Much More Than Your Grandfather’s Motorhome
Traditional motorhomes are still popular. RVs, diesel pushers and travel trailers are being used by millions of people across the country. But there's a new RV in town called the Park Model that is becoming a big seller. As summer approaches, campgrounds are stocking up with Park Models to make their campgrounds feel more like home to a new breed of traveler.
Park Model RVs pretty much resemble a log cabin or small house. The size isn't much bigger than a regular RV at about 400 square feet, which includes a bedroom, kitchen area and sitting area. While the campground business has boomed during the recession because they are inexpensive places to stay, some people prefer staying in a guesthouse or Park Model RV as opposed to camping in a tent. Some can't afford RVs but still want the camping experience.
Reservations have been up since last winter at campgrounds across the country. As RV parks and campgrounds struggle to stay competitive and attract a wider crowd to stay with them, they are seeing the Park Model as an added amenity. Damon Corp., Cavco and CrossRoads RV are all manufacturing Park RVs for KOAs and Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park Camp-Resorts. Forest River is another company that offers a full line-up of Park RVs to compliment their current RV manufacturing divisions.
The Barn Yard, an Amish influenced company out of Pennsylvania proudly handcrafts 6 different versions of Park Model RV's. The 6 versions include log, vinyl, lap siding and more. Depending on the model, these RV's range from $20,000 to $60,000.
Park Model RV's are delivered fully operational; all that is needed is a water and electricity hookup. It is recommended that "Green" technologies are used as frequently as possible and because of such most Park Models feature a variety of "Green" capabilities. Campgrounds are also turning Green and reporting big savings with the use of solar panels. Up to 75% in savings!
With a goal to provide for all kinds of customers, Forest River is a manufacturer that not only builds a high volume of park models but also continues to build traditional vehicles like motorhomes, 5th wheels and travel trailers. Park Models are becoming more and more popular each year but this does not necessarily decrease the demand for the traditional RV from the more traditional traveler. Many still long for the road and the ability to literally take their home with them.
Manufacturing companies are blending the environmental with the affordable to appeal to the younger environmentally savvy crowd that is starting to dabble in RV trips. Green initiatives include solar charging systems, lightweight towables and motorhomes with increasingly better fuel economy. Campgrounds are following suit.
Even traditional RV parks are modernizing their amenities. Some resorts have heated swimming pools, hot tubs and wellness and fitness centers. Dog walks, bocce ball and horseshoes add to the fun, not to mention on-property catch-and-release fishing. Restaurants and service departments are often on-site or close by for convenience. Weddings, parties and rallies can be held in tents complete with staging, lighting and a full kitchen.
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