Wyldstay Smoky Mountains has opened in Jefferson County, Tennessee, introducing a new glamping option along Douglas Lake as part of a broader investment in the region’s tourism sector.
Visit Jefferson County confirmed the opening in a recent announcement, noting that the project represents a $1.5 million investment by Wyldstay, a brand created by Bushtec, the manufacturer of safari tents and canvas structures often used in high-end outdoor accommodations.
The new development is part of Wyldstay’s plan to expand its presence across the United States. The company already operates locations in Greenville and near the Grand Canyon, and it intends to open as many as 10 sites over the next five years.
According to Visit Jefferson County, the Jefferson County location is one of the first steps in this expansion strategy and is expected to contribute to job creation and provide additional lodging capacity in a region with consistently high tourism demand.
Founders Cody and Bridget Farmer said the Smoky Mountains project reflects a long-standing vision tied to the character of the local landscape.
“Creating Wyldstay Smoky Mountains has been a dream rooted in our love for this land,” they told WBIR-TV. “Partnering with the Wyldstay brand and Bushtec Safari allowed us to bring that dream to life at a level we never imagined. We’re excited to share the tranquility of this place with guests from near and far.”
Visit Jefferson County noted that the location of the new glamping retreat is positioned between the county’s lakeside communities and the high-traffic tourism areas of Sevier County.
The organization said the addition strengthens regional tourism connections and expands the range of lodging types available to visitors.
For outdoor hospitality professionals, the development highlights two notable industry trends: sustained demand for experiential, amenity-driven accommodations and the increasing involvement of manufacturers of tents and canvas structures in operating or co-developing glamping destinations.
Wyldstay’s phased approach—beginning with its initial opening and followed by a planned phase two, with additional sites targeted for 2026—reflects a model in which vertically integrated companies leverage their product expertise to accelerate growth and standardize their guest experience across multiple properties.
Operators watching the segment may find value in monitoring how this type of integration influences build-out costs, guest expectations, and long-term operational performance.