Family brings 'glamping' experience to Paradise
The Gaul family inside one of their large tents at their glamping business along the Flathead River near Paradise. From left, Heidi Gaul, Boaz, LeRoy, Bridger and Annie. (Chuck Bandel/VP-MI)
One of the large tents (foreground) and the smaller tents available on the Gaul family property outside of Paradise. (Chuck Bandel/VP-MI)
Bridger Gaul demonstrates on the outdoor shower stalls with hot and cold running water. (Chuck Bandel/VP-MI)
Camping, like so many things, has evolved from the days of the Old West.
Take for example, the approach to camping by the Gaul family, who recently began a “glamping” business on their scenic property that looks as if it came from a Norman Rockwell painting.
“My wife (Annie) and I were both brought up going on pack horse outings in Idaho,” said Bridger Gaul, co-owner of the luxurious form of camping they opened on property they own and live on along the mesmerizing Flathead River near it’s confluence with the Clark Fork River just outside of Paradise.
“We couldn’t help thinking this is such a beautiful place, why not share it with others. Last summer we put the plan together and are hoping folks will come and check this out.”
Recognizing that not everyone likes or was made to sleep on the ground in sleeping bags, the Gauls decided to offer a way for those who want to enjoy the outdoors without surrendering the luxuries and amenities of home.
They opened their business, north of the Paradise Gardens vegetable stand last month and recently hosted some curious customers who have stayed in their large, clean tents.
The business offers two sizes of tents, one which sleeps two in a large, comfortable bed, and another, larger tent, with room for several more guests.
Each tent has its own fire ring for night-time campfire enthusiasts. The tents themselves are erected on slightly elevated wooden platforms and feature front flaps that open wide to take in the Flathead and the nearby mountains.
“This is a beautiful valley,” said Ann. “It is a perfect place for enjoying the outdoors. We have everything from Bighorn Sheep to eagles to deer wandering by. And the river is a great place for fishing, canoeing, kayaking and swimming in the summer months.”
The experience also features a pair of outdoor stall showers with hot water supplied by a modern, on-demand water heating system. The tents themselves are decked out inside with floor rugs and artwork, creating an at home atmosphere mixed with outdoor living.
The large tents (12x18) rent for $150 a night, while the smaller tents (12X12) go for $125. Both feature queen size beds with old style metal frames.
Guests can also experience country living features such as milking a cow, or going for a swim in a nearby “back eddy” created by the Flathead River when the spring melt eases up.
“This is just a good place to slow down and relax,” Bridger said. “You don’t even have to pitch your own tent.”
People wanting more information about the Glamping experience can call 208-596-9426. The business is open from May to Labor Day.
