Leavitt Recreation & Hospitality provides insurance for over 4,000 campgrounds, resorts, and other hospitality businesses nationwide. We proudly support members of the Texas Association of Campground Owners with insurance solutions designed to help their businesses stay protected and thrive.
TACO Officers & Directors
Regional Directors
REGION 1, DIRECTOR
Venky Venkatesan
Midland RV Campground
Midland, TX
REGION 2
Ken Hinz
Traders Village Grand Prairie, TX
REGION 3, PAST PRESIDENT
Randall Dally
Rayburn RV Hideout
Brookeland, TX
REGION 4, SECRETARY
Susie Prater
The Vineyards of Fredericksburg RV Park
Fredericksburg, TX
REGION 5
Terry Munoz
Lost River RV Park
Baytown, TX
REGION 6, PRESIDENT
Charlie Bates
Parkview Riverside RV Park
Concan, TX
Directors At Large
DIRECTOR AT LARGE
Austin Faught
Bolivar Peninsula RV Park
Crystal Beach, TX
DIRECTOR AT LARGE
Allison Holcomb
Lagoon Ranch RV Resort
Onalaska, TX
TRADE REPRESENTATIVE
Chris Hipple
Vice President
Leavitt Recreation & Hospitality Insurance
Customer Retention is a Key Competitive Advantage -
Written by: Michael Moore
Unless you’ve been living under a rock, you know the economy — and by extension, the camping industry — has been living through some tough times. The post-COVID bump is in the rearview mirror, and businesses are discovering that long-term growth is not built solely on attracting new customers.
Instead, the most profitable and sustainable companies are going to be those that master repeat and referral business.
In broad strokes, current research shows that businesses — no matter the industry — focusing on repeat customers consistently outperform competitors that rely heavily on constant customer acquisition. Like anything else, print and digital advertising costs are rising, and consumers are becoming more selective.
Loyalty has become one of the most valuable assets a business can build. Ask yourself – what is your park or business doing to market to your current customers?
One of the most widely cited business statistics remains highly relevant today: acquiring a new customer costs between five and twentyfive times more than retaining an existing one, according to the Harvard Business Review. This single fact explains why repeat business matters so much.
Whether you’re a campground or a company that services a campground, constantly chasing new customers means spending enormous amounts on advertising, promotions and lead generation just to replace customers they failed to retain.
The financial impact of customer retention is significant. Studies continue to show that a 5% increase in customer retention can increase profits by 25% to 95%. Furthermore, customer loyalty tends to compound over time.
in both repeat and referral business, with current studies showing that 75% of customers are willing to spend more with brands that provide excellent customer experiences.
At AGS, we focus on enhancing the customer experience at the park itself. When we survey readers of guest guides, more than half indicate that the products and services recommended by the park in their check-in material either enhance or extend their stay.
This also helps provide a fast response to guests’ questions, which is especially important, with studies showing that 89% of customers are more likely to return after receiving quick support for an issue.
Do your employees have the answers your customers need? Are you empowering your staff to get those answers? If not, it will cost you business.
Ultimately, repeat and referral business represents the foundation of sustainable growth. New customer acquisition will always be important, but businesses that focus only on attracting new buyers often overlook their greatest opportunity: the customers they already have. Loyal customers spend more, buy more frequently, cost less to retain and bring in new business through referrals.
In an era where competition is more intense than ever and marketing costs continue to rise, parks and businesses that prioritize customer retention and referrals are positioning themselves for stronger profitability, greater resilience and long-term success.
The campgrounds and vendors that win in 2026 and beyond will not simply be the ones with the biggest advertising budgets. They will be the ones who build lasting relationships and turn customers into lifelong advocates.
LEGISLATIVE CONSULTANT
Ron Hinkle Austin, TX
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR/CEO
Brian & Debra Schaeffer
TACO Office Crowley, TX
According to recent retention studies, customers who make a second purchase are 45% more likely to make a third purchase, while customers who make a third purchase are 54% more likely to make a fourth. This happens because loyal customers tend to spend more over time while costing less to market to.
The customer experience plays a major role
is the general manager of AGS Guest Guides, a division of Texas Advertising, as well as the assistant executive director of the Texas Association of Campground Owners. You can email him with any questions or concerns at michael@texasadvertising.net or visit www.AGSPub.com.
TEXAS CAMPGROUNDS
Michael Moore
REVIEWS FILL SITES:
HOW CAMPGROUND OWNERS CAN TURN GUEST FEEDBACK INTO MORE BOOKINGS
Online reviews are no longer just a scorecard for a past stay. For today’s RVers, they often serve as the first impression, trust signal, and deciding factor between one campground over another. Before a guest calls, checks availability, or books, they have likely compared your park across several platforms, including Google, RV LIFE, Tripadvisor, Yelp, The Dyrt, Campendium, social media, and your own website. They are not only looking at star ratings. They are reading what guests say about your sites, staff, Wi-Fi, bathhouses, roads, pet areas, and overall hospitality. Just as important, they are watching how you respond. For campground and RV park owners, reviews are more than reputation management. They are marketing, operations, customer service, and guest research all in one.
