MC Fireside Chats - January 17th, 2024

MC Fireside Chats

In a recent episode of MC Fireside Chats, a diverse panel of outdoor hospitality experts gathered to share their insights and experiences in the industry. The episode, hosted by Brian Searl, founder and CEO of Insider Perks, featured Kaylee Pace, co-owner of Big Tex Campgrounds; Marcia Galvin, President of the Northeast Campground Association’s Board of Directors and part of Normandy Farms Campground; and Greg Emmert, Senior Consultant at Camp Strategy. The discussion offered a rich exploration of various aspects of campground management and the evolving trends in the outdoor hospitality sector. Brian Searl opened the episode by introducing the show and its focus on conversations with industry leaders. He set the stage for an engaging discussion, highlighting the importance of such dialogues in understanding and navigating the complexities of the outdoor hospitality industry. His introduction underscored the show’s commitment to providing valuable insights for business success in this sector. Kaylee Pace shared her unique journey in establishing Big Tex Campgrounds with her husband. Her narrative was a testament to the challenges and rewards of building a campground from the ground up. Kaylee’s personal experience of living in an RV while attending college and raising her daughter provided a relatable and inspiring perspective. She emphasized the importance of understanding the needs and experiences of campground guests, drawing from her own experiences in RV living. Marcia Galvin brought a wealth of experience to the discussion, sharing the history and evolution of Normandy Farms Campground. Her insights into maintaining a successful, long-standing family campground were particularly enlightening. Marcia discussed the significance of cleanliness, guest service, and the critical role of family involvement in the business. Her perspective highlighted the importance of tradition and innovation in sustaining a successful campground. Greg Emmert’s contribution centered around the challenges and considerations in running and transitioning campgrounds, especially from a generational perspective. His experience as part of a generational campground provided a unique viewpoint on the complexities involved in such transitions. Greg’s emphasis on the importance of early planning for campground succession and understanding the nuances of generational changes offered valuable advice for campground owners. The conversation then shifted to the changing demographics at campgrounds, a topic introduced by Kaylee Pace. She observed an increase in guests seeking affordable housing options and long-term stays, reflecting a broader trend in the industry. This shift towards more long-term and diverse demographics presents both challenges and opportunities for campground owners, as they adapt to meet these changing needs. Marcia Galvin responded to Kaylee’s observations by discussing the work done on understanding generational differences within her staff at Normandy Farms. She highlighted the importance of training and involving staff in understanding these generational shifts. Marcia’s approach to managing a diverse workforce and catering to a changing customer base provided practical insights into effective campground management. Greg Emmert then discussed the importance of creating unique experiences at campgrounds. He advised owners to identify their unique “flavor” and develop experiences that resonate with their target audience. Greg’s emphasis on conservation and nature-based activities, which he successfully implemented at his own campground, underscored the growing trend towards simpler, nature-focused camping experiences. The panel also explored the importance of adapting to changing customer preferences, focusing on experiences over material amenities. There was a consensus on the growing trend towards simpler, nature-focused camping experiences, with less emphasis on costly amenities. The discussion highlighted the significance of understanding and catering to different generational needs and preferences in the campground industry. Kaylee Pace shared a poignant reflection on her past experiences and how they shaped her approach to campground management. Her story of adapting to RV living as a necessity due to economic constraints, and then turning that experience into a successful business venture, was both inspiring and instructive. It highlighted the resilience and adaptability required in the outdoor hospitality industry. Marcia Galvin spoke about the upcoming NCA conference, detailing the educational sessions and speakers planned. She emphasized the value of continuous learning and adapting to industry changes. Marcia’s discussion about the conference underscored the importance of industry events in fostering knowledge sharing and professional development. Greg Emmert discussed his plans to attend various industry conferences and the value of networking and learning from peers. He highlighted the importance of building a sense of community among campground owners and sharing resources and experiences. Greg’s perspective on the value of industry conferences in professional growth and community building was a key takeaway from the discussion. The episode concluded with a sense of appreciation for the diverse experiences and knowledge shared, emphasizing the dynamic and collaborative nature of the outdoor hospitality industry. The panelists’ insights provided a comprehensive view of different aspects of campground management and ownership, offering valuable lessons for those in the industry. The discussion was a testament to the importance of community, adaptability, and customer understanding in the success of outdoor hospitality businesses.