Although large contractors typically run and manage everything in the national parks of the United States, there remain opportunities for clever entrepreneurs who want to attach their campground enterprise to a nationally recognized park. In order to become successful, you’ll need to thoroughly investigate and negotiate contracts to open a campground before taking the first steps toward creating the campground; however, when the groundwork has been laid and you’re ready for the first steps, the following article will offer guidance and a helping hand to get you to the finish line.
First, congratulations on your success in negotiating the contract to obtain permission for a campground located on the property of a U.S. National Park. One of the key elements to your success in this venture will be following the exacting requirements in building and operating the campground to the specifications of the U.S. National Park Service. Taking the initial steps will be indicative of the value your campground will bring, both to the park and to your own wealth-building enterprise. Follow these steps to get started:
Consider your Target Customer
Who is your customer and why has that customer come to your campground? Were costs a factor in camping versus staying at a hotel? Do they want a warm family experience? How can your campground meet their expectations and needs? These questions will help you form an idea of who your demographic customer is and what they are searching for. This information will help in meeting the needs of your customers across the board. Conduct surveys or polls among campers in your first months to determine if your efforts are meeting the mark of their needs and wants.
Consider your Competitors
U.S. National Parks typically contain several campgrounds, R.V. parks, and hotels of all kinds. Depending on the size of the park, there are many options from which to choose when it comes to selecting a campground. You’ll want to entice customers with unique offers and encourage them to try out your campground for the fun experiences and warm, friendly ambiance you provide. Research your competitors thoroughly to determine the pricing models charged, amenities that may be offered and the reservation methods used. Again, you’ll want to differentiate your experience from that of others to set your business apart.
Build your Business Plan
Building your business plan will be unique, given the many requirements and regulations of operating in a national park. However, it can be successfully done if you carefully adhere to all directives and follow through accordingly. Choose from among these business plan examples to determine which one is right for your business and fill out each segment completely. In addition to the research already compiled regarding your customers and competitors, you’ll need to complete a financial plan and forecast, operational plan, mission and objectives, and marketing strategies. Keep in mind that any operational or strategic campaigns that affect any other portions of the national park will need to adhere to policies and processes for all.
Create a Financial Plan and Secure Funding
If you’ve been able to negotiate a contract with the U.S. National Park Service, you are in an exemplary position to secure funding for startup or a growth phase. You’ll want to complete the campground business plan and work on the financial funding and forecast to ensure the calculations are correct and a healthy profit margin is included in every area of management. Use your completed business plan to approach lenders or investors for startup funding, if needed. Building a large venue will require capital; starting small with 20 campsites is more to the point, as you can build additional units at any time desired.
Scope Out the Location and Make Improvements
If you have not been assigned an area within the U.S. National Park, you’ll want to search for the best location: level ground, stable weather patterns, close to major highways, free of boulders or difficult trees for removal, and amenities, such as a lake or pond, nearby. A seasoned business owner will recognize the amenities straight away and be impressed by the number of campsite opportunities in a good campground location.
After the campground area has been chosen, it is time to make improvements on the property. Although the land will be leased, there are requirements for building and improving the land. Adhere closely to the boundaries or parameters as designed and make small, incremental changes to your property as seem fitting.
Starting a campground in a U.S. National Park is an exciting venture. By planning carefully and managing resources, your campground will grow as visitors choose it and spread the word, preparing your park for long-term growth and personal success.