Alright, Campground Owners… Gather ‘round the firepit because the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) just dropped a new rule, and let’s just say—it’s about as welcome as a family of raccoons raiding your snack cooler at 2 a.m.
If you’ve ever had a guest grumble about “hidden fees” (or had them glare at you like you just took the last marshmallow), buckle up—because the FTC’s Junk Fees Rule is officially here. And if you don’t get ahead of it? Well, let’s just say the penalties might make you wish you’d invested in a remote, off-grid campsite instead.
But don’t worry—we’re not here to rain on your bonfire. We’re here to help you navigate these new rules like a pro so you can keep growing your campground business (without getting hit with unexpected fines or customer meltdowns).
Campers are about to demand the whole price—upfront. No more adding an “oh, by the way” fee at checkout for WiFi, firewood, or the emotional distress of a raccoon eating their hot dog. Your website, booking page, and even signage need to spell it out: base rate, hookup fees, taxes, and anything else that could make their wallet flinch.
You know that fine print that no one reads? Yeah, the FTC is saying guests need to see it—BEFORE they book, not after they pull up in their RV. Every. Single. Fee. Needs to be listed, explained, and crystal clear. No more “processing fees” or mystery “resort fees” sneaking up on people like a possum in the night.
Listen, we get it—your cancellation policy is meant to protect your business, but if it reads like a medieval scroll of riddles, the FTC is coming for you. Your new game plan? Make it simple, reasonable, and transparent. No more 3-page policies with “gotcha” fees buried in the fine print.
If you’re thinking, “I’ll deal with this later,” let’s pause for a reality check: you have about 60 days to update everything. That means your reservation system, website, and even that laminated sign taped to your office window needs to reflect these changes.
💡 Pro Tip: The faster you adapt, the more you build customer trust (and avoid potential fines). Campgrounds that embrace transparency first will be the ones that win big in the long run.
At Campground Accounting, we know there’s more to running a campground than setting up a nice fire pit and hoping for the best. We help campground owners take control of their numbers—so they can actually enjoy the business they built.
Want to make sure you’re fully compliant and not leaving money (or marshmallows) on the table? Let’s chat. We’ll help you stay ahead of the game so you can focus on what really matters—growing your campground and giving guests the adventure they came for.
🚀 Click here to get started.
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Donna Bordeaux, CPA with Campground Accounting
Creativity and CPAs don’t generally go together. Most people think of CPAs as nerdy accountants who can’t talk with people. Well, it’s time to break that stereotype. Lively, friendly, and knowledgeable can be a part of your relationship with your CPA, as demonstrated by Donna and Chad Bordeaux. They have over 50 years of combined experience as entrepreneurial CPAs. They’ve owned businesses and helped business owners exceed their wildest dreams. They have been able to help businesses earn many times more profit than the average business in the same industry and are passionate about helping industries that help families build great memories.