Americans love options. Whether it’s choosing from a massive fast-food menu or customizing an online order, people enjoy having choices that fit their needs and preferences. The same principle applies to RV parks—if you only offer one type of accommodation, you're limiting your customer base.
A successful RV park isn’t just a place to park an RV; it’s an experience. Some travelers seek the rugged charm of sleeping under the stars, while others roll in with a high-end motorhome that rivals a luxury suite. And then there are those who want the outdoor feel without sacrificing modern comforts. If you want your RV park to thrive, catering to all these preferences is crucial.
The Appeal of Classic Camping
For many, nothing beats the simplicity of tent camping. The scent of a crackling campfire, the thrill of sleeping under the stars, and the satisfaction of cooking a meal over an open flame—it’s an experience that resonates with people from all walks of life.
Interestingly, this isn't just a budget traveler’s choice. Many affluent individuals, including business executives and professionals, find camping to be a refreshing escape from their structured lives. It taps into a primal sense of adventure and brings families and friends together in a way that modern conveniences often can’t replicate.
However, while some guests want the full camping experience, they still expect a baseline level of comfort. Providing clean restrooms, well-maintained trails, and designated fire pits can enhance their stay. Even a basic campground can attract repeat visitors if it offers a peaceful, well-kept environment.
Pull-Through RV Lots: The Heart of Any RV Park
At the core of any RV park business are the RV travelers themselves. These are people who have invested heavily in their vehicles, with some rigs costing well over a million dollars. Their RVs are essentially five-star hotels on wheels, and they expect a park that matches that level of quality.
To keep these guests satisfied, an RV park must provide:
- Pull-through lots – Backing in is a hassle for many travelers. Spacious, well-laid-out lots make arrivals and departures seamless.
- Reliable utilities – Full hookups, including water, electricity, and sewage, are non-negotiable.
- Entertainment and activities – A well-rounded park offers more than just a parking space. Features like hiking trails, fishing ponds, and community events keep guests engaged.
- Aesthetic appeal – Clean grounds, landscaping, and well-maintained facilities make a strong first impression.
- Friendly, service-oriented staff – Guests want a welcoming atmosphere where they feel valued.
If these needs aren’t met, high-end RV owners will simply drive to another park that offers what they want. It’s a competitive industry, and small details can make or break a guest’s experience.
Park-Model Cabins: Bridging the Gap
Not everyone who visits an RV park owns an RV. Some guests love the idea of staying in nature but aren’t keen on tent camping. This is where park-model cabins come into play.
Park-model cabins are small, pre-built structures designed for short-term stays. They provide a cozy, home-like alternative to both tents and RVs. Some are simple, featuring only basic amenities, while others rival upscale vacation rentals with full kitchens, stylish décor, and private decks.
Who books these cabins?
- Families who want to enjoy nature without investing in an RV
- Road trippers seeking a break from traditional hotels
- Guests attending events or family gatherings at the park
- Retirees exploring the RV lifestyle before committing to an RV purchase
From a business perspective, park-model cabins are a smart investment. While they can cost upwards of $40,000 per unit, they often rent for as much per night as a mid-range hotel room. The return on investment can be significant, especially during peak travel seasons when demand is high.
Glamping: A Modern Take on a Classic Experience
Some RV Park owners bring in classic travel trailers, fully restore them, and then rent them out by the night. This allows visitors to experience camping but in a upscale, retro style. This has many of the same benefits as Park-Model cabins but with a huge advantage in the low cost of these units. You can often buy a classic travel trailer online for $5,000 or so, and with another $5,000 of renovations and a good eye for design you can match the income of the Park-Models at a fraction of the upfront cost.
Why Diversity in Lodging Options Drives Success
Offering a mix of accommodations isn’t just about being inclusive—it’s a strategic move that boosts profitability. Here’s why:
- Larger customer base – By catering to tent campers, RV owners, and cabin renters, your park appeals to a wider range of travelers.
- Higher occupancy rates – When one lodging option isn’t in demand, another might be. This helps maintain steady bookings year-round.
- Upselling opportunities – Tent campers might upgrade to a cabin on a rainy weekend, or RV travelers may recommend the park to friends who don’t own an RV.
- Diversified revenue streams – Instead of relying on a single type of traveler, a well-rounded park benefits from multiple sources of income.
A park that only offers RV sites will always be limited by the number of RV travelers. But a park that provides multiple options has greater flexibility to adapt to changing trends and guest preferences.
Conclusion
An RV park isn’t just a place to sleep—it’s an experience. Whether guests want to immerse themselves in nature, enjoy the comforts of a high-end motorhome, or relax in a cozy cabin, variety is the key to long-term success.
The most successful RV parks recognize this and build an environment that welcomes all kinds of travelers. By offering different lodging options, maintaining excellent facilities, and fostering a welcoming atmosphere, you create a destination that people want to return to year after year.
A well-designed RV park is like a great restaurant: If you only serve one dish, you’ll only attract a limited audience. But if you offer something for everyone, you’ll keep your guests coming back for more.