Staves Consulting

For entrepreneurs and existing owners in Montana looking to navigate the exciting, yet complex, world of RV park and campground development, Staves Consulting stands as a unique and deeply experienced resource right here in Whitefish. While not a campground itself, Staves Consulting is a pivotal partner for anyone in Montana aiming to establish, expand, or optimize a successful outdoor hospitality venture. With a legacy spanning two generations and rooted in firsthand experience of owning and operating campgrounds, this family-run business offers unparalleled insights into the industry.

At the core of Staves Consulting's philosophy is a commitment to building genuine partnerships. They understand that every project is unique, and their approach goes far beyond generic advice. With over 500 feasibility studies completed and extensive experience in campground design and development, they bring a wealth of "boots-on-the-ground" knowledge to the table. For Montana locals eyeing the thriving tourism and outdoor recreation market, partnering with Staves Consulting means gaining access to seasoned expertise that can clarify visions, define market strategies, and help build cost-efficient, successful RV parks and campgrounds that resonate with the Montana spirit. Their deep understanding of what makes a campground successful, from site selection to day-to-day management, makes them an invaluable asset for anyone looking to invest in or improve their presence in Montana’s burgeoning outdoor hospitality sector.

Staves Consulting is conveniently located at 5125 U.S. 93 S, Whitefish, MT 59937, USA. This accessible location in Whitefish, Montana, makes it easy for clients from across the state and beyond to connect with their expert team. U.S. Highway 93 is a major north-south corridor, ensuring straightforward access for appointments and consultations.

Whitefish itself is a vibrant community in the Flathead Valley, known for its strong tourism industry and proximity to Glacier National Park and Flathead Lake. This strategic location for Staves Consulting means they are based in the heart of a region that embodies the very essence of outdoor recreation and hospitality, giving them firsthand insight into the market dynamics relevant to their clients. The office is situated on a well-maintained highway, making it easily reachable by car with ample parking typically available. While specific details about building access are best confirmed directly, the professional nature of their business suggests a client-friendly environment. For Montana entrepreneurs and business owners, their Whitefish office provides a central and convenient point of contact for specialized consulting services that can help shape the future of outdoor recreation across the state.

• RV Park and Campground Feasibility Studies: Staves Consulting conducts comprehensive feasibility studies that go beyond basic site analysis. They gather and analyze vital information to forecast the potential success of a development concept, identify hidden opportunities, and mitigate risks before significant investment.

• Site Selection and Analysis: Leveraging their deep industry experience, they assist clients in identifying and evaluating the ideal location for new RV park or campground ventures, or assessing the potential of existing sites for revitalization.

• Campground Design: They partner with clients and engineers to craft market-driven designs for campgrounds and RV parks. Their approach ensures that every design decision is powered by market insights, aiming to create unforgettable visitor experiences tailored to the target audience.

• Market Research and Analysis: A core component of their philosophy, Staves Consulting emphasizes a clear understanding of the market. They conduct in-depth needs analysis to uncover distinct challenges and identify specific market segments for clients.

• Ongoing Guidance and Support: After their initial project work is complete, Staves Consulting offers free ongoing guidance by phone or email, as needed, demonstrating a commitment to their clients' long-term success. They strive to build genuine, lasting partnerships.

• Cost Efficiency Focus: They aim to assist clients in building successful RV parks with a keen eye on cost efficiency, helping to minimize investment and maximize return on investment (ROI).

• Tailored Solutions: Every project is approached as a collaborative journey, with tailored options and innovative pathways designed to achieve and exceed clients' desired outcomes, avoiding generic, "cookie-cutter" appraisals.

• Corporate and Individual Client Support: Their client base ranges from large entities like Kampgrounds of America (KOA) and the National Park Service to individual developers and investors.

• Generational Expertise: Staves Consulting boasts a family legacy spanning two generations, with over 100 years of combined experience in campground development, ownership, and consulting. This deep, hands-on knowledge is a significant competitive advantage.

• KOA Background: Homer Staves, the president, was one of KOA's original three employees and played a pivotal role in the company's early growth and development, researching hundreds of locations and designing over 400 campgrounds. This extensive background provides unparalleled insight into the industry.

• Market-Driven Philosophy: Their core approach is driven by sound market research, ensuring that every facet of a business plan, from facility layout to operational strategy, is informed by a clear understanding of the target audience.

• Comprehensive Project Scope: They offer services covering the entire project lifecycle, from initial feasibility and site selection to campground design and ongoing operational guidance.

• Focus on ROI: Staves Consulting prioritizes minimizing investment while maximizing the return on investment for their clients, helping them to build financially successful ventures.

• Industry Standard Involvement: Homer Staves has served on American National Standards Institute (ANSI) committees that wrote development codes for campgrounds and RV Parks, and the first National Electrical Code Committee for RVs and Campgrounds, showcasing deep involvement in shaping industry standards.

• Personalized Approach: They emphasize genuine partnerships and personalized attention, working side-by-side with owners to define goals and execute unique plans, rather than offering cookie-cutter solutions.

• Free Ongoing Guidance: Their commitment extends beyond the initial project, offering free phone and email guidance to clients as needed, fostering long-term success.

Address: 5125 U.S. 93 S, Whitefish, MT 59937, USA

For inquiries regarding RV park and campground consulting services, prospective clients can reach Staves Consulting directly:

Phone: (406) 862-0077

Alternatively, their website provides additional contact methods, including an email address and a contact form, for setting up appointments or requesting more information. It's advisable to reach out to them to schedule an initial free phone consultation to discuss your project needs and vision.

For Montanans considering an investment in the booming outdoor hospitality sector, or those looking to enhance an existing RV park or campground, Staves Consulting in Whitefish offers an invaluable and uniquely suitable resource. This isn't a typical business consultancy; it's a family-run operation with generations of hands-on experience in the very industry it serves, making it exceptionally well-suited to the needs and aspirations of local entrepreneurs.

Montana's economy heavily relies on tourism and outdoor recreation, and the demand for quality RV parks and campgrounds continues to grow. Locals understand the unique characteristics of the Montana landscape, its visitor demographics, and the specific challenges and opportunities that come with developing properties in this region. Staves Consulting, being based in Whitefish—a prime hub for outdoor tourism—possesses an intimate knowledge of the local market, regulations, and even the nuances of building within a state renowned for its natural beauty. Their history, including deep ties to the inception and growth of KOA, provides a foundational understanding that few other consulting firms can match. This means Montana clients aren't just getting generic advice; they're getting insights tailored to the Big Sky Country.

The emphasis on a "market-driven" approach is particularly beneficial for Montanans. Rather than relying on assumptions, Staves Consulting helps clients identify the precise market mix for their specific project, whether it's catering to luxury RVs, tent campers, or a blend of both. This level of granular insight is crucial for maximizing ROI and ensuring a project's long-term viability in a competitive landscape. Furthermore, their commitment to ongoing guidance, even after the initial project is complete, signifies a dedication to their clients' enduring success—a partnership approach that resonates strongly with the community-minded spirit often found in Montana. While one review mentioned a "rude initial conversation," the overall breadth of their expertise and long-standing industry presence suggest a commitment to client success that extends beyond a single interaction. For any Montanan looking to successfully navigate the complexities of the campground industry, Staves Consulting offers a deeply experienced, local, and genuinely committed partner.