Launching Campgrounds In New Brunswick

New Brunswick, Canada, is a popular destination for camping, with its stunning natural landscapes, sandy beaches, and rich coastal wetlands. The province offers a range of camping experiences, from backcountry hiking and wilderness retreats to RV parks and glamping. Starting a campground in New Brunswick would mean tapping into this thriving camping culture and providing outdoor enthusiasts with a place to connect with nature. With options for beachside, riverside, or woodland camping, New Brunswick is a haven for those seeking adventure or a quiet escape.

Choosing a campground location

When choosing a campground location, there are several factors to consider. Firstly, it is important to decide on the type of experience you want to offer campers. New Brunswick boasts stunning natural landscapes, from sandy beaches and coastal wetlands to woods, rivers, and mountains. You can choose to set up your campground near these natural attractions, or opt for a more secluded location. Consider whether you want to offer a "back-to-nature" feel or provide amenities such as pools, playgrounds, and boat rentals.

The next step is to research and select a specific area within New Brunswick that aligns with your vision. Look into the different regions of the province, such as the Acadian Coast, the Bay of Fundy, or the Appalachian Mountains. Each area has its unique features and attractions that may influence your decision. For example, the Bay of Fundy is known for having the world's highest tides, while the Acadian Coast offers lobster-fishing villages and lighthouses.

Once you have narrowed down your preferred region, consider the following factors when choosing the exact location of your campground:

• Accessibility: Ensure your campground is easily accessible by road, with well-maintained roads leading to and within the campground.
• Proximity to Amenities: Decide on the amenities you want to offer and ensure your location has access to them. For example, if you plan to provide shower facilities, you will need to consider the water supply and infrastructure.
• Environmental Considerations: Assess the environmental impact of your campground and choose a location that minimises disruption to the natural environment. Avoid ecologically sensitive areas, and be mindful of potential hazards such as flash flooding or lightning.
• Size and Layout: Determine the size and layout of your campground, considering factors such as the number of campsites, their size, and the surrounding common areas. Think about the density and privacy of each site, as well as the overall flow and circulation of the campground.
• Target Audience: Consider your target audience and their specific needs. For example, if you cater to families with children, proximity to a bathhouse and play areas might be important. If you cater to RV campers, ensure there is adequate parking and electrical hook-ups.
• Permits and Regulations: Research the permits and regulations required for establishing a campground in your chosen location. Contact public parks, forests, and reserves to inquire about any necessary permits and comply with all relevant laws and guidelines.

Remember, the key to choosing the right location is to find a balance between offering a desirable experience for campers and ensuring the site is safe, accessible, and environmentally responsible.

Selecting the type of campground

When selecting the type of campground for your new business in New Brunswick, there are several factors to consider. Firstly, you should decide on the level of amenities and comforts you want to offer your campers. Campgrounds can range from primitive sites with minimal facilities to luxurious glamping experiences. Understanding your target audience and their expectations is crucial. Here are some common types of campgrounds to consider:

• RV or Caravan Campgrounds: These cater to Recreational Vehicles (RVs) and caravans, providing facilities like utility hookups (electricity, water, sewer), concrete pads for parking, and road access. In North America, many campgrounds have become RV parks, and similar facilities in the UK are known as caravan parks.
• Tent Camping Campgrounds: Most public campgrounds are geared towards tent camping, offering designated camping pitches with basic amenities like toilets, showers, and electrical lighting. Some tent campgrounds also provide raised platforms for tents and marked spaces for individual campers or groups.
• Backpacking or Backcountry Campgrounds: These campgrounds cater to adventurers who want to explore the wilderness on foot. They are often located in remote areas accessible only by hiking, canoeing, or horseback riding. These sites offer minimal amenities, and campers must bring their own gear and practice self-sufficiency.
• Yurt or Cabin Campgrounds: For campers seeking a more comfortable and rustic experience, yurt or cabin camping provides a unique option. Yurts are portable, circular domed structures, while cabins offer basic amenities like beds, electricity, and sometimes even kitchens and air conditioning.
• Glamping Campgrounds: Glamping, short for glamorous camping, offers a luxurious twist to traditional camping. This type of campground provides upscale accommodations and amenities, such as comfortable beds, gourmet meals, and unique experiences in nature.
• National or Provincial Park Campgrounds: These campgrounds are managed by government agencies and are known for their cleanliness, efficiency, and natural surroundings. They often offer amenities like bathrooms, electrical lighting, and organised activities. However, due to environmental concerns, these campsites may be located away from the most scenic areas.
• Privately Operated Campgrounds: Private campgrounds offer an alternative to public sites, ranging from basic rest stops to resort-style experiences with amenities such as showers, laundry facilities, and even golf courses.
• Dispersed or Primitive Campgrounds: For campers seeking a truly remote and rugged experience, dispersed camping involves setting up camp in undeveloped areas, often on public lands like national forests. Campers at these sites must be highly self-sufficient as there are limited facilities and no designated hosts.

When deciding on the type of campground for your business, it's essential to understand your target market, the level of amenities you want to offer, and the unique experiences you want to create for your campers.

Understanding the business model

The business model for a campground in New Brunswick revolves around providing a range of outdoor accommodation options for guests, from RV sites to rustic tents, cabins, and glamping experiences. The province offers a variety of natural settings, from beaches and coastal wetlands to forests and rivers, attracting nature lovers, outdoor enthusiasts, and families seeking a unique vacation experience.

