Introduction: Why Marketing Your Glampsite Matters
Running a successful glamping campsite is more than building a great space surrounded by nature. It’s about sharing a story, creating an experience, and reaching the people who are looking for a unique getaway.
It’s an incredible feeling to see what you’ve built – finishing projects, adding special touches, and seeing it all come together. Now it’s time to get the word out.
Knowing how to market your glamping campsite can make the difference between an occasional booking and a thriving business.
1. Tell the Story of Your Land
One of your greatest marketing assets is the story behind your glampsite. Guests don’t just book beds—they book experiences. If your land has a rich family history (like ours – we love that it was settled by our ancestors in 1858!), or if you built your cabins by hand, share that story. Post it on your website, in your welcome packet, and across your social media channels. This personal touch builds trust and emotional connection.
- Create an “About the Land” page on your website.
- Include old family photos or construction snapshots.
- Use storytelling to pull people in.
2. Know Your Ideal Guest
Before you spend anything on advertising, take some time to define your ideal guest. Are they families looking to disconnect? Couples searching for romantic retreats? Solo travelers seeking peace and quiet? Knowing this will help shape your messaging, design, and outreach strategies.
For example:
- Families: Emphasize safety, space, and activities for kids.
- Couples: Highlight privacy, sunsets, and fire pits.
- Remote workers: Mention Wi-Fi, peaceful mornings, and desk nooks.
3. Use Stunning Visuals—Always
Glamping is visual by nature. Potential guests want to imagine themselves in your space. High-quality photos and videos are key. Hire a professional if you can, or use your smartphone with attention to natural light and composition. Drone footage, sunrise shots, cozy interiors, and nighttime campfires all sell the dream.
- Use a consistent filter or aesthetic on your social media to create brand recognition.
- Create a 30-second site tour video for Instagram, Facebook, and your website.
- Use alt text on all website images to boost accessibility and SEO.
4. Build a Strong Website
Even if you’re listed on Airbnb or Hipcamp, your own website gives you more control. It’s the home base for your brand and a valuable long-term asset. Include:
- Booking engine or booking links to your third-party platforms
- A blog (like this one) to share updates and boost SEO
- Email sign-up form for building a guest list
It was worth it to us to pay a website designer for the initial set up (Invicta in Rochester, NY does amazing work at a fair price btw). The site is built in WordPress and we can easily update photos and narratives when needed.
5. Grow Your Presence on Social Media
Social platforms are where you show off your unique vibe. Instagram and TikTok are goldmines for visual content and organic reach. Facebook is great for community engagement and events. Pinterest is powerful for driving traffic to your site.
Post regularly and engage with your followers. Share:
- Behind-the-scenes building projects
- Guest testimonials and reposted photos (with permission)
- Reels about your daily life at the campsite
- Local attractions and nature scenes
6. Leverage Reviews and Word of Mouth
Encourage happy guests to leave reviews on Google, Airbnb, Hipcamp, and your Facebook page. Positive feedback not only builds trust but also boosts your visibility in search rankings. Consider offering a small thank-you (like a 10% discount on their next stay) for reviews or referrals.
7. Partner with Local Businesses
Collaborations help everyone. Reach out to nearby wineries, bakeries, yoga instructors, or tour guides. Offer to cross-promote or create weekend packages. For example:
- “Stay + Sip” weekends: A two-night stay with a local vineyard tasting tour
- Farm-to-Tent dinners: Partner with a nearby farm or chef
- Wellness retreats: Add yoga sessions or massage bookings
These partnerships not only add value for your guests but also extend your reach to new audiences.
Our favorite partnership is with the Birdsall Inn, a tavern, restaurant, and music venue less than a mile away. The owner rents our cabins for friends and family during live music events – we recommend the Inn to our guests (the food is amazing!).
8. Run Targeted Ads
If you have a budget, Facebook and Instagram ads can be effective when targeting the right audience. Start with a small daily budget and run A/B tests to see which photos, captions, and calls-to-action perform best.
Target people by:
- Location (e.g., people in nearby cities looking for weekend escapes)
- Interests (glamping, nature travel, eco-tourism, cabin life)
- Behavior (frequent travelers, outdoor gear shoppers)
9. Offer Special Promotions and Packages
Create urgency and exclusivity with limited-time offers. Use them during slower months to increase bookings. Consider:
- Early bird discounts for summer bookings
- Free firewood or s’mores kits for midweek stays
- Loyalty perks for returning guests
Announce these offers via email, on your site, and through social posts. Use countdown timers or scarcity language like “Only 3 spots left!” to increase conversions.
10. Collect and Use Guest Data
Use email sign-ups, booking info, and surveys to learn more about your guests. With their permission, you can create segmented mailing lists for better-targeted newsletters.
Example emails:
- Pre-arrival tips: What to pack, nearby hikes, fire rules
- Post-stay thank you: Ask for a review, offer a discount code
- Seasonal newsletter: Fall foliage stays, winter prep, or local events
Conclusion: Grow with Intention
Marketing your glamping campsite doesn’t have to feel overwhelming. Start with your story, focus on stunning visuals, and build authentic connections online and in your community. Over time, your glampsite won’t just be a place to stay—it will become a destination people are eager to share with friends and family.
Whether you’re just getting started or looking to take your bookings to the next level, these steps will help you build a strong, lasting brand around your glamping experience.
Photo by Campaign Creators on Unsplash
Photo by Melanie Deziel on Unsplash
Photo by Domenico Loia on Unsplash
Photo by Bailey Anselme on Unsplash
