Behind the Scenes at a Glamping Resort: What a GM Actually Does
Featuring Wes McCloskey from Open Sky on The Unique Hospitality Podcast
If you’ve ever wondered what it really takes to manage a glamping resort—or what kind of leadership makes the difference between surviving and thriving, this episode of The Unique Hospitality Podcast is a must-listen.
In this special episode, host Nick Harsell welcomes back Bygnal Dutson, founder of Open Sky near Zion National Park. But this time, he’s joined by his General Manager, Wes McCloskey, for an inside look at the day-to-day operations of running one of the most ambitious glamping destinations in North America.
A Masterclass in Glamping Operations
Wes brings a uniquely qualified background, with experience at Getaway, and even a stint at an off-grid dude ranch. Since taking over GM duties at Open Sky, Wes has transformed how the resort operates, building systems, refining team communication, and leading with empathy and structure.
The conversation explores:
- What a glamping General Manager actually does on a daily basis
- How Wes transitioned into the role and earned trust from both Bygnal and the team
- Their most common operational challenges,from off-grid maintenance to guest recovery
- Why guest feedback and thoughtful systems design are essential to long-term success
- Wes’ advice for future glamping GMs and owners who plan to wear many hats
Why This Matters
At Sage Outdoor Advisory, we’ve seen firsthand how the quality of on-site leadership can determine the long-term success of a glamping resort. Through over 300 feasibility studies across North America, one thing is clear: even the most beautiful property won’t thrive without an experienced, committed team at the helm.
Wes’ story is proof that operational excellence, grounded in thoughtful systems and authentic guest service, is just as important as tents and terrain.