When it comes to owning or selling an RV park, nothing matters more than location. Understanding how location affects RV park value is critical for investors and owners who want to maximize income and accurately assess what their property is worth.
Travelers choose RV parks based on convenience, attractions, and accessibility. That means where your park is located directly impacts demand, occupancy rates, and overall profitability. Let’s explore how location affects RV park value and why it’s so important if you’re thinking about selling.
Proximity to Popular Destinations
The first factor that drives RV park location value is accessibility. Travelers want convenience, and most RV owners prefer parks located near One of the strongest indicators of how location affects RV park value is whether your property is close to sought-after travel spots.
- Tourist attractions: RV parks near beaches, lakes, theme parks, and national forests are highly desirable. For example, a park near Pensacola Beach or Panama City Beach can charge premium rates because demand never slows down.
- Seasonal draws: Even parks near ski resorts, hiking trails, or festivals benefit from steady traffic during peak seasons.
- Local culture & history: Proximity to historic towns or cultural landmarks can also add value.
The closer your park is to the action, the more appealing it becomes to travelers—and to buyers looking at long-term profitability.
Accessibility and Road Visibility
A major part of how location affects value is how easy it is to get to.
- Highway access: Properties located just off interstates or state highways often attract more overnight travelers who want convenience.
- Road visibility: If your park is visible from the main road, you may capture extra guests who didn’t book ahead.
- Navigation ease: Roads that are wide, well-paved, and easy for large RVs to maneuver can make or break repeat business.
An RV park tucked away down a rough dirt road may struggle—even if the setting is beautiful—because guests don’t want the hassle of reaching it.
Nearby Amenities and Services
Another strong example of how location affects RV park value is how close your property is to basic services and entertainment.
- Necessities: Grocery stores, gas stations, and laundromats nearby make your park more attractive.
- Dining & shopping: Guests often want to explore local restaurants or grab supplies during their stay.
- Healthcare access: Proximity to urgent care centers or hospitals is a subtle but powerful draw, especially for older RVers and families.
The easier it is for guests to meet their needs without traveling far, the more satisfied they’ll be—boosting reviews, occupancy, and long-term value.
Seasonal Demand and Climate
Climate has always been a defining factor in how location affects the value of an RV park.
- Warm-weather advantage: Parks in Florida, Texas, and Arizona thrive in winter because they attract “snowbirds” escaping colder states.
- Seasonal appeal: Northern parks near lakes, campgrounds, or national forests can do well in summer months when families travel.
- Year-round opportunity: Some locations benefit from steady demand year-round due to mild weather and steady tourism.
Understanding seasonal flow helps buyers calculate risk, and it influences whether an RV park is viewed as a consistent moneymaker or a seasonal gamble.
For a detailed look at camping and RV travel trends, check out Kampgrounds of America’s Annual Camping Report.
Local Regulations and Zoning
One overlooked part of how location affects RV park value is the regulatory environment.
- Zoning flexibility: If the property is in a zone that allows expansion or added amenities, that raises its potential.
- Strict rules: Areas with heavy restrictions may limit growth opportunities.
- Community support: RV parks in areas that encourage tourism tend to thrive, while those in communities that discourage development may struggle.
Buyers want to know that they can expand or improve a property without hitting red tape. A location with favorable zoning adds value.
Future Development and Growth
Another hidden piece is what’s happening around your property.
- Positive growth: New highways, tourist attractions, or community development can raise the value of an RV park significantly.
- Negative trends: On the other hand, declining local economies or loss of tourism appeal can reduce demand.
- Competition: If several new RV parks open nearby, supply might dilute your value, while being the only park in the area can make you a rare find.
Savvy buyers always look at long-term growth potential before making an offer.
Reputation and Online Visibility by Location
Believe it or not, how location affects RV park value also ties into your online presence. Many RVers search using location-specific terms like “RV parks near Pensacola Beach” or “RV park close to I-10.”
If your location is well-known and your property shows up in searches and online maps, you gain an edge in both attracting guests and increasing property value.
If you’re an owner considering your exit strategy, location is often the most important factor buyers will evaluate. An RV park in a prime location with strong demand and growth potential will almost always sell faster and at a higher price than one in a rural or less accessible area.
This means that even if your park has deferred maintenance or dated amenities, a strong location can still make it attractive to investors who see the potential for upgrades.