Why is camping marketing important for business?
Camping is an increasingly popular way for people to connect with nature, unwind, and enjoy time with friends and family. As more campers seek memorable outdoor experiences, effective campground marketing becomes essential to stand out in a competitive market. From attracting new visitors to building long-term loyalty, strong marketing strategies ensure your business thrives.
This guide to campground marketing will cover all the essentials you need to know to ensure your business gets off to a great start - because pitching your business right is just as important as pitching a tent!
- Why is camping marketing important for business?
- Benefits of campground marketing
- How to market your campground?
- Final thoughts
- FAQs
Benefits of campground marketing:
- Increased visibility: Ensure potential campers find your site online.
- Boosted bookings: Promote seasonal offers and events to fill vacant spots.
- Improved guest experience: Provide valuable information and resources.
- Build customer loyalty: Establish a community of repeat visitors.
New to the camping business? Discover how to open a campground or RV park: a step-by-step guide.
How to market your campground?
Explore these effective campground advertising ideas to create a strong presence for your business.
1. Create and promote your website
A professional, user-friendly website is the foundation of your digital presence. Prioritise search engine optimisation (SEO) to ensure your site ranks well on Google.
Why your website matters:
- Your website acts as a digital storefront, often making the first impression on potential guests.
- Well-optimised sites rank higher in search engine results, attracting organic traffic.
- It serves as a central hub for all business information, promotions, and customer interactions.
Steps to create an effective website:
- Use platforms like WordPress or Wix for easy website building.
- Optimise using tools like Mangools for keyword research.
- Ensure mobile responsiveness and fast loading times.
- Include clear calls-to-action (CTAs) to encourage bookings.
- Add blog content covering topics like ‘Top Camping Tips’ or ‘Local Attractions Near Our Campground’.
- Implement a booking system for direct reservations.
- Provide an FAQ section to answer common questions.
2. List your business in local directories
Get your campground featured on popular directory sites such as Yelp, Google Business Profile, and TripAdvisor.
Why it matters:
- Increases visibility for location-based searches.
- Provides credibility through customer reviews.
- Boosts local search ranking.
Steps to list your business:
- Claim and verify your business profile.
- Add accurate information including address, hours, and contact details.
- Upload high-quality images.
- Encourage satisfied guests to leave positive reviews.
- Respond promptly to feedback and resolve any issues professionally.
3. Promote your campground on social media
Leverage platforms like Instagram, Facebook, and Pinterest to engage with potential guests.
Why social media works:
- Visual content showcasing your campground's beauty appeals to outdoor enthusiasts.
- Allows for direct interaction with potential guests.
- Supports paid advertising campaigns to target specific demographics.
Tips for effective social media marketing:
- Post stunning visuals of your campground.
- Share guest stories and testimonials.
- Run seasonal promotions and giveaways.
- Use hashtags like #CampingLife and #NatureLovers.
- Create video content, such as virtual tours of your facilities.
- Go live during events or busy weekends to engage your audience.
4. Increase your visibility in local news and publications
Feature your campground in local newspapers, magazines, or tourism websites.
How to get featured:
- Pitch human interest stories, such as sustainability initiatives or unique amenities.
- Partner with travel bloggers or journalists.
- Offer press stays in exchange for coverage.
- Submit articles highlighting seasonal activities available at your campground.
Example topics for press features:
- "Top family-friendly campgrounds for summer vacations."
- "Eco-friendly camping: How this local campground is going green."
- "Hidden camping gems in your area."
5. Establish relationships with other local businesses
Collaborating with nearby businesses can be mutually beneficial.
Ideas for partnerships:
- Offer discounts for campers who visit partner restaurants or activity providers.
- Create co-branded packages for special events.
- Provide brochures at local tourism offices.
- Work with local suppliers for eco-friendly products or campsite necessities.
Examples of partnerships:
- Team up with kayak rental services for a water adventure package.
- Collaborate with a local café to offer breakfast vouchers.
- Partner with a brewery for a ‘Camping and Craft Beer Weekend.’
6. Attend local events and shows
Promote your campground by participating in travel expos, camping fairs, and community events.
Why attend events?
- Connect with other industry professionals.
- Build local brand awareness.
- Collect contact information for future email marketing.
Tips for event success:
- Design an engaging booth with visuals and giveaways.
- Collect email addresses for follow-up promotions.
- Distribute branded merchandise.
- Offer interactive experiences like VR tours of your campground.
7. Utilise campground welcome books
Enhance your guests’ experience with a comprehensive campground welcome book.
Why choose Touch Stay?
- Provide all essential information digitally.
- Answer common questions and reduce calls.
- Promote on-site and nearby amenities.
Pro tip: discover the most commonly asked questions asked by camping guests
8. Get in touch with local influencers
Partner with travel influencers or camping enthusiasts to reach a wider audience.
Steps to collaborate:
- Identify influencers whose followers match your target audience.
- Offer complimentary stays in exchange for coverage.
- Track the results using unique promo codes.
- Encourage influencers to create authentic content like camping vlogs and photo reviews.
- Provide them with branded hashtags to increase reach.
9. Build email and contact lists
Email marketing is a powerful way to keep in touch with past and potential guests. Turn one-time stays into lifelong customers.
Tools to help:
- Use platforms like EmailListVerify to clean and validate your contact list.
- Send regular newsletters featuring updates, offers, and travel tips.
- Segment your list for personalised campaigns.
- Offer incentives like discounts for subscribers.
10. Provide seasonal discounts
Attract campers during the off-season with time-limited offers.
Examples of seasonal promotions:
- Early bird discounts for summer bookings.
- Mid-week deals for empty slots.
- Special rates for groups or long-term stays.
- Themed packages for events like Halloween or Christmas.
- Loyalty programs that offer discounts on repeat bookings.
Final thoughts
Effective campground marketing combines a solid online presence with strategic offline efforts. By implementing these ideas and leveraging platforms like Touch Stay, you can enhance guest satisfaction, increase bookings, and build a loyal customer base.
FAQs