Your Reputation Lives in More Than One Place
Many owners think Google reviews are the only important platform to monitor. Google matters, but it is only part of the picture. RV travelers often research across multiple sources. A guest may discover your park on Google, confirm details on RV LIFE, check photos on Tripadvisor, read candid comments on Yelp, and compare RV-specific information on The Dyrt or Campendium. Each platform contributes to the story guests tell themselves before they book. That means owners need one consistent review strategy with platform-specific execution. Claim or verify your profiles where possible, monitor major review channels, and understand where you can respond publicly. Even on platforms where public owner responses are limited, you can still influence perception by keeping listings accurate, adding strong photos, clarifying amenities, and using feedback to improve the guest experience.
A Reply Is Not Just for the Reviewer
When you respond to a review, you are speaking to three audience members: the reviewer, future guests, and your own team. A thoughtful reply can repair a relationship with a disappointed guest, reinforce loyalty with a happy guest, and show future shoppers that your park is professionally managed. It also helps your staff see what guests notice most.
A response says, “We are listening. We care. We pay attention.” That message matters whether the review is positive, negative, or mixed. A calm, specific reply can build trust even when the original review is critical. A defensive reply can damage confidence, even when the complaint seems unfair.
A Simple Review Response Framework
Owners do not need to start from scratch every time. Use a simple five-part framework:
Acknowledge the guest’s experience.
Affirm the feedback with thanks or an apology.
Address the specific point raised.
Act by explaining what was checked, changed, or followed up on.
Written by: Dawn Watanabe, sponsored RV LIFE
Advance the relationship with a warm close, return invitation, or direct contact path. Avoid arguing, blaming, over-explaining, or offering incentives tied to changing a review. The best responses are specific, professional, & human.
What Strong Responses Look Like
For a great review, do more than say, “Thanks for staying with us.” Reinforce the strengths future guests care about.
If a guest praises spacious pull-through sites, easy check-in, spotless laundry, and helpful staff, a stronger response might be:
“Thank you for staying with us and for noticing the things our team works hardest on: easy arrivals, clean facilities, and helpful service when something unexpected comes up. We are glad our staff could connect you with an RV tech quickly and would love to welcome you back for another smooth stay.”
For a negative review, even when a review feels exaggerated or unfair, a calm and professional response still matters. Future guests are not only evaluating the complaint itself - but they are also evaluating how the park responds under pressure. A measured “we hear you” reply can demonstrate professionalism, accountability, and commitment to guest experience. In some cases, a thoughtful response may even make an overly emotional or aggressive review seem less credible to readers. The goal is not to win an argument; it is to de-escalate publicly, show ownership, and protect trust with the next guest reading it. If a guest says the sites felt tight, the bathhouse was messy at night, and the office seemed dismissive about late check-out, a strong response might be:
“Thank you for the honest feedback. I’m sorry your stay felt cramped and that the bathhouse and front-office experience did not meet the standard we want guests to have. We reviewed evening cleaning checks with our team and re-coached staff on how we explain late check-out options. Please contact us directly if you are open to sharing more.” This kind of reply addresses the concern without arguing. It also shows future guests that the park takes feedback seriously.
Mixed Reviews Require Judgment
Not every complaint is a service failure. Some feedback reflects personal preference.
A guest might write, “Too many kids biking around and not enough shade for our taste, but the Wi-Fi was strong and the dog park was nice.”
Before responding, ask whether the issue is a broken promise or a preference. Did the park misrepresent itself, or did the guest simply prefer a different environment?
A thoughtful reply can clarify expectations while reinforcing strengths:
“Thanks for sharing your perspective. Families do stay with us often, especially on weekends, and we understand that is not every traveler’s preferred atmosphere. We are glad the Wi-Fi and dog park worked well for you. Guests wanting more shade may prefer our back-in creek side section.”
This type of response helps future guests self-select the right experience.
Reviews Are Free Operational Intelligence
Reviews should not live only in your inbox. They should become part of your operating rhythm.
Every review contains clues about what is working, what is unclear, and what needs attention. The key is to look for patterns instead of reacting to one loud comment.
Tag reviews by themes, such as check-in, staff, bathhouse, Wi-Fi, roads, site spacing, noise, pet area, laundry, or value. Then separate fixable issues from preferences, track frequency and severity, assign follow-up, and close the loop.
If three guests mention the same friction point in 30 to 60 days, it deserves an operational review. Repeated comments about tight turns may call for better arrival instructions. Bathhouse complaints may point to a cleaning schedule issue. Positive comments about
helpful staff may reveal a strength worth highlighting in marketing.
Reviews are not just criticism. They are field research from the people using your park. Replying to guest feedback serves as a powerful, cost-free marketing asset for your park.
A 30-Day Review Management Plan
Review management does not have to be overwhelming. Start with a simple monthly plan.
