A roughly 2.5-acre property behind American Legion Post 192 in Evans, Georgia, could become home to a 12-unit glamping retreat if a rezoning request is approved next month.
According to an article by The Augusta Chronicle, on behalf of landowner Frank Harris, civil engineer Robert Titus of EMC Engineering in Martinez has applied to Columbia County for a zoning change that would allow Lost Horizon Glamping Retreat, a recreational site designed for guests who want overnight accommodations with private bathrooms, kitchenettes, and outdoor decks.
The proposed units are synthetically covered geodesic domes set on raised wooden decks, a design intended to minimize disturbance to the natural habitat, according to a narrative Titus submitted with the application.
“The glamping domes will be rented as short-term camping accommodations designed for year-round enjoyment, with guests staying overnight,” Titus said in the application.
“The operating hours will be 24/7, with an anticipated check in time at 3 p.m. and check-out at 11 a.m. To ensure a tranquil experience and maintain the serene character of the area, quiet hours will be enforced from 11 p.m. to 6 a.m.”
The plan calls for 13 parking spaces, including a van-accessible handicap space, and 20-foot buffers around the campground that would combine vegetated landscaping and opaque privacy fences.
Members of the American Legion post who frequent the neighboring facility are aware of the project and “support Mr. Harris in his rezoning efforts,” according to Titus.
The Columbia County Planning Commission is scheduled to consider the rezoning request at its Aug. 6 meeting.
For glamping developers and operators, the proposal illustrates a growing pattern: small infill parcels on the edge of residential and institutional land uses are emerging as viable sites for dome-based glamping projects.