Whether you’re using online tools or more traditional marketing methods to attract campers, the first objective is to build your strategy. The six steps below offer you a way to structure your thinking.

1. Analyze your business: The KOA Market Groups Report defines who your campers are and how they’re staying with you — based on length of stay and organized by season and camper origin (local, national or regional). KOA Franchisees can access more information about this report in the Resources section.

2. Understand your competition: Where are they — are they local or regional, private or public? Who is their customer base? What prices, services and amenities do they offer? How are they marketing? Now use that to your advantage.

3. Define your customer target: Who would be most attracted to what you offer?

4. Identify your unique selling proposition: What sets your campground apart from the competition for your target customer?

5. Set measurable goals: Some examples might be: Increase Deluxe Cabin nights by X%; Increase overnight business by X%; Increase family weekend business by X%.

6. Build a marketing plan: Start early and think holistically about the entire year/season. Plan things you can promote, then build your strategy across all channels.

7. Monitor your results: To know what’s working and what isn’t, keep a log of your goals and how well you’re meeting them. Readjust as needed.

In this section, you’ll find tools and tips for online marketing.