The First New Building!!! Review My Designs

[@OffTheRanch]

Go to buyraycon.com/mattcarriker to get 15% off your order, plus free shipping! Brought to you by Raycon.

[@FrontSightPress]

First comment! Lol keep it up matt!

[@jesscc5584]

Matt’s the best

[@wade3pulkrabek242]

How about a dog wash area?

[@thecardiacpack2496]

Just something to think about, RV's would be more attracted to staying at places that have some infrastructure, hookups for their city water, shore power, etc, etc.

[@AllanWorks]

please make sure you have an easy access pull up and dump for grey water and black water. i would suggest adding picnic tables and fire pits to each spot and dont put rv's to close to eachother. i cant stand trying to sleap and the neighbor is so close you can hear them talking or snoring all night. also, i cant tell from the blue print but make sure one bathroom is wheelchair accessable.

[@stevestumbaugh]

For the bathroom it would be nice to have an outside shower with a foot/dog wash to keep the dirt out out of the bathrooms.

[@OffTheRanch]

ooooo thats kinda genius

[@zackerykeech9539]

I literally came to say put in a dog wash station. People would loved to wash there dogs off after a day in the river

[@MrDubyeh]

Also a spot for people to do dishes/fill up water for their camper. Also a spot to dump grey/black tanks from their rvs

[@gleisbauer25]

Maybe a room with a washing machine for clothes?

[@CJ-wg9ks]

Also...maybe ATV trails?

[@jkick111]

For rv's having 30 and 50 Amp hookups with water and sewer hookups are ideal. If you can't do sewer hookups then a dump station is a good idea. Having picnic tables and burn pits for each spot is a nice touch too.

[@Robtuse_]

That was my thought was a waste dump if he wanted to incorporate one on property and if not if there’s one local to the ranch

[@heartlessgaming2250]

I'm also concerned with him only having 8 shower and bathroom combos. Those services should be separated because there will undoubtedly be tent campers who only need to use a bathroom throughout the day and thereby taking away a shower from someone else.

[@elliotowens8033]

I was thinking the same thing

[@mtevilone]

30 amp is a waste these days. 50 should be the minimum. Especially during a Texas summer.

[@Phuc_Yhou]

The problem with needing so many 50a hook ups is an industrial sized supply to feed them all, I'm not even going to try and guess how much to install it as the price goes up weekly 😲

[@jonarnold4317]

As others may have mentioned, a laundary building/room will allow campers to stay longer than the amount of clothes they can pack, an outdoor faucet/wash station is always useful, and if you are going to allow tent campers, an outdoor sink/dish wash station is helpful! Also, full hookup sites (electric/water/sewer) or a central potable water fill up and a central sewage dump station would be quite helpful. And finally, in terms of laying out sites, I've had the best experience with sites that are set at an angle for easy pulling in and out into one-way roads between rows of sites - i know alot of texans like their big RVs/trailers, so wider roads and spots for ease of access is always a bonus. Looking forward to how it turns out!

[@adventurer151]

If you have not already done so you should consider waterproofing the entire bathrooms and adding a drain in the floor so the entire bathroom can be hosed down a washed. Definitely makes bathroom upkeep much easier.

[@williams7713]

If the floors are industrial he can use a power washer

[@KrazyRedNeck]

Matt, you should put in a dumping Station for black water so if someone stays longer, they can dump the black water

[@londonderry5676]

I was gonna say this. And potable hookups to top off potable water

[@michaelrurak7056]

Yes with multiple lanes i always hated sitting in those long lines because there's only one dump station

[@beeetle8055]

Also a dumping place for garbage and recycling!

[@MrBrownBrian]

I used to work in a state park with rv sites. People wanted power and potable water hookups on their sites so they didnt have to use generators. Also you want a dump station for sure or some yahoo will dump in the woods

[@MaartenSimons-x6k]

For the shower building, if you put a few sinks with steelkitchen tops on the outside. You can clean your dishes there. (For people with small RV or tents)

[@RICDirector]

And fish...gross to find that stuff in bathroom or shower!

[@berlinkatz7235]

What about washingmashine and dryer? Too much?

[@EasyChuckX]

I agree, adding an outdoor covered wash area for clean up would make a lot of sense.

[@ShaneTheShadow]

For how busy you will get maybe an extra toilet block of purely toilets so you don't get a back log of people that are showering stopping those who need to just use the bathroom. 8 for that area is way to little in my opinion. I'm so excited to see this project come to life! I've been following the channel for years now and I look forward to every video!

[@aaronjohnson9625]

As someone that has done a fair amount of RV travel, laundry is a HUGE plus!

[@fixit4u73]

As an avid camper I can tell you that clean bathrooms, attentive staff, firewood, and a small store with a basic selection of supplies (and your merch) are what most people look for in a resort.

[@joshuasmith8433]

The resort is fairly close to town. I wouldn't go overboard on overhead for an RV park that's 15 min from Walmart.

[@Kstewbuilds]

@@joshuasmith8433that's true but if your RV is the only means of transportation and it's all set up then it would really stink to have to take it all down to go to town. (I don't know if they have Uber on the resort😂)

[@AaronCraven79]

And a dump station.