Campgrounds can vary in size and amenities offered, catering to different types of campers. Some campgrounds may offer basic facilities like bathrooms and shower blocks, while others may provide a more comprehensive experience with pools, playgrounds, boat rentals, and organised activities. It is important to identify your target market and design your campground to meet their specific needs and expectations.

In addition to accommodation, campgrounds can generate revenue through additional services and facilities. This may include equipment rentals, such as canoes, kayaks, and bicycles, as well as providing guided tours or outdoor adventure experiences. Campgrounds can also partner with local businesses, such as restaurants or activity providers, to offer packages or discounts to guests, creating a more appealing and convenient offering.

The business model should also consider the operational aspects of running a campground. This includes staffing requirements, such as maintenance, customer service, and activity leadership roles. Additionally, effective marketing strategies are crucial to reach potential guests and showcase the unique features of your campground. Online booking platforms and campground directories, such as Campspot, can be utilised to increase visibility and facilitate reservations.

Marketing and promotion

Website

Firstly, ensure your website is fully optimised. It should be visually appealing, easy to navigate, and search-engine friendly. Include all the latest information, such as rates, your address, contact details, and a description of your amenities. Make sure it works on mobile phones and tablets, and keep it current.

Email Marketing

Build an email list by offering incentives to potential clients, such as exclusive discounts or a free guide. Send out regular updates and newsletters to stay connected with your audience. You can also use emails to communicate any changes, updates, or upcoming events to previous campers.

Social Media Marketing

Choose one or two social media platforms that suit your target audience and focus on those. You can create content, run social media ads, and collaborate with influencers or local bloggers to promote your campground. Respond to comments and messages, and encourage visitors to share their experiences at your campground on their own profiles.

Local Listings

Get your campground listed on local business directories, chamber of commerce listings, and online business directories. This will make it easier for people in your area to find you.

Events and Activities

Host events such as community fundraisers, BBQs, group picnics, and music nights. These are great opportunities for locals to familiarise themselves with your campground and for you to build relationships with potential customers. You can also host events for diverse groups, such as arts and crafts nights for families or hiking meetups for singles.

Influencer Marketing

Reach out to social media influencers or local bloggers with a large following in outdoor recreation, camping, or the local scene. Offer them a free stay or a discount in exchange for a post about their experience at your campground. Ensure the influencer's brand and content align with your campground's image and target market.

Partnerships

Partner with local businesses, such as RV dealerships, camping outfitters, and activity providers. You can cross-promote each other, feature brochures in lobbies, or collaborate on events. For example, when an RV dealership sells a vehicle, offer a coupon for a free weekend at your campground.

Reviews

Encourage previous campers to leave reviews on sites like Google, Yelp, TripAdvisor, and Campendium. Respond to these reviews, and always maintain a positive tone, even with unhappy customers. Display positive reviews on your website and social media platforms.

Regulatory and compliance requirements

To start a campground in New Brunswick, you will need to comply with the Tourist Establishment Regulation, which sets out the requirements for operating a campground and obtaining a licence to do so. Here are the key regulatory and compliance requirements you need to be aware of:

Licensing

A licence is required to operate a campground in New Brunswick. The application process involves submitting Form 1 and paying the applicable fees. The annual licence fees vary depending on the number of sites in your campground, ranging from $215 for 1-49 sites to $425 for 200 or more sites. The fees are subject to change over time, so it is important to refer to the latest fee structure. The licence must be renewed annually before the first day of December.

Site Specifications

The Tourist Establishment Regulation sets out specific requirements for campground sites. Each site must have a minimum of 150 square metres of space, with a width of 7.5 metres and a height clearance of 4.6 metres. The sites should be level and firm, with proper drainage and reasonable access. There should be a distance of at least 7.5 metres between sites and any service buildings, such as toilet and shower facilities. Each site must be provided with a properly maintained picnic table.

Facilities and Services

The regulation stipulates the minimum number of garbage containers, toilet facilities, and shower facilities that must be provided based on the number of sites in the campground. For example, for 1-20 unserviced or partially serviced sites, one toilet facility each for men and women is required. As the number of sites increases, additional facilities are mandated. Similar provisions are made for shower facilities. Campgrounds with fully serviced sites have different requirements.

Health, Safety, and Sanitation

Campgrounds must adhere to stringent health, safety, and sanitation standards. This includes providing first aid equipment, maintaining garbage containers and ensuring proper waste disposal, supplying clean and potable drinking water, and complying with electrical, fire prevention, and health standards. Campgrounds must also provide proper signage, maintain orderly and tidy grounds, and keep buildings and washrooms clean and sanitary.

Construction and Alterations

Any construction or alterations to a campground or its structures require a building permit from the Minister. The application process involves submitting detailed plans and specifications of the proposed work, including site maps, building plans, and other requested details. After receiving the permit, the campground operator must notify the Minister before starting the work and provide updates upon completion.

Cabin Requirements

If your campground includes camping cabins, specific requirements must be met. Cabins should be constructed of wood, with exposed wood floors, walls, ceilings, and roofs. They must have solid-core wood doors with locks, adequate ventilation and fly screens, interior and exterior lighting, and essential equipment such as beds, mattresses, tables, chairs, coat hooks, mirrors, window coverings, fire extinguishers, and smoke alarms. There are also minimum space and headroom requirements based on the maximum occupancy of the cabin.

Campground Rules

In addition to the regulatory requirements, campground operators should establish and enforce rules to ensure the safety, comfort, and enjoyment of campers. These may include quiet hours, generator use restrictions, maximum stay limits, and guidelines for alcohol and cannabis consumption, campfires, pets, vehicle parking, and wildlife interactions.

Frequently asked questions