RV & Campground

What is Pull-Through Site?

An RV or camping site designed to allow vehicles to enter from one direction and exit from the opposite direction without backing up, providing convenient access for larger RVs and trailers.

Understanding Pull-Through Site

A pull-through site is a type of RV or camping site specifically designed to allow vehicles to enter from one end and exit from the opposite end without requiring backing up or turning around. This design is particularly valued by RV owners, especially those with larger rigs, travel trailers, or those who prefer the convenience of forward-only movement.

Pull-through sites are typically longer than back-in sites and are arranged so that the entrance and exit are on opposite sides of the site. This layout eliminates the need for backing up, which can be challenging for many RV drivers, particularly those with larger vehicles or less experience maneuvering RVs.

The advantages of pull-through sites include:
- Ease of access and departure, especially for larger RVs
- No need for backing up, reducing the risk of accidents or damage
- Faster check-in and check-out process
- Appeal to RV owners who are less comfortable with backing maneuvers
- Ability to accommodate longer RVs and trailers

Pull-through sites are often premium offerings at RV parks and resorts, commanding higher rates than back-in sites due to their convenience and desirability. Many RV parks feature a mix of pull-through and back-in sites, with pull-through sites typically priced 10-20% higher.

The design of pull-through sites requires more land area than back-in sites, as they need sufficient length for vehicles to enter, park, and exit. This can affect site density and overall property capacity. However, the premium pricing and guest satisfaction often justify the additional space requirements.

Pull-through sites can include various hookup configurations, from basic electrical and water to full hookups with sewer connections. The convenience of pull-through access is independent of the hookup type, though premium pull-through sites often include full hookups.

For RV park owners, offering pull-through sites can be a competitive advantage, as many RVers specifically seek properties with pull-through availability. This is particularly true for properties catering to larger RVs or those positioned as premium destinations.

In feasibility studies and appraisals, the mix of pull-through versus back-in sites affects both development costs (pull-through sites require more land) and revenue potential (pull-through sites command premium rates). Understanding this balance is important for property planning and valuation.

Sage Outdoor Advisory considers site types and configurations in our RV park feasibility studies and appraisals, understanding how pull-through sites impact development costs, revenue potential, and market appeal.

Examples of Pull-Through Site

  • An RV resort offers 60 pull-through sites and 40 back-in sites. Pull-through sites command $95/night while back-in sites are $80/night. The pull-through sites are consistently booked first and achieve 85% occupancy versus 70% for back-in sites, demonstrating their premium appeal and revenue advantage.
  • A new RV park development plans 100 sites, with 40 pull-through and 60 back-in. Pull-through sites require 75 feet of length versus 50 feet for back-in sites, affecting site density. However, the premium rates and higher demand for pull-through sites justify the additional land requirement.
  • A feasibility study for an RV park expansion evaluates adding 25 pull-through sites. The analysis shows pull-through sites generate $15/night premium over back-in sites and achieve 10% higher occupancy. The additional revenue justifies the higher development costs and land requirements.

Common Use Cases

  • Planning RV park layouts and site configurations
  • Maximizing revenue through premium site offerings
  • Appealing to larger RV owners and less experienced drivers
  • Differentiating properties in competitive markets

Related Services

Frequently Asked Questions About Pull-Through Site

What's the difference between pull-through and back-in sites?

Pull-through sites allow vehicles to enter from one direction and exit from the opposite direction without backing up. Back-in sites require drivers to reverse into the site. Pull-through sites are more convenient, especially for larger RVs, and typically command premium rates.

Why are pull-through sites more expensive?

Pull-through sites command premium rates (typically 10-20% higher) due to their convenience, appeal to larger RVs, and higher demand. They also require more land area, which affects development costs, but the premium pricing and guest satisfaction justify the additional investment.

Do all RV parks have pull-through sites?

Not all RV parks offer pull-through sites. Many properties feature a mix of pull-through and back-in sites, with pull-through sites often reserved for premium rates or longer stays. Properties catering to larger RVs or positioned as premium destinations typically offer more pull-through sites.

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