[@shaynedavisartanddesign]

As someone who RV'd full time for just over 3 years and also worked at an RV resort for a year. My suggestion would be to lose two of those showers and do coin laundry in there place. Trust me - everyone will love you for it! And make sure they are big as what people will want to wash are blankets, rugs, etc. It's amazing how dusty RV's can get, so being able to wash your bedding while at the RV park is truly priceless (try parking an RV at a laundry mat if you don't believe me). Another suggestion - invest in internet. Sure we want to camp and be one with nature, but at night we all want to stream a movie or watch youtube and slow wifi is no fun. The place I worked at charged a premium for the fast wifi and everyone (well most everyone) purchased it. Having a type of convivence store is also nice, not everyone has a towable car or really enjoys disconnecting just to get some ice or a bag of chips. Hope this helps! Good Luck!

[@rickpeters2434]

Matt, From an RVer for over 20 years, my suggestion is to separate the shower areas from bathrooms. Eliminating toilets in each shower stall will facilitate easier maintenance. Also, each shower stall should have a small bench and hangers for clothes.

[@leadfoot8593]

Yeah, but the risk of turds in the shower increases when there’s no toilet nearby. Have to make each camper sign a waffle stomp guarantee.

[@maryanntraphagen5910]

Understandable, but with all the unisex bathrooms, it may be less controversial to make them all lockable/family bathrooms.

[@The.Real.Reaper]

I agree, but mentioned above, downside., is some people are lazy and disgusting and would pee in the shower even if there was a toilet, but having a toilet might minimize it?

[@rawwetzel]

People save water by passing in the shower. It a thing.

[@Basketofdeplorables173]

@@The.Real.Reaperpeople peeing in the shower is the norm.

[@Dendrafilia]

Playground, horseshoe pits, volleyball court, splash pad, pavilion, camp store, fire pit/picnic table at every site. The bathroom thinking of just showering is great, however, you might to separate out the bathroom from the shower. A lot of campers spend a lot of time in the bathroom and there may end up being a long line if there isn’t just toilets/sinks like a ‘regular restroom.’ Having somewhere they can just run in and use the bathroom or wash their hands without taking up a ‘shower’ would be great. Even if it is just 2-3 per side it would make a huge difference. Just always think easily cleanable. Don’t forget rubber mesh mats on the floor outside the shower to account for splashing and drains, lots of drains.

[@Manfred8675309]

Dont know if someone already commented this, but a water/drinking fountain at the restrooms could be added for a small change. That way people could fill water bottles instead of worrying about filling clean water tanks on RVs. Or for the people that are truck camping and have a water jug. Glad to see more progress being made. The resort will turn out great, not matter the time frame it takes. Anyone who watched the Abandoned Mansion series knows that. Edit: also Matt if you plan on providing drinking water for people, double check the federal regs for water distribution. I think the rv park would fall under a transient system, but the resort might already have had something in place previously. Be careful not to run a foul of the DEP though.

[@baggawells9527]

Make it a filtered water station. We ALWAYS look for those when refilling out ALWAYS carried water bottles.

[@KameraShy]

The water fountains that have the filler spout for water bottles.

[@Manfred8675309]

@@baggawells9527 I'm not sure what the source would be, I'm assuming he's running a line from the buildings up above which I think was well water, filtering might get a bit expensive, depending on how far you want to go.

[@skinnypirate]

To expand on this, If you were thinking of catering to Tents and small campers. A out side sink/counter would be awesome. a place for tenters or small campers that donot have very large water tanks, to do dishes ect. beside the water fountain. or even just a garden hose spigot out side. This way tenters wouldnt have to tie up a bathromm for these things.

[@dookootoo]

14:55 coin operated washers and dryers? Idk just a thought :)

[@viscash3606]

Being a user of camp site shower blocks, I find it really important to have somewhere (bench) you can put your bag (off the wet floor) and somewhere to hang the clothes you take off. Also, a shelf under the mirror and one in the shower for your toiletries. A proper shower screen instead of a shower curtain is always better.

[@MIK00KIM]

Yes! Self or bench is deal breaker!

[@b0rd3n]

are there places without all that? I mean... it just seems "human" to require theses things and not even just for 'comfort' but just as 1+1 makes _insert_calculation_result_here_.

[@viscash3606]

@@b0rd3n-you don’t go camping much, do you

[@bradleydrewhitchman8397]

Looks amazing so far Matt! Is there going to be electrical stand offs at the campsites eventually? Mere is an engineer, is she utilizing her skills for this undertaking or are you outsourcing all of it?

[@bjincy]

For the bathroom in my experience working for campgrounds, having a chase behind the Walls to access the plumbing is a must, saves you a ton on downtime if any issues arise and saves cutting holes in walls

[@BIGGER_RED]

YASSS

[@andrewjackson8401]

Fantastic idea

[@brandondavis230]

For the bathhouse, as an Architect a common mistake which was also made here was that as a CMU block structure you will save a lot (more that you’d think) of labor cost by coursing out the main dimensions of the walls to reduce the number of blocks that get cut, and as a result the number of saw blades you have to buy etc. if it’s 8” CMUs make as many dimensions as possible multiples of 8”.

[@arwo1143]

This is…. I need to remember this

[@ZipKickGo]

A basic playground would for sure be a welcomed addition by the parents when they bring their kids. A sandbox and swings, a couple picnic tables, maybe a slide, the kids can go wild and have their own little hangout spot to make friends. Toss in a few dirt mounds and banks for their bicycles so the parents can keep the kids nearby without having to leave the pasture.

