Glamping Business Conference Delivers
Expert Strategies and Best Practices

8:30am-12:00pm

(followed by a box lunch - included)

Funding Your Glamping Business

This is the place to start whether you're new to or considering launching a glamping business or need money to grow your existing operation. Hear from finance experts and those who have successfully obtained capital on what types of funding are available, how to assess your options and best practices in fundraising. This phase in your planning can be a "make-it-or-break-it" event so don't underestimate its importance. Take advantage of the knowledge and experience of these speakers to chart your best way forward.

Navigating Debt: Your Guide to Financing Your Glamping Business

Join us for an informative session on navigating debt solutions for your start-up glamping operation. Understanding the various ways banks can provide financial support is crucial for setting your venture up for success. In this session, we'll explore the essential steps you need to take before seeking financing, including preparing a comprehensive business plan and financial projections. We'll also delve into the different debt options available, such as USDA loans, Equipment Financing, lines of credit, and Small Business Administration (SBA) loans, and discuss the pros and cons of each. By the end of the session, you'll have a clear understanding of how to choose the best financing option for your glamping operation and position yourself for long-term success.

Our experienced speakers will share valuable insights and practical tips for securing the funding you need to launch and grow your glamping business. Whether you're just starting out or looking to expand your existing operation, this session will provide you with the knowledge and confidence to make informed financial decisions and take your glamping venture to the next level. Don't miss this opportunity to gain invaluable expertise and network with industry professionals at the Glamping Show!

Moderator: Ruben Martinez, President, the American Glamping Association.

Panelists: Moe Kruger, Live Oak Bank; Bruce Hurta, Business Finance Depot; Jim Curry, Stone Bank.

Investment Strategies for Glamping Entrepreneurs: From Concept to Capital

This session is tailored to new and aspiring glamping operators eager to secure capital, funding, and investment for their ventures. In this session, our experienced speaker, a seasoned investor in the glamping industry, will share invaluable insights on how to position your property to attract investors. From understanding the needs and preferences of different investor types, whether institutional or personal, to crafting compelling investment pitches, attendees will gain a comprehensive understanding of what it takes to stand out in the eyes of potential investors.

Discover the key strategies, both big and small, that can make your glamping property an irresistible investment opportunity. Learn how to showcase your unique value proposition, leverage your property's strengths, and mitigate potential risks to instill confidence in investors. Whether you're seeking funding for infrastructure development, expansion plans, or operational improvements, this session will provide actionable tips and best practices to help you navigate the complex landscape of securing investment for your glamping operation. Don't miss this opportunity to gain the knowledge and expertise you need to propel your venture to new heights.

Speaker: Shawn Bertini, Partner, Four Points Funding

Expert Perspectives on Raising Capital for Glamping Ventures

This panel of seasoned entrepreneurs and industry insiders have successfully navigated the intricate landscape of fundraising within the glamping sector. In this enlightening discussion, attendees will gain invaluable insights into the strategies, challenges, and triumphs associated with securing capital to finance glamping ventures. From bootstrapping to securing institutional capital, panelists will share their firsthand experiences, offering practical advice and actionable tips for aspiring glamping operators looking to embark on their own fundraising journey. Whether you're a seasoned entrepreneur or a newcomer to the industry, this panel promises to provide a wealth of knowledge and inspiration to help you effectively finance and grow your glamping business.

Panelists: Chris Haydon, Co-Founder, Autocamp; Robert Frisch, Co-Founder, CEO, Firelight Camps

1:00 pm – 4:30 pm

(preceded by a box lunch---from 11:30 am-1:00 pm—included)

Glamping Business Basics

Start-up to up-and-running, whatever your level of experience, there are what seems like a million details at which you must be proficient.

Here you'll hear about some of the elements you'll face when getting your business up and running, stay running and grow. Hear from experts in their fields and those who have labored---and succeeded---with start-ups of their own. Learn from their experience. Be inspired by their journeys.

This workshop is important if you are new to the business or would like to "tune-up" your business practices.

