Just drive in with your overnight bag.
Currently, AutoCamp is proposing its high-quality, low-impact outdoor experience for the modern traveler on a 160-acre site known as Copper Ranch, just west and north of Williams. The proposal before the Coconino County Planning and Zoning Division requests a zone change from general to resort commercial for the property of tall pines, grassy meadows and mountain views, about an hour’s drive from the Grand Canyon.
“The AutoCamp experience is unique in that guests don’t need a car filled with gear or even previous camping trip know-how under their belt. We make enjoying the outdoors accessible to everyone,” said AutoCamp Senior Acquisitions Manager Bernie Corea.
The company’s promotional material states, “AutoCamp has revolutionized alternative lodging by blending the traditional outdoors experience with the service and design of a boutique hotel. From luxury linens, bedding and bathrobes to mid-century modern inspired reception and meeting space, AutoCamp has reimagined the outdoor lodging experience for the modern adventurer.”
Up to 150 Airstream and canvas tent sites are proposed for the Williams location, each with its own outdoor cooking and dining area. “Airstream is a partner and investor in AutoCamp,” said Corea. “That’s something we’re very proud about, being able to represent this iconic American brand and really create this really cool nostalgic camping experience with a modern twist.”
AutoCamp is to be located on about 40 acres in the northwest corner of the 160-acre parcel, thus maintaining open space across most of the property to protect public views, says Corea. AutoCamp, which is car-free outside of the parking area, will build a network of trails throughout the property for bikers and hikers. Also, AutoCamp is planning to include employee housing for up to 20 staff members in a “modular park model, screened from guest views by the natural landscape,” according to the proposal.
The Airstreams will have a connection to water, wastewater and electrical services plus outside eating and patio areas, and firepits using compressed wood logs that reduce smoke and sparks. In addition, the property will showcase a main 6,000-square-foot, two-story clubhouse lounge, general store, gardens, pool and spa-inspired communal restrooms and showers – all designed to be integrated into the forest setting.
“We work hard to make each campground special by incorporating the area’s historical, cultural and ecological elements into the design,” said Corea.
The Cooper Ranch location is said to be a quick bike ride to Williams where visitors can enjoy the quaint Route 66 community along with its unique shops, restaurants, zipline, breweries and drive-thru wildlife park, Bearizona.
AutoCamp plans to work with local restaurants, businesses and organizations to feature locally sourced food, attractions and environmental messages, like “Leave No Trace” principles. Corea says the company expects to invite National Park Service and Forest Service rangers to the campground for fireside chats, as well as yogis and other fitness instructors to the property.
AutoCamp has four luxury Airstream outdoor properties in operation: Joshua Tree, Sonoma, Yosemite, and Cape Cod. Locations in Zion and the Catskills currently are under construction. Characteristics they share include being near a scenic outdoor destination, having quick access to a charming town and blending with the natural environment. Additionally, at each location, AutoCamp partners with local environmentally focused non-profits by donating a dollar per each night’s stay booked. In 2021, AutoCamp donated more than $40,000 to these organizations.
Company representatives say their target audience includes four demographic categories: families with young children, retirees, young professionals and companies that want to book retreats away from the traditional hotel meeting rooms.
Cost per night at the Copper Ranch location near Williams is projected to range from about $200 to $400. Corea says the average guest stay is about two days.
“We acknowledge humans have a natural need to be outdoors, and as society continues to develop and cities continue to build, people are not having that casual connection with nature,” he said. “It’s a lot of work to get out and camp. We want to preserve that experience in a safe and responsible way, and serve that natural need that we all have.”
The rezoning proposal will require approval by the Coconino County Board of Supervisors before the project can move forward. Should it be approved, company representatives expect AutoCamp near Williams will be open in 2024.
Hear more about AutoCamp and the company’s plans to come to Williams on Zonie Living: Business, Adventure and Leadership later this month at Dave Pratt’s StarWorldWideNetworks.com. QCBN
By Bonnie Stevens, QCBN
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