Attracting the 60+ Crowd: Upgrading Your RV Park to Capture the Retiree Market
The retiree RV park market is a lucrative and growing segment of the outdoor hospitality industry. With baby boomers reaching retirement age and embracing the RV lifestyle, there’s a massive opportunity for RV parks to cater to this demographic. However, attracting the 60+ crowd requires more than just offering a place to park an RV. It involves understanding their unique needs and desires, and then upgrading your park to meet those expectations.
Capturing a segment of the thriving retiree RV park market segment will prove to be a good business move because it opens a good revenue stream year-round.
Understanding the Retiree Camper
CRR Hospitality’s article, “Targeting the Retiree RV Park Market: Understanding the Needs of Older Campers,” provides valuable insights into this demographic. According to their research, retiree campers prioritize:
Comfort and convenience: They seek spacious RV sites with full hookups, level pads, well-maintained facilities (including restrooms and laundry), and easy access to amenities.
Safety and security: A safe and secure environment is paramount, with well-lit pathways, gated access (if applicable), and visible security measures.
Social engagement: Retirees often travel in groups or seek opportunities to connect with fellow RVers. Community events, group activities, and common spaces like clubhouses or fire pits foster social interaction.
Health and wellness: Amenities like walking trails, fitness centers, swimming pools, and access to healthcare services are increasingly important to older campers.
Upgrading Your RV Park
To attract and retain retiree campers, consider the following upgrades:
- Spacious and Accessible RV Sites: Ensure sites are large enough to accommodate larger RVs and offer ample space for outdoor living. Consider adding pull-through sites for easier maneuvering and accessible options for those with mobility challenges.
- Modern Amenities: Upgrade restrooms and laundry facilities with modern fixtures and accessibility features. Modern cottages and cabins are designed to integrate these amenities to ensure a seamless and luxurious experience, where comfort and convenience are not compromised. Also, offer high-speed Wi-Fi throughout the park to meet the needs of tech-savvy seniors.
- Community Spaces: Create inviting spaces for socializing, such as a clubhouse, fire pits, and picnic areas. Organize regular social events, potlucks, game nights, or educational workshops.
- Health and Wellness Amenities: Add walking trails, a fitness center (even a small one with basic equipment), or partner with local healthcare providers to offer on-site wellness checks or classes.
- Pet-Friendly Policies: Many retirees travel with pets, so make sure your park is welcoming to furry friends. Offer designated pet areas, dog parks, and waste disposal stations.
Marketing to Retirees
In addition to park upgrades, effective marketing is crucial. Leverage online platforms, social media, and RV-related publications to reach your target audience. Highlight the unique amenities and experiences your park offers that appeal to retirees.
By understanding the needs of the 60+ crowd and tailoring your RV park accordingly, you can tap into this growing market and create a thriving community of happy and active retired campers.
References:
CRR Hospitality. (January 4, 2024). Targeting the Retiree RV Park Market: Understanding the Needs of Older Campers.
Kampgrounds of America, Inc. (2023). North American Camping Report.