[@Jondove22]

Weather treated Hard top Canopy structures blended in with fire pit area would be cool.

[@AA-zv6yo]

How bout a giant wood playground structure like Fort thing

[@MikeB-gf6dj]

All these ideas too sprang to mind. Too a Flying Fox 1 or 2 of different lengths in the trees. And perhaps some screenage for would be river swimmers - somewhere to hide behind for changing.

[@xclkbaitx9138]

Couldn't agree more. Parents had a seasonal camper at a camp ground when I was younger. Having 2 different parks, decent arcade, and also a pool kept us busy with things to do all day long. Even with us being there weeks at a time it never got boring for us.

[@icedouttrimmer]

Maybe even a Pavillion

[@G-pops-adventures]

Matt, long time viewer. Not sure if anyone has suggested this but this place would be perfect for Boy Scouts. This has so many options to help them with; camping, hiking, spelunking, archery, shooting, and even more!! They can even help by doing service projects and helping them with their Eagle Scout projects. Lots of great programs!!

[@cigilpatrick80]

Absolutely agree! Projects would be plentiful too. Trail maintenance, bridges that may need built, helping with any other Demo projects, etc.

[@uzzislx23]

Yes, that would be perfect for Eagle Scout projects. They can earn many different badges there.

[@Jimmyfisher121]

@@uzzislx23 The shear size of the resort could hold the national and international scout meeting the big one that happens is it each year or so, I know it happens but not much else, like is there a female equivalent or one for the disabled kids, also what about military academies, using the shooting range area and doing exercises, wow he has a sure fired winner no matter what way he chooses.

[@wiccasloth]

True! I grew up doing Scouts and it's so nice to have set places to do things like camp or activities! Yes!

[@Winefred213]

Absolutely agree, but for all scouting…Boy Scouts, Girl Scouts and adventure scouts.

[@tomklusmeyer4988]

Hi Matt. I retired in 2020 after 37 years as a Camp Director. Our campground bathrooms had everything you mentioned. We also had a pipe chase between the two bathrooms with all the plumbing, heating and janitorial supplies. The bathrooms opened into a commons area with washers, dryers, tables for folding clothes, a sink for washing dishes and a small library. Outside of this commons area was an open air shelter with picnic tables and a big grill for people to gather during inclement weather or it could be reserved for family/church group potlucks, etc. I'd also suggest a separate fish cleaning station so that your dishwashing sink doesn't get used for that purpose.

[@bodiewane2294]

He's right

[@leighalmond4128]

Great suggestions for Matt!😊

[@andricodewet3725]

Thank heaven someone else saw this and commented on it. My family and I used to be pretty big on camping, and well, the dishwashing and laundry area, is all serious feedback I can give. Sure, this is an RV park, but I can almost guarantee that people will also want to camp, the they might require those extra utilities. Good Luck Matt, you're doing great! Well done @tomklusmeyer4988 for spotting and commenting on those potential issues!

[@kimbercafe11]

Great ideas!!

[@UncleTriangle]

This sounds like the layout of most bath houses I've seen in campgrounds. It really does seem to be an efficient layout.

[@nathandurrett7319]

My suggestion isn't necessarily for the bathroom/shower building (I think others have that pretty well covered) but more for the RV area in general. A large firepit or a few smaller ones may be a good idea for people that may want a chance to relax in the evening and maybe make some new friends.

[@donmonojam]

the meat & greet area with coldsnacks and guitars!

[@sr43ezh]

one important thing too keep in mind, these washhouses/toilets always turn into a sort of gathering hub/central point for RV parks. so make sure to put it somewhere that has enough open space around it for additional future structures down the line. for example like a place to wash clothes, a little playground for kids, general seating areas etc. families with small kids are likely to frequent washhouses/toilets a looooot. :D also sperating showers and toilets for suuuure.

[@becklyn3]

Hey I'm a paraplegic and I wanted to say thanks for the handicap bathrooms. Not everybody thinks about stuff like that. Quick tip, when you put the concrete pad for the bathrooms if you make a small part of that with no curb or lip to get onto the concrete from the gravel/path that will be a huge help to those in wheelchairs. Curbs and steps can kinda be our arch nemesis sometimes.

[@leadfoot8593]

It’s not that he thought about it. It’s a requirement.

[@leadfoot8593]

It’s not that he thought about it. It’s a requirement.

[@becklyn3]

​@@leadfoot8593 he may be required to have one handicap accessible bathroom but he went above and beyond with 4 total. So yeah I'm gonna give him props. Handicap bathrooms although they have wheelchairs & disabled people in mind are also extremely useful for parents with small children.

[@toddellzey4407]

Matt, consider using sink and shower valves that are time controlled so that people don't just leave the water running and walk away from the restroom. I would think using key valves on your faucets may also be desirable as well.

[@sailz618]

A few other things to consider around the space near the bathhouse. A shielded place for dumpsters and recycling, a pull through dump station, outside potable water and bottle fill (even if each RV spot has a bib), Fire wood hut, and a laundry space. I know people would love to do laundry in a proper machine, especially a front loader for linens, after a while in their RVs.

