The board of directors of the Saugeen Valley Conservation Authority (SVCA) in Ontario approved the proposed increase in camping fees for the 2025 season.
SVCA operates three campgrounds, Brucedale, Durham, and Saugeen Bluffs. These host over 200 seasonal outdoor enthusiasts. According to its website, Brucedale offers 52 spacious sites on Lake Huron for seasonal campers. Additionally, Durham features 193 spacious sites catering to both seasonal and transient campers, situated near the Durham Conservation Dam. In Saugeen Bluff, the campground boasts 181 spacious sites.
Donna Lacey, forestry and lands manager for SVCA, presented a report to the board detailing the proposed fee changes. The report highlighted efforts to align increases with the cost of living, aiming to remain “competitive” for the services offered for the campgrounds.
The fee increases come in response to rising expenses experienced during the 2024 season, with expectations that these expenses will continue to grow. In determining the fee levels, Lacey noted that they conducted a market comparison.
According to an article published by The Halminton Spectator on July 26, the daily rate for a serviced site will rise from CA$55 to CA$60, while non-serviced sites will see an increase from CA$46 to CA$50.
For a full season, the rate for a serviced site will go up from CA$2,942 to CA$3,128, and for unserviced sites, it will increase from CA$2,030 to CA$2,172.
Some fees will remain unchanged. The cost for an additional overnight vehicle will stay at $14, and the dumping fee will continue to be $20. Day-use fees will also remain the same.
In addition to the camping fee increase for the 2025 season, the discussion during the board meeting also touched on long-term considerations. Board member Steve McCabe from Wellington North inquired about the possibility of selling off campgrounds in the future. In response, Board Chair Barbara Dobreen from Southgate acknowledged that such options are always considered.
The approach of the SVCA emphasizes the significance of market analysis and addressing financial pressures. By conducting market comparisons, private campground operators and RV park owners can ensure their campgrounds remain profitable and appealing to visitors while maintaining competitive pricing.