Ground UP! The Bushtec Safari and Wyldstay Story
When a company known for building world-class safari tents decides to operate their own glamping resorts, something remarkable happens — a unique perspective emerges that bridges design, craftsmanship, and real-world guest experience. That’s exactly what inspired Bushtec Safari USA to expand from manufacturing luxury canvas accommodations into operating their own glamping resorts under the WYLDSTAY brand. Answers are from Brooke Simons, Sales Manager at Bushtec Safari USA.
Bringing the Vision to Life
“Bushtec has been hands-on in the manufacturing and installation process for years. We know people love the product, so we wanted to take things one step further... that is when the idea for WYLDSTAY was born.”
WYLDSTAY is Bushtec’s partnership and revenue-share program designed for landowners who want to enter the glamping space but don’t have the upfront capital. Bushtec provides the assets — their luxury safari-style tents and furnishings, while partners bring the land and hospitality.
“This venture has given us the amazing opportunity to immerse ourselves in the operations side of the business and to form and grow lasting, meaningful relationships with our partners.”
How Operations Shape Design
Operating WYLDSTAY resorts has directly influenced how Bushtec designs and builds its accommodations.
“Fortunately, Bushtec is capable of manufacturing customizable units,” the team explains. “We can tailor the size, number of bedrooms, or even the number of windows and doors. Customization was critical when we established WYLDSTAY Smoky Mountains, since that resort had existing deck spaces. We custom-made tents to fit perfectly, and it worked out beautifully for all parties.”
Experimentation Through Experience
Each WYLDSTAY property acts as a real-world testing ground for design and innovation.
“We’re not a cookie-cutter model,” they share. “We offer a whole range of luxury accommodations, from traditional safari tents to ultra-luxury insulated-canvas units with en-suite bathrooms. This allows us to test the market, to see what guests truly value, and what makes sense for each location or demographic.”
Guest feedback plays a major role in this process. For instance, the growing demand for year-round comfort led Bushtec to explore new insulation techniques and climate-control options, including insulated canvas, mini-split units, and portable heaters.
Designing With Place in Mind
While each WYLDSTAY resort reflects its local environment, the Bushtec brand remains at the heart of every design.
“All our resorts feature Bushtec Safari canvas tents,” the team says. “But each location also celebrates something unique. At WYLDSTAY Greenville, guests can enjoy farm experiences like petting highland cows. WYLDSTAY Smoky Mountains offers kayaking on Douglas Lake, while WYLDSTAY Grand Canyon features the only holistic spa in the Grand Canyon region. At WYLDSTAY, the experience is just as important as the stay itself.”
Balancing Two Worlds
Running a manufacturing company and multiple resorts isn’t without challenges.
“It can be difficult juggling multiple properties, online reservations, guest inquiries, all while still manufacturing and installing tents across the country,” they admit. “Luckily, we’ve partnered with amazing people who collaborate with a team-oriented mindset.”
That teamwork and flexibility have become Bushtec’s biggest advantage — a blend of creative design, operational know-how, and strong relationships across the industry.
The Guest Perspective
For many first-time guests, the experience of staying in a Bushtec tent is nothing short of awe-inspiring.
“The guests are blown away that they’re staying in a ‘tent’. We often hear, ‘This is like a house!’ Our partners, who often act as resort hosts, add a personal touch that guests remember long after their stay.”
Advice for Future Glamping Entrepreneurs
As both manufacturer and operator, Bushtec offers a grounded perspective on what it takes to succeed in glamping.
“The glamping space is full of adventure-seeking, kind-hearted individuals. Don’t be afraid to reach out — most are happy to offer advice. And definitely stay at a glamping resort yourself. Take note of what you love about the property, and what you’d change to make it uniquely yours.”
By wearing both hats, manufacturer and operator, Bushtec and Wyldstay have built more than beautiful tents. They’ve built a bridge between design and experience, production and passion, canvas and connection.