[@kathyboshart7695]

For your shower house: it would be nice to have a flat surface around the sink to hold phones, watches, glasses, headphones, etc.Soap dishes in the shower, and a hook for “soap on a rope”. Also, a bench to sit and take off shoes and pants is very handy. Not sure if you have room for these, but after using shower rooms all summer, I’ve found these to be very helpful. Also, hooks on the wall for clothing and towels. And a trustworthy lock on the door. There is nothing worse than being afraid of someone walking in on you.

[@lizhazelrig9442]

I agree with the above suggestions. I think speaking with an expert about safety features would be beneficial because showers/falls are a big liability. They could steer toward products that help out in the long run. I haven’t taken note on how many sites are going in but as it expands there should be a space for toilets, like you would find at a shopping plaza (some people won’t go (or shouldn’t) in their RV r/t odors). This would also keep the showers vacant for those only wanting showers. In the handicap BRs I would take out the wall into the shower. A drain in the center of each bathroom for terminal/deep cleaning. A window in each would be good, for ventilation/humidity, and for those who don’t want A/C. The dog washing station close to the river and maybe utilize river water.

[@b0rd3n]

get a small bag and turn it into a necklace bag. Holds my soap, naked OR not, wet OR dry, showering OR not. Just a neat way to carry soap in everyday life. I wear it almost everyday since it's so well made. Dont tell anyone but one day, i even threw in loose change and my set of spare keys while at a nudist convention out in northern Yukon.

[@billynonofyourbusiness3434]

I suggest that you mirror the layouts of the outside ADA bathrooms to set the plumbing to run along the inside walls instead of the outside walls for two reasons. 1) While Texas doesn't freeze often, it has happened! Plumbing along the exterior walls may freeze in sub-zero temperatures. 2) Less complicated plumbing if all of the plumbing are together. A side note: I hope your little Water Heater shown is actually bigger or they are hidden in the attic space. That little water heater won't cut it if all 8 showers are running for 10 minutes!

[@tylermallory2504]

what this guy said...

[@p1schram]

A tankless heater with a buffer tank might work well in this application. You will need room for a fairly large pressure tank too. Your awning attachment to the fascia is going to be very difficult to build and waterproof. That awning needs to attach to the wall under the overhang or be a continuous extension of your standing seam roof panel.

[@jaydunbar7538]

Commercial water heaters run much higher BTU then residential, they don’t need nearly as big of a tank to maintain temperature. That is of course if it is a commercial heater, if it’s a residential unit then your absolutely correct.

[@billynonofyourbusiness3434]

@@p1schram A tankless may work. However, they are also more complicated and with most, you have to install an additional propane tank, and all that is associated with that.

[@billynonofyourbusiness3434]

@@jaydunbar7538 You are correct. My main focus was on the plumbing, not the water heater. Thanks for catching that.

[@user-jq7ih5hs8q]

When I worked at a State Park all the bathrooms had what we called a pipe alley. The pipe alley was a room that ran down the center of the building and allowed quick access to all the plumbing and we also put all the supplies and some tools in it for quick repairs. I highly recommend redesigning with a pipe alley in mind. Love the channel keep up the hard work.

[@kadmow]

- typical mirror image ablution / toilet block, individual toilet cubicles(number 2's) - stand ups (number 1's) and showers for taking a shower (baths?? for kids). Male / Female / Disabled(family)...

[@jeremykreusel1319]

Agree to plumbing alley i have done design work for TPWD for 8 years and have done this at McKinney falls. 👍

[@petergraansma466]

Yes exactly, airports have them too. Good suggestion!

[@TT-ik3kd]

100% necessary

[@paigejed21]

Best RV Resort I've been in had concrete pads with a brick fireplace, 2 person hot tub, and a hammock. Literally the most peaceful and serene campsite ever. And long/wide enough for my parents camper and truck to park all at the site.

[@joefield]

As an RVer, having laundry machines available is most definitely a tie breaker between one camp and another!

[@engineeringawesome2183]

You can buy pre-fab high volume water/ice machines in a shipping container. Could be a good sponsor

[@cassandraletton]

I came on to say the same. Laundry facilities

[@kimparks1787]

I came here to say that! Laundry facilities! When our children were small we would rv all the time! I can’t tell you how many times we used the laundry facilities! We have woken up to one of our kids getting sick in the middle of the night and need to wash their bedding. Or wash a load of towels from the pool!

[@ZipKickGo]

this is going to set him over the edge lol. Definitely a central laundry for the entire resorts visitors for sure, not for one of many campsites though.

[@EricPurington]

Yea laundry, snack/soda machines, and maybe an ice machine/ice for sale

[@JoshuaWilliams-xq2td]

Each site should have power/water hookups and a designated fire pit. I agree with @KrazyRedNeck to put in a dump station for black water. Later on, maybe a General Store attached to your check-in/out office for the common forgotten items. Maybe even sell food or ice cream out of it for kids and make it like a community spot. Keep up the good work!

[@HyphenDude]

Would be great to have 30 and 50 amp hookups eventually. Definitely agree with either a fire pit or a grill at each site.

[@PatrickKniesler]

Electric infrastructure is expensive. I'm sure he'll have some more primitive sites. Power banks are really affordable now! Bring your own power!

