5 Things To Think About Before You Create A Campsite On Your Land

Every patch of land could be somewhere to pitch a tent, which makes paid camping one of the easier money-spinners for any spare acreage on your rural or agricultural property. With the rise of agritourism and the growing demand for unique, off-the-beaten-path experiences, opening up your land to campers can be a lucrative. However, before you start pitching tents, there are several key considerations to keep in mind.

Navigating the Legal Landscape

The first step in your camping journey is understanding the legal and zoning requirements in your area. In the UK and Ireland, you may be able to operate a short-term campsite for up to 28-60 days per year without needing full planning permission. This can be an excellent way to test the waters and gauge the potential of your camping business. For longer-term operations, you'll likely need to obtain planning permission and a campsite license from your local authority.

In the US, regulations can vary significantly between states and even counties. Be sure to check with your local zoning department to ensure that camping is permitted on your land and to understand any specific requirements for facilities, safety, and environmental protection.

Insuring Your New Venture

Protecting your farming business is always a top priority, and venturing into the world of camping is no exception. While your standard farm insurance policy may cover some aspects of your camping operation, it's essential to secure additional coverage. Public liability insurance is a must-have to safeguard against claims from campers for injuries or damages. You may also want to consider contents insurance for any equipment or facilities you provide and even specialized camping insurance policies offered by some providers. Try Towergate in the UK, Munstergroup in Ireland, Prime Insurance in the US. Be sure to shop around based on your specifics.

Leveraging Technology to Streamline Your Business

As a tech-savvy sustainable farmer, you understand the power of technology to simplify and enhance your operations. When it comes to camping, online platforms like Hipcamp, Campspace, and Pitchup can be invaluable tools. These services allow you to easily list your land, manage bookings, and handle payments, all while tapping into a growing community of outdoor enthusiasts. In the US you might also want to try LandTrust.

Crafting a Memorable Camping Experience

To stand out in the competitive world of rural tourism, consider ways to elevate your camping offering. Glamping, or luxury camping, has surged in popularity in recent years. By providing pre-pitched tents or unique accommodations like yurts or tiny cabins, you can attract a higher-paying clientele and create a truly memorable experience. Additionally, think about how you can showcase the best of your land and local community. Offer guided tours of your farm, partner with local artisans and producers to provide unique on-site experiences, and share your knowledge of the area's natural and cultural heritage. And don't forget, camping can be step one in building a flywheel of small businesses. Once you've got them on your premises, surely they'll want to pick their own fruit, visit your farm shop, maybe even rent an office.

Embarking on a rural camping venture can be an exciting and rewarding way to diversify your farming business. By carefully navigating the legal landscape, protecting your assets, leveraging technology, and crafting a unique and sustainable camping experience, you can tap into a new revenue stream while sharing the beauty of your land with others. As with any new endeavor, start small, learn from your experiences, and don't hesitate to seek guidance from fellow entrepreneurs and industry experts. With a spirit of innovation and a commitment to sustainable practices, you can build a thriving camping business that complements your core farming operation and positions you as a leader in the agritourism revolution.

RESOURCES:
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Guides to starting a campsite in the UK from Freedom Camping Club & Pitchup

Guides to starting a campsite in Ireland from: Savills & Teagasc‍