The Glamping Show Americas 2025 is set to wrap up today, October 1, at the Arapahoe County Fairgrounds, closing out two days of education, networking, and business growth opportunities for the outdoor hospitality sector.
The last day’s conference program turns attention to some of the most pressing topics shaping the industry.
Sessions will cover high-demand amenities, sustainability, and marketing strategies—culminating in a panel on how wellness offerings can unlock new revenue streams for operators.
At 8:30 a.m., a panel moderated by Whitney Scott of Walden Insights will explore the “Top 10 Guest Magnets” driving bookings and guest satisfaction, from hot tubs and hammocks to pet-friendly policies and outdoor kitchens.
Later in the morning, entrepreneurs Hillary Flur and Ari Smith of Balance Farm will share how they are blending sustainability and technology in their fast-growing, design-led retreat model.
The afternoon continues with a marketing masterclass on how operators can drive direct bookings on any budget, featuring OASI’s Ben Wolff, No Vacancy Club co-founder Angelyn Bernardino, and Ozark Mountain Adventure’s Halley Fleming.
The event concludes with a session on wellness as a year-round revenue booster, where operators, including Tori and Seth Bolt of Bolt Farm Treehouse will share how they’ve integrated retreats and wellness weekends to expand their guest base.
Day One Highlights: Industry Insights and Founder Stories
Tuesday’s program kicked off with the release of new U.S. glamping research, revealing that average daily rates (ADR) climbed to $251 per night, a 21% increase from 2023. Guest stays have also lengthened, averaging 2.7 nights, signaling continued consumer demand for upscale outdoor experiences.
The panel discussion, “Beyond the Data: Unlocking 2025’s Glamping Industry Insights,” featured Scott Bahr of Cairn Consulting Group alongside Sarah Dusek of Under Canvas, Few and Far, Whitney Scott, and Todd Wynne-Parry of Aramark.
Speakers emphasized that while rising start-up costs are challenging, operators are finding success with longer bookings, diversified amenities, and a mix of on- and off-grid offerings.
Founder-led sessions offered real-world lessons in business resilience and creativity. Seth and Tori Bolt shared how a handcrafted honeymoon treehouse grew into Bolt Farm, now a luxury glamping brand known for wellness integration and AI-enhanced guest experiences.
Isaac French, founder of Live Oak Lake, detailed his journey from a $20,000 start-up to building a sellable brand centered on storytelling and guest experience.
Meanwhile, Brian and Joanna Linton of Camp Ferncrest explained how creative financing and transparency turned their glamping project into a franchise-ready business and a social media success story.
Networking, Awards, and the Expo
Beyond the sessions, the event has been a hub for connection. The American Glamping Association’s Taco Tuesday Welcome Reception drew attendees and exhibitors together for food, music, and the announcement of the AGA Glamping Awards, recognizing leaders in categories such as operations, sustainability, innovation, and manufacturing.
The expo has also been a centerpiece, with more than 100 exhibitors showcasing the latest in luxury tents, domes, cabins, and park models, as well as software, financing solutions, and operational support services.
Newcomers like Clever Tiny Homes and Colorado Fire Pits joined established names such as Pacific Yurts and Bushtec Safari, offering attendees a broad look at both traditional and cutting-edge products designed for glamping operators.
For many in attendance, the expo’s value lies in its ability to connect buyers directly with suppliers who understand the unique needs of the sector.
Several operators noted that demonstration models and new tech solutions were already sparking serious purchasing interest.
As Glamping Show Americas 2025 concludes, the event once again underscores its role as the premier gathering place for the U.S. glamping sector.
With ADRs on the rise, longer guest stays, and evolving guest expectations, the sessions, networking, and expo have given attendees both inspiration and actionable tools to adapt to a dynamic market.
For business owners and aspiring operators alike, the conversations held in Aurora this week highlight the growing sophistication of the glamping industry and the opportunities that lie ahead.