How Much Does It Cost to Build an RV Resort?

By Alice Nichols

Are you considering building an RV resort? The first question that comes to mind is, “How much will it cost?”

The answer is not straightforward as the cost of building an RV resort varies depending on various factors. However, we’ll cover the basics of what you can expect to pay.

Factors Affecting the Cost of Building an RV Resort

Before we dive into costs, it’s essential to understand what factors impact the price of building an RV resort. Some crucial factors include:

Location: The location of your RV resort plays a significant role in determining the cost. For instance, if you’re building in a remote area with no access to utilities, you’ll have to factor in the cost of bringing in electricity, water, and sewer connections.

Size: The size of your RV park will affect the cost per site. Larger parks may have lower per-site costs because they benefit from economies of scale.

Site Design and Amenities: The design of your RV park and amenities offered will impact your costs significantly. For example, if you want to add a swimming pool or clubhouse, that will add to your expenses.

The Cost Breakdown for Building an RV Resort

Now that we’ve covered some crucial factors let’s dive into what you can expect to pay for building an RV resort. Here’s a rough estimate based on industry standards:

Preliminary Costs

Before construction even begins, there are preliminary costs that you need to consider. These include:

  • Zoning and Permitting Costs: This can range from $2,000 – $20,000 depending on where you’re located.
  • Land Costs: This will vary significantly depending on location and size. Expect to pay anywhere between $10k-$100k per acre.
  • Survey Costs: A surveyor will need to come out and map the land, which can cost anywhere from $1,000-$10,000.
  • Engineering Fees: You’ll need to have an engineer draw up plans for your RV resort, which can cost around $10,000-$20,000.

Construction Costs

Once you’ve completed the preliminary steps, it’s time to start building. Here’s what you can expect to pay for construction costs:

  • Site Work: This includes things like grading and leveling the land and installing utilities. Expect to pay around $10k-$20k per site.
  • Roads and Parking: Plan on spending around $5k-$7k per site for roads and parking areas.
  • Sites: The cost of each site will vary depending on your amenities.

    Plan on spending around $6k-$30k per site for basic hookups. If you offer premium sites with added amenities like patios or firepits, expect to pay more.

  • Amenities: Building a swimming pool or clubhouse can add significantly to your expenses. Expect to pay anywhere from $50k-$500k depending on the size and complexity of the project.

Miscellaneous Costs

Finally, there are some miscellaneous costs that you should consider when building an RV resort:

  • Taxes and Insurance: Plan on budgeting 2-3% of your total construction costs for taxes and insurance.
  • Marketing Costs: You’ll need to budget for marketing expenses to attract customers. This can range from $5k-$20k per year.
  • Maintenance Costs: Plan on spending around $1k-$5k per site per year for maintenance expenses.

Final Thoughts

The cost of building an RV resort can vary significantly depending on several factors. However, you can expect to spend at least $30,000 – $50,000 per site for a basic RV park. If you want to add premium amenities like a swimming pool or clubhouse, expect to pay even more.

Ultimately, before embarking on this venture, it’s crucial to conduct proper research and consult with industry experts. With careful planning and budgeting, you can build a successful RV resort that attracts visitors and generates revenue for years to come.