What occupancy rate should I assume for an RV park?

A stabilized RV park in a desirable market typically runs 60%–80% occupancy on an annualized basis. Seasonal parks may spike higher in summer but average lower annually. For conservative underwriting, start at 55%–65%. Ask the seller for 3 years of historical occupancy data.

What is a typical operating expense ratio for an RV park?

Most RV parks run operating expense ratios (OpEx as % of gross revenue) of 35%–55%. Lower ratios (35%–40%) are common for well-run parks with minimal staff. Higher ratios apply to parks with resort amenities, large staff, or high utility costs. Include utilities, maintenance, payroll, insurance, management fees, taxes, and reserves.

How accurate is this RV park ROI calculator?

This calculator provides estimates only, based on the inputs you provide. It does not account for local market conditions, seasonality, debt service details, tax implications, or capital expenditure requirements. Always verify assumptions with historical financials, a market study, and a qualified financial advisor before making investment decisions.

RV Park ROI Calculator — Free Campground Investment Tool

Key Takeaways

Cap rate = NOI ÷ Purchase Price — most RV parks trade at 8%–14% cap rates depending on location and stability
Occupancy rate is the most sensitive variable — a 10-point drop from 70% to 60% cuts NOI by ~14% or more
Operating expense ratios for RV parks typically run 35%–55% of gross revenue
This tool uses annualized estimates — seasonality, capital reserves, and debt service affect real returns
Always verify assumptions against 3+ years of actual financials before making an offer

Enter your assumptions

Purchase Price

Number of Sites

Average Nightly Rate

Annual Occupancy Rate

Operating Expense Ratio (% of gross revenue)

Optional fields — leave at 0 to exclude

Annual Financing Cost (optional)

Monthly Fixed Costs (optional)

Estimated returns

Annual Gross Revenue Sites × nights/year × rate × occupancy

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Operating Expenses Gross revenue × expense ratio + fixed costs

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Net Operating Income (NOI) Before debt service and taxes

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NOI Per Site Annual NOI ÷ total sites

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Cap Rate NOI ÷ purchase price

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Cash Flow After Financing NOI minus annual financing cost

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Estimated Payback Period Purchase price ÷ NOI

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Disclaimer: For informational and planning purposes only. Not financial or investment advice. This calculator produces estimates based on inputs you provide and simplified assumptions. It does not account for seasonality, capital expenditure requirements, vacancy reserves, local market conditions, tax implications, or due-diligence findings. Always consult a qualified advisor and review actual historical financials before making investment decisions.

Frequently asked questions

What is cap rate for an RV park?

Cap rate (capitalization rate) is the ratio of a property's Net Operating Income (NOI) to its current market value or purchase price, expressed as a percentage. A 10% cap rate means you're paying 10x annual NOI. RV parks typically trade at 8%–14% cap rates — higher than traditional multifamily because of perceived management intensity and seasonality, lower than raw land because of existing cash flow.

What occupancy rate should I underwrite for an RV park?

A stabilized, year-round RV park in a strong market typically runs 60%–80% annualized occupancy. Seasonal parks (coastal, mountain) may hit 85%+ in peak summer but average far lower annually. For conservative underwriting, start at 55%–65% and stress test at 45%. Always ask the seller for 3 full years of occupancy and revenue data, and verify against utility usage records.

What operating expense ratio should I use?

Most RV parks run 35%–55% operating expense ratios (total OpEx as a percentage of gross revenue). Well-run parks with minimal amenities and lean staffing can achieve 35%–40%. Parks with pools, recreation facilities, laundry, and full-time staff often run 50%–55%. This calculator's default of 45% is a reasonable starting point for a mid-amenity park — adjust based on the specific property.

How accurate is this calculator?

This calculator is a first-pass estimation tool, not a substitute for a full financial model or market study. It assumes uniform year-round operations, which most parks don't have. Seasonality, capital reserve requirements, property tax specifics, and management overhead can all shift actual returns significantly from these estimates. Use it to screen opportunities quickly — not to make final acquisition decisions.

RV Park ROI Calculator

Key Takeaways

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Estimated returns

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Frequently asked questions

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