How to Build an RV Park from Scratch

The hardest part is not the money, the land, or even the permits. It's the vision. Imagine driving through an open field today that looks like an abandoned stretch of dirt and grass, but you see something different. You see families parking their RVs, sharing stories under the stars, and kids riding their bikes on paved paths. That’s where it all begins—with a vision to transform an empty space into a vibrant community.

RV parks aren’t just a patch of ground with hookups. They are living spaces, places people choose to stay and make memories. They can be homes for full-time RVers, temporary stops for travelers, or destinations for weekend warriors. Your park will be what you make of it, but here’s how to ensure you get started on the right foot.

1. Research and Zoning: Understand Local Laws

The first step is to navigate the labyrinth of zoning and legal requirements. Not every plot of land can be turned into an RV park. Start by researching local zoning regulations, environmental impact studies, and what licenses or permits you'll need. Some areas require specific design elements to avoid disturbing local wildlife, while others have requirements for waste disposal and water access.

Visit your city’s planning office or talk to a land use attorney who specializes in this kind of development. Skipping this step could lead to costly setbacks, especially if you discover too late that your land isn’t suitable for this kind of development.

2. Location, Location, Location

The success of your RV park heavily depends on location. Ideally, you want to be close to tourist attractions, natural parks, or highway routes. If your park is too remote, it will appeal to only a niche audience. Strike a balance between convenience and nature.

Accessibility is key. Is your land easy to reach? How far is the nearest gas station or grocery store? Is the land flat enough for easy RV parking, or will you need significant grading?

Many seasoned RV park developers recommend starting small. You don’t need 100 acres to make a profit. A 5 to 10-acre property with 20-30 RV spots is a good starting point. Once you’ve established a customer base, you can always expand.

3. Budget: From Land Purchase to Hookups

Before buying any land, get a full grasp of the financial commitment. Beyond the land purchase, you’ll need to invest in the following:

• Utilities: Installing electricity, water, and sewer hookups for each RV space is a massive cost.
• Grading and paving: You’ll need to level the land, install drainage systems, and perhaps lay down concrete pads for parking.
• Amenities: Consider what amenities will make your park stand out. Will you offer Wi-Fi, laundry services, or even a small general store?
• Permits and Inspections: Expect to spend a significant portion of your budget on obtaining and maintaining the necessary permits.

The average cost of building an RV park can range from $10,000 to $30,000 per space, depending on location and level of amenities offered. Running out of money halfway through can be a nightmare, so budget wisely.

4. Design and Layout: Creating the Right Atmosphere

You might think an RV park is just rows of parking spaces, but design matters a lot more than you'd expect. Do you want a community feel where RVers can gather around a shared space, or are you catering to more private travelers who want isolation?

Think about green spaces, walking paths, and communal areas like picnic shelters or fire pits. Also, consider the flow of traffic—both vehicles and foot traffic. A poorly designed park can lead to congestion, accidents, and unhappy guests.

Spacing is crucial. Don’t cram too many RVs into one area. Each spot should provide enough room for not only the RV but also any outdoor activities like setting up chairs, barbecue grills, or even hammocks. The more comfortable your guests feel, the more likely they are to return.

5. Installing the Basics: Power, Water, Sewer

One of the most expensive and time-consuming aspects of building an RV park is installing the utilities. Each RV spot will need a power hookup, water supply, and a sewer connection. You’ll need to work with utility companies to install power lines and water mains. Septic systems might be necessary if you’re in a rural area.

Some parks offer basic 30-amp hookups, while others provide 50-amp service, which is more suitable for modern RVs with multiple appliances. Water hookups should be at least ¾ inch in diameter to ensure proper pressure, and your sewer lines should be sloped correctly to avoid drainage issues.

The placement of these hookups also matters. Easy access for RVs is critical, and you’ll want to ensure your spots are designed so that hookups are in a logical location.

6. Marketing: Getting People to Your Park

Now that the physical infrastructure is in place, it’s time to think about how to get people to your park. The RV community is growing, but so is the competition. It’s essential to have a strong online presence.

Create a simple, mobile-friendly website where potential guests can view amenities, pricing, and make reservations. Listing your park on RV-specific platforms like RV Parky, Campendium, and AllStays will increase visibility.

But don’t forget about social media. Instagram and Facebook are great platforms to showcase your park’s best features. Post photos of beautiful sunset views, happy campers around a fire pit, and highlight any unique amenities.

If you have a niche focus—such as catering to eco-conscious travelers with solar panels or offering luxury glamping options—make sure to emphasize this in your marketing.

7. Maintenance: Keeping Your Park in Top Shape

Opening your RV park is just the start. Maintenance will be a constant concern. This includes everything from keeping roads clear and pothole-free to ensuring your restrooms and laundry facilities are clean.

You’ll also need to regularly inspect utilities like water and sewer lines to ensure everything is functioning properly. Invest in routine maintenance to avoid costly repairs down the road.

Feedback from guests is a valuable tool. Keep an eye on reviews, and if you notice recurring complaints—like poor Wi-Fi or slow drainage—address these issues quickly.

8. Expanding and Adapting: Scaling Your Business

As your park grows in popularity, you may consider expansion. Look for adjacent land you can purchase, or consider adding more RV spots to your existing layout. You might also explore adding cabins, tent sites, or even tiny homes for guests who don’t own an RV but still want to experience the park.

Lastly, be prepared to adapt. The RV community is evolving, and trends like glamping or eco-tourism are gaining popularity. Staying ahead of these trends will help your park remain relevant and successful in the years to come.

In the end, building an RV park from scratch is a challenge, but it’s also a rewarding venture. You’re not just creating a business; you’re creating a space where memories are made.