How to Handle Wastewater Treatment at a Remote Glamping Venue

The remoteness of a site makes an attractive choice for a glamping facility. But this can pose the challenge of connecting to public utilities, like a sewer for wastewater treatment. Decentralized or onsite wastewater treatment systems provide cost effective solutions for remote sites that are unable to tie to municipal sewage plants. Onsite wastewater treatment solutions like larger septic systems or standalone wastewater treatment units can be designed to meet the unique flow requirements of your glamping facility. Learn about the design considerations and options available to you to safely treat and disperse wastewater without a municipal sewer option.

Speaker: Hugh Mickel, Infiltrator Water Technologies

From Data to Delight: Using Market Analysis to Anchor Your Brand and Enhance Guest Satisfaction

Uncover the power of data-driven decision-making in the glamping industry. This presentation will demonstrate how comprehensive market analysis, utilizing both market data and industry reports, can anchor your brand, identify and address guest pain points, and enhance satisfaction and loyalty. Additionally, for operators preparing to launch, the session will explore strategies for using market analysis to successfully enter the market and attract your initial guests. Once operational, we'll show how incorporating guest feedback further refines your branding and operational strategies, creating a more delightful and cohesive guest experience. Real-world examples will illustrate the integration of market data and guest feedback to optimize brand positioning and guest satisfaction.

Speaker: Whitney Scott, Hospitality Consultant

Keeping Your Venue Glamorous: Hospitality Law 101

Accompany leading hospitality attorney, Christine Taylor, as she guides you through prevalent legal challenges encountered by owners and operators in outdoor hospitality. Mishandling these issues can lead to enduring complications. Explore key topics from the basics of waivers and releases to effectively managing employees and addressing disruptive guests, and discover optimal strategies for handling these inevitable situations.

Speaker: Christine Taylor, Partner, The Towne Law Firm, P.C.

Founders Story: Greenfield Glamping: Insights from Ground-Up Development

Join us for this session featuring Stephen and Sam Hopkins, the innovative minds behind Missing Hotel, a thriving glamping operation nestled near Austin, Texas. They will delve into the intricacies of establishing a glamping venture on raw land, offering invaluable insights and practical guidance on every aspect of the process. From navigating the challenges of utility installation and road construction to crafting accommodations from the ground up, this dynamic duo will share their firsthand lessons learned and expert advice, providing attendees with a comprehensive roadmap for success in creating their own glamping paradise from a blank canvas.

Speakers: Stephen Hopkins, Sam Hopkins, Founders, Missing Hotel

8:30 am –9:30 am

Glamping Americas 2024 State of the Industry Report

Glamping Show Americas presents the second annual Glamping Americas State of the Industry Report---a research report for the glamping industry.

The report, conducted by Cairn Consulting Group, covers the topics and areas of interest that help the glamping sector of outdoor hospitality move forward with business, marketing, financial planning and securing funding.

Included in the report is a review of the past year in terms of development, changes from the previous year(s), and trends. It also looks forward based on how those involved in the industry view the changing landscape including barriers to growth, resources needed, guest expectations, innovations, key growth sectors, expansion, and type of growth.

Overall, this initial effort benchmarks essential growth metrics and offers detailed and nuanced insights into this important growth sector of the hospitality industry.

Presented by: Scott Bahr, President, Cairn Consulting Group

10:30 am –11:30 am

Taste the Difference: Strategies for Exceptional Food & Beverage in Glamping

Join us for an insightful panel discussion where we delve into the world of Food & Beverage for glamping operators. From high-end culinary experiences to innovative partnerships and simple yet memorable touches, our panelists will share their diverse strategies for success in delighting guests with culinary offerings. Discover the variety of approaches available, learn from the experiences of fellow operators, and uncover the secrets to crafting unforgettable experiences that enhance the overall glamping adventure. Whether you're a seasoned operator or just starting out, this session promises valuable insights to elevate your F&B offerings and leave a lasting impression on your guests.

Moderator: Ruben Martinez, President, American Glamping Association.

Panelists: Irene Wood, Founder, The Fields; Bygnal Dutson. Founding Partner, OpenSky.

1:00 pm – 2:00 pm

From Tents to Wagons: How Glamping Can Benefit Your Park

Learn from experienced park owners on how the addition of glamping facilities to their existing operation has opened opportunities for growth. This session will explore the ins-and-outs of their planning and expansion into a mixed-use site. It will also explore the differences in the guest experience between a traditional campground and RV park, and one that offers glamping accommodations. Panelists share their challenges and advice on how this move can increase a park's customer universe and ultimately its bottom line.    

