Earlier this week, we hosted a webinar breaking down how we built Ferncrest into a highly profitable glampground. We shared the raw, behind-the-scenes details—the wins, the mistakes, and the exact strategies that got us here.
If you missed it, don’t worry. The replay is available, and you’re going to want to watch it.
If you are more of a reader, here are our biggest takeaways:
1. The Glamping Industry is Exploding – And There’s Still Room for You
Glamping is a $12 billion industry and growing rapidly. But even with this growth, there is still so much white space and opportunity—especially for operators who understand how to create a unique experience.
The lesson? Don’t fear competition—see it as validation. If people are succeeding in this space, it means you can too.
2. Financing a Glampground is More Accessible Than You Think
We broke down multiple ways to fund a glamping business, including:
- Seller Financing – Buy land or an old campground with little upfront cash. (we did this!)
- Investor Partnerships – Structure deals where investors make money while you keep control.
- Bank Loans & SBA Options – When structured wisely, financing can accelerate your growth.
- Cash Flow Strategies – Pre-booking revenue can fund your build (we did this too!).
The lesson? You don’t need a fortune to start—you just need the right funding strategy.
3. Permitting and Zoning Can Be an Advantage, Not a Roadblock
Many people fear zoning and permitting, but smart glampground owners use it to their advantage. Options like:
- Buying an existing commercial property to bypass restrictive zoning.
- Agritourism permits that allow glamping on farmland.
- Understanding local regulations to unlock creative revenue streams.
The lesson? Do your research, but don’t assume zoning will stop you—it might actually give you an edge.
4. If You Build It… They Will Not Come (Without Marketing)
Your glampground won’t be successful just because you built it. It will be successful if people know about it and want to stay.
Our marketing strategy is built around:
- Storytelling, not just selling – Social media creates an emotional connection.
- The right booking channels – Hipcamp, Google Hotel Search, and direct bookings.
- Maximizing pre-launch momentum – Ferncrest generated $10,000+ in bookings before we even opened.
The lesson? Marketing isn’t optional—it’s the key to profitability.
5. Operational Efficiency = Profitability
A well-run glampground isn’t just about great stays—it’s about smart systems that increase margins. Our top three rules:
- Invisible Service – The best hospitality is felt, not seen.
- Remote Management – Minimize staffing needs with automation.
- Technology is Your Friend – Use tech for bookings, check-ins, and guest experience.
The lesson? Every minute saved is money earned. The more efficient you are, the more profitable your business becomes.
Watch the Webinar Replay
We cover all of this—and more in the full webinar, including real financials, case studies, and the exact blueprint we used to build Ferncrest.
The Time is Now.
If you’re serious about building a profitable glampground, The Dome Tent Event is happening now. This is your chance to get the same tents and equipment we use, lock in expert guidance, and start building your dream business in 2025. But act fast—the event ends February 14th!
👉 Visit The Dome Tent Event Now: findingpromisedland.com/dome-tent-event
Happy Glamping!
Brian & Joanna Linton
