Preparing Your Campground for Holiday and Winter Camping
Winter, often seen as a quiet season for campgrounds, presents a unique opportunity to create a magical experience and boost your revenue. Sure, it’s cold and snowy and might not be for everyone, but there are plenty of campers who wait all year for the snow so they can bring out their skis and start their snowy adventure.
Preparing for the cold season requires a little more preparation compared to other seasons though, but it will be worth it and might even be the difference between closing up shop and raking in revenue. Here are some tips on how to ‘winterize’ your campground to attract winter campers and make their stay as warm and memorable as possible.
Offer Winter-Ready Accommodations
Not all campers are ready to rough it in freezing temperatures. Providing warm and cozy accommodations can make all the difference. Invest in high quality cabins or tiny homes with heating options. Vacavia’s cabins, for example, are designed to provide comfort during all seasons, making them perfect for winter camping. Offer extra amenities like heated blankets, hot water bottles, and cozy décor to enhance the experience. Happy campers mean repeat customers, and they might even make your campground their go-to holiday destination every year, building a loyal customer base in the process.
Provide Cold-Weather Gear Rentals
Not everyone owns winter camping gear. Offering rentals for items like snowshoes, sleds, winter jackets, and boots can create an additional revenue stream. Make it easy for guests to enjoy winter activities without investing in expensive equipment they might only use once or twice a year.
Create Holiday-Themed Packages
Families and friend groups love themed experiences, especially during the holidays. Create packages for Christmas, New Year’s, or even Valentine’s Day that include festive decorations, hot cocoa bars, guided winter hikes, or sledding adventures. Offering bundled experiences makes it easier for guests to plan their stay and increases the perceived value of their visit.
Host Unique Winter Events
Consider hosting special winter events that draw in both campers and day visitors. Some ideas include:
- Winter Festivals: Featuring local crafts, food stalls, and live music.
- Snowshoeing or Cross-Country Skiing Competitions: Appeal to outdoor enthusiasts with friendly competitions and prizes.
- Holiday Markets: Collaborate with local suppliers to host a festive market on your campground.
These events can generate additional income through entrance fees, vendor booth rentals, and on-site food and beverage sales.
Offer Guided Winter Activities
For many people, winter camping is a new and exciting adventure. Offering guided activities like snowshoeing, ice fishing, or wildlife tracking can help attract guests who may not otherwise know how to enjoy the season. Having knowledgeable guides on staff not only enhances safety but also adds value to the guest experience.
Embrace the "Hygge" Experience
“Hygge” – the Danish concept of coziness, is perfect for winter camping. Create inviting spaces for guests to unwind and connect, such as fire pits with s’more kits, communal lodge spaces with board games, or hot drink stations. Promote your campground as a place to relax, reconnect, and recharge in a warm, inviting atmosphere.
Cater to Remote Workers and Digital Nomads
More people than ever are embracing remote work. Position your campground as a winter-friendly “workcation” destination. Offer reliable Wi-Fi, warm communal workspaces, and discounts for longer stays. This can keep your cabins or tiny homes occupied even during weekdays.
Winter camping may not be for everyone, but for those who love it, your campground could become a go-to destination during the cold season. By putting in a little extra work and creativity, you can turn the slower months into a profitable season and offer unforgettable experiences to your guests. So don’t let the snow stop you. Embrace winter camping and make the most of the off-season!