If you're a campground or RV park owner considering adding glamping accommodations, you'll want to hear these companies stories on how they successfully married glamping with their campground and RV park businesses.

Moderator: Ben Quiggle, Editor, Woodall's Campground Magazine.

Panelists: Terry Munoz, Senior Consultant, Campground Consulting Group; Erin Thiem, Inn Town Campground; Dan Thiem, Inn Town Campground; Tim Murphy, Emberglow Outdoor Resort.

3:00 pm – 4:00 pm

Engaging the Evolved Glamping Audience: Beyond the Tent in Communication Strategies

Embark on a journey into the world of evolved glamping with our immersive session. Discover the core desires of your guests and how effective communication enhances their experience. Learn the delicate balance between providing adequate information and overwhelming them. Explore diverse communication tools tailored to different stages: from pre-booking to post-stay interactions. Dive into segmentation strategies based on guest needs and personas. Master the art of crafting the perfect communication system at every touchpoint, ensuring seamless guest satisfaction and continuous improvement.

Speaker: Mark Koep, CEO and President, Campground Views, Inc.

8:30 am – 9:30 am

Turning limited resources into unlimited success: Discover pioneering tech-savvy ideas to attract guests and increase revenue using the power of AI

After more than two decades of supporting entrepreneurs in the world of unique guest accommodation, Sarah Riley has learnt never to underestimate major moments in the world of business building. One of the most recent is the disruptive energy of Artificial intelligence. In this inspirational session, she highlights the incredible innovations happening now and how they are changing the rules of the game for everyone. You deserve to make a living doing something you love but if you ignore what's happening you will miss vital opportunities in the marketplace. This is a time to embrace pioneering start-up ideas, tech-savvy marketing tactics, and state-of-the-art guest attraction methods, all designed for the future of 2025 and beyond. So stay sharp and step into the visionary world of outdoor accommodation with Sarah, where innovation meets luxury!

Speaker: Sarah Riley, President, The Glamping Academy

10:30 am – 11:30 am

Size Matters. Density, Amenities and Debt Coverage Ratios

 When it comes to glamping and the return on investment game, size does matter. The density of properties can have a big impact on their value and profitability. Higher density, more amenities, and on site services attract more renters and command higher ADR's.

On the other hand, larger properties with more units can also mean higher operational costs and potentially lower cash flow if occupancy rates are low. This is where debt coverage ratios come in handy - they help investors determine if a property's income is enough to cover operating expenses and debt payments. So, while bigger might be better in some cases, it's all about finding the right balance between size, amenities, and financial stability in the world of real estate.

In this in session, developer and operator Kathleen Walsh will bring her 30 + years of experience to the conversation. Kathleen and her team have developed and managed over 800 million dollars worth of real estate investments in the RV and Glamping world. Her sessions are always filled with real life examples and plenty of Q&A. 

Speaker: Kathleen Walsh, President, Advanced Outdoor Solutions

1:00 pm – 2:00 pm

Don't Call it a Trend! Glamping has Laid Down Roots in the Travel Space

Glamping is no longer a trend in the travel space and major hospitality brands are taking notice. Today's leisure travelers are looking for a variety of experiences… and accommodations when booking their vacations. Dive into findings from Kampgrounds of America, Inc.'s Camping & Hospitality Report to learn how glamping has evolved in the past decade. Learn about new expectations of your guests and why they want to make glamping a part of their travel planning for future years.

New report insights will be presented outside of the published report, making this a session you won't want to miss.

Speaker: Jenny McCullough, Senior Director of Brand Growth,KOA, Inc. / Terramor Outdoor Resort

3:00 pm – 4:00 pm

Understanding Key Metrics that Drive Profit and Fuel Growth.

Embark on an exciting journey to grasp the pivotal metrics that drive real change. Understand the key metrics shaping your glamping venture, coupled with strategies to streamline your financial processes for effortless insights into these metrics.

