RV (Recreational Vehicle) Parks and Campgrounds
721211
Readycap Lending, LLC (NJ)
Northeast Bank (ME)
Northeast Bank is a Maine-based Community Bank and national Commercial Real Estate lender providing unmatched customer service and financial solutions to achieve your financial goals.
Live Oak Banking Company (NC)
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Gulf Coast Bank and Trust Company (LA)
Gulf Coast Small Business Lending is a national USDA and SBA Preferred Lender. Learn about our SBA loans and contact us about your small business loan today!
Frandsen Bank & Trust (MN)
Frandsen Bank & Trust is a full-service community banking, trust and investment services organization with offices located throughout Minnesota, Wisconsin, and North Dakota.
First Utah Bank (UT)
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ChoiceOne Bank (MI)
Capital Community Bank (UT)
We're more than just a bank. We're your friends and neighbors, committed to building strong communities and helping you prosper. Learn more about CCBank and the different ways we're invested in Utah.
SBA Loans for RV Parks and Campgrounds: Financing Growth in Outdoor Hospitality
Introduction
RV parks and campgrounds provide essential accommodations for travelers, tourists, and outdoor enthusiasts, offering everything from basic camping sites to luxury RV hookups with modern amenities. Classified under NAICS 721211 – RV (Recreational Vehicle) Parks and Campgrounds, this sector has seen rapid growth fueled by rising interest in domestic travel, outdoor recreation, and road trips. Despite strong demand, owners face steep financial hurdles, including property upgrades, maintenance, seasonal cash flow, and competition from large resort operators.
This is where SBA Loans for RV Parks and Campgrounds can provide a competitive edge. Backed by the U.S. Small Business Administration, SBA loans offer affordable financing with longer repayment terms, lower down payments, and government-backed guarantees. For campground and RV park operators, these loans can fund property improvements, new amenities, and working capital to keep operations running smoothly year-round.
Industry Overview: NAICS 721211
RV Parks and Campgrounds (NAICS 721211) include establishments primarily engaged in providing temporary or long-term lodging for campers and recreational vehicle users. These businesses range from rustic campgrounds to high-end resorts offering pools, Wi-Fi, entertainment facilities, and full-service hookups.
As domestic travel trends continue to rise, RV parks and campgrounds remain a popular and cost-effective option for families, retirees, and road trip enthusiasts. However, the industry faces challenges such as seasonality, land development costs, and infrastructure investments, all of which require reliable financing.
Common Pain Points in RV Park and Campground Financing
From hospitality forums, small business communities, and travel industry discussions, RV park and campground operators frequently report the following challenges:
- Property Development Costs – Building or expanding sites, installing hookups, and adding amenities require major investment.
- Maintenance & Repairs – Ongoing upkeep of facilities, plumbing, electrical systems, and recreational areas is costly.
- Seasonal Demand – Cash flow fluctuates with peak and off-season travel patterns.
- Competition – Larger campground chains and luxury RV resorts invest heavily in amenities, putting pressure on smaller operators.
- Technology Investments – Online booking systems, websites, and digital marketing require upfront funding.
- Bank Loan Rejections – Traditional lenders often hesitate due to land-based business risks and seasonal income streams.
How SBA Loans Help RV Parks and Campgrounds
SBA loans provide affordable, flexible funding to address the unique financial needs of campground owners:
SBA 7(a) Loan
- Best for: Working capital, property improvements, marketing, or payroll.
- Loan size: Up to $5 million.
- Why it helps: Covers cash flow gaps, advertising campaigns, and smaller-scale upgrades.
SBA 504 Loan
- Best for: Land purchases, property development, and large infrastructure projects.
- Loan size: Up to $5.5 million.
- Why it helps: Ideal for building new campgrounds, expanding sites, or adding major amenities like pools and recreation centers.
SBA Microloans
- Best for: Small campgrounds or startups entering the industry.
- Loan size: Up to $50,000.
- Why it helps: Great for launching a small site, upgrading cabins, or investing in marketing tools.
SBA Disaster Loans
- Best for: Recovery from natural disasters such as floods, hurricanes, or wildfires.
- Loan size: Up to $2 million.
- Why it helps: Provides emergency capital to repair damaged infrastructure and restore operations.
Step-by-Step Guide to Getting an SBA Loan
- Check Eligibility – Must be a U.S.-based for-profit campground or RV park with a 650–680+ credit score and repayment ability.
- Prepare Documentation – Provide tax returns, financial statements, land development plans, and property appraisals.
- Find an SBA-Approved Lender – Choose lenders experienced in hospitality and real estate financing.
- Submit the Application – Clearly outline how the loan will be used for upgrades, expansions, or working capital.
- Approval Process – SBA guarantees up to 85% of the loan, making lenders more likely to approve. Expect 30–90 days for approval.
FAQ: SBA Loans for RV Parks and Campgrounds
Why do banks hesitate to finance RV parks and campgrounds?
Seasonal demand, high land costs, and long development timelines make lenders cautious. SBA guarantees reduce their risk, improving approval chances.
Can SBA loans finance land and property development?
Yes. SBA 504 loans are specifically designed for real estate and large-scale property development projects.
What down payment is required?
Most SBA loans require 10–20% down, compared to higher requirements from conventional financing.
Are small or startup campgrounds eligible?
Yes. SBA microloans are well-suited for new entrants or small operators improving their facilities.
What loan terms are available?
- Working capital: Up to 7 years
- Equipment or upgrades: Up to 10 years
- Real estate: Up to 25 years
Can SBA loans support technology and booking systems?
Absolutely. Many campgrounds use SBA financing to fund websites, reservation software, and digital marketing campaigns.
Final Thoughts
The RV Parks and Campgrounds industry is growing as more travelers embrace outdoor hospitality, but financing challenges can limit growth opportunities. SBA Loans for RV Parks and Campgrounds provide the affordable capital needed to invest in property improvements, expand sites, and stabilize cash flow.
Whether you’re developing a new campground, upgrading facilities, or adding modern amenities, SBA financing gives operators the resources to thrive in a competitive market. Connect with an SBA-approved lender today and explore your financing options.
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