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10 RV Park Amenities Every Campground Owner Should Consider

rv park amenities

Ever gone to an RV park and it was just rows of concrete slabs, little patches of grass, and not much else? Doesn’t really scream “getting back into nature”, does it?

While not every RV park or campground is going to be located in the middle of the woods or next to the ocean or a lake, there are ways you can enhance the experience for your guests—even if the location doesn’t lend a hand.

Improve Your Campground Amenities to Increase Bookings

RV park amenities are key to creating memorable experiences, attracting diverse guests, and ensuring repeat business. This article highlights the top camping amenities every RV park owner should consider, from full-service hookups to luxury features like swimming pools and guided tours.

Amenities to Add to Your RV Park

amenities to add to your rv park

Here are some top ideas for RV park amenities that you can invest in to improve your campground’s management and enhance your guests’ experiences:

1. Full-Service Hookups (Water, Electricity, and Sewer)

Full-service hookups offer RV travelers convenience and comfort, allowing them to enjoy their RVs as fully functional homes. Essential for family and long-term campers, these essential RV park amenities eliminate the need for external power sources, water rationing, or finding dump stations.

  • Attract a Broader Audience: Cater to modern travelers who prefer fully equipped sites.
  • Boost Revenue: Sites with full hookups justify higher nightly rates.
  • Offer Dual Power Options: Install both 30-amp and 50-amp connections to accommodate different RV sizes. Use dual pedestals to maximize site flexibility.

Tips for Offering Both 30-Amp and 50-Amp Electrical Options

Electrical demand varies greatly depending on the size and type of RV. While some smaller RVs only require 30-amp connections, larger motorhomes and luxury trailers often need 50-amp service to run their multiple systems. To cater to a broad range of campers, consider these tips:

1. Understand Electrical Requirements

Familiarize yourself with the differences between 30-amp and 50-amp connections:

30-amp Connection50-amp Connection
Provides up to 3,600 watts of power, which is sufficient for smaller RVsDelivers up to 12,000 watts, which is essential for large, high-end rigs

2. Offer Dual Options

Ensure your park has a mix of sites equipped with 30-amp and 50-amp connections to accommodate all types of RVs. Many parks install dual pedestal setups, which include both options on a single site, maximizing flexibility for guests.

3. Maintain Clear Labeling

Clearly label each pedestal with its electrical capacity to avoid confusion for campers. Misusing a hookup can lead to power outages or even damage to the RV or your electrical infrastructure.

4. Invest in Quality Infrastructure

Choose high-quality electrical pedestals and ensure proper installation by licensed electricians. This minimizes the risk of power failures or hazards.

4. Monitor Electrical Usage

Install surge protectors and regularly inspect electrical systems to maintain safety and reliability. Overloaded circuits or faulty wiring can lead to costly repairs and unhappy guests.

5. Educate Guests

Provide clear instructions on how to safely connect to your electrical system. For example, offer guidelines on using adapters for RVs with incompatible hookups.

2. High-Speed Wi-Fi Connectivity

Reliable Wi-Fi is no longer optional—it’s a necessity for remote workers, digital nomads, and tech-savvy travelers.

  • Cater to Remote Workers: Provide stable connections for video conferencing and cloud-based tools.
  • Attract Long-Term Guests: Reliable internet encourages extended stays.
  • Optimize Coverage: Conduct site assessments, install outdoor-rated access points, and consider Wi-Fi mesh systems for consistent connectivity.
  • Offer Tiered Plans: Provide free basic access and premium options for higher bandwidth needs.

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3. Spacious Pull-Through Sites

Pull-through sites are simplify parking and appeal to travelers with large rigs or limited towing experience.

  • Benefits: Eliminate backing up, reduce guest stress, and improve staff efficiency.
  • Optimize Design: Create sites at least 60–75 feet long with wide entry and exit points, gravel or paved surfaces, and clear signage.
  • Enhance Appeal: Add shade, landscaping, and adequate lighting for comfort and safety.

Ideas for Optimizing Space and Ease of Access

To make the most of your pull-through sites, consider these strategies:

  • Wide Entry and Exit Points: Design entry and exit paths with wide turns to accommodate the turning radius of large RVs, minimizing the risk of damage to vehicles or park property.
  • Gravel or Paved Surfaces: Use durable materials like gravel or concrete to create level and stable parking areas. This enhances safety and prevents issues like getting stuck in muddy conditions.
  • Clear Signage: Place visible signs to guide guests to pull-through sites and indicate entry and exit points. This helps avoid confusion and streamlines traffic flow.
  • Site Separation: Space sites generously to allow for slide-outs, awnings, and outdoor activities without crowding neighboring guests.
  • Shade and Landscaping: Add trees or landscaping between sites for privacy and shade, but keep vegetation trimmed to avoid obstructing large vehicles.
  • Lighting: Install adequate lighting for nighttime arrivals, ensuring that guests can easily navigate the area without difficulty.

