Blowing Springs prepares for popular 'glamping'

Lynn Atkins/The Weekly Vista Finishing touches are still in the works for Bella Vista's first "glamping pod" at Blowing Springs Park. The pod sleeps two people and has its own bathroom, as well as a microwave and a small refrigerator.
Lynn Atkins/The Weekly Vista Finishing touches are still in the works for Bella Vista's first "glamping pod" at Blowing Springs Park. The pod sleeps two people and has its own bathroom, as well as a microwave and a small refrigerator.

Although the new structure isn't yet ready to be rented, recreation director Joan Glubczynski knows it will be popular. People have already been calling and asking to rent Bella Vista's new glamping pod.

Glamping is a new term that combines camping and glamour. The pod is a small building just past the newly upgraded RV sites in Blowing Springs Park. Outside, there are two blue chairs and a fire ring. Inside is a bed, a bathroom, a microwave oven and a small refrigerator. It's not exactly camping, but it's not a hotel room either. Each unit has its own heat and air conditioning.

Glubczynski expects the peak time for pod camping to come in the fall.

The pod was manufactured in Noel, Mo., and Glubczynski has been purchasing the furnishings. She's still working out the reservation system. If it's successful, several more pods may be added to the park. There may be money in next year's budget for additional pods, she said.

General News on 09/12/2018