San Miguel Board of County Commissioners in Colorado recently approved the necessary rezoning and a special use permit for a proposed recreational vehicle (RV) park. The project is slated to operate seasonally, opening its gates from March through November each year.
The site, situated just one mile east of Norwood adjacent to the cemetery off Highway 145, will keep the remaining land for agricultural use. The park will occupy a five-acre section of a 39-acre parcel owned by local entrepreneur Demian Brooks.
According to an article published by The Telluride Daily Planet, John Huebner, San Miguel County’s senior planner, detailed the construction plan, which is set to unfold in two phases. Initially, the park will feature 26 pull-through RV spaces—10 equipped with full hookups for water, power, and septic, and 16 with just water and power.
This first phase also includes amenities such as five spots for sprinter vans without hookups, a unisex bathhouse, and a bear-proof waste management area.
Plans for the second phase include adding an additional 14 RV spaces and constructing five cabins, all equipped with power and water, pending further approvals.
Addressing community safety concerns, particularly regarding fire hazards, Brooks outlined safety measures. The park will prohibit open flames, including fireplaces and grills, and will equip the site with fire extinguishers every 75 feet instead of traditional hydrants.
“I live out here, and I am petrified of fires. I came up with the idea of absolutely no outdoor fires. I wanted nothing to do with people having fires there,” Brooks said.
The park’s rules include a 30-day limit on consecutive stays and a cap of 30 days within a 120-day period to prevent permanent residency. Brooks estimates charging about $25-30 per night for spots without utilities and $50 for those with full services.
Though the park can accommodate up to 200 guests, Brooks anticipates lower occupancy levels. To address another local concern, he plans to construct a large fenced area for dogs to handle issues raised by nearby residents about animals disturbing livestock.
To ensure smooth operations and maintenance, two full-time employees will be hired to manage the park, with one residing permanently in an existing house nearby.
Private campground owners and operators in the San Miguel County area can glean significant insights from the approach adopted by Demian Brooks in establishing his new RV park near Norwood. Brooks’ careful planning and phased development demonstrate operational readiness. Initially offering 26 RV spaces with varying levels of utility hookups and additional amenities like a unisex bathhouse and bear-proof waste management, Brooks caters to a broad spectrum of guests.
Moreover, Brooks’ proactive measures to address safety concerns, particularly the strict no-fire policy and the installation of fire extinguishers throughout the park, serve as good examples of risk management in the industry. This emphasis on safety not only ensures compliance with local regulations but also enhances the park’s appeal to potential customers who prioritize security in their lodging choices. The addition of a fenced area for dogs also illustrates responsiveness to community feedback, a practice that can bolster relations with local residents and enhance the guest experience.