Honey Bear Hollow Campground (Indiana), is set to undergo a significant transformation, a WishTV report highlighted.
The campground, now under new ownership, is rebranding as Misthaven Resort, with a focus on creating an LGBTQ+ friendly environment, including a clothing-optional area. This move marks a progressive step in the campground and outdoor hospitality industry, aiming to cater to a more diverse clientele.
The rebranding initiative, led by new owner Dennis Day and his business partner, is not just a change in name but a shift in the campground’s ethos. Acquired in May, the duo envisioned a welcoming space for the LGBTQ+ community, a demographic they believe has been underrepresented in outdoor recreation.
Misthaven Resort, set to reopen on April 1, is located about a mile northwest of the U.S. 24 and U.S 31 interchange, near the Peru Municipal Airport. This strategic location places it almost in the direct center of several major urban areas, including Chicago, Detroit, Cincinnati, Columbus, Indianapolis, and Louisville, making it an accessible retreat.
The introduction of a clothing-optional area, a first of its kind in the region, is a bold move. Situated near the pool, this area will be enclosed by a privacy fence, ensuring discretion and comfort for guests. This feature is part of the broader vision to modernize LGBTQ camping and offer unique experiences.
Despite facing some backlash from the community over the rebrand, Day remains optimistic. He emphasizes the positive feedback received, which he believes outweighs the criticism. This sentiment reflects a growing trend in the outdoor hospitality industry to embrace diversity and inclusivity.
The April 1 reopening is timely, coinciding with the week before a solar eclipse, an event that is expected to draw additional visitors. Day’s vision for Misthaven Resort is clear: to move beyond being a traditional campground and set new standards for LGBTQ camping in the 21st century.
For outdoor hospitality operators and the campground industry, Misthaven Resort serves as a case study in diversification and adaptation. By embracing underrepresented groups and offering tailored amenities, campgrounds can tap into new markets, enhancing their appeal and potentially boosting business.
The resort’s location is a key asset, offering easy access via interstate and regional 4-lane highways. This accessibility is crucial for attracting visitors from various urban centers, reducing the barriers to outdoor recreation.
Misthaven Resort also retains the famous Honey Bear Hollow Disc Golf Course, the oldest in Indiana. This course, free for members and on-site guests, adds a recreational dimension to the resort.
Misthaven Resort’s rebranding as an LGBTQ+ friendly campground with a clothing-optional area is a significant development in the outdoor hospitality industry. It highlights the importance of inclusivity and innovation in attracting diverse demographics. For campground and outdoor hospitality operators, this represents an opportunity to rethink their strategies, potentially leading to increased patronage and a stronger industry presence.