In week one, claim and verify major profiles, including RV LIFE, Google, Tripadvisor, Yelp, The Dyrt, and relevant local directories.
In week two, create response templates for positive, negative, and mixed reviews, while making sure each reply is personalized.
In week three, begin tracking common themes across reviews.
In week four, close the loop by updating photos, improving listing descriptions, clarifying policies, coaching staff, and adjusting operations based on recurring feedback.
The goal is not perfection. The goal is consistency.
The Bottom Line
A campground’s online reputation is not built only by the reviews guests leave; it is built by how owners respond, what they learn, and what they improve.
Every review is a chance to thank the guest, inform the next traveler, and strengthen the operation. Managed well, reviews do not just describe the guest experience—they help shape the next one. ✪
TACO VENDOR MEMBERS
ACCOUNTING/BOOKKEEPING
Campground Refund
Jim Dixon . . . . (214) 546-7886
Performing no-risk contingency fee, refund on utilities sales tax, and construction for RV campgrounds www.campgroundrefund.com
Campsite Accounting
Ty Meinhardt . . . . (435) 979-0530
To provide accounting/bookkeeping, payroll, tax, and consulting services
www.campsiteaccounting.com
GiGi Connects the Dots
Gigi Weck (512) 368-6662
Simplifying your bookkeeping puzzle, one dot at a time, for RV Parks & Campgrounds, short and long term rentals Let’s Chat! www.gigiconnectsthedots.com
BACKGROUND SCREENING
AmRent
Monique Ivy (877) 440-9134
Serving the rental industry, we provide consumer report services to help US clients select guests for their communities www.amrent.com
BANKING/FINANCIAL SERVICES
Business Finance Depot
Bruce Hurta . . . . (281) 384-2595
Business Finance Depot offers SBA/USDA loans, retirement rollovers, park model & business equipment financing, unsecured loans, and HELOCs
www.BusinessFinanceDepot.com
Cinchio Solutions
Mallory Mahoney (954) 665-7682
Cinchio is a hospitality technology partner built for the realities of running campgrounds, RV parks, and outdoor destinations www.cinchio.com
Cost Segregation Services LLC
Bonnie Kaake (866) 277-9121
Tax benefits available to RV Park owners and RE investors . Estimates and consulting at no cost for you and your tax pro www.CSSIservices.com/bonnie-kaake
CABLE TV & SATELLITE SYSTEMS
RVParkTV.com by It’s All About Satellites
Barry Conley . . . . (800) 951-1979
TV systems, business-class internet, 100% coverage Wi-Fi networks, DIRECTV satellite programming, and streaming solutions www.itsallaboutsatellites.com
CAMPGROUND CONSULTING
Campground Consulting Group, LLC.
Jayne Cohen (800) 897-8836
Practical industry experience and consulting for RV parks & campgrounds from planning to development to marketing to operations www.campgroundconsultinggroup.com
Campground Intelligence
Robert Bouse . . . . (512) 897-8122
Our system analyzes recent occupancy & pricing data, weather and events in the area, and recommends small measured adjustments Consistent, accurate pricing that improves over time www.campgroundintelligence.com
We provide wireless metering, control, and automation solutions for marinas & RV parks www.marinesync.com
RJ Thomas Manufacturing Company Inc
Adam Struck (712) 225-5115
Comprehensive, durable outdoor site furnishings: seating, picnic tables, grills, waste management, bike racks, and site accents www.pilotrock.com
RV Park Signs
Richard Yohan (404) 944-9988
RV Park Signs is the premier company providing quality signs and marketing for the RV Industry www.rvprksigns.com
ShadePro, LLC
Stephen Arnold (830) 221-8141
Over 20 yrs of experience in the industry, helping customer’s property stay shaded while allowing satellite & Wi-Fi connectivity www.shadepro.com
Texas Backyard Structures
Christian Williamson . . . (512) 989-9494
30 yrs creating premium outdoor experiences with custom pergolas, pavilions, shade & playgrounds—design and install www.texasbackyardstructures.com
The Jump Pad
Steve Hawaii . . . (865) 387-5667
The Jump Pad is a flat jumping product with individual baffles that allow side by side jumping www.thejumppad.com
CAMPGROUND MANAGEMENT
Advanced Outdoor Management
Casey Rice . . . (509) 505-6205
RV resort, RV park, campground management; third-party management consulting www.advancedoutdoormgmt.com
Blue Water Development
Tony Nichols (443) 856-4300
Blue Water delivers top management services where operations, revenue management, and marketing create solutions www.bwdc.com
CRR Hospitality
Lindsay Slater . . . (928) 554-7710
Our Mission: To provide unique and enjoyable places that offer luxury, value, and fulfillment www.crrhospitality.com
Horizon Outdoor Hospitality
Scott Foos (303) 529-9770
Empowering outdoor hospitality businesses with expert management, accounting, and professional services since 2004 www.horizonoutdoors.com
IVEE Group
