7 Ways to Manage a Campground. How MACO Members Do It
Whether it’s managing guests, facilities & amenities, or making sure the campground itself is in pristine condition, there are tons of things that go into effectively managing a campground in Massachusetts. At MACO, we work with our campground owners to make sure the guest experience is as amazing as possible, but broadly speaking, there are 7 things campground managers need to ensure for a campground that runs like a well-oiled machine.
7 Steps for Managing a Campground
Invest in Great People
A campground is only as great as the people managing it. Investing in a team of excellent, friendly, and enthusiastic staff can make all the difference in managing a campground effectively. Make sure your employees are well-trained, knowledgeable about the area, and able to handle any issues that may arise while managing a campground.
Things to Consider:
- You don’t need to manage everything yourself. Invest in a competent on-site manager who runs the day-to-day.
- Add seasonal employees or work campers to your staff to help you handle increased demand during peak seasons.
- Invest in technology and automation where possible to lighten the workload or remove mundane and simple tasks.
Set Guest Expectations from Day 1
Setting and managing guest expectations from the start helps to ensure that everyone has a great time while staying at your campground. Make sure that all policies, rules, fees, and regulations are clear from the beginning so there is no confusion when managing a campground.
Things to Consider:
- Make sure you have clearly defined check-in and check-out times.
- Set quiet hours and make sure all guests are aware of them.
- Be clear about what amenities are included with your campground, as well as any that may be extra.
- Which type of customer does your campground attract: seasonal, long-term, or overnight?
- Who is your target demographic for your campground?
- Is your park close to a major city or attraction?
Stay on Top of Maintenance
It’s important to keep up with the cleaning, maintenance, and upkeep of your campground to ensure that it is in the best condition possible. This includes managing grounds and landscaping, managing amenities and facilities, managing waste removal services, managing electricity and plumbing, managing pest control, managing security services, managing insurance policies, and managing any other maintenance issues that may arise while managing a campground.
Things to Consider:
- Create a regular cleaning and maintenance schedule and stick to it.
- Conduct regular inspections of the grounds, facilities, and amenities.
- Make sure all areas of the campground are properly lit at night for safety reasons.
- Ensure all electrical appliances and fixtures are in working order.
- Address any pest control issues promptly and safely.
Focus on Marketing
Marketing is key when managing a campground. Make sure you have a marketing plan in place to ensure the growth of your business, attract new guests, and keep existing ones coming back for repeat visits. From digital marketing to word-of-mouth referrals, there are many different strategies you can use to get the word out about your campground and draw in more guests.
Things to Consider:
- Develop a website that highlights your campground’s amenities and attractions.
- Create a social media presence on platforms like Facebook and Instagram.
- Identify local influencers or bloggers who can help spread the word about your campground.
- Take advantage of online travel agencies (OTAs) and participate in discount programs.
- Invest in traditional advertising, such as print ads or radio spots.
Invest in Safety
Safety and security should be a top priority while managing a campground. Make sure that the necessary precautions are taken to keep your guests safe and secure, such as ensuring that all areas of the campground are well-lit at night, installing video surveillance systems, having a gate around the premises (if necessary), and posting signs outlining safety rules and regulations.
Things to Consider:
- Install video surveillance systems in key areas of the campground and monitor them regularly.
- Post signs outlining safety rules and regulations throughout the campground.
- Provide emergency contact information for all guests upon check-in.
- Ensure that all areas of the campground are well-lit at night for safety reasons.
Invest in Technology
Technology is a great asset when managing a campground. From online booking software to digital payment systems, technology can help streamline the entire campground management process. Investing in technology will not only make it easier for guests to book and pay for their stay, but also allow you to maximize efficiency and revenue growth.
Things to Consider:
- Invest in online booking software to streamline reservations and payments.
- Introduce a digital payment system for guests to pay for their stay.
- Implement an email or SMS marketing system to reach out to existing and potential customers.
- Create a mobile app that allows guests to easily book and manage their stay.
- Integrate customer relationship management (CRM) software to better manage guest data.
Prioritize a Personal Touch
Whether it’s physically walking the path and interacting with campers to speaking with them just before they leave to find out areas that were stellar or needed improvement, managing a campground is all about providing an unforgettable and personalized experience. Take the time to get to know your guests and make sure they have everything they need during their stay.
Things to Consider:
- Greet campers upon arrival, answer questions and provide helpful information.
- Get to know your guests by delivering a personal touch through welcoming notes or small tokens of appreciation.
- Provide amenities such as Wi-Fi, firewood, and ice for convenience.
- Make sure all areas of the campground are well-maintained and clean at all times.
