The Garrett County Chamber of Commerce and the Garrett County Department of Business Development held a ribbon-cutting ceremony on Wednesday, September 17, to mark the opening of Sweet Springs Glamping in Oakland, Maryland.
The event was led by Connor Norman, business development specialist and chair of the Garrett County Diplomats.
Among those in attendance were Commissioner Paul Edwards, Commissioner Larry Tichnell, and Chamber President Nick Sharps. Garrett County Diplomats Kim Carter, Julie Mead, and Norman presented owners Andrew and Peggy Tvardzik with a First Dollar of Profit Certificate and assisted with the ribbon cutting.
“A couple of years ago, Andy and Peggy came into my office talking about this crazy vision,” Norman told WV News. “They delivered on that vision, and the result is this jaw-dropping glamping venue that really shows off the beauty of our community.”
Sweet Springs Glamping is located on a 26-acre farm close to Deep Creek Lake, Wisp Resort, and Swallow Falls State Park. The property also provides access to nearby destinations in West Virginia, including Thomas, Davis, and Canaan Valley.
The site features a range of accommodations such as furnished yurts, a renovated barn known as The Hayloft, a retrofitted Airstream, and a converted school bus. Each unit is outfitted with modern amenities, with the intent of blending comfort with outdoor experiences.
For the local business community, the project reflects broader industry trends toward offering unique lodging experiences that appeal to both leisure travelers and adventure seekers.
By adding unconventional accommodations like a school bus and retro Airstream alongside traditional glamping staples such as yurts, Sweet Springs positions itself to attract diverse traveler segments.
For outdoor hospitality operators, the project illustrates how creative use of existing structures can generate new revenue streams and differentiate a property in a growing market.
“At the Chamber, we’re dedicated to bringing visitors who will stay a night or two, eat locally, shop small, enjoy nature, and return home singing our praises,” said Sharps.
“Sweet Springs Glamping gives us even more to offer. It’s a unique destination that’s going to draw people from far and wide. Cheers to Sweet Springs Glamping for giving our guests many stories, and many reasons to say: ‘I’m glad I came.’”
The Garrett County Chamber of Commerce, which has 500 members, serves as the Destination Marketing Organization for the county.
Its role includes supporting local businesses and promoting hospitality and recreation through marketing initiatives aimed at drawing visitors to the region.