Many RV park owners overlook how effective a single car can be in grabbing attention and shaping their park's image. A well-placed display vehicle isn't just decoration—it's a marketing tool that works 24/7 without monthly ad fees.
Why Cars Draw Attention
Americans have a long-standing fascination with cars. Whether it's a restored classic or an exotic sports model, vehicles naturally attract curiosity. People stop to look, take photos, and share them online. For RV parks, this reaction is gold—it creates instant visibility at the property level, right where potential guests pass by.
Another advantage is cost. Non-running cars are widely available and usually inexpensive compared to operational collector vehicles. In 2025, many non-functional units sell between $300 and $1,500, depending on the make and condition. Fiberglass kit car bodies can often be purchased for under $5,000. Since you're only after visual impact—not performance—you can skip the engine, transmission, and interior entirely.
There's also cultural synergy. The histories of cars and RV travel are closely intertwined, and many RV owners are car enthusiasts themselves. A display car taps into that shared culture and gives visitors something to connect with the moment they arrive.
Placement and Presentation
Where and how you display the vehicle has a big effect on its impact. Common strategies include mounting the car on a raised platform for maximum visibility, positioning it near the park entrance with landscaping and lighting, or incorporating it into an indoor lobby or pavilion. Lighting is especially important—spotlights or LED fixtures can turn an ordinary car into a striking nighttime landmark.
Smart Planning for Maximum Effect
Here's a practical checklist to guide RV park owners and students considering this tactic:
- Pick a vehicle with character. Iconic shapes or nostalgic models make stronger impressions.
- Budget realistically. Expect to spend under $5,000 total, including purchase, transport, mounting, and lighting.
- Keep presentation clean. A polished appearance matters more than mechanical function.
- Anchor securely. Make sure the display can't be easily moved or vandalized.
- Add a short sign. A simple plaque or story enhances visitor engagement.
Lasting Business Benefits
A display car can become part of your park's identity. Over time, it serves as:
- A local landmark people use as a reference point
- A photo opportunity that guests post on social media, generating free exposure
- A cost-effective promotion that doesn't rely on ongoing ad spending
This approach is particularly valuable for investors and students learning how to boost visibility on a modest budget. For less than the price of a single month's digital ad campaign, you can create a physical attraction that works year-round.
Bringing It All Together
By integrating a classic car into your marketing strategy, you're turning a simple roadside display into a conversation starter, a social media hook, and a branding tool—all at once. When taught correctly, this strategy helps future park owners think creatively about low-cost, high-impact marketing.