4. Clean and Modern Restroom Facilities

Restrooms are often a reflection of your park’s overall quality. Prioritize cleanliness and modern design to impress guests.

Suggestions for Eco-Friendly Designs and Accessibility

Incorporating eco-friendly and accessible restroom designs not only benefits guests but also reflects your property’s commitment to sustainability and inclusivity, which attracts more guests. Here’s how:

  • Low-Flow Fixtures: Install low-flow toilets, faucets, and showerheads to reduce water consumption without compromising functionality.
  • Solar Water Heating: Use solar-powered water heaters to provide hot showers while minimizing energy costs and environmental impact.
  • LED Lighting: Opt for energy-efficient LED lights for bright, long-lasting illumination that reduces electricity usage.
  • Recycled Materials: To minimize your environmental footprint, use recycled or sustainable materials, such as reclaimed wood for benches or eco-friendly tiles.
  • Touchless Technology: Install motion-sensor faucets, soap dispensers, and hand dryers to enhance hygiene and reduce waste.
  • Accessible Facilities: Ensure compliance with ADA or local accessibility standards by adding features like wider stalls, grab bars, low sinks, and wheelchair-accessible showers.
  • Family-Friendly Design: Include larger stalls or family bathrooms to accommodate parents with children or guests requiring extra space.
  • Ventilation and Odor Control: Invest in high-quality ventilation systems to maintain fresh air circulation and prevent unpleasant odors.

5. On-Site Laundry Facilities

Laundry facilities cater to long-term campers and families, offering convenience while generating revenue from these guest bookings. To ensure your on-site laundry facilities are clean, functional, and secure, consider these best practices:

  • Regular Maintenance: Perform routine checks on washers and dryers to ensure they are in good working order. Address any malfunctions promptly to minimize downtime and guest frustration.
  • Cleanliness Standards: Keep the laundry area tidy by regularly sweeping floors, wiping down machines, and emptying trash bins. Providing cleaning supplies, such as paper towels or disinfectant wipes, allows guests to clean up after themselves if needed.
  • Secure Payment Systems: Use secure payment methods, such as coin-operated machines, card readers, or app-based systems. This reduces the risk of theft and enhances guest convenience.
  • Adequate Ventilation: Ensure the laundry area has proper ventilation to avoid moisture buildup, which can lead to mold or unpleasant odors.
  • Ample Lighting: Bright lighting ensures safety and comfort, particularly for guests doing laundry in the evening. LED lights are a cost-effective and energy-efficient choice.
  • Comfortable Waiting Area: Include seating, folding tables, and books, magazines, or a deck of cards to make the space more guest-friendly while they wait for their laundry to finish.
  • Access Control: Restrict access to registered guests by using key cards, codes, or other methods to prevent unauthorized use.
  • Clear Instructions: Post easy-to-read instructions for using the machines, troubleshooting common issues, and reporting problems. Multilingual signs can cater to diverse guests.
  • Emergency Contacts: Provide contact information for staff or maintenance personnel in case guests encounter issues with the machines.

6. Recreational Spaces and Activities

One great way to provide the best campground amenities for your guests is to give them well-designed recreational spaces. These spaces are a key way to enhance your property’s appeal and create memorable guest experiences. Examples include:

  • Playgrounds: Safe, modern playgrounds with swings, slides, and climbing structures are essential for families with children. Shaded areas and seating for parents further enhance the appeal.
  • Sports Courts: Facilities like basketball, volleyball, pickleball, or tennis courts provide engaging activities for guests of all ages, promoting fitness and fun.
  • Hiking and Walking Trails: Nature trails or walking paths around the property offer serene outdoor experiences, connecting guests with nature. Adding trail markers or information about local flora and fauna enhances the experience.
  • Picnic Areas: Shaded picnic tables, BBQ pits, or pavilion spaces encourage outdoor dining and group gatherings.

Hosting Community Events to Foster Guest Engagement

In addition to physical spaces, hosting community events can create a sense of camaraderie and connection among guests. Events like these bring people together and add a unique, personalized touch to their stay:

  • Campfire Nights: Organize evening campfires with storytelling, marshmallow roasting, or live acoustic music. This creates a cozy, social atmosphere that guests remember fondly.
  • Movie Nights: Outdoor movie screenings with blankets and popcorn are a hit with families and groups. Using a projector and a portable screen can transform open spaces into a mini theater.
  • Sports Tournaments: Friendly competitions on your sports courts, such as volleyball or pickleball tournaments, provide engaging entertainment for participants and spectators.
  • Guided Nature Walks: Offer guided hikes or wildlife tours for guests who want to explore the area with a knowledgeable guide.
  • Arts and Crafts Workshops: For younger guests or creative adults, hands-on activities like tie-dye, painting, or nature-themed crafts can be both relaxing and fun.
  • Fitness Classes: Yoga, Zumba, or morning stretch sessions can cater to guests looking for wellness-focused activities.