Scott Knepp . . . . . (404) 477-6189
Third-party management specializing in bringing the best hospitality practices to the outdoor hospitality space www.ivee.com
Newport Pacific Property Management Solutions
Karri Seeds . . . . . (949) 852-5575
Newport Pacific is a full-service, nationwide property management company with over 44 years of experience www.newportpacific.com
Northgate Resorts
Tessa McCrackin (616) 249-8444
Industry-leading management & consulting, providing expert service in operations, marketing, revenue, construction & more www.northgateresorts.com
RV Park Management, LLC
Austin Faught (855) 515-1777
RV Park Management provides owners with professional management services and systems designed to maximize RV park investments
www.rvparkpm.com
WildPath Parks
Dennis George . . . (216) 703 -9188
Developing a portfolio of parks
Zion Call Management
Christian Thurgood (435) 216-1414
Zion provides affordable management support, including call answering, digital marketing, and reputation management www.zioncallmgmt.com
CONSTRUCTION
Flatspot Decking Services
Trenton Hensley . . . . (828) 999-4032
We offer modular, pre-engineered wood/composite decks for rapid, compliant, nationwide installation in commercial projects www.flatspotdeckingservices.com
Ivey Construction
Christian Lunsford (409) 502-1352
Ivey Construction is a family owned and operated metal building, pavilion and awning installer
With passion for excellence & commitment to quality, we bring visions to life with design, planning, & expert craftsmanship www.tenpointservciestx.com
CREDIT CARD SERVICES
Clearview Merchant Consulting
Noa Lager . . . . . (210) 769-5472
Elevate campground/RV profits with transparent payment processing, seamlessly integrated into your booking software for optimized efficiency www.clearviewmc.net
DIGITAL MARKETING
CampMap
Simon Neal (302) 803-4183
We help campgrounds and RV parks improve marketing and guest experience with premium digital maps www.campmap.com
Martrek Digital
Amber Simpson . . . . (312) 620-5797
Digital marketing agency for campgrounds and RV parks specializing in websites, SEO, paid ads, email, marketing, & analytics exclusively for outdoor hospitality www.martrekdigital.com
OHI
David Basler (303) 681-0401
Outdoor Hospitality Industry national RV owners assocation www.ohi.org
TACO VENDOR MEMBERS
ELECTRICAL SERVICES/SUPPLIES
B & B Electrical
Matt Linnell (888) 391-3802
We are your one-stop source for everything electrical for your RV park www.bbelec.com
Big Fish Consulting
Josh Cecot (888) 556-5244
Our company works with parks to uncover, reverse and refund fee’s and charges on parks utility bills www.savewithbigfish.com
Electrical Works
Tristan Ciceri . . . . (352) 460-0810
Electrical Works continues to set the standard for RV & MH parks, having completed over 7,800 RV & MH site projects at over 50 different properties
www.electricalworksflorida.com
Infinity Power Partners, LLC
Nick Altman (713) 559-0558
Electricity and natural gas procurement management solutions, risk management service and marketing insight through the development of client-specific strategies www.infinitypowerpartners.com
Peak Energy Technology LLC
Carol Weideman . . . (888) 613-7775
Recycle electricity and save 15-20% off of your electric bill with Peak Energy Savers Save money and the environment www.peakenergytech.com
Rise Energy
Josh Allen . . . . (806) 955-7113
Lower energy bills, increase operational resilience & gain energy independence with tailored business solutions Includes energy brokerage, management and storage www.GetRiseEnergy.com
Texen Power Company
Tom Stubblefield (281) 989-7440
Agent for electric power/commercial electricity, saves you up to 35% Utility Supply Group
Julianne Long . . . . (800) 800-2811
Utility Supply Group is the premier supplier of electrical products and components for the Outdoor Hospitality Industry www.go-usg.com
Wild Energy Inc
Mike Sorensen (833) 563-6300
Get smart, revenue-grade utility metering accurately measure usage, automate data collection, and recover costs . www.wildenergyco.com
EMERGENCY PREPAREDNESS
All Hazard Communications LLC
Shannon Smith (512) 787-6511
60 Years siren alerting for: flood, fire, tornado, lightning, hail, active shooter, hazardous spill www.allhazardcommunications.net
Local Area Warnings Systems
Trevor Davis . . . . (817) 572-1077
Fully automated and customizable flood, weather, and other hazard warnings systems www.localwarnings.net
Midland Radio Corporation
Bruce Jones . . . . (816) 241-8500
#1 manufacturer of Public Alert certified NOAA Weather Radios www.midlandusa.com
Camp Jellystone
FRANCHISE SERVICES
Steve Stafford (248) 579-8296
Yogi Bear’s Jellystone Park Camp-Resorts is the only franchise in the US solely focused on the family camping demographic There are 75+ Jellystone Park locations in the US & Canada www.jellystonefranchise.com
KOA - Kampgrounds of America, Inc.
