Good RV park designs take advantage of the natural surroundings and make them strengths, says Foresight Management Group, RV park consultants. Parking spaces nestled in trees provide relief from the heat with a touch of privacy, while low-growing bushes and shrubs between spaces offer a sense of separation. Take advantage of any water features like streams, ponds and rivers by placing the spaces next to them. Leave a buffer though to provide a walking area along the water for customers who want to walk or run for exercise and refreshment.
Today's large RVs are an important segment of the market, according to the SBDC, so it is very important to provide enough space for maneuvering. Make curves wide, with gradual arcs and minimal turns. At dead-ends, create a generous turning circle to reduce the need for backing up. Make the camp sites pull-through spaces so the rigs can pull in from one end and drive out the other. Use one-way streets to make pull-throughs efficient. Leave ample room on the curbside, passenger side, of the RV space for awnings to open and for a picnic area. Place utilities together to reduce the need for cords and hoses to be strung out on the driver's side of the RV. Create a wide entrance and exit, and leave ample space for several rigs to be parked during registration.
Since most RV parks now offer "an amazing array of amenities," according to Northern Arizona University, don't get left behind in this category. Use dead space that will not work for RV spaces for added attractions. Gazebos with barbecue grills make places where groups can gather. A playground offers space for children to commune and exercise. Wooded areas too dense or rough to develop are prime places to put walking and biking trails. Develop open and grassy areas for badminton, croquet, softball and other group sports activities.
Don't forget amenities for people who prefer the indoors. Game rooms set aside for arcade games not only provide activities, but they also generate income. Set up a separate, quieter area where people can play cards and board games. Consider setting up a theater room for showing new-release movies. Include a store that stocks the things campers need.