• Understand which quarterly and year-end metrics measure the overall health of your business and how to build your financial dashboard for convenient monitoring of these metrics.
• Explore strategies to enhance visibility into both financial and non-financial metrics, revealing huge revenue opportunities.
• Gain practical techniques to implement these strategies and boost operational efficiencies, turning every corner of your property into a potential growth avenue.

If you are an established business or ready to launch, you'll want to make sure that you are well-equipped to grow your business.

If you are an established business and are looking for tips, or are ready to launch, you'll want to attend this session to make sure you are well-equipped to understand the financial reporting and processes to grow your business.

Speaker: Tyler Otto, President and Owner, Specialized Accounting (Formerly Specialty BookkeepersGlamping Bookkeepers)

9:30 am - 10:00 am

Launch a Glampsite on Your Private Property "The Glamping Guy's Story"

It all started with a tent in his backyard. Chris Jeub shares his journey of navigating the complex world of permits, regulations, and even a neighborhood uprising to launch a successful glamping operation on private property. Chris's story of ongoing compliance and operational success will provide practical advice and motivation to turn your glamping dreams into reality. Whether you're just starting or refining your plans, this session offers the encouragement and insights you need to embark on your own glamping adventure.

Speaker: Chris Jeub: Monument Glamping 
Location: American Glamping Association Booth #904

11:30 am - 12:00 pm

Evaluating Your Position in the Market

In today's competitive landscape, understanding where your business stands in the market is crucial for long-term success. In this insightful session, Mike Harrison will delve into the key elements of market evaluation, offering a comprehensive guide to brand positioning and strategic marketing.

Speaker: Mike Harrison, Chief Operating Office, CRR Hospitality
Location: American Glamping Association Booth #904

11:30 am – 12:30 pm

Dirty Secrets to Beautiful Ponds & Lakes: The Answers Are Just Below the Surface!

Water features can make or break a glamping experience, so maintaining healthy, beautiful water is essential. Unfortunately, aquatic management is not easy, and the time and money invested very often fails to keep the muck, invasive aquatic weeds and algae from getting progressively worse. We'll share the essential knowledge you need to understand the environmental factors that cause these problems. Then we'll go over the pros and cons of chemical applications, fountains, aeration, beneficial bacteria and dredging, so you can create a game plan for achieving naturally beautiful ponds and lakes your glampers will remember.

Speakers: Rich Baum Co-Founder & Inventor RIGERO/Bio-Health Pod Systems; Roy Cole Co-Founder, President RIGERO/Bio-Health Pod Systems
Location: Windmill Meeting Room

12:00 pm – 12:30 pm

Conestoga Wagon Company: Glamping Advice from Moose Creek Ranch

From wagons to shower houses and more, Conestoga Wagon Company products have elevated the glamping experience of Moose Creek Ranch guests. Come with questions for Operator Tom Hedges. Then, drum roll, please...the big reveal! Conestoga Wagon Company will unveil their brand-new New Ranch Wagon that could be the perfect addition to your glampsite! 

Speaker: Tom Hedges of Moose Creek Ranch
Location: Booth #1100

12:30 pm – 1:00 pm

HoneyTrek: Q&A – Ask The Glampers + "Comfortably Wild" Book Signing

Want to know what guests really want? Ask Mike & Anne of HoneyTrek, who've stayed at hundreds of glamping camps and consulted for dozens more. Bring your questions for this open discussion on the guest experience.

You can get your copy of Comfortably Wild signed, too!

Speakers: Mike and Anne Howard, HoneyTrek
Location: Booth #1114

12:30 pm – 1:00 pm

Setting a New Standard: Sustainable and Rapidly Renewable Materials in Outdoor Hospitality Projects.

As the glamping industry grows, minimizing our environmental impact becomes increasingly important. This segment focuses on using rapidly renewable resources, like bamboo, in glamping settings to preserve nature while enhancing sustainability. Discover how these eco-friendly materials offer viable alternatives in building and furniture and learn how we are facilitating a smoother transition to greener practices.

Speaker:  David Murray: CEO of Mscapes
Location: American Glamping Association Booth #904

2:00 pm - 3:00 pm

Strategies Unlocked: Optimize Your Resort with Newbook

Think simple strategies with big impact. We'll, uncover proven practical strategies to streamline operations, supercharge revenue growth and deliver exceptional guest experiences. We'll talk all things automation, capitalizing on your assets, and expanding your online presence.

