What is Back-In Site?
An RV or camping site that requires drivers to reverse their vehicle into the parking space, typically more compact than pull-through sites and often offered at lower rates.
Understanding Back-In Site
Back-in sites are arranged so that vehicles approach from the road and reverse into the site, positioning the RV with its hookups accessible. This design requires drivers to have some skill in backing up large vehicles, which can be challenging for those with less experience or larger rigs.
The advantages of back-in sites include:
- More efficient use of land, allowing higher site density
- Lower development costs due to smaller footprint
- Typically lower rates, making them more affordable
- Traditional camping experience preferred by some RVers
- Suitable for smaller RVs and experienced drivers
Back-in sites are often the standard offering at RV parks and campgrounds, with pull-through sites available as premium options. Many properties feature a mix of both types, allowing guests to choose based on their preferences, vehicle size, and budget.
The skill required to back into a site can be a barrier for some RV owners, particularly those new to RVing or those with very large rigs. However, many experienced RVers prefer back-in sites for their privacy, positioning, and often better views or positioning relative to amenities.
Back-in sites can include various hookup configurations, from basic electrical and water to full hookups with sewer connections. The hookup type is independent of whether a site is pull-through or back-in.
For RV park owners, back-in sites provide a cost-effective way to maximize site count and accommodate budget-conscious guests. They're essential for properties with limited land or those seeking to maximize capacity.
In feasibility studies and appraisals, the mix of back-in versus pull-through sites affects both development costs (back-in sites require less land) and revenue potential (back-in sites typically command lower rates). Understanding this balance is important for property planning and financial projections.
Sage Outdoor Advisory considers site types and configurations in our RV park feasibility studies and appraisals, understanding how back-in sites contribute to site density, development costs, and revenue potential.
Examples of Back-In Site
- •An RV park offers 80 back-in sites at $70/night and 20 pull-through sites at $85/night. Back-in sites achieve 75% occupancy while pull-through sites achieve 85% occupancy. The back-in sites provide cost-effective capacity while pull-through sites offer premium revenue opportunities.
- •A campground feasibility study evaluates site mix: 60 back-in sites require 50 feet of length each, while 20 pull-through sites require 75 feet. The back-in sites allow higher density and lower development costs, making them essential for maximizing capacity within land constraints.
- •A budget-friendly RV park features all back-in sites at $55/night, positioning itself as an affordable option. The back-in-only configuration allows maximum site density and lower rates, appealing to cost-conscious RVers while maintaining profitability through volume.
Common Use Cases
- •Maximizing site density and capacity
- •Offering affordable camping options
- •Accommodating budget-conscious guests
- •Optimizing land use in constrained properties
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Frequently Asked Questions About Back-In Site
What's the difference between back-in and pull-through sites?
Back-in sites require drivers to reverse into the parking space, while pull-through sites allow forward entry and exit. Back-in sites are typically more compact and affordable, while pull-through sites offer convenience and command premium rates.
Are back-in sites harder to use?
Back-in sites require backing up skills, which can be challenging for those new to RVing or with larger rigs. However, many experienced RVers are comfortable with back-in sites and may prefer them for privacy, positioning, or cost savings.
Why do RV parks offer back-in sites?
Back-in sites allow higher site density and more efficient land use, reducing development costs. They also enable lower rates, making properties more affordable and accessible. Most RV parks offer a mix of back-in and pull-through sites to serve different guest preferences and budgets.
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