Panel data provided by Madison's Canadian Lumber Reporter.

The RV Parking Issue, All about Meeting the Customer's Needs

By

-by Myron Gordon


Just as the geese, and other birds fly north during this time of year, so do Recreational Vehicle Owners (RVers). 

Most RVers travel north, usually to visit Alaska. In doing so, they must pass through a number of regions and communities. Some of these RVers even have the audacity to stop, do some shopping, enjoy sightseeing, and even stay overnight. This however is where the problem arises. 

Unfortunately, RVers being what they are, have the capability of parking almost anywhere. Their favorite spots include, but are not limited to, large parking lots, the side of the road, big box retail outlets, malls, and friends’ driveways. This of course goes against the beliefs of many campsite owners who believe that all RVers must camp at their place of business. 

So why is it that sensible, law abiding travelers, would dare raise the ire of business people and choose not to pay for the privilege of staying in private campsite? Obviously there must be a reason for this, besides not wanting to pay to camp. While this reason may be unclear to the campsite operators, it certainly seems clear from a business perspective.
 
It is the rare customer who will purchase a product or service that does not meet their needs or desires. Thus, we can theorize that the reason why the campsite owners and the RVers do not complete a business transaction is because the product or service does not meet the necessary requirements. 

Let’s compare what the RVers wants to purchase versus what the campsite operators are trying to sell. 

First, almost all RVers are self-contained. They don’t need showers, washrooms, power, sewer, water, fridge or stove. 

On the other hand, most campsites offer; showers, washroom facilities, power, water, sewer and a small store. 

So far, there doesn’t appear to be much chance that a business transaction is going to occur. 

Second, RVers are looking for a convenient location to stop. This location should be easily accessible, have lots of room to maneuver the large RV unit, be secure and safe, be free of other people or pets and have retail and grocery shopping within walking distance. 

Once again there doesn’t appear to be a chance of a business transaction occurring. Take a look at what most campsites offer and you be the judge.
 
Campsites tend to be located outside or on the outskirts of most communities. They are usually located in a rural setting, are hard to find or access. Most campsites are set up to maximize the number of sites (customers) they can service. Thus it’s not unusual to for RV units to literally be parked within a few feet of each other. Also, due to the cramped quarters, getting the RV unit in and out of the campsite can be a treacherous event. Of course, once you’re back on the road you still need to look for a mall or grocery store to restock your foodstuffs. 

Thus one may conclude that campsites operators should not include RVers in their business plan. From what we see, campsites don’t offer RVers the products and services they require. One can easily see why most RV owners tend to stay away from campsites. 

One suggestion for campsite owners is to look at other customers, such as tent trailer owners, tent owners, and families out camping. 

On the other hand, communities should arrange to allow Rvers to stay overnight at large parking lots, thereby enticing these tourist to spend the night and some money.

Myron Gordon
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