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Proposal Seeks Comprehensive Revamp of Oakley Campground to Boost Usage and Revenue

A significant proposal aiming to enhance the utilization and income of the Oakley Campground was presented to the Oakley City Council by David Diehl, owner of Oakley Rentals. 

The initiative involves a partnership with the city where Diehl would manage the day-to-day operations of the underused campground, promising a substantial increase in revenue.

Diehl expressed confidence in the plan’s potential during the council meeting, stating, “We have a really good plan put together for how we’re going to proceed.” He emphasized that the changes being proposed are flexible and could be adjusted based on the project’s success.

The proposal outlines a revenue-sharing agreement with the city. Under this arrangement, Oakley Campground, which generated about $3,500 last year, would see its earnings at least doubled in the first year under Diehl’s management. This shift would relieve the city of maintenance and marketing responsibilities, potentially improving both the usage and upkeep of the campground.

Daily operations under the new management would include site maintenance and guest check-ins, managed by Diehl’s staff. An emergency contact line would be available around the clock. Future plans may include building a residence for campground staff if the revamp proves successful.

The reservation system currently in place will remain, supported by online booking capabilities and QR codes for on-site reservations. This system is part of a broader strategy to maintain operational continuity while introducing new features.

Located within the Oakley City Recreation Complex, Oakley Campground currently does not include RV spots near the rodeo complex but features 18 individual campsites, a pavilion, a gathering area, and restroom facilities. The proposal suggests the potential addition of two to three tent and dry campsites.

In the second year of the project, Diehl plans to introduce tiny cabins as a new revenue stream. These cabins, planned without initial water or sewer hookups, would include amenities such as a loft bedroom, kitchen, living area, dining area, and a porch. Infrastructure could be expanded later depending on demand.

The city would assume ownership of these cabins if the agreement with Diehl terminates, with the option to remove or sell them depending on future needs.

The revamped campground would also offer enhanced recreational opportunities, including paddleboard and kayak rentals, as well as access to the local trail system and river. Additional amenities under consideration are firewood sales and a community fire pit.

As per a Park Record report, Diehl envisions the campground operating year-round, with continued maintenance services including snow plowing during the winter months.

To address privacy concerns, the plan includes the planting of trees and the construction of a berm. Additionally, guests staying longer than two weeks will undergo a screening process.

City Councilor Joe Frazier commented on the potential impact of the revamp, “I think it will be used more. I don’t think people know about it.” The community’s response appears supportive, reflecting a positive outlook on the proposed changes.

Diehl is scheduled to submit a formal proposal, which the council could approve at their next meeting on April 24. The Oakley Campground currently operates on a first-come, first-served basis, with rules and information available at a centrally located wooden sign.

Featured image from Oakley Campground via oakleycity.com

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Hi, you might find this article from Modern Campground interesting: Proposal Seeks Comprehensive Revamp of Oakley Campground to Boost Usage and Revenue! This is the link: https://moderncampground.com/usa/utah/proposal-seeks-comprehensive-revamp-of-oakley-campground-to-boost-usage-and-revenue/