We just wrapped up our Glampground Startup Challenge, and it was incredible to see so many people take bold steps toward their dreams of building a glampground.
Even if you didn’t attend, I wanted to share the top three lessons we explored during the challenge – insights rooted in our journey of building Ferncrest that could help you as you consider your own glamping business.
1. The Right Land Can Unlock Your Glampground’s Potential
When we first walked onto the land that became Ferncrest, we saw more challenges than opportunities: rocky terrain, overgrown paths, and no utilities in sight. But by looking deeper, we discovered natural features like the serene maple trees, forest views, and natural openings that now define the guest experience.
Finding the right property doesn’t mean finding something perfect…it means seeing potential where others might not.
Whether it’s proximity to natural attractions, easy accessibility, or a unique landscape, the key is to build around what makes the land special. Don’t worry if your land doesn’t have the mountain vista or waterview – find ways to make it unique and exciting despite the perceived limitations.
2. You Don’t Have to Wait Years to Launch
When we decided to launch Ferncrest, the timeline was tight, and there were plenty of sleepless nights. But by breaking the process into small, actionable steps, we went from vision to reality in just over 6 months.
One of the most powerful things we learned is that progress happens when you focus on what’s essential: designing an experience that wows guests, and building smart, scalable systems.
You don’t need a massive budget or endless time – you just need a solid plan.
3. Profitability Is in the Details
At Ferncrest, we quickly learned that the little decisions matter. For example, we lost money on our bell tents, which we discontinued after the first season, because the demand wasn’t there (they weren’t special enough!). Now our safari tents are also on the outs as they are showing age and discoloration from mold after the second year. However, our domes still look brand new and generate 80% of our properties revenue.
Had we just focused on domes to start we would be even more profitable.
The glamping industry is unique because of its high margins, but profitability doesn’t happen by accident. It’s built on thoughtful choices that reduce costs, maximize guest satisfaction, and open up multiple revenue streams.
Watch the Replays
We packed countless lessons like these into the Glampground Startup Challenge – and the replays are now available. If you’re serious about launching your glampground in 2025, these sessions are the perfect way to dive into the process and start planning.
Ready to Take the Next Step?
We’re also gearing up for our Dome Tent Event on February 3, where we’ll offer exclusive pricing on the same glamping equipment we use at Ferncrest (dome tents, hot tubs, saunas and more!). Prices are going up when we launch our next event on the 3rd, but we are offering early access starting today and the last chance for 2024 pricing until February 2.
If you’d like to take advantage of 2024 pricing and discuss how we can help get you equipment to open your dream business this year, let’s connect:
2025 could be the year you bring your glamping dream to life. Don’t wait to start building the future you’ve been imagining!
Happy Glamping!
Brian & Joanna Linton
