Yogi Bear’s Jellystone Park Camp-Resorts has named Steve Stafford as the director of franchise sales.
Stafford, who previously served as the general manager of the North Texas Jellystone Park location for 13 years, will now be responsible for recruiting new franchisees and helping them transition their properties to the Jellystone Park brand. He will also assist franchisees who are interested in developing new locations.
“I fell in love with Jellystone Park when I saw the special way it brings families together,” Stafford said.
“Owning and running a Jellystone Park is more just than a business; it’s an extremely rewarding experience. I am truly excited about introducing potential franchisees to the opportunity I have enjoyed so much.”
Jellystone Park currently boasts over 75 franchised locations in the United States and Canada, known for their family activities, glamping-style accommodations, and attractions like pools and water slides.
In his new role, Stafford will meet with potential franchisees at several upcoming industry conferences to introduce them to the benefits of owning and operating a Jellystone Park.
Stafford will represent Jellystone Park at various industry conferences, including the California Outdoor Hospitality Association on March 28-29 in Roseville, California; the Texas Association of Campground Owners on April 25-26 in Conroe, Texas; the Florida and Alabama Campground Association on May 9-11 in Daytona Beach, Florida; and the Arizona Association of Campground Owners on June 7-9 in Fort McDowell, Arizona.
At the conferences, Stafford will meet with prospective franchisees and provide them with more information on the benefits of owning and operating a Jellystone Park.
Prospective franchisees interested in meeting with Stafford at the conferences may contact him at [email protected] or 248-208-2602.
For private campground owners and operators who are interested in expanding their business or transitioning to the Jellystone Park brand, Stafford’s appointment could be of interest. His expertise in converting an independent campground to a Jellystone Park location and successfully operating it for many years will be invaluable to those looking to make a similar transition.
In 2022, Jellystone Park celebrated its 16th consecutive year of revenue increases. Last year, nine new locations opened in Maine, Michigan, Missouri, New Jersey, New York, Ohio, Texas, and Virginia.
Additionally, several Jellystone Park locations have been acquired recently with new owners investing heavily in new park attractions, accommodations, and activities. The first Jellystone Park location in Utah is scheduled to open this summer.
Rob Schutter, the president of franchisor Camp Jellystone, said, “Steve brings a unique perspective to his new position, given his experience in converting an independent campground to a Jellystone Park location and successfully operating it for many years. The North Texas location is a great example of a premier Jellystone Park.”
Before joining the North Texas Jellystone Park, Stafford worked as a university counselor and administrator, as well as an elementary and middle school educator and coach.
Yogi Bear’s Jellystone Park Camp-Resorts is part of Sun Outdoors, which offers guests several ways to stay, from RV sites to vacation rentals, from tent camping to glamping, whether they stay for a weekend, season, or longer.
For private campground owners and operators looking to expand their business or transition to the Jellystone Park brand, Stafford’s appointment is an opportunity to work with someone who has firsthand experience in successfully operating a Jellystone Park location.
Jellystone Park’s continued revenue growth and expansion also indicate the strong demand for family-friendly camping and outdoor entertainment experiences.