The Page County Board of Supervisors is poised to review a significant expansion plan for River Run Campground in Rileyville at their upcoming meeting. The expansion, if approved, could reshape the local camping and outdoor hospitality landscape, offering enhanced camping experiences while addressing community concerns.
As per a Harrisonburg WHSV report, the proposed special use permit seeks to expand the campground from its current 45 sites to 125 sites, alongside the addition of eight cabins. This development is planned across two parcels of land, totaling approximately 165 acres, promising a substantial increase in the campground’s capacity and amenities.
The initiative for expansion follows a public hearing conducted by the Page County Planning Commission in November, where local residents expressed a variety of concerns. Issues raised included potential noise pollution, the use of fireworks, increased traffic on Carvell Road and its access points, parking challenges, and trash management.
Despite these concerns, the Planning Commission has recommended the approval of the special use permit, stipulating several conditions aimed at mitigating the impact on the surrounding community. These measures include a prohibition on fireworks within the campground, adherence to existing noise ordinances, and a mandate for the campground owner to address any trash issues on Carvell Road caused by guests.
Tracy Clatterbuck, Page County Zoning administrator, emphasized the county’s commitment to fostering a business-friendly environment while ensuring the rights and peace of nearby residents are safeguarded. Clatterbuck highlighted the critical role of the special use permit conditions in enforcing compliance and ensuring the proposed expansion does not detract from the quality of life in the area.
The consideration of this expansion comes at a time when the outdoor hospitality industry is experiencing significant growth, driven by increasing interest in camping, glamping, and RV travel. The expansion of River Run Campground represents an opportunity not only to meet this growing demand but also to set a precedent for responsible and community-friendly development within the sector.
For campground and outdoor hospitality operators, the River Run Campground expansion project serves as a valuable case study in balancing growth with community engagement and environmental stewardship. The approach taken by Page County could provide insights into navigating the challenges of expanding outdoor hospitality services, from planning and zoning to addressing community concerns.
Featured image by River Run Campground via facebook.com/riverruncampgroundllc