Instead of pulling hair out, a blog post will do.
This summer, we’ve had an incredible increase of bookings – It is our 15th year living here, and our 8th year as Fishers’Paradise, private campground. Each year, there is a jump in visitors, usually at the Guest Cottage and Cabin (last year we were fully booked in those areas). But this year, so many campers in tents and trailers, which we love, yet it is also straining to keep up with the 100s of requests every week, managing the property, the garbage/recycling, and general questions/concerns/fixes.
Unfortunately, we’ve had to refuse many booking requests, due to capacity issues. We are having to buy a ton of campfire wood as we cannot keep up, had porta-potties brought in and pumped out weekly to support the demand, spending hours clearing garbage that’s been left at sites, and sorting thousands of cans/plastics from the recycling containers. NOTE: As per our ‘rules’ all garbage and recycling from campsites must be brought back up to the top, not left at sites for wild animals to have a go.
As a few friends have said – it’s a good problem to have. However, we are just two people with other jobs outside of the campground, three children and an elderly parent to look after. This is first and foremost our home, and happy to share the beautiful space with those who enjoy the great outdoors – but, we are not a conventional commercial business with staff, or employ standard tourist practices – We live here.
Our goal has always been slow sustainable development and thinking up better ways to ‘business’ in this world. We ask you to understand that we are not always available – Guests should be aware that independence is greatly appreciated. This is not a resort, you’re rough camping – there’s a lot of deadwood and brush lying beyond the trails, scoop it up! We show you where the firewood and potable water taps are located (please don’t take a ton of these resources, they are not unlimited), and we leave it to you to enjoy your experience in nature.
Please be patient with your questions and requests – use the contact form and we will get back to you as soon as possible. Thank you for choosing our piece of paradise for your camping adventures. Be aware, be safe!
