Our family loves to camp. There’s nothing quite like sitting around a campfire, exploring Oklahoma’s natural beauty, and making lasting memories. But if you’ve spent any time camping in the state, you know that the weather can turn dangerous fast and one thing we’ve noticed over the years is that most campsites don’t have storm shelters on-site. Whether it’s a sudden thunderstorm, high winds, or the real threat of a tornado, having a safe place to take shelter is essential and storm season is right around the corner!
At Sprague’s Backhoe, we know firsthand how important it is to balance outdoor adventure with safety. While we’d love to camp year-round, we are rarely able to plan trips during Oklahoma’s “regular” storm season, March through May. That’s when demand for storm shelters is at its peak, and our business is in high gear helping families prepare for the unpredictable. But we’ve seen how much peace of mind a storm shelter can bring, and we believe every campsite should consider the value they add.
2024: A Busy Year for Commercial Storm Shelter Installations
Last year was one of our busiest for commercial storm shelter installations, with multiple campsites included. More and more campgrounds are realizing that storm shelters aren’t just an added bonus—they’re a necessity. Offering campers a reliable place to seek shelter during severe weather isn’t just about safety; it’s about creating a welcoming, responsible outdoor space where people can enjoy nature without unnecessary risk.
Above-Ground Storm Shelters: Ideal for Campsites
Above-ground storm shelters are a game-changer for campgrounds. These shelters are not only built to withstand Oklahoma’s toughest storms but also offer convenience and accessibility for all campers.
✔ Easy Access – No stairs or ladders to navigate, making them perfect for all campers, including families with small children or individuals with mobility issues.
✔ Highly Visible – Campers can quickly find the shelter without confusion, especially in an emergency.
✔ Spacious & Comfortable – Above-ground shelters often provide more room, ensuring that multiple families or large groups can take cover comfortably.
✔ No Flooding Issues – Unlike below-ground shelters, there’s no risk of water pooling inside during heavy rains.
✔ Versatile Placement – Can be installed in a central location or multiple spots throughout a large campground.
Why Storm Shelters Add Value to Your Campsite
If you’ve ever camped in Oklahoma, you probably check the forecast before heading out. But weather predictions aren’t always reliable, and as we all know, storms can pop up out of nowhere. Campgrounds that provide storm shelters give their guests peace of mind, knowing that if bad weather does roll in, there’s a safe place to go.
Having a designated storm shelter at a campsite:
✔Increases Safety – Severe weather is unpredictable, and a storm shelter can make a huge difference in an emergency.
✔Attracts More Campers – Families and groups are more likely to choose a campsite that has a storm shelter.
✔Provides Liability Protection – Campground owners who offer a storm shelter show they take guest safety seriously.
✔Encourages Longer Stays – When people feel safe, they’re more likely to extend their camping trips.
What About Below-Ground Shelters?
While we’ve also installed below-ground shelters at campsites, they come with some challenges. Accessibility can be an issue, especially in a campground setting where guests may be in a hurry or unfamiliar with the terrain. That’s why, in most cases, we recommend above-ground shelters for campsites—they’re simply the safer, more practical option.
A Long-Term Investment in Safety and Enjoyment
If you own a campground in Oklahoma, adding a storm shelter isn’t just a safety feature—it’s an investment in your business. More and more campers are looking for safety options when choosing where to stay. By installing a storm shelter, you’re showing guests that their well-being is a priority, which can set your campground apart from the competition.
We also offer financing options, making it easier for campground owners to add storm shelters without a large upfront cost. Several campsite owners have taken advantage of financing to make their properties safer while keeping their budgets manageable.
Why Choose Sprague’s Backhoe?
At Sprague’s Backhoe, we’re proud to be Oklahoma’s highest-rated storm shelter company. We specialize in durable, reliable above-ground shelters that fit seamlessly into campgrounds of all sizes. From consultation to installation, we’re here to make the process easy and stress-free for you.
If you’re ready to take your campsite to the next level, we’d love to help. Contact us today to learn more about how we can make your campground safer and more prepared for whatever Mother Nature throws your way.