[@shanecampbell979]

@@PatrickKniesler If he wants to be a "resort," he'll put power in. RVing is massively popular right now. And the people building RV resorts know that they need the amenities to keep up. It allows you to charge more per site too. Primitive camping is cool. And you're right, generators are more affordable now. But having sites that are only boondocking sites, wouldn't really be a resort, like he envisions.

[@kmattlong]

You won't regret the HVAC in the bath house. It helps control the mold growth. You may want to look into adding a dog wash station to the outside of the bath house. Any RV parks we have stayed in that had them you could tell they were used and appreciated. You also have a great assortment of rock all over the property, you could definitely draw a decent crowd with a RC rock crawling area. Or just having a R/C bash area with ramps and a track set up. Just a thought.

[@ct5625]

I think you need to plan a social area for the meadows - fire pit, seating, lighting, grill etc. Once you have those early visitors coming you want to do everything you can to encourage friendships between visitors, because they will be the ones coming back year after year and those groups will grow over time.

[@Bosco-knows-all]

As opposed to 98 % of the KZbin “influencers” , I respect Mat as he is genuinely trying to build things, things not just for himself, things that people will enjoy, things that will LAST... Mat is helping BUILD our future.. Best of luck, my man...

[@SagebrushRambles]

Matt not Mat lol.

[@LIL_Dave1964]

​@jt1364 so what if he misspelled Matt's name, he got his point across

[@b0rd3n]

"laughing out loud" while correcting a meaningless mistake, correct this, nahrcisysticum @@SagebrushRambles

[@jimdarhower4945]

Remember to buy his merch!!

[@tikiswaba5753]

Matt for the RV spots, make sure they are diagonal and not straight so it’s easier to pull in. Gravel pads for the RV and picnic table. And think about what you want to do for trash.

[@jochenvanhuffel6198]

Usually at camp sites at my area, they have sinks to wash dishes around the outside of the sanitary-building. Like in the right wall at 13:32 , like 2 or 3 sinks with hot/cold water. And have the roof extend a little bit so you can stand dry when it's raining.

[@jochenvanhuffel6198]

And lower water spouts to rinse off feet before entering the buildings to shower. These can also be used for filling water crates and dog bowls.🐶

[@gingu]

Great idea! The plan is pretty solid, although for an RV park you will need a grey/black waste point so the RVs can empty out if needed (you can even charge a nominal amount to keep it paying for itself). Good luck! Also, down the line, you could power the shower block by solar/wind to keep costs down.

[@Callsign_Warlord3]

For RVs and campers you definitely need sewer disposal and electrical/ water hookups! And maybe a small beginner park for kids to play on!

[@TheDavidCudd]

make sure to put a water bottle/jug filling station on the outside of the building, even if it's just a hose spicket with a drain tile below it.

[@AA-zv6yo]

Yeah like the drinking fountains that have a filtered bottle fill combo

[@garyc7133]

Only thing you might consider, especially for the interior bathroom units, is adding some 10" Velux Sun Tunnels. An affordable way to get natural light inside, which cuts on the electrical consumption during the daytime.

[@stevebaker5642]

#MattCarriker with 8 toilets in this one block, there will already be a septic system in place - underground plumbing between the toilet block & the septic is an ideal site for a dump station (or 2)

[@lindatessem4222]

Suggestions when planning the RV Sites: -Buddy sites: One RV pulls in one direction, the buddy RV pulls in the opposite direction so the doors meet in the middle -Large turns for the newer RV'ers. One RV park we worked at had the sharpest, smallest turns and we saw many RV's get stuck.

[@5thWD]

As a newer RVer I approve this message

[@jerredwayne8401]

That's an excellent idea

[@dubious6718]

Make a roundabout, with the bath building in the middle and the campsites around the circle. An added benefit is that everyone has the same walking distance to the building.

[@rollo7710]

You need a laundry mat, say like 4 each coin-op washers and dryers. Moms will love it because they wont have to take dirty ranch clothes home.

[@theahlawrence4007]

Having a little kids playground in an RV park is a great feature for families. 💕

[@krex1970]

Just a suggestion, Maryland State Parks have a dishwashing station attached to the bath house. This should keep people from washing dishes in the bath house, which is gross. An added bonus would be a community kitchen which would be very helpful for tent campers. Also a dump station would be great.

[@thomasmadsen1344]

You should do a shared kitchen space in a seperate building, so people can do cooking and do the dishes indoors, do some toilets with zinks in the same building so people in tents can brush their teeth and stuff so you dont need to take up the space in a shower room. 👍If you get alot of guests in a period, you could get problems with lines off peoble needing to go potty while 8 people are showering, so extra toilets would come in handy.

[@Gh3ttoboy]

Thats the nice thing of having building designs ready if they need more toilets they can build more of those building at a later time

[@mrs.antihero]

I understand it's going to be pretty bare bones for a while and improve in stages, but eventually, I highly recommend having some of the RV sites with full hookups, some with power only, and some with none, to accommodate a range of affordability and camping styles. I also second those who suggest a pet/ foot/ gear washing station, a dish washing station, water filling station, and laundry facilities. They can come later, but they do need to get there eventually if you're going to have a "nice resort" with desirable amenities. Also, fire pits and picnic tables are always nice. 😉👍

[@mrs.antihero]

Oh, and you might end up needing a camp host (whether single, couple or family) eventually, once things really get going, so be sure to make an extra nice spot for them, who'll be pretty much living there for the season. 😉

[@jimma1432]

No idea if this is northeastern thing or not, but virtually all campgrounds (and even a lot of state parks for that matter) are full hook up. Tbh, if within the first two years he doesn’t get to at least 50% full hook up and 100% water electric, he’s kinda defeating himself.

