In the evolving world of outdoor hospitality, glamping—a fusion of “glamorous” and “camping”—is more than just a passing trend. It offers RV parks and campgrounds a lucrative opportunity to expand their business and attract a broader range of guests.

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During a recent webinar hosted by Michelle Smith, CEO of RoverPass, and Ruben Martinez, founder of the American Glamping Association, the industry’s growth and potential were explored in detail. Here’s how RV parks can dive into this trend!

Watch the Full Video Here!

Why Glamping?

It allows people to experience the great outdoors without sacrificing comfort. As Martinez explained:

“It’s a gateway for people who may find traditional camping too rugged or intimidating. Glamping provides the perfect balance between nature and luxury.”

Key features:

  • Unique accommodations: Think safari tents, yurts, and tiny homes—each providing a distinct experience.
  • Nature meets comfort: Guests can enjoy the outdoors without the hassle of setting up tents or sleeping on the ground.
  • Diverse guest appeal: It attracts everyone from families and couples to older travelers seeking a more comfortable way to connect with nature.

The Rise of Glamping

Glamping has exploded in popularity, and here are some eye-catching stats:

  • Average nightly rate: $285, with some accommodations reaching up to $6,000.
  • New operators: 90% of new glamping businesses are started by people with no previous hospitality experience.
  • Growing demographic: It appeals to various groups—whether families, solo travelers, or couples—creating opportunities for tailored experiences and price points.

How Can RV Parks Add Glamping?

Expanding into glamping can seem daunting, but Martinez offers these key strategies for existing RV parks:

1. Start Small

  • Phase approach: Test the waters by starting with a few glamping units. This allows you to gauge interest and gather feedback without major risk.
  • Attend industry events: The Glamping Show is an excellent opportunity to explore options and talk to manufacturers. You can see structures up close and learn from the experts.

2. Don’t Hide the Glamping Units

  • Visibility matters: Integrate glamping units within your RV park to let RVers and campers see the luxury options available. This creates natural curiosity and a cross-promotion effect.
  • Showcase variety: Display the difference in accommodations to attract various guest types, from RVers who want to upgrade to families who prefer comfort over traditional tents.

3. Leverage Guest Feedback

  • Continual improvement: Ask guests for feedback on their experience. This will help you refine your offerings and ensure that you meet or exceed guest expectations.

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Boosting Revenue with Glamping

Adding glamping isn’t just about offering fancy tents—it’s about maximizing revenue in creative ways:

1. Upsell Amenities and Experiences

  • Pre-sell add-ons: Offer experiences like guided tours, wine tastings, or kayaking before guests arrive.
  • Meal kits & s’mores: Add simple extras like BBQ kits, s’mores packs, or craft beer for guests to enjoy by the fire.

2. Diversify Events

  • Host weddings or retreats: Glamping venues are perfect for special events, adding another layer of revenue potential during off-peak days.

3. Dynamic Pricing

  • Flexible rates: Utilize dynamic pricing to maximize profits on high-demand weekends while offering lower rates during off-peak times, like Mondays and Tuesdays.

Why Automation is Key: A Seamless Guest Experience

Automating your reservation system is essential for growth. Platforms like RoverPass streamline everything from bookings to payments, freeing up your time to focus on guest experiences. Martinez emphasized:

“Automation ensures consistency in pricing, reduces human error, and allows you to offer promotions and discounts seamlessly.”

With automation, you can:

  • Capture guest data for future marketing efforts.
  • Enable dynamic pricing to adjust rates automatically.
  • Offer streamlined communication before and after the guest’s stay.

Steps to Market Your Glamping Business

To successfully launch and market your glamping business, consider these steps:

1. Do Your Research

  • Competitive analysis: Study other businesses in your area. Learn from their strengths and weaknesses to better position your own offerings.

2. Perfect Your Visuals

  • High-quality photos and videos: Glamping is an emotional decision for many guests. Invest in good photography that captures the ambiance and beauty of your location.
  • 3D tours and drone footage: These add a layer of transparency that helps guests feel confident about booking.

3. Promote Your Unique Selling Points (USPs)

  • Experiences over accommodations: Highlight the unique experiences your park offers, from nature hikes to star-gazing tours.
  • Targeted marketing: Use tools like email marketing and social media to reach your ideal demographic.

Final Thoughts

Adding glamping to your RV park is more than a trend—it’s a strategic way to grow your business, attract new guests, and boost revenue. Start small, focus on creating unforgettable experiences, and leverage tools like RoverPass to streamline operations.

For a deeper dive into the glamping world, watch the full webinar here.

Interested in glamping? Get in touch with the American Glamping Association for resources and support to kickstart your adventure.