What is an Amenities?
Features, facilities, and services provided by outdoor hospitality properties to enhance guest experience, including pools, clubhouses, activities, recreational facilities, and convenience services.
Understanding Amenities
Amenities can be categorized into several types:
**Recreational Amenities:**
- Swimming pools and hot tubs
- Playgrounds and recreational areas
- Sports courts (basketball, volleyball, pickleball)
- Hiking trails and nature paths
- Fishing ponds or access
- Game rooms and arcades
- Organized activities and events
**Social and Community Amenities:**
- Clubhouses and community centers
- Fire pits and gathering areas
- Outdoor kitchens and grilling areas
- Picnic areas and pavilions
- Event spaces for groups
- Community gardens
**Convenience Amenities:**
- Camp stores and general stores
- Laundry facilities
- Wi-Fi and internet access
- Restroom and shower facilities
- Dump stations (for RV parks)
- Propane filling stations
- Ice and firewood sales
**Premium Amenities:**
- Spas and wellness facilities
- Fitness centers
- Restaurants and cafes
- Concierge services
- Equipment rentals (bikes, kayaks, etc.)
- Guided tours and activities
- Pet facilities and dog parks
**Practical Amenities:**
- Full hookups (water, sewer, electrical)
- Pull-through sites (for RV parks)
- Storage facilities
- Mail and package services
- Security and gated access
- Well-maintained roads and landscaping
The amenity package significantly impacts:
- **Pricing:** Properties with extensive amenities can command higher rates
- **Occupancy:** Attractive amenities increase demand and bookings
- **Guest Satisfaction:** Quality amenities improve reviews and repeat visits
- **Competitive Positioning:** Amenities differentiate properties in competitive markets
- **Operating Costs:** More amenities require more maintenance and staffing
For glamping resorts, common amenities include:
- Private bathrooms and hot showers
- Outdoor fire pits or fireplaces
- Kitchen facilities or outdoor cooking areas
- Hot tubs or soaking tubs
- Hiking trails and nature access
- Activities like yoga, guided hikes, or stargazing
For RV parks and resorts, typical amenities include:
- Full hookups (30-amp and 50-amp service)
- Clubhouses with kitchens and gathering spaces
- Swimming pools and hot tubs
- Laundry facilities
- Camp stores
- Pet facilities
- Recreation areas and activities
For campgrounds, common amenities include:
- Restroom and shower facilities
- Fire pits and picnic tables
- Potable water access
- Dump stations
- Camp stores
- Playgrounds
- Hiking trails
The cost of amenities varies significantly:
- Basic amenities (restrooms, fire pits): $10K-$50K
- Moderate amenities (pools, clubhouses): $50K-$200K
- Premium amenities (spas, restaurants): $200K-$500K+
Amenities also have ongoing costs:
- Maintenance and repairs
- Utilities (pool heating, lighting)
- Staffing (activity coordinators, maintenance)
- Supplies and equipment
- Insurance and liability
In feasibility studies, amenity analysis helps:
- Determine appropriate amenity package for target market
- Estimate development costs
- Project impact on rates and occupancy
- Assess ongoing operational costs
- Evaluate competitive positioning
Sage Outdoor Advisory includes amenity analysis in our feasibility studies, helping clients understand which amenities are most valuable for their target market, estimate costs, and assess how amenities affect property positioning, rates, and operational requirements.
Examples of Amenities
- •A premium glamping resort offers extensive amenities: private hot tubs at each unit, outdoor fireplaces, full kitchens, hiking trails, yoga classes, guided nature tours, and a clubhouse with games and gathering space. These amenities enable $400/night rates versus $200/night for basic glamping properties, and achieve 85% occupancy versus 65% for properties with minimal amenities. The $350K amenity investment pays for itself through premium pricing and higher demand.
- •An RV resort differentiates itself with premium amenities: Olympic-sized pool, hot tub, fitness center, large clubhouse with commercial kitchen, pickleball courts, dog park, and organized activities. These amenities justify $95/night rates versus $65/night for basic RV parks, and the property achieves 90% occupancy during peak season. The amenities attract long-term guests and justify premium positioning in the market.
- •A family campground focuses on family-friendly amenities: large playground, swimming pool, game room, organized activities for kids, camp store, and multiple fire pit areas. These amenities appeal to families and enable $55/night rates with strong summer occupancy. The amenity package is designed to keep families on-site and engaged, increasing length of stay and guest satisfaction.
Common Use Cases
- •Differentiating properties in competitive markets
- •Justifying premium pricing and rates
- •Attracting target market segments
- •Increasing guest satisfaction and repeat visits
Related Services
Frequently Asked Questions About Amenities
What amenities are most important for outdoor hospitality properties?
The most important amenities vary by property type and target market. For glamping resorts, private bathrooms, outdoor fire features, and unique experiences are key. For RV parks, full hookups, clubhouses, and pools are essential. For campgrounds, clean restrooms, fire pits, and family activities are priorities. A feasibility study should identify which amenities are most valuable for your specific market and property type.
How much do amenities cost?
Amenity costs vary widely: basic amenities (restrooms, fire pits) may cost $10K-$50K, moderate amenities (pools, clubhouses) $50K-$200K, and premium amenities (spas, restaurants) $200K-$500K+. Ongoing maintenance and operational costs must also be considered. A feasibility study should estimate both initial and ongoing amenity costs.
Do amenities justify higher rates?
Yes, quality amenities typically enable higher rates and can increase occupancy. Properties with extensive, well-maintained amenities can command 20-50% premium rates over basic properties. However, amenities must align with target market expectations and be properly maintained to justify premium pricing.
What amenities should I prioritize?
Prioritize amenities that align with your target market, competitive positioning, and budget. Essential amenities (restrooms, basic facilities) should come first, followed by amenities that differentiate your property. A feasibility study can help identify which amenities provide the best return on investment for your specific market and property type.
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