How to Setup Glamping Site in Florida (2025 Guide)

Florida’s calling with palm-lined sunsets, year-round warmth, and travelers eager to sleep under the stars without roughing it.

If you’ve ever dreamed of turning your land into a nature-meets-comfort escape, this guide on how to set up a glamping site in Florida walks you through everything — from permits and budgets to structure choices and insider tips that set you up for success.

At Tree Tents USA, we’ve helped resort owners, farmers, and eco-entrepreneurs design unforgettable spaces where guests reconnect with nature and still enjoy the comforts of a hot shower and a cozy bed.

Whether you’re figuring out how to start a glamping business in Florida or just researching ideas, this is your roadmap to getting it right from the start.

Why Florida Is the Best State to Start a Glamping Business?

Florida is one of the most promising states for glamping entrepreneurs. With nearly 140 million visitors in 2024, diverse landscapes, and a booming tourism economy, Florida offers the perfect mix of demand, accessibility, and year-round income potential.

From coastal hammocks to pine forests and freshwater springs, Florida glamping locations give you endless creative freedom. You can pitch luxury tents in Florida under palm canopies, build treehouse glamping in Florida above live oaks, or install prefab glamping cabins near Crystal Springs.

Mild winters mean no off-season closures — just steady bookings, high occupancy, and faster returns. And with favorable eco tourism zoning Florida regulations, setting up your site is often smoother here than in other states.

Thinking about turning your Florida property into a glamping retreat?

Types of Glamping Accommodations That Work Best in Florida

Before diving into layouts or budgets, get to know which structures thrive in Florida’s climate. With the right mix, you can attract a wide range of travelers and stand out among other glamping sites in Florida.

Step-by-Step Guide: How to Set Up a Glamping Site in Florida

Setting up a glamping site is more than pitching a few tents — it’s about building something lasting and profitable. Here’s your complete step-by-step plan.

1. Check Zoning and Permits

Before ordering structures, confirm your county’s zoning rules. Most rural and agricultural zones in Florida allow eco tourism or farm stays with a special exception.
Visit your county’s planning department for glamping zoning laws in Florida, glamping permits, and campground regulations.

Emphasize low-impact and temporary structures. Counties often approve projects faster when they don’t require heavy foundations or utilities.

2. Choose the Right Site and Layout

Flat, well-drained land near natural attractions is ideal. Avoid flood zones using FEMA maps and plan around shade, which helps with cooling and comfort.

Glamping site layout design tips:

• Space units 40–60 feet apart for privacy
  

• Add shared paths to a bathhouse, fire pit, and parking
  

• Orient decks toward sunrise or sunset for unbeatable views
  

At Tree Tents USA, we always walk the site at sunrise and dusk to understand light, sound, and atmosphere before building.

3. Select Durable, Eco-Friendly Structures

Florida’s humid, coastal climate demands strength and sustainability. Choose materials that resist corrosion, moisture, and wind.

Our Tree Tent and Fuselage Cabin are engineered for Florida’s unique conditions — aluminum framing resists salt air, and modular designs keep your footprint light. For safari tents and domes, look for UV-resistant, marine-grade fabrics with reinforced anchoring.

See which eco-structure fits your location best.

4. Build Sustainable Utilities and Off-Grid Systems

Guests love off-grid stays, but comfort still matters. Luckily, Florida’s sun and rainfall make eco glamping utilities simple and efficient.

Always file utility plans with local building departments, even for off-grid glamping site setups.

5. Design a Memorable Guest Experience

Beyond the basics, what turns visitors into loyal fans is the experience.
Create moments that connect people to the land — hammocks, outdoor baths, citrus-scented toiletries, or stargazing kits with constellation maps.
These thoughtful touches raise your reviews, ROI, and rebooking rate.

Want inspiration for your guest experience design?
See Real Eco Retreats Built with Tree Tents →

6. Manage Licensing, Insurance, and Compliance

Register your business with Florida’s Division of Corporations and apply for a glamping license in Florida via the Department of Health.
Secure liability insurance covering guest safety and weather events. If you plan to serve food or host events, apply for separate permits.

Visit Florida’s Outdoor Hospitality Resources for detailed startup guidance.

7. Market Your Glamping Site for Visibility and Bookings

Once your site is ready, it’s time to spread the word. Focus on storytelling and authentic visuals.

Marketing checklist:

• Create a Google Business Profile with optimized photos
  

• List on Hipcamp, Glamping Hub, or Airbnb
  

• Partner with local tourism boards
  

• Encourage guests to tag your location on social media
  

Those first 20 reviews build momentum, so reply warmly and consistently.

How much Does Setting Up Glamping Cost in Florida?

Here’s a realistic cost breakdown to plan your glamping business budget:

Total per unit: $25,000 to $80,000

Owners near top glamping spots in Florida — beaches, springs, or forests — often charge $200–$350 per night and recoup investment within two to three years.

Factors to Consider When Building a Glamping Site

At Tree Tents USA, each unit is built for durability and minimal maintenance, engineered for Florida’s conditions.

6 Tips for Running a Successful Glamping Site in Florida

• Start small and scale smartly.
  

• Build local partnerships for authentic touches.
  

• Offer unique experiences like yoga decks or paddleboard rentals.
  

• Keep your eco-practices transparent and verifiable.
  

• Design photogenic spaces for organic promotion.
  

• Maintain year-round bookings with off-season specials.
  

FAQs About Starting a Glamping Site in Florida

What permits do I need to start a glamping site in Florida?

Most counties require a special-use or conditional-use permit for glamping or eco-tourism. You’ll also need sanitation and power compliance. Contact your local planning department and the Florida DEP for guidance.

Can I build a glamping site on agricultural land in Florida?

Yes. Florida supports agritourism and eco-tourism projects on agricultural land, as long as structures are low-impact and meet environmental and safety standards.

How much does it cost to start a glamping business in Florida?

Startup costs typically range from $25,000 to $80,000 per unit, depending on the structure and amenities. Start small to test the market.

What are the best locations for glamping sites in Florida?

Top-performing areas include the Gulf Coast, Central Florida, the Florida Keys, and near the Everglades. Properties near beaches and springs offer the highest return.

How profitable is a glamping business in Florida?

Many site owners see a full return on investment within two to three years, especially with sustainable designs and strong marketing.

Turn Your Florida Property Into a Profitable Eco Retreat

Creating a glamping site in Florida isn’t just about tents and permits — it’s about building something that connects people to the land while supporting your financial goals.

At Tree Tents USA, we design modular, off-grid structures that help landowners create sustainable, low-impact stays that guests love and nature can sustain.

Let’s bring your glamping vision to life.

Turn your Florida sunshine into your next eco resort success story.