7. Pet-Friendly Areas

rv park pet friendly
Young adventurous couple petting their white dog while on a hike

As more travelers hit the road with their furry companions, having dedicated pet-friendly campground spaces can significantly enhance your property’s appeal. 

  • Meeting Guest Expectations: Many RV travelers and campers consider their pets part of the family and actively seek pet-friendly properties. Providing designated areas shows that you value their needs, making your property more attractive.
  • Enhancing Guest Convenience: Walking trails, fenced play areas, or designated off-leash zones give pets a safe and enjoyable space to roam, reducing the stress of travel for both pets and their owners.
  • Minimizing Conflicts: By setting up dedicated pet zones, you can better manage interactions between pets and guests who may not be comfortable around animals, ensuring everyone’s safety and enjoyment.
  • Encouraging Repeat Stays: Pet-friendly facilities foster loyalty among pet owners, who are more likely to return to a property that accommodates their furry friends.

Upgrades Like Pet Washing Stations or Agility Courses

Adding unique RV park amenities for pets can set your property apart from competitors and create a more enjoyable stay for guests traveling with animals. Consider these upgrades:

  • Pet Washing Stations: Install outdoor pet washing stations equipped with non-slip surfaces, adjustable hoses, and shampoo dispensers. These stations are invaluable for cleaning muddy paws or giving pets a quick bath after outdoor adventures.
  • Agility Courses: Create an agility area with obstacles like tunnels, ramps, and weave poles. This provides a fun, engaging activity for pets and their owners, while also encouraging exercise and play.
  • Fenced Dog Parks: Set up secure, well-maintained dog parks with shaded seating for owners and water fountains for pets. Including separate sections for small and large dogs enhances safety and comfort.
  • Waste Stations: Install waste bag dispensers and disposal bins throughout the property to encourage responsible pet care and maintain cleanliness.
  • Walking Trails: Develop scenic, pet-friendly trails around your property, complete with signage and resting areas, offering a relaxing environment for pets and their owners.
  • Pet-Friendly Cabins or Sites: For RV parks or campgrounds offering cabin rentals, designate pet-friendly accommodations with easy access to outdoor areas.

8. Campground Store and Essentials

A well-stocked campground store is more than just a convenience—it’s a vital amenity that enhances the guest experience while generating additional revenue for your property. Here are some key benefits:

  • Convenience for Guests: Offering camping essentials, snacks, and souvenirs saves guests the trouble of traveling off-site to purchase forgotten items or grab a quick snack. This convenience enhances their stay and reflects positively on your campground.
  • Increased Revenue: A campground store can be a steady source of income, with sales of everyday items, impulse purchases, and unique souvenirs.
  • Enhanced Guest Experience: Providing basic necessities such as firewood, ice, or first-aid supplies ensures guests are well-prepared and comfortable during their visit.
  • Memorable Takeaways: Souvenirs, such as branded T-shirts or mugs, serve as mementos of a great trip and help promote your campground through word-of-mouth when guests showcase these items to friends and family.

Tips for Stocking Items That Cater to RV Travelers

To ensure your campground store meets the needs of RV travelers, curate a thoughtful selection of items that cater to their specific requirements. Consider the following:

Items to Stock in a Camping StoreDescription
Camping EssentialsStock items like firewood, propane, charcoal, lighter fluid, batteries, flashlights, and camping utensils. These essentials are often overlooked or run out during longer stays.
RV SuppliesInclude items such as sewer hose connectors, freshwater hoses, leveling blocks, and tank treatments. These products cater specifically to RV travelers and are always in demand.
Snacks and BeveragesOffer a variety of grab-and-go snacks like chips, granola bars, and trail mix, along with cold beverages, coffee, and bottled water. These are perfect for guests heading out for a hike or enjoying downtime.
Personal Care ProductsStock toiletries such as toothbrushes, toothpaste, sunscreen, bug spray, and hand sanitizer for guests who may have forgotten these essentials.
First-Aid SuppliesInclude basics like bandages, antiseptic wipes, and pain relievers to ensure guests have quick access to emergency items.
Souvenirs and Branded MerchandiseShowcase items like T-shirts, hats, mugs, stickers, and postcards featuring your campground’s logo or a design that represents the local area. These items add charm and encourage guests to remember their stay.
Local SpecialtiesPartner with local vendors to offer unique products such as handmade crafts, jams, or regional snacks. This supports the local economy and adds a personal touch to your store’s offerings.
Kids ItemsStock fun items for families, like toys, coloring books, or camping-themed games, to keep younger guests entertained.
Pet SuppliesDon’t forget pet travelers! Include items like dog treats, collapsible water bowls, leashes, and waste bags to cater to guests traveling with their furry companions.

