Zac Willms, co-owner of a successful glamping resort in Tobermory, Ontario, shares his journey of transforming a neglected trailer park into a lucrative outdoor destination. He discusses the lucrative potential of glamping, outlining strategies for low startup costs and high cash flow. Zac dives into clever marketing tactics, including influencer partnerships, to achieve a 70% direct booking rate. He also provides insights on investing in campgrounds, navigating zoning regulations, and planning for growth in outdoor hospitality.
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insights INSIGHT
Glamping Profit Potential
A glamping tent setup costs about $12,000 but generates $25,000 to $27,000 in one season.
This shows high profit potential with low startup costs in the glamping business.
question_answer ANECDOTE
Tobermory Location Highlights
Zac's glamping resort is located in Tobermory, Ontario, notable for its turquoise waters and national parks.
The site offers diverse activities like hiking, scuba diving, and boat trips, enhancing guest appeal.
volunteer_activism ADVICE
Buy Campground, Not Raw Land
Buying an existing campground reduces upfront risk and financing challenges compared to raw land development.
Use campgrounds as a foundation, then add glamping to minimize complexity and accelerate returns.
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Buy Back Your Time is a definitive guide for entrepreneurs at every level, teaching them how to scale their business quickly while avoiding burnout. The book introduces the 'Buy Back Principle,' which emphasizes hiring people to do repetitive and low-value tasks, allowing entrepreneurs to focus on high-value activities that bring energy and fulfillment. Dan Martell provides practical steps, frameworks like the 'replacement ladder' and 'DRIP matrix,' and strategies for outsourcing, automation, and prioritization to enhance both professional and personal life. The book is structured around key frameworks and tools, making it a valuable resource for entrepreneurs looking to achieve a better work-life balance and build a thriving business empire.
What if you could double your money in one season with glamping tents? Zac Willms is pulling it off — and building a profitable outdoor brand in the process.
In this episode, Mike and Nate talk with Zac Willms, co-owner of a thriving glamping resort in Tobermory, Ontario. Zac shares how he turned a neglected trailer park into a profitable outdoor hospitality destination, the simple formula behind his success, and why buying an old campground might be the real cheat code.
We unpack everything from startup costs, seasonal cash flow, and staffing — to marketing strategy, zoning hacks, and influencer partnerships that built a 70% direct booking rate.
If you’re looking to create high-margin hospitality experiences without the complexity of hotel development, this one’s for you.