If you’re a campsite operator looking to improve, expand, or diversify your business, glamping may just be the answer.
Adding glamping units to an existing camping site allows you to expand into new markets, extend your operating season, improve your nightly rates, increase returns on existing pitches, and stand out from the competition.
Whether you’re just getting started or have been interested in glamping for a while, here are five ways that glamping can improve your campsite.
New offerings, new markets
Camping is a fantastic accommodation option, offering cheap, versatile outdoor stays at a time when getting back to nature is all the rage.
However, not everyone is ready and willing to pitch a tent and spend a night on the ground.
Glamping offers an attractive alternative for upscale travellers who want to get into the great outdoors but aren’t willing to sacrifice comfort.
Having glamping units on your campsite allows you to tap into this premium market segment using your existing infrastructure.
It’s also a great option for first-time campers. A recent report by Kampgrounds of America (KOA) revealed that 32% of new campers in 2024 chose glamping or cabins as their first stay.
And 87% of those who reported having a great experience said they were likely to continue camping in the future.
Accommodation for all ages
Almost half (47%) of travellers in 2025 are opting for multigenerational or family trips, up 17% compared to 2024, according to a survey from travel insurance company Squaremouth.
That means children, grandparents, parents – maybe even an aunt or two – all going to the same place.
This can make activities and accommodation challenging, especially when looking for nature-based trips.
Adding glamping to a campsite means intergenerational groups can stay at the same site but in different units – some in tents, others in cabins, some in RVs.
This is especially important for older guests, as 34% of “Baby Boomer” campers are now choosing glamping, up from 20% ten years ago, according to the KOA report.
Year-round camping you’ll actually enjoy
Camping is very seasonal. In 2018, July and August accounted for 58% of all the nights spent in campsites across the EU – that’s a lot of business to pack into a very short time.
Depending on the type of unit you choose, glamping can significantly extend a campsite’s operating season.
Cabins, pods, and even insulated and/or heated tents can push campsite seasons into autumn and even year-round stays.
And while glamping is particularly useful for extending operations into the winter season, insulated units also provide relief from the heat.
With scorching summers becoming increasingly common, keeping guests cool during traditional peak camping seasons will become more important.
Higher nightly rates and a good deal for guests
Glamping units generally command higher nightly rates than traditional camping pitches.
This allows campsite operators to increase revenues and improve returns on existing pitches.
A variety of pricing options also allows campsites to caters to a wider range of price points, with guests able to find a pitch and product that suits their budget.
The type and size of the glamping unit will impact the nightly rate, as will the uniqueness and originality of the unit.
From a guest’s perspective, glamping is still often significantly cheaper than a stay in a hotel or short-term rental.
It can also be very appealing for new campers as it enables them to get into nature without committing to expensive camping equipment.
Stand out from the competition
The European Union had 28, 400 campsites in 2017 – with estimates putting it at more than 30,000 by next year.
How do you stand out from the crowd?
Glamping, especially more unique or quirky units, can be a great way to differentiate your operation from the competition.
A study by American Express found that 48% of travellers want to go to destinations they can show off on social media, and 75% use social media to research and inspire their next trip.
Having accommodation that is Instagram-worthy can make all the difference as part of a rounded marketing strategy for a hospitality operation.
What’s next for glamping at your campsite?
Overall, adding glamping to your camping sites allows for higher nightly rates, longer seasons, and a wider audience.
But before jumping in, it’s important to understand what will (and won’t) work at your unique operation.
Ensure you research units, carry out a robust feasibility plan, and have a solid business strategy in place to take your campsite to the next level.
If you’re interested in learning more, get in touch with Glamping Advisors today to see how glamping could help your campsite.
