Amenity Operations: What Yesterday’s Pheasant Hunt Taught Me About Glamping

Micah and I spent yesterday at Rocky Mountain Roosters, a pheasant hunting preserve about thirty-five minutes from what will become MG2. The original idea was simple: get a sense of what “amenity-based operations” look like up close. Turns out, the place was a masterclass. Here are the take-aways Micah and I wrote down:

Identity matters. Their lodge wasn’t fancy, but it was unmistakably “them.”
The big wall map gave structure to the entire visit and invited curiosity.
Dogs and photo spots created connection and shareable moments.
Small touches — candy jars, old photos, rustic signs — added personality.
Functionality was built into every corner: check-in, seating, traffic flow.
Sitting areas (inside and out) encouraged people to slow down and hang out.
A simple liability waiver handled risk without overcomplicating the operation.
Micro-experiences (like watching the dogs work) elevated perceived value.
The lodge served as the anchor for everything else on the property.

So how does this translate to a glamping business? Amenities are what transform a glamping site into a place. Not a park. Not a campground. A place. Here’s the way forward for Monument Glamping:

Create small gathering spaces with intention: stargazing benches, scenic lookout chairs, hammock clusters.
Build a “welcome lodge” (small footprint, big personality) that becomes the emotional center of the stay.
Introduce micro-experiences: sunset walks, coffee tastings, fireside evenings, curated trails.
Develop a large map display showing the land, the story, and future plans.
Enhance the property’s identity through décor, signage, and subtle storytelling.
Build warm, social “linger spaces” that naturally extend guest stays.
Offer pet-friendly bonuses and photo-friendly moments that make the experience feel personal.

If you’re developing your own site, don’t think “amenities = expensive builds.” Think layers of experience.

A couple of smart, intentional additions can change the way people feel about your land — and that feeling is what drives bookings, reviews, and long-term success.

This trip was a good reminder for me: amenities aren’t optional. They’re leverage.

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