If you own or manage a campground, you know how important it is to provide an exceptional outdoor experience for your guests. In today’s competitive market, setting your campground apart is more critical than ever. 

One of the most effective ways to attract more guests and ensure they return is by offering must-have campground amenities that enhance their experience. In this article, we will provide a list of 10 must-have campground amenities that can enhance the guest experience and drive growth. These amenities are not only essential or desirable but also feasible and profitable. 

So let’s explore how the right amenities can make your campground the go-to destination for travelers.

Essential Campground Amenities

Choosing the right amenities for your campground is a strategic decision that can significantly influence your business’s success. 

Visitors today are seeking a level of comfort and convenience that goes beyond basic necessities. While traditional camping experiences offer rustic charm, today’s discerning guests are often looking for added value that can elevate their stay into something truly memorable. 

With that in mind, we will delve into a list of the top 10 essential campground amenities. Implementing these amenities could very well transform your campground into a sought-after destination, attracting a loyal customer base and setting you apart in an increasingly competitive market.

1. Reliable Wi-Fi

In today’s digital world, internet access is no longer a luxury, but a necessity for most people. Whether your guests are remote workers or families who want to stream a movie after a day outdoors, Wi-Fi is key. 

The problem is that campground Wi-Fi does not have the strongest reputation among RVers. This means that offering strong, reliable Wi-Fi can set you apart, encouraging longer stays and positively impacting your revenue.

To provide internet access at your campground, you need to invest in a high-quality wireless network that covers the entire area. You also need to ensure that the network is secure, stable, and scalable. You can consider offering free Wi-Fi for basic use and charging a fee for premium access.

Reliable Internet access is not only beneficial for your guests but also for your business. You can use it to collect data, communicate with guests, promote your services, and receive feedback.

2. Clean and Modern Bathrooms

Nothing can deter a guest faster than a dirty bathroom. On the other hand, clean and modern bathroom facilities can elevate the camping experience. Incorporate touches like well-maintained shower areas, ample lighting, and even baby changing stations to make a lasting impression on your guests. 

To provide bathrooms at your campground, you need to design and build them according to the standards and regulations of your location. You also need to maintain and clean them regularly and provide adequate supplies. 

Bathrooms are not only essential for your guests’ hygiene and comfort but also for your reputation and image. They can make or break your guests’ impression of your campground.

3. Pet-Friendly Spaces

Many travelers like to bring their pets along, so offering pet-friendly amenities can set you apart from the competition. Designated pet areas, pet waste stations, and even pet-friendly trails can make your campground appealing to a broader audience. Being pet-friendly is often a deciding factor for potential guests.

Among the most demanded pet-friendly amenities at campgrounds are dog runs. A dog run is a fenced-in area where dogs can run, play, and interact with other dogs. It can cater to pet owners who want to bring their furry friends along on their camping trips.

To provide a dog run at your campground, you need to choose a location that is away from the campsites and has enough space and grass. You also need to equip the park with water stations, waste bags, trash cans, benches, and agility obstacles, as well as enforce rules that ensure it is a safe place for both your furry and human guests.

4. Family-Friendly Amenities

Family-friendly amenities such as playgrounds, swimming pools, or even organized activities like scavenger hunts can turn a regular campground into a family destination. These facilities are particularly beneficial during peak vacation seasons and can be a major draw for families planning a getaway.

Playgrounds are one of the most effective family-friendly campground amenities you can have at your campground. They are a fun and safe area where children can play and socialize while they are kept entertained, active, and happy. It also gives their parents an opportunity to relax or enjoy other activities at your campground.

5. Laundry Facilities

For guests planning longer stays or those on a long road trip, on-site laundry facilities can be a game-changer. Providing a clean and convenient laundry area with coin-operated or app-controlled machines will greatly enhance the practicality and appeal of your campground.

They also save your guests from having to pack too many items or visit an off-site laundromat. 

However, laundry facilities are not only useful for your guests but also beneficial for your business. They can increase your guest satisfaction, retention, and referrals while helping you diversify your revenue streams. They can also help you reduce your water and energy consumption by using energy-efficient machines.

6. Outdoor Recreation Facilities

Whether it’s a fishing pond, hiking trails, or an outdoor gym, providing facilities for outdoor recreation can significantly enrich your guests’ experience. Consider installing barbecue pits or campfire stations for the complete outdoor experience. These amenities will not only attract guests but also keep them entertained throughout their stay. It is important to protect nature and not break the law during your vacation, as you may spend your vacation in Mercantour National Park or another national park where certain types of camping or certain activities may be prohibited.

7. Food and Drink Options

While some guests prefer the authentic camping experience of cooking their own meals, others may appreciate the convenience of on-site food and drink options. Whether it’s a full-service restaurant, a café, or even just a snack bar, having food options can add an extra layer of comfort to the camping experience.

8. Fire Rings or Grills

Fire rings or grills add a rustic and cozy touch to your campground while providing your guests with the opportunity to cook and enjoy their meals over an open fire. Install durable and safe fire rings that can contain the fire and prevent it from spreading. And make sure that the fire rings and grills are cleaned and maintained regularly.

9. Convenient Location and Shuttle Services

While the appeal of camping often lies in escaping the hustle and bustle, being situated near local attractions is a major plus. Offering shuttle services to these locations can take the guest experience to the next level, making their stay more enjoyable and stress-free.

Providing your guests with easy access to and from your campground can save them time, money, and hassle from having to drive or use public transportation. Make sure that the shuttle services are reliable, comfortable, and affordable.

10. On-Site Retail Campground Store

The convenience of an on-site retail campground store cannot be overstated. Whether it’s for camping essentials that were left at home or souvenirs to remember the trip by, an on-site store can offer a range of products to meet your guests’ needs.

Stocking up on essentials like insect repellent, sunscreen, and even basic groceries can make a world of difference in guest satisfaction. You also need to organize it in a way that makes it easy for guests to find what they are looking for, keep it well-stocked, open during reasonable hours, and staffed by friendly and helpful employees.

A general store is not only convenient for your guests but also profitable for your business. It can generate extra income from sales and commissions while helping you build relationships with local suppliers and vendors.

We are well aware of how vitalit is  for RV parks to have campground stores that are fully stocked and seamlessly run, and that’s why we developed RoverPass Online General Store, a solution that enables RV park owners and managers to create and operate their own online store with maximum efficiency. 

To acquire more insights and tips on how to build and run a successful campground, keep reading our blog!