Pickleball is the fastest growing sport in America, and it is also quickly becoming one of the most popular activities at our camp resorts. One of the main factors for the sports’ rapid growth is accessibility. For the guests, it’s a fun and engaging sport that requires little exertion and can be played by people of all ages. As a camp resort owner, the draw is also accessibility. Pickleball courts are smaller than a traditional tennis court allowing them to be installed in areas with less space. The flexibility of the sport also allows owners to convert seldom used tennis courts into pickleball courts, add a temporary set-up on existing basketball courts or gives them the ability to utilize excess indoor space to create temporary pickleball courts. These modifications can typically be done with a very low capital investment.
Another reason for the popularity amongst our guests is the sense of community that accompanies pickleball. Campers pride themselves on community, and the courts bring their community together. Whether you host guest tournaments, or host leagues for long term guests and the local community, pickleball courts always seem to be the meeting place for guests of all ages.
When considering whether or not to make an investment in pickleball, there are a few things you want to consider. You will want to install courts in an area that isn’t too centrally located. The one downside to pickleball is the noise that comes with the sport–because of this you will want to have your courts located in an area that will not impact your guest experience. Another thing to consider is the type of construction. When building courts that will be solely dedicated to pickleball, you want to make sure that you are installing high quality playing surfaces and equipment. Because of its popularity, the courts get used far more than an average tennis court. As a result, you want to make sure your investment stands up to a high volume of guest use.
In conclusion, integrating pickleball into campground resorts is a strategic move that caters to the growing trend of this exciting sport. Its appeal lies in its accessibility for all ages, low physical demand, and the ability to foster a vibrant community spirit. Resort owners can benefit from the sport’s flexibility, requiring minimal space and investment for setting up courts. However, careful consideration must be given to the placement and construction of these courts to enhance the guest experience without the intrusion of noise. By embracing pickleball, campground resorts not only keep pace with a national trend but also enrich the social fabric of their communities, making them a more attractive destination for guests seeking both relaxation and recreational fun.