Larry Brownfield (800) 548-7239
Franchise marketing providing onsite training & KOA U-Design support for technology and site upgrades to serve today’s public www.ownkoa.com
INSURANCE
ARK Assurance Group
John Hinsley . . . . (903) 509-2292
RV park insurance services
www.arkassurance.com
Centurion Solutions, LLC
Tiffany Paul (979) 571-5213
A SDVOSB and HUB certified business for disaster preparedness & risk mitigation
www.centurion-solutions.com/
Coverra Insurance Services
Crystal Erickson (608) 269-2127
Our team of experienced agents are prepared to guide you through your insurance options, securing the most appropriate campground insurance for your business
www.coverrainsurance.com
Leavitt Recreation & Hospitality Ins.
Chris Hipple . . . (800) 525-2060
Specialized insurance for RV parks, campgrounds, & resorts #1 in the industry for over 40 years!
Insurance for RV parks, campgrounds, resorts, cabins, RVs, and travel trailers
www.outdoorinsuranceservices.com
Rowley Insurance
Evan Rowley (512) 454-6655
Texas-based experts in insuring RV parks and campgrounds for over 50 years
www.rowleyinsurance.com
LAUNDRY EQUIPMENT
Best Wash Inc
James West . . . (281) 441-2465
Commercial laundry equipment, sales & service, designs and more www.bestwashinc.com
Cardinal Laundry Leasing
Robert Hinojosa . . . (210) 272-9222
Commercial laundry leasing, revenue sharing, sales, service and parts www.cardinallaundryleasing.com
Commercial Equipment Company
Forrest Smith (972) 991-9274
Commercial Equipment Company has served the RV/campground industry since 1967, providing Speed Queen washers and dryers to community laundry rooms www.ceclaundry.com
Titus Commercial Laundry
Robert Titus (888) 366-7065
Laundry equipment sales, service and repair www.tituscommercial.com
MARKETING SERVICES
Anderson Brochure Dis. Service
Donald Bennett (585) 615-7742
Professional and cost-effective distribution of brochures, directories, and camping guides at RV and other shows www.campwithandersons.com
Campground Views Inc
Mark Koep (805) 341-3828
The best marketing tool available for your destination Allow guests to virtually tour your property and click to book . www.campgroundviews.com
Campsync
Sean Moore (817) 518-8138
Campsync is an all-in-one marketing, AI, and guest communication platform built specifically for campgrounds and RV parks www.campsync.io
Good Sam
Siera Samaniego . . . (805) 667-4391
Travel guide, website, mobile app, and social media marketing www.goodsam.com
Influence Digital Agency LLC
Josh Richardson . . . (509) 554-3376
Helping campgrounds navigate the landscape of digital marketing to successfully accomplish their goals
www.influencedigitalagency.com
Lonestar Logos Management Company
John Brown-Latham . . . (512) 462-1310
Official highway signs shown to increase business by up to 20% Join thousands of businesses using the TxDOT LOGO Program www.lonestarlogos.com
RV LIFE
Dawn Watanabe (805) 290-0656
Reach 3M+ RVers on RV LIFE Trusted for trip planning, RV-safe GPS, reviews, and finding campgrounds like yours campgrounds.rvlife.com/
RVshare LLC
Steve Manes (888) 482-0234
RVshare is the world’s first and largest peer-to-peer RV rental marketplace in the US www.rvshare.com
Woodall’s Campground Magazine
Ben Quiggle (574) 266-7980
Monthly & daily news for camping industry owners, offering insights to improve operations and stay current www.woodallscm.com
ONLINE RESERVATION PROVIDER
CampLife Inc.
Caleb Cook . . . . (877) 783-2367
Since 2006, our robust, customizable reservation system helps you save time, make money, and get back to doing what you love www.getcamplife.com
Campspot
Tessa Bauman (616) 226-3135
The industry’s leading campground reservation and management software www.software.campsot.com
Firefly Reservations
Aiden Smith (656) 347-3359
Focusing on simplicity, Firefly Reservations was built by campground owners, for campground owners Now combined with Astra and Reserve America www.fireflyreservations.com
Parkn’Sleep
Brendan Couzens . . . . (860) 830 6472
Digital system monetizes unused RV sites with easy, compliant, contactless check-in Boosts revenue with no upfront fees, just commission en.parknsleep.com
ResNexus
Jake Hartline (385) 218-2637
Management software for any business operating a reservation system for renting, leasing, or scheduling a campground www.resnexus.com
ResortForward
Brian Schmitz (952) 905-9024
Boost efficiency at your resort or RV park Our software handles reservations, guest messaging, and daily automation www.resortforward.com
All-in-one campground management software . Run reservations, dynamic pricing, POS, long-term stays, and more . https://software.roverpass.com
Staylist
Nic Gramstad . . . (865) 205-0210
Staylist is a cloud-based reservation platform that allows outdoor businesses to curate and manage guests, units, and rates www.pro.staylist.com
Storable Newbook
Blake Burris . . . . (310) 855-3773
Powerful campground management & booking system www.newbook.cloud PARK MODEL/GLAMPING ACCOMODATIONS
Arched Cabins LLC
Gillian Cruey . . . . (832) 930-2724
DIY Steel Arched Cabin Kits for glamping or luxury cabins Built faster and last longer than conventional structures www.archedcabinsllc.com
Champion Park Models and Cabins
Gary Rice Jr (817) 402-0215
Manufacturer of park models and RVs www.championparkmodelscabins.com
Clayton Park Models
Michael Burleson (800) 465-7923
Bring a little adventure to your resort Our luxury Park Models are constructed by one of the most trusted names in home building www.claytonparkmodels.com
Conestoga Wagon Co.
