Ground Up: Freedom Yurt Cabins
We’re thrilled to highlight AGA Top 50 member Freedom Yurt Cabins through the Manufacturer-Operator Lens! Read on to learn more about their Freedom Yurt Resorts in Canyon Lake, Texas.
Some of the most meaningful innovations in glamping come from those who do it all—manufacturers who not only build structures but also operate their own resorts! These manufacturer-operators offer a rare blend of expertise, combining real-time guest feedback with practical knowledge of materials, design, and on-the-ground functionality.
What inspired you to both manufacture glamping structures and operate your own glamping resort?
We launched Freedom Yurt-Cabins to bring a more permanent, high-quality solution to the glamping world. Building our own resort, Freedom Yurt Resorts, was a natural extension—it allows us to showcase our structures in their ideal environment and gives people a chance to experience them firsthand. It’s one thing to see a structure online, but another to live in it, even just for a weekend.
How has owning a glamping resort influenced the way you design and build your accommodations?
Operating our own glamping resort has provided invaluable, real-world feedback on the performance of our structures. This hands-on experience has significantly influenced our design process—shaping everything from insulation and ventilation to layout and interior finishes. By closely observing guest comfort, structural durability, and the overall user experience, we’ve gained a deep understanding of what truly works in the field. These insights have allowed us to refine our products in ways that directly support a stronger return on investment (ROI) for resort operators, ensuring that each structure delivers lasting value and exceptional guest satisfaction.
Do you view the resort as a testing ground for new product designs or concepts? How often do you iterate based on guest feedback?
Absolutely. The resort is like our living, breathing R&D lab. We regularly prototype and test new upgrades— structural enhancement, or even new amenities—and guest feedback plays a huge role in those iterations. If something isn’t resonating or could be better, we hear about first hand.
Are there specific guest experiences that have directly shaped changes in your manufacturing design?
Yes, specific guest experiences have directly shaped our design changes. For example, we received consistent feedback that guests wanted to enjoy the scenic views without the discomfort of outdoor conditions—whether it was too hot or cold. In response, we are now incorporating larger windows to bring the beauty of nature into the cabin, allowing guests to experience the outdoors from the comfort of their space. Additionally, feedback from guests who sought more room for socializing and larger gatherings has led us to design larger structures that can accommodate these needs, ensuring we continue to meet the evolving demands of our guests and the growing need for event spaces.
How do you ensure the design reflects both your brand and the environment it’s in?
Freedom Yurt-Cabins began with a simple mission: to blend the charm of a yurt with the integrity of a cabin. Our designs reflect that by balancing modern comfort with a natural aesthetic that complements the environment. We’re intentional about every detail—from materials and colors to layout—so our structures feel connected to nature without sacrificing quality or functionality. It’s not about being traditionally rustic; it’s about creating a refined, all-season space that feels like it truly belongs.
What are some of the biggest challenges of wearing both hats—manufacturer and resort operator? What unexpected advantages have you discovered by doing both?
Balancing the logistics and priorities of two very different businesses is no small feat. But the advantage is unmatched insight—what we learn from the resort directly informs the manufacturing process and vice versa. It also gives us credibility—we don’t just build yurt-cabins, we live and breathe the experience we’re offering.
What do your guests say they love most about staying in your accommodations? Are there any standout guest stories or moments that have left a lasting impression on your team?
Guests often mention the “wow factor” the moment they walk in—how a smaller space can feel so open and unrestricted. The vaulted ceiling and central dome let in an abundance of natural light and offer a stunning view of the sky, making the cabin feel bright, airy, and inspiring. It’s in these moments—when a 3-year-old child doesn’t want to leave or a family gathers under the dome to watch the stars— making memories that last. That’s what sticks with us and fuels our passion every day.
What’s one thing you wish more people knew about the glamping business behind the scenes?
It’s not all Instagram sunsets and cozy interiors—it’s a deeply dynamic business that requires constant attention to detail, guest experience, and facility upkeep. But the reward is incredible. When you see someone unplug, reconnect, and truly unwind in a space you built from the ground up, it’s worth every challenge.
In a rapidly growing glamping industry, it’s the creative, hands-on perspectives like these that are helping to shape what comes next—elevating both the guest experience and the structures that support it. A big thank you to Freedom Yurt Cabins for offering your valuable insights with us and the wider glamping community!
