Blue Water Development is solidifying its reputation in the outdoor hospitality sector with an expanding portfolio of family-friendly campgrounds and RV resorts that span some of the most sought-after travel destinations across the United States.
In an exclusive interview with Modern Campground, President and CFO Rafael Correa shared a few of the key ingredients that help turn Blue Water campgrounds into unforgettable destinations.
At the heart of this success is a clear philosophy. “At Blue Water, we believe that hospitality starts with the heart,” Correa said.
“What sets us apart is our relentless focus on guest experience,” Correa added.
Turning Locations into Loved Family Destinations
Each property under the Blue Water umbrella is treated as a unique opportunity—individually a “blank canvas with its own story” as Correa puts it.
The company’s approach involves layering comfort, fun, and a consistent guest experience—elements that help create memorable stays and deepen the connection between visitors and the outdoors.
When it comes to acquiring new campgrounds, Correa shared that several factors come into play. “Location is always key—especially proximity to water, hence our name Blue Water,” he said.
Blue Water also looks for properties near natural attractions, beaches, or popular travel routes, locations where the company can enhance what already works and add its signature touch.
He said strong infrastructure, mature landscaping, and room for growth are important, but the primary consideration is whether the site can be transformed into a destination families will love—one that meets the needs of parents while offering exciting spaces for children to explore and enjoy.
Transforming an acquired property into a Blue Water resort also involves a detailed, guest-centered process. “Every transformation begins with empathy,” Correa explained.
The company evaluates infrastructure, flow, and design through the lens of guest experience. “It is a delicate balancing act… a confluence of the landscape, guest experience, and operational efficiency that makes a Blue Water resort come to life,” he said, describing the thoughtful placement of features like ice cream shops, lighting, and housekeeping operations.
Correa noted that Blue Water pays close attention to even the smallest details, ensuring both operational efficiency for staff and unforgettable experiences for guests.
He added that renovations are often phased to keep properties open and adaptable, with every step—from construction and staff training to brand rollout—carefully coordinated to elevate each moment of the guest journey.
Blue Water’s resorts span a wide range of themes, from Western adventures to coastal escapes. According to Correa, the local setting serves as the creative foundation. “The location tells the story and we simply amplify it,” he said.
Blue Water is also focused on being a good neighbor. The company collaborates with local tourism boards, vendors, and artists while also implementing conservation practices.
Navigating Growth and Operational Challenges
Managing consistency across a geographically diverse portfolio presents challenges, but Correa emphasized the importance of empowering on-site teams.
Local managers are supported by centralized training, playbooks, and digital tools. “Our operations team [members] do regular site visits, walk the parks, [and] hear direct guest feedback,” he told Modern Campground.
Correa also shared that while Blue Water ensures consistency across its properties, on-site teams are given the flexibility to incorporate unique elements that reflect their local culture and environment.
Building for the Future with Sustainability in Mind
“Sustainability is part of our commitment to long-term guest value,” Correa explained.
Many resorts already use water-saving fixtures and LED lighting, with more investing in solar, recycling programs, EV stations, and native landscaping. “It’s about creating memorable experiences today while preserving nature for tomorrow,” he emphasized.
Looking ahead, Correa said that Blue Water is developing a broader sustainability framework that will incorporate energy audits, guest education initiatives, and collaborations with local environmental organizations.
He noted that the company has hosted fire prevention classes to raise awareness among guests about the importance of respecting and protecting the natural environment.
Blue Water Development’s sustainability efforts align closely with broader industry trends highlighted in the April 2024 report by Modern Campground and Cairn Consulting Group, which analyzed the impact of eco-friendly practices on guest experience and campground operations.
The report found that nearly half of leisure travelers are more likely to choose a campground that implements sustainable practices, and a majority believe those efforts enhance their overall stay.
Blue Water’s implementation of water-saving fixtures, LED lighting, recycling programs, and native landscaping corresponds with the report’s findings that simple, accessible initiatives, like waste management, energy and water conservation, and educational outreach, are among the most common and effective in campgrounds today.
By incorporating these practices, Blue Water not only contributes to environmental stewardship but also positions itself to meet the evolving expectations of modern travelers, who increasingly prioritize sustainability when selecting outdoor destinations.
Evolving Offerings for Modern Travelers
While young families remain a core demographic, Correa noted the growing popularity of multi-generational travel.
“Grandparents traveling with their kids and grandkids are becoming more common,” he said. “We also cater to RV enthusiasts, friend groups, and even digital nomads.”
Across these groups, the common thread is a desire for meaningful, affordable experiences that foster connection.
As family travel preferences evolve, Blue Water is adapting its offerings. “Families are choosing experiences over things—they want experiences that create memories,” Correa said.
The company is expanding glamping options, themed weekends, wellness programming, and pet-friendly accommodations.
“Digital convenience is also key,” he noted, citing mobile check-ins and digital booking tools as essential components of the modern guest journey.
Looking ahead, Blue Water is gearing up for strategic growth. “We’re continuing to grow strategically, with several exciting acquisitions and developments in the works,” Correa said.
New projects are planned across the Southeast, Mid-Atlantic, and Southwest.
At existing resorts, guests can expect expanded water parks, themed lodging, and enhanced dining options.
Despite this growth, Blue Water remains grounded in its original mission.
“Our goal is to evolve alongside our guests’s expectations while staying true to our mission of delivering exceptional hospitality in unforgettable destinations,” said Correa. It’s a philosophy that ensures each new venture builds upon the trust and loyalty the brand has earned.
To learn more about Blue Water Development, visit bwdc.com.