After reading the an overview of the subject and his initial thoughts on creating a rural campsite, it's time to explore strategic planning and offering services to customers in more detail. In this article, we'll dive into the crucial aspects of planning, from market research to pricing the operation, while looking at how to create an exceptional customer experience and satisfaction by tailoring services to specific customer needs.
Carrying out market research is an essential marketing step in the creation of a new business campsite. It assesses the viability of the project by analysing customer needs, consumer behaviour, competition, demand and market trends.... To obtain the necessary data, it is advisable to consult INSEE, local and departmental websites and to hold local meetings. This information is crucial for fine-tuning the offer, defining the optimum price positioning and developing a successful strategy. To maximise the tourist appeal of the campsite, it is important to strengthen the online presence on the website, improve communication, diversify leisure activities, choose an ideal pitch in compliance with regulations, and take into account various booking methods. These sustainable actions aim to attract and target a wider customer base by meeting expectations and establishing a clear profile of the potential customer.
Opening a campsite is an exciting entrepreneurial adventure, but the choice of legal status is a crucial point that has a profound influence on the management and development of your business. 
This important decision has to be taken on the basis of various factors, such as the size and space of the campsite, the number of partners or employees, asset protection, social status and development prospects. There are several options available to you, including commercial companies (SARL, EURL, SAS, SASU, etc.), non-trading companies and sole proprietorships. Each of these statutes has distinct advantages and disadvantages, and it is essential to examine them carefully to make an informed choice for the prosperous future of your campsite.
Commercial companies: there is a wide choice of structures (EURL, SARL, SAS, etc.). They generally offer good protection for private assets. Provided, of course, that you have not personally guaranteed any loans taken out by the company. They allow a large number of people to be involved in the management of the campsite, whether or not they are active, and suggest a choice between different corporate statuses for the managers. The formalities can be restrictive.
Non-trading companies: the liability of partners and employees is unlimited, but proportional to the share capital. This is also subject to the condition that they have not personally guaranteed any loans taken out by the company. It is possible, for example, to separate ownership of the land in a non-trading property company from management of the campsite in a limited liability company.
Sole proprietorship: You can also run and offer a campsite on a personal basis. There are virtually no formalities. Since 15 May 2022, your business assets have been separate from your personal assets, which are protected without the possibility of you acting as a personal guarantor. This status therefore offers good and better protection. However, it will not be suitable if you wish to seek capital contributions or choose a social status similar to that of employees.
We advise you to contact an accountancy firm or a lawyer if you have any questions about your choice of legal structure and tax and social security status.
The business plan plays a major role in obtaining finance, whether from a bank or other investors. It is a document setting out the investment plan and projected profitability over several years. Meticulous drafting is a crucial step in arousing the interest of your customers
financial partners. By outlining the objectives, marketing strategies and financial and operational aspects required to bring the project to fruition, the business plan is a key tool in the planning, launch and effective management of a business. A crisp, concise executive summary highlights the essential elements, while the document as a whole serves to convince stakeholders of the viability and potential of the campsite. It also acts as an internal guide, making it easy to take simple decisions and monitor progress against objectives. By taking the time to plan it carefully, the business plan allows you to focus effectively on optimising the campsite from the moment it opens on the day.
Launching a tourist campsite requires a substantial investment, whether to take over an existing establishment or to create a new campsite. The amount required depends on a number of factors, including the size of the plot, the location of the site, the facilities envisaged and the level of comfort offered. Although financing through a bank loan is a feasible option, it requires a robust dossier demonstrating the viability of the project to persuade the financial partners. It is important to note that a substantial part of the budget (30-50%) will have to be self-financed. In terms of creation, costs can fluctuate depending on the size of the project, the landscaping, infrastructure and equipment envisaged.
1. Adapting to customer needs and requests
When you plan to open a campsite aimed at families (with children) or friends, it is essential to design and offer services that specifically meet their needs during their stay. 
The diversity of this clientele requires a thoughtful and accessible approach to ensure the success of your establishment. By taking into account criteria such as the age of guests and the desired level of comfort, you can create a memorable camping experience for parents and children alike. Offer new pitches that are easy, spacious and secure, specially designed play areas, and a full range of fun activities for guests. What's more, the value of the star rating introduced by Atout France provides a benchmark and access for campers, making it easier for them to choose between the different establishments in the area.
To measure the suitability of your services for your target clientele, you can provide a questionnaire at the time of booking and at the end of the stay. This will enable you to analyse satisfaction levels, identify areas for improvement and adjust your venue accordingly. Working with your team, make sure you take customer feedback into account to achieve optimum results in terms of operational performance and customer satisfaction.
2. Designing top-of-the-range services for a campsite
If your aim is to attract a clientele looking for an exceptional camping experience, a high-end service strategy is essential. Luxury-seeking campers expect exclusive services and premium pitches. Offer a top-quality swimming pool, refined culinary experiences, romantic activities or excursions, and 
wellness services such as outdoor massages. By offering exclusive events, from wine tastings to private concerts, you can personalise your customers' experience. This luxury-focused approach will help you stand out in the market and attract a discerning clientele looking for an unrivalled camping experience.
To measure the effectiveness and added value of your top-of-the-range services, you can put in place a system of performance indicators such as the booking rate for these specific services, the cost per booking, and the rate of retention of top-of-the-range customer reviews. You can work in partnership with local restaurants to offer unique culinary experiences, you can also inspire your customers to return and recommend your campsite to their friends and family, reinforcing your identity and positioning in the outdoor hospitality market.
Creating the customer experience at a campsite therefore requires an in-depth analysis of customer needs and expectations, as well as constant adaptation of the offering to ensure satisfaction and loyalty. By regularly measuring the performance of your services and working closely with your team, you can guarantee the operational and financial success of your establishment in the outdoor tourism sector.
Strategic planning and the creation of a unique customer experience are essential to the success of a rural campsite. Good planning, combined with appropriate and available services, creates a solid foundation. Although the project looks promising, keep in mind the need to remain flexible in the face of potential challenges. It is also advisable to call on professionals in the field to benefit from their expertise and ensure the success of your business. In our next article, we'll look at how to put these plans into practice to ensure the day-to-day success of the campsite and attract more campers.
