In an engaging episode of The Unique Hospitality Podcast, hosts Nick Purslow and Connor Schwab sit down with Jeremy Budge, founder of Backland Glamping, a one-of-a-kind luxury glamping site near the Grand Canyon. With its stunning natural surroundings, eco-positive initiatives, and custom-designed tent accommodations, Backland has quickly earned a reputation as a must-visit destination for travelers seeking a blend of adventure and comfort. Jeremy shares his inspiring journey from helping develop iconic Under Canvas properties to creating his own sustainable oasis, where guests enjoy unforgettable experiences in harmony with nature.
Backland Glamping: An Overview
Nestled in Arizona, just over an hour from the Grand Canyon, Backland Glamping operates on a 160-acre property surrounded by Forest Service land. With only 10 custom-designed tent units, Backland prioritizes both guest privacy and environmental harmony. These units, ranging from $400 to $650 per night, cater to those seeking luxury, seclusion, and a deep connection to nature.
The property features a lodge, restaurant, and an 8-acre pond. Guests can enjoy kayaking, trails, and stargazing—a combination that sets the tone for an immersive escape. The setting balances remoteness with accessibility, offering a peaceful retreat while staying within a reasonable distance from a world-famous natural wonder.
Jeremy’s Journey into Outdoor Hospitality
Jeremy’s passion for nature stems from growing up in Tokyo, one of the world’s largest cities. The contrast between urban density and his appreciation for “wild places” laid the foundation for his career in outdoor hospitality. After studying construction management and real estate development, Jeremy’s early academic work foreshadowed his future: he conceptualized a glamping resort long before the term “glamping” became mainstream.
His career began at Under Canvas, where he helped design and develop multiple iconic properties. This experience provided him with invaluable lessons in site selection, design, and operations—lessons that now inform his work at Backland.
Sustainability at Backland
One of the standout features of Backland is its commitment to sustainability. Jeremy’s ethos extends beyond eco-neutrality; he aims for eco-positivity, enhancing the land while preserving its natural beauty. Here are some of the initiatives in place:
- Water Conservation: Backland uses approximately 10-20% of the water consumed by a typical hotel of similar size. This is achieved through:
- Nebia showerheads: These deliver an exceptional shower experience with significantly lower water usage.
- Compostable dishware: This reduces water-intensive dishwashing.
- Native landscaping: By integrating the site with its natural surroundings, Backland eliminates the need for irrigation.
- Energy Efficiency: Unlike traditional tents, Backland’s units are fully insulated, meeting strict building and energy codes. This ensures energy-efficient heating and cooling while enhancing guest comfort.
- Design Harmony: The property’s design preserves the landscape’s wow factor, avoiding excessive clearing or paving and blending seamlessly into the environment.
Innovative Tent Designs
Backland’s tents are not your typical glamping accommodations. Custom-built to meet both building codes and guest expectations, these structures feature:
- R-28 insulation to ensure energy efficiency.
- Glass skylights for stargazing directly from bed.
- Noise reduction: Fully insulated walls block out external sounds, ensuring a peaceful retreat.
These units are designed for comfort and durability, solving many issues commonly associated with traditional canvas tents, such as poor insulation and susceptibility to wind noise.
Creating Community with a Lodge and Restaurant
Central to Backland’s vision is fostering a sense of community among guests. The lodge serves as a multifunctional space where guests can gather, play board games, or participate in stargazing presentations. The restaurant, offering “upscale ranch dining,” features a menu that ranges from fine steaks and salmon to comfort foods like burgers and fries.
While running a restaurant for just 10 units isn’t highly profitable, Jeremy views it as an essential amenity that enhances the overall guest experience, particularly given the property’s remote location.
Marketing Success: 70,000 Instagram Followers
Backland has achieved remarkable success on social media, boasting over 70,000 Instagram followers in just two years. Jeremy credits much of this growth to a strategy centered on influencer partnerships and engaging, story-driven content. His wife, who took over social media management early on, has spearheaded this effort, proving that passion and a willingness to learn can yield incredible results.
Future Plans: Expansion and Wellness Offerings
Jeremy’s vision for Backland includes a phased expansion to 65 units and the addition of a wellness facility. This new space will feature:
- Thermal rejuvenation rooms with salt saunas, cold plunges, and high-efficiency showers.
- Family-friendly and adults-only zones for relaxation and recreation.
- Yoga and event spaces for retreats and gatherings.
These additions aim to elevate the guest experience while staying true to Backland’s ethos of sustainability and immersion in nature.
Key Lessons for Aspiring Glamping Entrepreneurs
Jeremy’s journey offers valuable insights for those looking to enter the outdoor hospitality industry:
- Site Selection is Critical: A property’s natural appeal can make or break the guest experience. Choose locations with inherent wow factors and tourism potential.
- Think Long-Term: Building a viable business often requires upfront investments in essential amenities, even if profitability isn’t immediate.
- Leverage Partnerships: Influencer collaborations and community-building efforts are powerful tools for growing awareness and creating lasting connections.
- Prioritize Sustainability: Eco-friendly practices aren’t just good for the environment—they resonate with modern travelers and set your property apart.
Jeremy Budge and Backland Glamping exemplify how passion, innovation, and a commitment to sustainability can redefine outdoor hospitality. By blending luxury with environmental stewardship, Backland offers a model for creating memorable experiences in nature.