Determination of Trailer Park Criteria in Rural Areas

Abstract

The aim of the present study is to determine the important criteria in the planning of trailer parks (caravan parks) in rural destinations based on expert opinions. The present research is an exploratory study, originated from the need to deeply understand and examine a social phenomenon. Delphi technique was used in systematically determining the trailer park criteria based on the consensus reached through expert opinions. Face-to-face interviews were conducted during the first round of the research, in which 19 experts were consulted, and expert evaluation forms were used in the second and third rounds. The main criteria determined for trailer parks were the environmental and natural, recreation activities, recreational elements and the socio-cultural. Based on the outcomes of the present study, it was observed that socio-cultural stood out as a new factor, whereas transport and accessibility were not among the trailer parks criteria. The present study focused on the travel requirements of short-term caravanners (trailer campers) and the basic services that should be provided in trailer camps. In this respect, the present research provides the basic criteria necessitated by trailers in rural destinations, moreover, defines the key criteria that separate trailer parks from campgrounds.