Exploring the Wisdom of Glamping Pioneers: Insights from Nick Purslow
In the most recent Glampitect podcast, co-hosted by Connor Schwab from Sage Outdoor Advisory, regular host Nick Purslow flipped the script by stepping into the interviewee role. Nick, a seasoned expert in the glamping industry, has conducted over 75 interviews with glamping entrepreneurs and service providers. In this special episode, he shared his unique insights and the valuable lessons he has gathered from these extensive conversations. This comprehensive summary of golden insights offers a wealth of knowledge for anyone interested in the glamping space.
1. It’s Going to Be Hard
The journey to launching and running a successful glamping business is fraught with challenges. Every entrepreneur interviewed echoed this sentiment. Obstacles such as zoning issues, financial constraints, and unexpected setbacks are common. For instance, Sarah Dusek of Under Canvas, despite her success, faced numerous challenges, including a catastrophic storm that flattened her camp. The takeaway here is resilience. Successful glamping entrepreneurs have learned to pick themselves up, learn from failures, and persist.
2. The Results Can Be Incredible
Despite the hardships, the rewards of running a glamping business can be extraordinary. The spectrum of success varies widely. Sarah Dusek sold her business for over $100 million, setting a high benchmark. Ben Wolferd of Autocamp sold his 11-unit site for a valuation of $7 million within 14 months. On a more modest scale, Chris Dube at Monument Glamping in Colorado transitioned from teaching to earning a six-figure income through his glamping business. Whether it’s financial gain, lifestyle change, or personal fulfillment, the potential rewards are significant.
See more of Autocamp (left) and Monument Glamping (right):
3. There’s No One Correct Model
Glamping businesses operate on a spectrum from high-touch hospitality to low-touch, self-sufficient models. Ben Wolferd’s Autocamp and Getaway House exemplify the low-touch model, where guest interactions with staff are minimal. On the other hand, Irene Wood from The Fields emphasizes high-touch hospitality, where staff interactions are integral to the guest experience. The key is to choose a model that aligns with your strengths and business goals. Both approaches can be successful, as demonstrated by these entrepreneurs.
4. Don’t Neglect the Boring Stuff
Behind the glamour of glamping lies a myriad of mundane but crucial tasks. Zoning and permitting are critical; ignoring them can lead to significant setbacks. Insurance is another essential aspect, protecting against potential liabilities and disasters. Chris Hipple, an insurance expert, emphasized the importance of adequate coverage, including for contractors who might be considered employees for insurance purposes. Compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) is also vital to avoid legal issues. While these tasks may seem tedious, they are fundamental to the business’s success and longevity.
5. Housing for Seasonal Workers
Finding and retaining staff, especially in remote locations, can be a challenge. Blake Smith from Walden Retreats suggested providing RV hookups for seasonal workers. Platforms like Kamper Jobs can connect operators with workers who own RVs and are looking for seasonal employment. This solution is cost-effective and flexible, offering housing without the need for significant infrastructure investments. Understanding the local labor market and planning accordingly can mitigate staffing issues.
6. Community Outreach is Vital
Gaining community support is crucial for any new glamping site. Hostility from neighbors can derail a project before it even begins. Zack Stolberg of Clockwork emphasized the importance of engaging with the community early, hosting meetings to present plans and address concerns. Stephen Mullen from Getaway also adopted this approach. By involving the community and demonstrating the benefits of the glamping site, such as supporting local farmers and preserving rural landscapes, you can turn potential opponents into advocates.
The Importance of Lessons Learned
The experiences of these glamping entrepreneurs provide a rich tapestry of lessons for both aspiring and existing glamping operators. From understanding the inevitable hardships and the potential rewards to choosing the right operational model and handling the nitty-gritty details, each insight is invaluable.
Moreover, the emphasis on community outreach and creative staffing solutions highlights the need for adaptability and strategic thinking in this unique industry. Engaging with the community not only helps in securing necessary permits but also fosters a supportive environment for the business. Meanwhile, innovative staffing solutions can ensure smooth operations even in remote locations.
The glamping industry, while challenging, offers incredible opportunities for those willing to navigate its complexities. By learning from the experiences of seasoned entrepreneurs like those featured on Glampitect’s podcast, you can better prepare for the journey ahead. Whether you’re dreaming of a high-touch, guest-centric experience or a low-touch, self-sufficient model, the key is to stay resilient, be prepared, and remain adaptable. With these insights, you can turn your glamping vision into a thriving reality.