Why Associations Matter in Evolving Industries
And Why the AGA Matters in Glamping!
The glamping industry is experiencing a natural but significant shift. What began as a movement fueled by passion, adventure, and a dream to connect with nature is maturing into a fully formed sector of outdoor tourism and hospitality. Veterans within the industry are thinking not just about ambiance and hospitality, but about zoning, financing, operations, staffing, sustainability, long-term growth and even exit plans.
The glamping evolution is a sign of strength. And it’s exactly why associations matter.
Structure for Sustainable Growth
Every emerging industry eventually reaches a point where structure becomes essential. Glamping is no exception. With new operators entering the space every month and new concepts appearing worldwide, there’s a real need for reliable information, shared learning, and consistent support. The American Glamping Association (AGA) helps bring that structure.
By offering educational resources, real-world business guidance, and connections to trusted experts, the AGA helps operators avoid the pitfalls that often come with rapid growth. Structure provides a foundation to flourish. The AGA is proud to be part of that momentum and excited for the future we’re all building side by side.
Standards That Elevate the Entire Industry
Guests seek high-quality experiences, investors expect professionalism, and communities want reassurance that development is thoughtful and responsible. This is where industry standards become critical. The AGA supports operators and manufacturers by promoting best practices, safety and operational guidelines to help ensure consistency across the industry.
Want more inspiration from professionals across the industry? Consider exploring our Ground Up: Manufacturer–Operator Lens series on the AGA blog and hear from industry pros who both build the structures and run the stays.
A Unified Voice in a Growing Field
The AGA brings glamping into important conversations with policymakers, tourism boards, and other outdoor hospitality leaders. This unified voice helps ensure that regulations, resources, and opportunities reflect the real needs and realities of glamping operators. As the glamping industry matures, the role of a unifying association becomes more essential.
Want to give your voice a platform? Consider teaching or attending an AGA Lunch & Learn! These sessions are designed to highlight the real-world insights and expertise of our community. Whether you’re a seasoned industry veteran, a creative thinker, or a hands-on operator, your perspective is valuable and we want to help you share it.
Support for the Increasing Complexity of Business
In glamping’s early days, passion was often enough to get started. However, today’s operators and veterans alike, face a new landscape. Questions around permitting, tech systems, insurance requirements, site operations, and guest expectations require serious business strategy.
The AGA evolves alongside the industry, offering support that grows more sophisticated as member needs become more complex. Whether through webinars, one-on-one guidance, industry partnerships, or the new BetterMode community, the AGA ensures operators never have to navigate this complexity alone.
Interested in teaching a webinar or participating in the next masterclass? Send us an email: info@americanglampingassociation.net
Community at the Core
One thing about glamping has remained constant: its sense of community. As the industry matures and new needs emerge, our goal is to keep strengthening that bond and serving our members with the support that growth demands.
The AGA plays a central role in preserving that community spirit. Through member meet-ups, Connection Stories, shared conversations on BetterMode, and opportunities to collaborate.
Have questions? Want to get more involved? We’d love to hear from you!
Send us an email at info@americanglampingassociation.net