Learning outcomes:

• Understand how to embrace automation throughout the guest journey and touchpoints with real examples.
• Discover how to use generate an additional $1m+ with simple revenue tools
• Identify new ways to grow online presence and deliver a modern booking experience.

Speaker: Newbook
Location: Windmill Meeting Room

2:30 pm - 3:00 pm

Reimagining Outdoor Hospitality: Innovations in Sustainable Glamping

This talk explores how cutting-edge construction technologies, such as 3D printing with recycled materials, are revolutionizing the glamping industry. Learn how sustainable design, energy-efficient solutions, and eco-friendly practices can elevate outdoor hospitality, reduce environmental impact, and create unique, unforgettable experiences for guests while meeting the rising demand for responsible travel.  

Speaker: Gene Eidelman, Azure Printed Homes
Location: Booth #1209

2:15 pm -2:45 pm

Fireside Chat with Chris Jeub (The Glamping Guy): Navigating Challenges for Glamping Operators of All Sizes

Chris Jeub, known as 'Glamping Guy' online, has identified four distinct levels of glamping operators, ranging from entry-level single-unit hosts to large-scale franchising operations. Drawing from his own experience, Chris breaks down the opportunities and challenges at each level. He also reveals a unique 5th level of glamping that offers exciting potential for anyone interested in the industry.

Speaker: Chris Jeub, Monument Glamping 
Location: White Duck Outdoors Booth #1300, 1302

2:30 pm – 3:30 pm

Horwath HTL: "The Business of Glamping" Book Signing with Todd Wynne-Parry

Leading outdoor hospitality expert Todd Wynne-Parry has released a new book, The Business of Glamping: An Anthology of Articles on Outdoor Hospitality. This comprehensive guide provides invaluable insights and practical advice for both established entrepreneurs and aspiring operators looking to capitalize on the booming glamping industry. Stop by and get your copy signed.

Author: Todd Wynne-Parry, Horwath HTL
Location: Booth #905

10:00 am - 10:30 am

Building the Future: How Construction Using 3D Printing Is Shaping the Glamping Industry

This talk delves into how 3D printing technology is redefining construction for the glamping sector, enabling faster, more cost-effective, and sustainable builds. Discover how this innovative approach allows for customizable designs, minimizes waste, and reduces environmental impact, all while enhancing guest experiences and offering new possibilities for glamping site development.  

Speaker: Gene Eidelman, Azure Printed Homes
Location: Booth #1209

11:30 am – 12:30 pm

Sage Glamping Data: Understand Growth Trends, Rates, Unit Types and Amenities

What is the highest performing glamping unit type? What amenities drive the highest nightly rates? How much more can my unit make with a bathroom? Is the industry growing overall? This presentation will showcase the insights from the 2024 data of the top 400 professional glamping locations in the USA.

Speakers: Shari Heilala, Connor Schwab and Nick Harsell of Sage Outdoor Advisory
Location: Windmill Meeting Room

12:00 pm – 1:00 pm

Modern Campground Fireside Chat Podcast

Buckle up a productive and insightful discussion group discussion with Glamping Show Americas international exhibitors. This show will not only highlight products, but also to explore each company's reasons for participating in the show for the Americas markets, their perspectives on these markets, and any differences they perceive compared to their home markets.

(Companies should arrive at the venue 15 minutes early for pre-production preparations.)

Speakers: Modern Campground and various Glamping Show Americas exhibitors
Location: FDomes Booth #1308

2:15 pm -2:45 pm

Fireside Chat with Kristen Vasan (Hipcamp): Meeting the Growing Demands of Millennial and Gen Z Campers

In this Fireside Chat, White Duck Outdoors speaks with the Hipcamp team about:

• Industry trends (where are they searching, what are they searching for, who is searching)
• Best practices to make your online presence known
• Technologies to consider to reach this cohort
• The role of social media and influencer marketing

Speaker: Kristen Vasan, Hipcamp
Location: White Duck Outdoors Booth #1300, 1302