Geronimo Creek Retreat, nestled along a spring-fed creek in central Texas, has become a premier destination for glamping enthusiasts seeking a unique blend of nature, luxury, and modern amenities.
Owner TJ Jones has transformed the property into a sought-after escape that attracts a diverse range of guests, from seasoned campers to city dwellers craving a nature-filled getaway.
A Unique Blend of History, Nature, and Luxury
The property’s origins date back to Native American settlements, who chose the site for its natural water supply. Over time, it transitioned from a private park in the 1960s to its current form as a luxury outdoor retreat.
Today, the retreat offers guests a unique blend of history, nature, and modern comforts.
In an exclusive interview with Modern Campground, Owner TJ Jones shared that the property’s appeal is rooted in its accessibility to a wide demographic of visitors.
“We have people from almost all 50 states, including Alaska and Hawaii,” Jones explained. The retreat attracts a diverse clientele, from avid campers seeking nature’s serenity to city dwellers desiring a taste of the outdoors and adventures.
According to Jones, the range of guests includes people from all demographics, something Jones sees as a unique feature of Geronimo Creek Retreat.
The glampground offers a variety of activities and amenities designed to cater to all types of guests. Visitors can enjoy private fire pits, a volleyball court, and even a game room.
However, the main attraction remains the scenic Geronimo Creek. “It’s like a private oasis,” Jones said, describing the serene, unspoiled stretch of creek where guests can paddle kayaks and explore the lush surroundings. The clear, bluish-green water and the secluded atmosphere create a setting for relaxation and adventure.
Accommodations at Geronimo Creek Retreat also include treehouses, teepees, and safari cabins, all equipped with modern amenities. Guests can expect high-speed internet, full kitchen appliances, and private barbecue pits.
For those looking for a more rustic experience, smaller units feature stovetops, microwaves, and mini-fridges. The ability to cook in the comfort of one’s own space, while still being immersed in nature, is a key part of the retreat’s appeal.
“Whether you want to cook over an open fire or prepare a simple meal in the kitchen, you can make it your own experience,” Jones noted.
With its prime location near New Braunfels and just two hours from major Texas cities like Austin, San Antonio, and Houston, Geronimo Creek Retreat offers the best of both worlds: an escape into nature with all the conveniences of home.
Upgrades to Enhance Guest Experience
Jones also shared insights into the continuous efforts behind the property’s revitalization. Over the past year, the retreat has undergone significant upgrades, including modernizing the plumbing and electrical systems.
One of the projects involved installing fiber internet infrastructure, which took over a year to complete. “We were the catalyst for an entire portion of the area to get fiber internet because we wanted it for our guests,” Jones said, emphasizing the importance of connectivity in the modern glamping experience.
The retreat also features glamping structures, which are made of canvas material and require substantial logistical effort to install. According to Jones, the logistics of handling these structures, some of which are over 20 feet tall, have presented their own set of challenges.
However, the journey hasn’t been without its setbacks.
Jones highlighted the ongoing struggle with nature’s unpredictable challenges, including severe windstorms that have damaged several units.
“You take three or four steps forward, and then you get hit with a windstorm where you’re having 60-70 mph winds,” Jones explained.
Despite the setbacks, he emphasized the importance of maintaining the property’s high standards, noting that quick responses and continuous communication with suppliers are essential in such situations.
On the operational side, Geronimo Creek Retreat faces its own set of daily challenges. Ensuring the cleanliness and maintenance of units is a top priority, and Jones relies on a dedicated team that shares his commitment to excellence.
Managing the retreat’s inventory and addressing wildlife-related issues, such as raccoons raiding food left outdoors, also keep the team on their toes.
Moreover, the property is located in a flood-prone area, requiring constant vigilance and quick action when floodwaters rise. Jones’s team often works late into the night to secure the property and protect guests’ belongings when inclement weather threatens.
Looking to the future, Jones revealed that the retreat is preparing for a major renovation. “So, we do have on a timeline the complete remodel of all of the units. Basically, we’re going in like you would at your house, gutting everything and replacing it with state-of-the-art technology and equipment and all of those things. We’re not quite there yet.”
Eco-Friendly Practices and Unique Guest Activities
Additionally, the retreat is designing a new, eco-friendly bathhouse to complement the existing structures. Jones emphasized that the remodel will focus on incorporating elements that blend with the natural surroundings, offering a modern yet nature-friendly experience for guests.
In response to the growing demand for unique, large-scale experiences, Geronimo Creek Retreat is partnering with local vendors to offer activities like horseback riding, wine pairings, and stargazing.
Among the most popular options are “Starry Nights” astronomy evenings, which have sparked significant interest. Guests can immerse themselves in the night sky with stargazing sessions, enjoying the serene environment of the retreat.
In addition to astronomy, the retreat is seeing a growing demand for stand-up paddleboard yoga in the mornings.
The retreat is also offering a fully guided, immersive overnight family camping experience along the local Guadaloop River. This trip allows guests to explore larger stretches of the river, guided by experts, before returning to the retreat for additional relaxation
Another aspect of the retreat is sustainability. Jones noted several initiatives aimed at reducing the property’s environmental footprint.
From water conservation techniques like efficient irrigation systems to the installation of motion sensor lights and smart AC units, the retreat is incorporating eco-friendly technologies.
Geronimo Creek Retreat aligns with the findings of the first-ever MC Camper Compass Report, titled “Boosting Camper Stays: Key Strategies to Revive Campground Reservations.” The report highlights the importance of enhanced amenities and comfortable accommodations, alongside a diverse range of activities, to elevate the camper experience.
Geronimo Creek Retreat embraces these strategies by offering modern accommodations, such as treehouses, teepees, and safari cabins, all equipped with amenities like high-speed internet, which cater to the growing demand for comfort and connectivity in outdoor experiences.
Additionally, the retreat offers a wide range of activities designed to enhance guests’ experiences, from relaxing “Starry Nights” astronomy evenings to stand-up paddleboard yoga sessions. These offerings align with the report’s recommendations to diversify activity options, ensuring that guests have engaging and memorable experiences.
For more information about Geronimo Creek Retreat, visit their website here.
Featured image by Geronimo Creek Retreat via geronimocreekretreat.com