Beyond Site Rentals: Profitable Ancillary Revenue Streams for Campgrounds

Running a successful campground is about more than just renting out RV and tent sites. While site fees are the foundation of your revenue, smart operators know that the most profitable campgrounds don’t rely solely on site rentals—they diversify income streams to maximize profitability.

From premium add-ons to creative guest experiences, ancillary revenue streams can boost your bottom line, improve guest satisfaction, and help your park stand out from the competition.

Here are some of the most effective ways to generate extra income beyond site rentals.

1. Premium Campsites and Upsells

Not all campers are looking for the cheapest spot. Many are willing to pay more for added convenience, space, or exclusive features.

Ways to Increase Site Revenue:

• Deluxe or waterfront sites – Charge a premium for sites with the best views or direct water access.
• Pull-through and oversized sites – Larger rigs need extra space, and guests will pay more for easy maneuverability.
• Private patio packages – Offer upgraded sites with fenced areas, furniture, fire pits, or grills.
• Buddy sites – Side-by-side sites for families or groups traveling together can be priced higher.

Why it Works: Small upgrades make a big difference in perceived value, and many guests will gladly pay extra for a better experience.

2. Equipment Rentals

Not every camper comes fully equipped. Some want to try new activities but don’t have the gear, making rentals a win-win for both guests and your revenue.

Popular Equipment Rentals:

• Golf carts – One of the most profitable campground rentals, especially for larger properties.
• Kayaks, canoes, or paddleboards – If your campground has water access, this is a must.
• Bikes or e-bikes – Perfect for family-friendly parks with paved or scenic trails.
• Outdoor games – Rent out cornhole sets, giant Jenga, or bocce ball.
• Fishing gear – Ideal for lakeside or riverfront properties.

Why it Works: Guests prefer convenience over buying and bringing their own gear—especially for one-time or vacation use.

3. Experiences and Activities

One of the biggest trends in outdoor hospitality is experience-based travel. People aren’t just booking a site—they’re looking for memorable activities that make their trip special.

Chargeable Experiences:

• Guided nature hikes or foraging tours – Great for parks with scenic trails or unique wildlife.
• Yoga or wellness classes – Popular with glamping resorts and family-friendly campgrounds.
• Craft workshops – Candle-making, tie-dye, painting, or wood carving classes can attract families and groups.
• Live entertainment – Bring in local musicians, storytellers, or comedians and charge for VIP seating.
• Outdoor movie nights – Offer premium seating packages with blankets, popcorn, and drinks.

Why it Works: Experiences create lasting memories, encouraging repeat visits and positive reviews.

4. Retail & Camp Store Sales

A well-stocked camp store can be a significant revenue generator, especially if it offers convenience items and unique souvenirs.

Profitable Camp Store Items:

• Firewood & ice – Essentials that campers always need.
• Camping supplies – Flashlights, batteries, bug spray, sunscreen, and propane.
• Branded merchandise – T-shirts, mugs, stickers, and hats with your campground logo.
• Local products – Handmade goods, honey, jams, or artisan crafts from local vendors.
• RV accessories – Sewer hoses, leveling blocks, and water filters for last-minute purchases.

Why it Works: Guests often forget things or want a souvenir to remember their trip.

5. Food & Beverage Sales

Even campers who love cooking don’t always want to make every meal themselves. Providing easy food options can be a major revenue booster.

Ways to Sell Food & Drinks:

• Snack bars or cafés – Sell coffee, breakfast items, burgers, pizza, and grab-and-go meals.
• Food trucks – Bring in rotating food trucks for variety without a permanent kitchen investment.
• Campfire meal kits – Pre-packaged s’mores kits, hot dog packs, or grilling kits.
• Local craft beer or wine sales – A small beer/wine selection can be a unique draw for adult campers.

Why it Works: Food and drinks provide convenience and impulse purchases—especially when guests arrive late and don’t want to cook.

6. Membership & Loyalty Programs

Frequent campers are your best customers. Offering a membership or loyalty program can encourage repeat visits and boost spending.

Membership & Loyalty Perks:

• Early access to reservations – Especially valuable for peak season and popular weekends.
• Discounts on site fees, rentals, or store purchases – Encourages guests to spend more at your park.
• Exclusive events or members-only amenities – VIP check-ins, special activities, or members-only pool hours.

Why it Works: When guests feel like they’re getting added value, they’re more likely to choose your campground over competitors.

7. Long-Term & Seasonal Stays

A stable revenue stream comes from seasonal and extended-stay guests who book for weeks or months at a time.

Ways to Increase Long-Term Revenue:

• Seasonal RV sites – Charge a monthly rate for guests who stay long-term.
• Workamping programs – Offer free or discounted stays in exchange for light work.
• Storage options – Provide RV storage for off-season use.

Why it Works: Extended stays guarantee income, even in slower months.

Final Thoughts: More Revenue, Same Campground

Maximizing your campground’s profitability doesn’t mean raising site fees—it means getting creative with additional revenue streams. Offering premium services, unique experiences, and convenient add-ons can significantly boost your bottom line while enhancing the guest experience.

At Campground Consulting Group, we help campground owners identify and implement high-margin ancillary revenue strategies tailored to their specific market.

Want to Increase Your Campground’s Revenue? Let’s Talk.

If you’re looking to grow your profits without adding more sites, we can help you develop a customized revenue strategy for your campground.

Contact us today for a consultation.

[Insert Contact Information]

A campground with multiple revenue streams is a campground built for long-term success. Let’s make sure yours is one of them.