At Ferncrest Campground, we’ve experimented with various tent styles—safari tents, dale tents—but there’s a clear standout: dome tents.
These aren’t just another glamping structure; they represent a perfect fusion of comfort and nature, and they’ve become the cornerstone of our business model.
Here’s why:
1. Dome Tents: The Perfect Blend of Comfort and Camping
Dome tents have a unique appeal because they offer a “hotel room in the woods” experience. With temperature control, electricity, mini-fridges, and even microwaves, guests enjoy all the modern comforts they’re used to. Yet, they still get the charm of camping because the tents are set in nature.
This balance is key—guests want nature without giving up the luxuries of home. The success of our dome tents lies in this combination of rustic adventure with modern convenience, making them a huge hit with families, couples, and anyone seeking an elevated outdoor experience.
2. The Financial Breakdown: How Much Does a Dome Tent Cost?
Setting up a dome tent isn’t cheap, but it’s an investment that pays off. Here’s a quick cost breakdown:
- Dome Tent Structure: $5,720 (16 ft in diameter)
- Platform Construction: $3,500 to $4,000 (including materials and labor)
- Furnishing & Amenities: $2,000 to $3,000 (bed, air conditioning, heating, decor, etc.)
Ultimately, the total setup cost for a smaller dome tent (16 ft) can range between $10,000 and $15,000. This covers the tent itself, the platform, and everything needed to create a comfortable guest experience. While it’s an upfront investment, the return can be substantial.
Why it’s worth it: Compared to other tent types, dome tents provide a higher-end experience. This allows us to charge premium rates and attract guests who want a luxury getaway.
3. The Profit Potential: How Much Can You Earn with a Dome Tent?
Now, let’s talk numbers. Dome tents at Ferncrest rent for an average of $220 per night. If the tent has a wood-fired hot tub, that nightly rate jumps to over $250. With consistent demand and smart pricing, you can see how quickly the revenue adds up.
Here’s a simple calculation to illustrate the earning potential:
- Average Nightly Rate: $220
- Occupancy Rate: 60% (a realistic goal for a well-marketed glampground)
- Monthly Income: ~$4,000 (based on 18 nights booked per month)
With just one dome tent, you could potentially earn $48,000 per year in revenue, and that’s with only moderate occupancy. If you have multiple tents, the numbers quickly multiply. This makes dome tents a lucrative centerpiece of a glamping business.
Conclusion: Is a Dome Tent Right for Your Glamping Business?
Dome tents aren’t just tents—they’re a business strategy. With a strong balance of comfort, affordability, and high revenue potential, they’re ideal for any glamping business looking to grow. Whether you’re just starting or planning to scale, dome tents offer a compelling way to build your brand and increase profitability.
If you’re ready to learn more about setting up dome tents and the overall financial potential of glamping, don’t miss out on our upcoming Dome Tent Event, where we’ll make our dome tents available for purchase (for a limited time) and dive deeper into how you can use them to launch or grow your glamping business.
Happy Glamping!
Brian & Joanna Linton
P.S. This will be the final Dome Tent Event of the year and your chance to get ahead of starting a glamping business in 2025. Don’t miss it!
