Running a Campground – Risks to Consider

Campgrounds inherently come with a multitude of risks. Further, while most are independently owned, many have a tie to a national organization that requires inspections and certain minimum amenities. Keep these tips in mind to minimize your campground’s risk and help you meet any organizational requirements.

Property Exposure

While the amount of land your campground is located on may include several acres, property exposure risks usually lies in the office, shower area and laundry facilities. You may have community buildings, snack bar areas or owned trailers that are available for rent. If your campground is seasonal and motor homes or campers are left on premises for storage in the off-season, a caretaker should stay on-premises or a security service should check each day for vandalism and small fires.

Crime Exposure

Crime risk primarily stems from employee dishonesty and money and securities. Background checks should be conducted on all employees handling money. Employee dishonesty requires separation of duties, particularly ordering and disbursement. Money and securities is an exposure if there is cash admission or a restaurant. Regular deposits should be made, and the number of cashiers should be limited.

Inland Marine Exposure

Though inland marine exposure typically comes from contractors’ equipment to maintain the facility, it should be stored in a locked storage container when not in use.

Premises Liability Exposure

If your campground owns and rents units, all of the life safety concerns of a lodging operation need to be evaluated. The condition of access roads, security and the condition of the park in general are the major liability concerns. Water purity should be checked on an ongoing basis. Playground equipment must be properly maintained and documented. Swimming areas should be clearly marked and "No Swimming" signs posted at any lake or pond where swimming is not an offered amenity. Swimming pools should be fenced, with a self-closing gate and depths clearly marked. Pool rules should be prominently displayed. Lifesaving equipment should be accessible at all times. If open fires are permitted, clear requirements must be posted prominently, stating that all fires must be completely extinguished and cooled to prevent the spread of fire.

Automobile Exposure

To efficiently manage the car traffic and parking at your campground, there needs to be a plan in place. The same goes regarding employees running errands, such as picking up firewood. Automobile exposure is normally limited to hired and nonownership for employees running errands. If there are company-owned vehicles being used, drivers’ records and MVRs must be routinely reviewed. All vehicles must be maintained on an ongoing basis and service documented.

Workers’ Compensation Exposure

Your employees are vital in order to make sure the campground runs smoothly. Slips, falls, insect bites, lifting strains, back injury, hernia and sprains are common when working at a campground. If there are other operations, such as lodging, logging, tree trimming, or application of herbicides or pesticides, refer to those other narratives.

To find out more about protecting your campground, request a free CBIZ Adventure Sports Insurance quote.