MC Fireside Chats - March 20th, 2024

MC Fireside Chats

In a recent episode of MC Fireside Chats, hosted by Brian Searl, a diverse panel of outdoor hospitality experts gathered to discuss the evolving landscape of campground and RV park development. The episode featured insights from Candice McNamara, Nate Thompson, Greg Emmert, Tyler Watts, Ed Bridgman, Moriah Abbott, Joe Duemig, and Scott Knepp, each bringing a unique perspective to the table. Candice McNamara, highlighting the importance of choosing the right reservation software, emphasized the multifaceted nature of the industry. Whether through building, buying, or affiliating with brands like Jellystone or KOA, McNamara pointed out the necessity of innovation and the role of technology in connecting with guests. She advocated for waitlisting and proactive communication as tools for building anticipation and engagement even before a park opens. Nate Thompson shared his experience with KOA, focusing on the value of data in making informed decisions about park expansion and development. He discussed the recent acquisition of a Gettysburg PA KOA, illustrating the importance of understanding a property’s potential for expansion and the need for thorough due diligence to uncover any potential issues that could impact development plans. Greg Emmert spoke to the philosophical aspects of campground development, stressing the importance of having a clear vision and story for a park. He argued that every aspect of a campground, from its layout to its operations, should reflect this vision to create a cohesive and compelling guest experience. Tyler Watts, sharing his journey of developing Broad River Campground from scratch, highlighted the learning curves and the importance of adaptability. He discussed the challenges of working with septic systems and the benefits of engaging with the local community and industry peers to learn from their experiences. Ed Bridgman, an expert in RV destination types, emphasized the importance of building the right type of facility for the local market. He cautioned against turning an existing property into something it’s not and underscored the value of understanding the local market to ensure the success of a development project. Moriah Abbott, representing Binghamton Jellystone Park, shared her approach to creating “wow moments” and memories for families. She discussed the park’s focus on catering to the needs of young families and the ongoing expansion efforts to accommodate larger RVs and provide more amenities. Joe Duemig introduced the concept of using mobile apps, like App My Community, for guest engagement and feedback. He highlighted the potential of technology to enhance the guest experience and the importance of gathering data directly from guests to inform development decisions. Scott Knepp discussed the challenges and opportunities of managing properties with varying needs and histories. He emphasized the importance of aligning the physical development of a park with its operational vision and the guest experience it aims to provide. Throughout the discussion, the panelists shared a common theme: the importance of understanding the market, engaging with guests, and leveraging data and technology to inform development decisions. They highlighted the collaborative nature of the outdoor hospitality industry and the value of sharing experiences and learning from one another. The episode of MC Fireside Chats provided a comprehensive overview of the complexities involved in developing and operating campgrounds and RV parks. Through the insights of the panelists, listeners gained a deeper understanding of the strategic considerations necessary to succeed in the outdoor hospitality industry.