Jason Olson . . . . (307) 277-0525
Manufacturer of the Conestoga Wagon, Showerhouse and our New Cabin! www.conestogawagonco.com
TACO VENDOR MEMBERS
Green River Cabins and Cottages
Jeremy Hutchins (864) 457-2444
Green River builds energy-efficient, customizable Park Model RVs under 400 sq ft , delivered fully assembled, nationwide www.greenriverlogcabins.com
Irontown Modular
Kam Valgardson (801) 798-9026
Generational company providing high quality park models and cabins in European, rustic and traditional styles irontownmodular.com
Leland’s Modular
Dustin Sharp (817) 409-6513
Factory-built modular cabins and RVIA park models for campgrounds Durable, high-quality, and fast to install www.lelandscabins.com
Park Cottages
Kevin Kamin . . . (817) 821-9747
Park Model RV Manufacturer located in Fort Worth, Texas Numerous floor plans and ready to rent packages . www.parkcottages.com
PlainsCraft
Dennis Steinman . . . (785) 748-4588
Handmade in the heart of Kansas, PlainsCraft creates full-size luxury covered wagons, for outdoor hospitality providers who seek to offer a one-of-a-kind overnight experience that visitors will never forget www.plainscraft.net
Platinum Cottages
Penni Feil (903) 675-2525
Park model manufacturer www.platinumcottages.com
POOL & WATER STRUCTURES
Kraftsman Commercial Playgrounds & Water Parks
Jennifer Egan . . . . (800) 451-4869
Plan, design, and construct playgrounds, SplashParks, pool slides, shade, shelter, site amenities, and more throughtout Texas! www.kraftsmanplay.com
PRINTING AND PUBLISHING
AGS Guest Guides
Michael Moore (877) 518-1989
Guest guides, site maps and marketing www.agspub.com
PROPANE
Heart of Texas Propane
Bryan Rupp (325) 313-0884
Central Texas propane delivery & refills with service & integrity first We deliver unmatched quality and trust for all www.hotpropane.com
MWS Propane
Kelly Burns . . . . (903) 593-7343
We deliver reliable commercial propane service backed by friendly support and fast, dependable delivery in East Texas www.mwspropane@meritusgas.com
Nelson Propane Gas Inc
Scott Martin . . . . (800) 234-9052
Propane delivery and service company serving most of East Texas www.nelsonpropane.com
Star Tex Propane
Rhett Williams . . . (254) 366-3035
Reliable propane supplier for campgrounds and retail dispensers across Central Texas and beyond www.startexpropane.com
Suburban Propane LP
Ron Shaw . . . . . (830) 340-2977
With strong roots in Texas, Suburban Propane has been fueling the energy needs of residential, commercial, industrial, and agricultural customers across 42 states www.suburbanpropane.com/taco/ REAL ESTATE
All Hands Real Estate
Ruben Garcia . . . . 626 675 1750
Marketing
Baehre Real Estate LLC
Russell Baehre (830) 896-5050
RV parks, real estate
www.rvparksforsale.com
Campground Brokers of America
Tim Dougan (540) 247-6930
We connect buyers & sellers of RV parks through a professional & highly discrete sales process, delivering exceptional results www.campgroundbrokersofamerica.com
Colliers International Manufactured Housing Group
Michael Nissley (561) 479-1588
Colliers’ MHRV specializes in maximizing value for MH/RV park and campground owners across the U S and Canada with expert brokerage, valuation & financing solutions www.colliers.com/manufacturedhousing
Dorsey-Henderson Team at Marcus & Millichap
Skyler Henderson (817) 932-6164
Dedication to prioritizing client needs underscores our commitment to delivering exceptional service in every transaction . www.marcusmillichap.com/dorsey-henderson-team
Franklin Street
Tobias Cohen (512) 316-7866
Full service commercial real estate, insurance, and capital brokerage and advisory www.franklinst.com
Merkava Investments, LLC
Marshall Miles (210) 473-1681
RV park developments - building more than just a place to stay; we want to create a community www.merkavallc.com
NAI Outdoor Hospitality Brokers
Jesse Pine (970) 379-5551
Real estate professionals assisting clients with the purchase and sale of RV parks, campgrounds, and glamping retreats nationwide www.naiohb.com
North Star Brokerage & Advisory
Landan Dory . . . (512) 222-6826
We empower RV Park and Campground owners to achieve their ultimate ‘North Star’ goals with our expert analysis and experience in the Outdoor Hospitality industry www.nstarba.com
Texas Commercial Real Estate Services - Texas CRES LLC
Doug Larson (713) 824-3799
RV park & real estate specialists www.texascres.com
Yale Realty & Capital Advisors
Alexis Threlkeld (214) 281-8132
Real Estate Brokerage - specializing in brokerage and financing nationwide for the RV & manufactured housing industry www.yaleadvisors.com