[@hwhattamable]

I recommend you at least provide power to the sites, will stop someone from running a generator all night and disturbing the other guest. Providing a water filling station and BW dumping area would also good idea

[@mrs.antihero]

@@hwhattamable Oh yeah, dumping station, I forgot to mention that one. 👍

[@shawng746]

Something simple I can think of that you could put it. A covered pavilion with perhaps a fire pit in the middle and maybe some picnic style tables. Maybe some permanently installed grills for those that come for primitive camping and don't want to bring a grill. Maybe some simple to set up games like Cornhole, tetherball, etc. Just somewhere that a large group of people attending can just come to hang out and socialize with other campers.

[@brittanykay7225]

Yes!!

[@MountPhysique]

Matt, thank you for your message at the end. It can be easy to give up when you can’t see the huge progress everyday. It was a great reminder for me to not give up and to keep pursuing the goals I’m currently working on.

[@mustangjustin7654]

Concrete parking spaces for the RV. The most tedious part of setting up camp is trying to level everything. So if the campsite space is perfectly level, it saves a lot of time.

[@am0804]

Gonna cost a lot tho

[@mustangjustin7654]

@@am0804 he wouldn't have to do all of them. He could just do the nicest, most expensive spaces with concrete. Then gravel everywhere else.

[@Wolfpak765]

I was thinking at least leveled gravel pads. Would be a lot cheaper than concrete.

[@stevenmcdonald7250]

The shower house could have a spot for washers and dryers if people are camping for more than a week. Also electric hookups for RVs and sewers

[@brucebettong5961]

A camp kitchen area is a great idea for a caravan park, something enclosed enough to cook on a BBQ if the weather is a bit sketchy but open enough to know your still outdoors. Simple amenities for cooking and cleaning, nice big open fireplace for the cooler months and some tables and chairs for all the grey nomads to gather every evening for wine and cheese at 5pm. Just a thought, cheers from Australia. and great work mate.

[@Woodbrew]

Probably too late to be useful, but it would be nice if there was a 2-3ft wide service hallways between the bathrooms for easy maintenance. One long hallway on either the outside wall or in the middle so you can access all the plumbing without opening up a tiled wall. I've seen a few campsites/commercial places with this setup and it seemed like a great idea.

[@iXbirdmanX]

i would definitely throw a washer and dryer somewhere in that bathhouse too, could be an easy and cheap addition that guest would appreciate. Also maybe a filtered water station to fill up bottles.

[@jsmith4710]

I was gonna say either water fountains or bottle fillers would be a great addition.

[@Randyluck1]

Laundry mat with vending would be cool for your campers.

[@BenjaminKlahn]

Definitely something that should be considered. People coming from the river or a muddy or sweaty activity might want to throw something in for a wash.

[@spragit3834]

Hi Matt! Love seeing the plans! Perhaps making a house just for toilets, so that people that don’t have to shower, aren’t waiting for toilets 😊. A larger sink outside the building would be great.

[@deffhaus]

Matt, have whomever designed your building to check the TX accessibility standards (TAS). There may be issues with Section 213.2 and the requirements for toilet and bathing facilities. Also look at the “alternate shower stall” in 608. The standard will require ALL shower rooms to be ADA compliant in your current layout. Remember that although you are in an ETJ, TAS will still be required. Lastly, the whole resort is subject to TAS. I’m TX Architect #25644 to help if needed.

[@risanch]

the showers that face the outside appear to be bigger which might already be ADA (Americans with disabilities Act) compliant because I did see grab bars. But yeah the shower would need to be compliant also.

[@andrewpuckett6157]

did you watch the video?

[@Luke-dv1qt]

I grew up camping as a kid, and absolutely loved it. The best part of going to a new campground was checking out the playgrounds. I can't recommend one to two or 2 to 3 playgrounds gives the kids a spot to go hang.

[@notafraidtogarden4806]

Hi Matt. I like the bathroom plans you have for the RV space. How about adding a drinking water fountain in front of the building? A great place to grab a drink before entering or leaving the bathroom pavilion. Looking forward to seeing the final result same as your abandoned house that we watched all the episodes. 👍👍👍👍

[@TheCebulon]

- Separate showers and toilets is a good idea - there are no (outside) spaces for dishwashing or wash clothes and hang them. - you often have clean other things too - having a separate area for fish handling is good too A waiting area for families or kids are also good. - look into reviews of other resorts, what people complain about will give you good ideas - probably, do showers on one side, toilets on the other and - a round wall, like the shooting range(as an ongoing theme), with flat surface all around and some sinks and enough space to put stuff, on top and be beneath

[@bulltastik]

It’s so refreshing to see a young man have such enthusiasm/fortitude for a dream…dream on, Matt Carriker & may the force (demolitia) be with you👊🏼

[@Piaphamu]

There's a real nice rv park on my way to my mom's place. It is off the highway so they get lots of rodeo traffic. They have dog runs, a fenced dog park, and small horse paddocks for overnight stays.

