In Progress

LESSON 1 — THE 6 PRIMARY TYPES OF CAMPGROUNDS

Buyers need to know which category fits their goals.

Here they are:

1. Destination / Resort Parks

High-end, amenity-rich, often near tourism hotspots.

Features:

  • Pools, splash pads
  • Cabins, park models
  • Large RV sites
  • High nightly rates
  • Professional staff
  • Large acreage
  • Event spaces
  • Store + activities

Price Range: $3M–$20M+
Buyer Type: Experienced operators, investors, corporate, well-funded individuals.

2. Overnight / Transit Parks

Located on major highways or travel routes.

Features:

  • Pull-through sites
  • Simple amenities
  • 1–3 night stays
  • Easy operations
  • Strong summer traffic

Price Range: $1.2M–$6M
Buyer Type: First-time owners, semi-retired couples, hands-on operators.

3. Seasonal Parks

The most predictable income.

Features:

  • Guests pay for the season
  • Low turnover
  • Low labor
  • Strong repeat guests
  • Very stable NOI

Price Range: $1M–$5M depending on number of seasonal sites
Buyer Type: First-time owners wanting stability, buyers who want minimal daily work, northern market buyers.

4. Destination Lake/Riverfront Parks

Very high demand, limited supply.

Features:

  • Waterfront access
  • Boat docks
  • Premium rates
  • Mixed lodging
  • High value land
  • Often older utilities

Price Range: $2M–$15M+
Buyer Type: Buyers with capital, investors, people who want a lifestyle property with strong income potential.

5. Rustic / Low-Amenity / “Mom & Pop” Parks

Perfect for beginners with lower budgets.

Features:

  • Basic RV sites
  • Simple cabins
  • Gravel roads
  • Limited utilities
  • Lower purchase price

Price Range: $400k–$1.5M
Buyer Type: First-time buyers, small budgets, hands-on owners.

6. Mixed-Use Parks

Campground + motel, store, marina, restaurant, etc.

Features:

  • Multiple revenue streams
  • Multiple staff roles
  • Higher complexity
  • Great income potential

Price Range: $1.5M–$10M+
Buyer Type: Experienced operators, buyers comfortable managing staff and multiple business types.