American manufacturer of wastewater treatment, dispersal and reuse systems optimized for campground & RV Park applications www.anuainternational.com
E-Z Treat
Madison Painter (703) 753-4770
Since the 1970’s the founders of E-Z Treat corp have been designing and manufacturing efficient and affordable onsite re-circulating sand filter, wastewater treatment systems www.eztreat.net
Infiltrator Water Technologies
Ryan Gerlich (800) 221-4436
Wastewater treatment solutions for residential and commercial systems with daily flows up to 300,000 gallons per day www.infiltratorwater.com
WEBSITE SERVCES/MOBILE APPS
App My Community
Joe Duemig (636) 459-5161
Put your resort directly in both app stores We create an individual app for you to communicate and engage with your guests . www.appmycommunity.com
Initium Creative
Braden Walker
(219) 230-6003
Boost RV park bookings with engaging, mobile-friendly websites designed to stand out online and simplify guest reservations www.initiumcreative.com/rv-parks-and-campgrounds WIRELESS INTERNET PROVIDER (WI-FI)
AccessParks Broadband
Tim Rout . . . . . (858) 353-0845
Seventeen years as end-to-end managed services provider (MSP), offering true Broadband Wi-Fi to RV parks nationwide www.accessparks.com
Blue Reef Networks/Ruckus
Jim Henderson . . . . (214) 587-1843
We provide managed internet, WI-FI and managed service for RV parks nationwide including design & install www.bluereefnet.com
Cassells Consulting LLC
Colin Cassells . . . . . (866) 884-2294
Reliable Wi-Fi solutions with a Texas provider Founded by a former NASA engineer, connecting customers for over 25 years www. ccassells@cassellsconsulting.com
CheckBox Systems
Jim Ganley (866) 345-9434
For over 22 years CheckBox has been a leading provider of reliable, affordable WiFi solutions . www.checkboxsystems.net
Park Utility Pros
Scott Chronister (817) 518-2233
From fiber to sewer, we handle every trench in your park Simplify with all-in-one underground services & a single partner www.parkutilitypros.com
Skyweb Networks
Uttsha Shrestha (855) 759-9434
Leading Wi-Fi and camera service provider in the US, providing secure, reliable, and hassle-free service www.skywebwifi.com
TengoInternet
Karen Wong (512) 469-7660
Industry leader in outdoor Wi-Fi and connectivity with over 24 years of experience www.tengointernet.com
MID-SEASON CHECKUP
6 AREAS EVERY CAMPGROUND SHOULD REVIEW BEFORE PEAK SEASON ENDS
As Texas RV resorts and campgrounds run at full steam during the busy summer months, it’s easy to get caught up in the daily grind of checking in guests and keeping the grass mowed. But taking a quick break for a mid-season reality check can make a big difference in your final numbers before the kids go back to school.
Here are six quick areas to review now to keep your park running smoothly, keep your guests happy, and make sure you’re not leaving money on the table.
1. CHECK YOUR REAL-TIME OCCUPANCY
Don’t wait until October to look back at how your summer went. Take a close look at your calendar for the next few weeks. Are your premium pull-thrus or luxury glamping tents completely booked while your standard back-ins are sitting empty? If you notice slow weekdays or open slots, you can fix it today. Try running a quick mid-week special or adjust your minimum-stay rules to grab those last-minute weekend campers.
2.
LISTEN TO
WHAT GUESTS ARE SAYING RIGHT NOW
Your guests are giving you a roadmap for success every single day. Whether it’s a quick chat at the camp store or a text message survey sent halfway through their stay, pay attention to the feedback you’re getting in real time. If three different campers mention that the Wi-Fi is weak in the back loop or the pool deck needs more chairs, you have the chance to fix it this week instead of letting it ruin the trip for next month’s visitors.
3. KEEP AN EYE ON ONLINE REVIEWS
Summer is peak season for Google, TripAdvisor, and social media reviews. Make it a habit to spend 15 minutes each morning reading and replying to them. Potential guests love to see how park owners handle feedback. A polite, helpful reply to a negative review shows great Texas hospitality and proves to future campers that you care about their experience, even when the park is packed.
4. CATCH MAINTENANCE ISSUES EARLY
The Texas summer heat can be brutal on your property. Your AC units, pool pumps, and electrical boxes are working overtime. Take a walkthrough of your maintenance logs this week. Catching a shaky pedestal or a leaky pipe right now prevents a costly emergency repair later, and saves you from having to shut down a site during a lucrative holiday weekend.