9. Security Features

Security features like gated access, surveillance cameras, and well-lit areas are essential for protecting guests, their belongings, and your property. Here’s why they matter:

  • Gated Access: Controlled entry ensures that only registered guests and authorized personnel can enter the property. This reduces the risk of trespassing and unwanted disturbances, creating a safer and more private environment for visitors.
  • Surveillance Cameras: Strategically placed cameras provide an added layer of security by monitoring key areas like entrances, parking lots, and communal spaces. They act as a deterrent to theft and vandalism while offering valuable footage in case of incidents.
  • Well-Lit Areas: Adequate lighting in parking lots, pathways, and communal areas enhances visibility, reduces the likelihood of accidents, and deters criminal activity. Guests feel safer navigating the property at night, improving their overall experience.

Strategies to Balance Security and Guest Privacy

While security is paramount, it’s equally important to ensure that measures don’t intrude on guests’ privacy or make them feel uncomfortable. Here’s how to strike the right balance:

  • Controlled Access Systems: Use gate systems that are easy for guests to navigate, such as keypads, RFID cards, or app-based entry. Ensure the system is intuitive and doesn’t cause delays or frustration during check-in or access.
  • Staff Presence: Maintain a visible but friendly staff presence, particularly during peak hours or late-night shifts. This provides a sense of security while allowing guests to feel supported rather than watched.
  • Guest Communication: Clearly communicate your security measures during check-in or via welcome materials. Emphasize that these features are in place for their safety and convenience, framing them as an added benefit rather than an intrusion.
  • Lighting Design: Use warm, well-placed lighting that enhances visibility without being overly harsh or disruptive. Shielded fixtures can direct light where it’s needed while minimizing glare or light pollution.

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10. Unique and Luxury Amenities

campground store and essentials

Incorporating unique and luxury RV park amenities into your campground can elevate the guest experience, transforming a simple stay into a memorable retreat. Here are some ideas:

  • Fire Pits: Provide individual fire pits at each site or communal fire pits in designated areas. Fire pits encourage evening socializing and offer a cozy way to enjoy the outdoors. Include options for purchasing firewood or s’mores kits for added convenience and charm.
  • Private Picnic Areas: Design secluded picnic spots with tables, shade structures, and grills. These exclusive spaces give guests a sense of privacy and enhance their outdoor dining experience, whether for a romantic meal or a family gathering.
  • Swimming Pools and Hot Tubs: Add a touch of resort-style luxury with pools or hot tubs. Pools are perfect for families and children, while hot tubs cater to adults seeking relaxation. Consider features like heated pools or poolside seating for added comfort.
  • Cabins with Unique Features: Offer cabins with standout amenities like private decks, hammocks, or outdoor showers. These thoughtful touches appeal to glamping enthusiasts and elevate the overall guest experience.

Offering Memorable Experiences Like Guided Tours or Rental Equipment

Camping with amenities doesn’t have to be limited to physical infrastructure; offering curated experiences can leave a lasting impression on your guests and set your property apart. Consider these ideas:

  • Guided Tours: Partner with local guides or create your own tours highlighting nearby attractions, such as scenic hikes, wildlife viewing, or historical sites. Guided stargazing nights or bird-watching tours can also appeal to niche interests.
  • Equipment Rentals: Make it easy for guests to explore the area by offering rental equipment such as kayaks, paddleboards, bicycles, or fishing gear. These extras add convenience and encourage guests to engage with their surroundings.
  • Adventure Packages: Bundle activities and amenities into themed packages, such as “Family Adventure” or “Couples Retreat,” including options like picnic baskets, activity passes, and exclusive perks.
  • Workshops and Classes: Host on-site workshops, such as photography, yoga, or outdoor cooking classes. These activities provide a sense of community and offer guests something unique to take home from their stay.

Conclusion

Investing in thoughtful camping amenities can elevate your RV park, creating a space that appeals to a wide range of travelers. From essential features like full-service hookups and high-speed Wi-Fi to recreational spaces and luxury add-ons, these enhancements cater to the needs of modern campers. By fostering community with events, accommodating pets, and prioritizing security, you’ll not only enhance guest satisfaction but also position your park as a standout destination. The right RV park amenities are more than conveniences—they’re the foundation of unforgettable guest experiences and long-term success.

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