The Reasoning behind the Seasonal Rate Increase:

Over the last several years we have attempted to take a more professional approach to the way we do business.  Part of that process has included attending the ARVC Foundations National School of RV Park & Campground Management, which is a part of The School for Professional Development at Oglebay.  This is an extensive training program in areas specifically tailored to campgrounds and is taught by some of the most experienced people in the campground industry today.  There we learned to apply basic business principals to our campground.  Because we look at our customers/seasonal campers as friends, we have struggled every year about how to determine what our rates should be.  Raising rates became an emotional decision as opposed to a sound business decision.

Going back to 1977, when the seasonal rate was $335.00, we have failed to raise rates even to keep up with the rate of inflation.  By 1998, the campground electrical system needed to be upgraded.  We chose to meter the electric, as opposed to raising rates, and used the money collected to upgrade sections of the system.  However, the cost of electrical equipment, and especially wire, has increased so fast that we have spent more on the system than we received from the meters.

In addition, costs associated with our business have increased faster than inflation.  Government regulations, property taxes, and the cost of fuel have increased costs from every supplier we deal with.  The table below indicates some of the key areas we have identified as large increases since 2001.

                                                                                                  % increase of

                                                                                                      expenses

                                                                                                     2001-2006

                          Gas & Oil............................................................  106.03%

                          Health Insurance..................................................    80.38%

                          Total Insurance....................................................    64.76%

                          Laboratory Fees...................................................    80.70%

                          Pool...................................................................   134.48%

                          Garbage.............................................................   162.95%

                          Total Expenses Increased................................     34.41%

Identifying and understanding these factors is a direct result of the education we received at The Oglebay School of Campground Management.  With this education and the advice of instructors, a business plan was developed that is based on sound financial and economic data.  We believe that this tool will allow us to manage our business professionally and consistently so that it will continue to thrive based on a solid financial foundation.

We remain committed to the tradition of providing a "family place" for your children and grandchildren, as well as our own, to enjoy for many years to come.

Note:  If you were a customer/seasonal camper during year 2006, the seasonal rate for year 2008 is $1,300.00 regardless what site you are on.