offerings and ensures a positive experience for everyone.