[@OkByeNw]

I think that it's a good call to include the A/C and heat in the bathrooms. Based on the tare downs of most of the original buildings, I think the original owners of the resort were cheap with both building and upkeep. Don't make the same mistakes as them. The stuff you build doesn't need to be luxry but quality is always important.

[@Neur0nauT]

Matt it would be cool if you planted some big tree saplings in certain spots. Even name them after some people. Years from now, those trees would grow epic against the skyline of the resort that you have created. Great video. I wish you success man!

[@4RILDIGITAL]

This sounds like a great project! I can see the passion and dedication behind it, and with each step forward, I'm sure it's going to be an amazing transformation.

[@cindyblair1283]

Your all about safety for the kids and others, awesome work matt❤ As always😊

[@solarbirdyz]

So many good ideas in comments here! The one thing I don't see mentioned though is that if you flip the room arrangements of two of the breezeway-entrance washroom arrangements along the... up and down axis I guess lol... then you end up not having doors that open up directly facing opposite doors, which means you can't have two people walking out into a hallway at each other, which is a little awkward. It's a very small thing and the kind of little detail that people won't notice when it's done, but will notice when it's not done.

[@WillMcKay-v3m]

Matt - external sinks for washing pots pans etc. with a rain cover

[@jasoncook5907]

Don't underestimate how many restrooms you'll need. Build more than you think you'll need

[@Toys0714]

Need - Centrally located fire pit area with giant logs around it and stones around it for sitting on. Also need a “playground” area for kids and sand volleyball court. Open air auditorium would be nice for bands, plays and just a stage for events.

[@swinesavant]

Even though they've grown past this. As a Dad, it'd be awesome if there were infant change tables in the men's rooms. This is looking awesome, and I'm looking forward to bringing my family to the Desperado one day.

[@letssesh420]

For the bathroom design, it would also help accessibility to extend the walkway past just the doorway. And make sure it is wide enough to accommodate a wheelchair not only going straight but also potentially turning around or anything other than a straight line.

[@IronWolf_345]

Ever since the “abandoned mansion” episodes… I’ve been inspired to follow in your footsteps to build something worth something meaningful. Thank you for that! God bless you and yours and I can’t wait to see this project done!

[@philippleuthold7729]

A general place for dishes and laundry would be a plus I think. Also grey water dump!

[@riotj.4953]

During my travels across the country, I have seen lots of people in RV's or with camper trailers that have dogs. It might be worth considering building a small fenced in dog park area? Additionally, depending on proximity to a nearby laundromat or similar facility, folks in an RV or camper are looking for places to do their laundry so it might be worth creating a little laundry room area also! Enjoy the videos and I can't wait to see the final result for the resort!

[@RamblingRodeo]

I suggested the samething, fenced in dog running area! My dogs loved it!

[@TobyCatVA]

@@RamblingRodeo complete with a poo station, bags, bin, etc . . .

[@garychapman6061]

I haven’t camped in a few years, but seems people know how to care for their own dogs if they travel with them.

[@RamblingRodeo]

Yup, BINGO!@@TobyCatVA

[@RamblingRodeo]

My dogs love to travel!@@garychapman6061

[@as0809]

Washer and dryers by the bathrooms. Would be well appreciated.

[@kerryevans7413]

For inside the showers. You might need a small shelf for your razor/toothbrush ect. And a folding steel chair to put your shoes/boots on. You could fold it up and put it in the corner or beside the sink after you are done.

[@GrammaTink615]

The bathrooms need to be central. I hate when we go to an RV park and we get the spot furthest away from the bathrooms. Some things to think about: a dog park with a dog wash station, full hook up sites with cement pads & fire pits, a community room with a full kitchen (you will get alot of groups to come in this way), adult only pool/spa, convenience store, on-line reservations, this list is endless but I think you’re doing a great thing and I want to be reservation #1 when you do open the RV area. Even if we have to dry camp. We’re right next door in Louisiana and love heading to Texas- buc’ees & square dancing:).

[@JoeBeloli]

Hey Matt. Great videos. Best RV parks have great kids playgrounds, pools and dog park areas to let them loose in a large safe area with things go in and around. Also event area for cook outs for the day travelers or entertainment. I know this will be great. Looking forward to your success. Great job so far brother.

[@LittleDergon]

Liking the bathroom design 👍 as someone who has friends in wheelchairs, please PLEASE make sure there is a ramp up to those bathrooms 😅 I can't tell you the number of places that have a step up to wheelchair facilities 🤦‍♀

[@OffTheRanch]

they'll be totally ADA compliant!

[@redorzed]

@@OffTheRanchexcellent to hear

[@empyfree]

Go beyond a ramp, nows the chance to make it way beyond compliant... make one of the larger shower areas a full wet room style fit out, if you want to go the extra mile allow for an overhead hoist. Google "Changing Places Toilets" for inspiration. We actively plan our routes and holidays based on the accessibility to facilities like this, and they're few and far between.

[@warrenmichael918]

I said that he should invert the layout so that the ADA stalls were entered from the breezeway so that when you are assisting your friend, you werent standing out in the sun or weather.

