If you own or operate an RV park or campground, then you already know that the tools you use to make reservations are crucial to your success. While many businesses in the hospitality industry rely on software solutions that can handle everything from staffing rosters to social media outreach, RV parks and campgrounds have historically been underserved by software providers. Fortunately, new solutions are emerging that specifically address the needs of this industry, and they’re delivering a range of benefits to both business owners and their guests alike. Here are five ways that these solutions can help boost campground bookings with the right software.
5 Ways to Boost Campground Bookings
1) The guest experience should be your top priority
All campgrounds and RV parks are not created equal. Some are more family-friendly, while others offer a more serene experience. But regardless of what type of camper you’re looking for, there’s one thing that all campsites should provide: a great experience. The guest experience is your top priority as an operator and it can make or break your business. When guests come back for their next visit, they want to know that their last one was amazing so they’ll be excited about coming back again.
2) Use online booking software
An online booking tool can help campgrounds and RV parks boost their bookings by making it easy for potential customers to find you. When you streamline the process of booking a campsite with this type of software, it’s easier for visitors to find information about rates and availability. Not only will using an online booking tool make life easier for your customers, but it will also help decrease the amount of time you spend on administrative tasks like taking reservations over the phone or answering emails. Plus, this type of software is much more affordable than hiring additional staff!
3) Keep your website up-to-date
Keeping your website up-to-date is an important part of a successful campground. You can use your website to not only advertise specials, but also highlight what is available on the grounds and in the surrounding area. Plus, it’s easy! You can update content by clicking edit and typing into the fields provided.
1) Upload photos of campgrounds.
2) Keep your calendar updated with special events and activities happening on the grounds.
3) Show off what you’re offering in terms of amenities like pools, WiFi, etc…
4) Keep your blog up-to-date with news about what’s happening at the campgrounds – it doesn’t have to be earth shattering stuff!
4) Use social media & internet
#1. Social Media Has the Ability to Reach a Large Audience
When you are using social media, you can easily reach a large audience and promote your campgrounds by sharing pictures, activities, and tips about your campground. As more people see what you have to offer, they will be more likely to plan their next camping trip at your campground.
#2. Social Media Can Bring in New Customers
People who are already interested in going camping may not know where they want to go until they see your social media posts on Facebook or Instagram and find out that they want to visit your campgrounds. Sharing images of the campsites and beautiful scenery also makes them eager for their next visit!
#3. Customize Marketing Messages to Your Target Audience: You’ve heard it before – marketing messages should be tailored to specific audiences. If you’re trying to appeal to families with kids, share stories about games, hiking trails and splash pads. If there’s an event coming up at your campground, let them know via social media channels like Facebook Events or Google Ads. Use geo-targeting tools like Google Maps so only local customers see ads when they search for things nearby.
#4. Have Good Wi-Fi: One downside to camping is that some people don’t realize how much internet access would affect their stay. The best thing you can do is provide high speed wi-fi throughout your property for all guests! Not only does this make checking into accommodations easy, but it means customers won’t need to worry about packing as many devices since they can work from the campground. Visitors will enjoy being able to research attractions around town while they’re staying near the campground, too.
5) Offer discounts and promotions
Provide discounts and promotions to your campers. For example, offer a free night for the first time camper, or two nights off for every three nights booked. Offer discounts for memberships and club memberships. Offer reduced fees for late arrivals or early departures, and if you have a store on site offer reduced prices on items in your store, such as $1/gallon milk if you have a grocery store. Consider offering free wi-fi or cable TV with all camping packages. Offer camping packages that include other amenities such as fishing trips, horseback riding tours, guided hikes, etcetera.
Conclusion
We hope these five tips will help you boost your campground bookings and make this season the best yet. Whether you are a new business owner or have been around for years, taking some time now to put these suggestions into action will be well worth it!
So what are you waiting for? Get started on that tech upgrade today and see the difference it can make for your campgrounds.