5. CHECK IN WITH YOUR CREW
By mid-summer, your staff is probably feeling the heat just as much as your park is. Keep team spirit up by checking in often with your front desk, housekeeping, and maintenance folks. When everyone is on the same page and communicating easily, whether through a quick morning huddle or a simple digital task app, fewer guest requests slip through the cracks.
6. LOOK FOR EASY EXTRA REVENUE
Written by: Travis Henriod
Take some time to think beyond just nightly site fees to help your bottom line. Check your camp store inventory, equipment rentals, and add-on options. If your golf carts or kayaks are constantly booked out, it might be time to add a few more or tweak your rates. Simple options like offering a late checkout for a small fee or bundling firewood and ice at check-in can add up to a big difference by the end of the month.
SETTING THE STAGE FOR LONG-TERM SUCCESS
A successful summer isn’t just about surviving the heat; it’s about making small, smart adjustments along the way and laying the groundwork for a smoother fall season and an even more profitable next year. By taking a few extra minutes to “check under the hood” of your operations today, you’re ensuring your park remains a favorite destination for Texas campers for generations to come.
TACO Collaborates with C.A.M.P. and RVIA
During the RV Industry Association’s RVs Move America Week in Washington D.C.
Written by: Ben Quiggle
“We talked about how our associations are doing, but also, what we could do for management companies like Blue Water and how we can improve our shows by listening to Blue Water and Electrical Works,” noted Michael Moore, president of C.A.M.P., “We also dissected the development of parks catering to more long-term clientele and the benefits/challenges of that.”
In attendance were associations representing Texas, Wisconsin, Pennsylvania, Illinois, New York, Michigan, New Jersey, Arizona, North Carolina and South Carolina.
Rafael Correa, president & CFO of Blue Water and David Basler, chief strategy officer and SVP of Government Affairs for OHI, took part in the meeting, along with Heidi Doyle and Tristan Ciceri, of Electrical Works, who were the event’s Lunch Sponsor. RVIA was also a meeting sponsor.
“RVIA updated us on grounding monitor interrupter (GMI) developments,” Moore explained. “Between the states, OHI and Correa, we represented literally thousands of RV parks and campgrounds all over the country and across all brands.”
HOW YOUR NEXT GUEST ACTUALLY FINDS YOU
Here’s what a guest’s path to booking usually looks like now: a Reel catches their eye on a Tuesday night. They screenshot it. Two days later they Google the park’s name, read a few reviews, watch someone’s TikTok from the property, then land back on Instagram before they finally book.
Think of it like a campfire. Every piece of content is another log on it. The parks winning right now aren’t the ones with the biggest budgets — they’re the ones showing up consistently, across the channels that actually matter, in a way that compounds over time.
We talk with campground and RV park operators across the country, and the parks pulling ahead all share one thing: they treat marketing as a habit, not a campaign. It doesn’t take a big budget or a dedicated team, just consistency and a clear sense of what guests are actually buying.
If you only make time for a few changes this season, these six are a great place to start:
Lead with the experience, not the amenities.
A photo of a guest in an Adirondack chair watching a Texas Hill Country sunset, or enjoying themselves during an onsite event can do more for your booking inquiries than any discount post you may run. User Generated Content from your guests showing their fire pit gathering, a family cookout, the friends on the water - that’s what’s actually driving people to choose camping over a hotel right now, especially with younger travelers, for whom connection now rivals price as a top travel motivator.
fastest-growing demographic on social media, and they live on Facebook. Gen X families lean toward Facebook groups and events. If a park serves a range of generations, as most Texas parks do, it’s worth treating these as separate audiences and adapting content for each, rather than posting the same thing everywhere and hoping.
Advertise to capture demand, not create it.
Nobody scrolls Facebook and spontaneously decides to book a weekend away. Paid ads work best when someone’s already searching and a park shows up at the right moment which is why the highest-leverage spend is often search advertising for high-intent lookers, followed by retargeting people who’ve already visited the website or stayed before. Pro-tip: Don’t phone this in! Paid advertising works best for those dedicated to pulling the levers and staying reactive to the data.
Keep third-party listings current. Many first-time guests discover a park through a campground-specific marketplace listing before they ever find the website directly. A listing with outdated photos or a thin description is easy to scroll past. Keeping those details fresh is one of the highest-return, lowest-effort updates an operator can make.
Ask for the review while the experience is fresh.
Written by: Errica Williams-Henke, Marketing Manager, Content & Communications at Campspot
Don’t skip your local area. Post about the wildflower trail two miles from your gate, and you’ll soon find your park starts showing up in searches that have nothing to do with camping…yet. Become the starting point for a guest’s whole trip, and that’s where loyalty really begins.
Know where your specific guests actually are.
TikTok gets the buzz, but boomers are the
Reviews remain one of the strongest trust signals in this business, and a simple poststay message, timed right after checkout, builds that volume steadily without much ongoing effort.
None of this requires a marketing department or a big budget. It requires a rhythm: two to three intentional posts a week beats five scattered ones, every time. Show real guests in real moments, keep listings and reviews current, and let the content compound into real bookings! ✪