[@redorzed]

@@warrenmichael918 much better idea 👍

[@kwoodmansee]

As far as RV campsites go it's really nice when you find one that offers some kind of shade or a wind break so you can safely keep your awnings out. Also for folks camping with kids/or adult kids who are still okay sleeping on the ground, having a flat tent pad attached is awesome. Even if it's not used for a tent having a clean flat area can be awesome for games or setting up chairs or whatever.

[@Spencerfoto]

We camp a lot and have found a few things over the years that really make a difference. First, and I cant believe nobody has brought it up yet, but a basic playground, even if its just swings and a teeter totter, something to entertain children to give parents a break. I've seen a bunch of people mention somewhere to dump black water, definitely a must. Surely for now it will just be dry camping but in the future having some sites with power and water would be good for people wanting to stay longer. The bathhouse looks great but as someone else mentioned below having some stalls for just a toilet and sink would be good for people during busy times, so they aren't waiting for someone to have a shower so they can go to the bathroom. Looking awesome though and I can't wait to come and see the place in person.

[@Theandyegan]

Outside “shower” area for quick easy clean off, and I’d say change one of the small shower rooms to just simple bathrooms. So that there is a place for quick bathroom use. But looks great! Also! Your phone has a measuring tape built into in with the app. So next time you can use that to measure when you forget your tape. ✌🏻

[@shakeyjake8331]

Mickey's laugh just kills me! The second time he hit you with the 2 by 4 cracked me up! Give that farm hand a raise! Everybody loves mikey

[@carguy7243]

A small room for a washing machine and dryer or two would be a great addition maybe even a community fire pit area with bbq's and seating .

[@heathermcclain9167]

New to the channel. As a avid camper I agree that an outdoor sink to do dishes is a must. A dump station and water is a must. Fire ring and picnic table is also important. Would be really great to have at least a 30 amp, but most can boondock. As far as the resort I would think about what a resort was like back in the 30's, think Dirty Dancing lol. I am also a restauranter and a CEC. I 'd be happy to advise on the restaurant. Good luck. I have enjoyed binging the series today. (Covid)

[@jannettaktibbs7268]

I love your positivity. I would be running in circles trying not to go insane. Your wife Mere deserves a gold star. What a woman to stand beside you and your dreams. Not so sure I'd be there. Best of luck Matt. I'm rooting for you!! ❤

[@runningamok6473]

What you’ve accomplished in the short time that you’ve had the resort is nothing short of impressive. I have no doubt that this place will be amazing and I’m sure you’ll never stop making improvements.

[@mamaswrongagain4555]

Horseshoe pits would be fairly easy to put in and would be a simple extra amenity. Frisbee golf seems gaining popularity as well.

[@Incogfaraday]

Maybe a 3D archery course or a sporting clays course/five stand

[@zachamel2352]

Not a campsite without tetherball 😂

[@Workstarfish798]

Also you’re going to need a game hall for the kids, arcades and games near the pool area and an ice cream stand/ food stand too.

[@NWoutdoorsman]

Matt just want to say it's been a pleasure watching your journey. Something that's always stuck with me from your channel is "do something today that makes tomorrow better than yesterday"

[@christianponopp8756]

Did you also plan for RV waste water disposal near your building/ pasture? You also should get high power lines there with a small powerstation for the RV's

[@michaellott918]

Really proud of you Matt. You sharing your life with us and Watching you grow over the years had made you feel like family. One day at a time, brother! Keep chasing your dreams! You're an inspiration...

[@shelleyunwin4695]

For entertainment you need something for families like a open air shelter shed with roller skating , games like bean bag toss , botchy etc as kids get bored so easy. Also have at end of the shed a storage cupboard with all the games in them that way families can come and spend good fun time with the kids I know I'd enjoy a place that had all that.

[@darrenvictoriathornhill1170]

I absolutely love how KZbinrs get together. The tv networks of old seemed to have rules about mixing. You tubers like yourself are absolutely nailing TV viewing better than TV viewing ever was. Love your work sir. Greetings from Brisbane Australia. 👍🏻👍🏻

[@originalsusser]

Yes! As a fellow Queenslander I concur

[@ryanmarto7107]

fellow brisbanite!

[@originalsusser]

@ryanmarto7107 beautiful one day perfect the next 👌

[@connoisseur_of_nukes]

I would recommend in floor heating. It is really nice to not have to step on cold floors before you get in the shower and its lower maintenance heat as opposed to a furnace.

[@PatrickKniesler]

This is a really good idea. Not sure if there are electric resistance options for concrete pads, but that would be super low maintenance.

[@bobgriffen4655]

Stops a slip hazard.

[@albertc7375]

Sandals my friend

[@peterbennett7983]

Your subscribers are awesome. Collectively they are looking out for you with their design ideas!!!

[@coreyyoung8170]

We do restrooms/locker rooms with FRP and floor drains. This way you can go in and spray everything down with a hose and it all runs to the drain. This is how my father in-law has his shower house done at his campground.

[@coreyyoung8170]

Also might be smart to have your RV cleanout close to the shower house to utilize the same sewer line.

[@BugsyNY]

If anyone can pull this huge project off and make it a paradise, it's definitely you Matt. You have the right attitude and enthusiasm. If you build it they will come. 👍

[@tedroberts8032]

Matt, it's nice to have access to a washer and dryer when camping.

[@LooterMcShooter6928]

I grew up in Bandera and remember this river ranch was the spot back in the day.