In an interesting and innovative move that could prove a template for other local authorities in a similar position, the council in Kingston in the southeast corner of South Australia has decided to integrate the operations of the hitherto free RV park and the Kingston Caravan Park.
The move means a charge of $10 will be introduced per vehicle for a stay of up to 48 hours at the RV park. Caravans and motorhomes had previously been restricted to 24 hour stays. The new rules will come into force on October 1, 2017.
The council is installing a ticket machine to make making payment easy and convenient for grey nomads and other travellers.
“The park will be regularly monitored,” Kingston CEO, Andrew MacDonald, told the Coastal Leader newspaper. “But we expect people to do the right thing.”
Kingston District Council only took over the full ownership and management of the Kingston Caravan Park on July 26 of this year and it has been keen to find a way to ensure both facilities work harmoniously together in growing the area’s tourism economy.
The Coastal Leader reports that funds collected at the RV Park will be a revenue stream for the caravan park, which will ultimately be returned to council via annual rent and profits.
This will help to cover the costs of providing for the RV park, which includes expenses such as toilet paper, cleaning, dump point facilities, general maintenance and water.
As a way of encouraging visitors to stay longer in Kingston, the caravan park will also introduce off-peak offers to uses of the RV park. Details of the offers are yet to be defined.
What a brilliant idea.
Seen it done before with a private park operating it. Slowly the fee up and up .
Russell, your glass always half empty?
Why are camper trailers not on the list, we go to this town 4-5 times a year spending on average $350. Each time. Any town that relies on tourism cannot afford to lose one cent. There will be a lot of camper trailers just driving straight through town now. As for the fee, ok,it’s only $10, but no services are provided on the site so what is the fee for?
I note the council commented on toilet cleaning, maintainece, supply toilet paper and managing dump point. At the end of the day there is a cost for these things no matter what people think. Great initiave by council.. $10 is not extortinate I dont think.
Like the idea I just hope that will appreciate it and not abuse it
I’m sure it will apply to all type of caravans and campers I’m sure there would be toilets on site one could not expect electricity at that low price I think the idea is great
I have stayed at the rv park. Its very nice. I would like to say that a charge for maintance toilet paper etc of $10 is a bit much for those amenities which are used also by tourists passing through and locals Many of us have our kwn toiletds..$5 would be a fairer price for campers. Dont forget us campers spend money in town as well.
Most caravans and rv’s have their own toilet now so they are really paying for a place to park. AustrLia used to be a great country to freecamp in but now everyone wants to make a dollar. Sardine parking, no thanks.
What a great idea it might stop a lot of freeloaders entering in the dark and leaving early.most people don’t, have a problem donating or paying a small fee.Its a great area to stop.
Enjoyed a stay at the RV Park & don’t have an issue with paying a small fee for this type of site. Gives me a feeling of security and I make a choice of whether to use the amenities, if provided, even though we have our own onboard. Would go back & pay the $10 in future.
Ten bucks for a former free overnighter ? I don’t think so, the toilets are situated in a public park used by all.