Today we’d like to introduce you to Chelsi Low.
Chelsi, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
I founded Aefintyr in 2019. I’ve always enjoyed camping, outdoor adventures and hospitality. After years of experiencing the benefits and joys of spending time in nature, I was inspired to find a way to share this with others. I wanted to create a space that felt more like the wilderness than a resort but still provide creatures comforts to guests, comfortable bedding and bathrooms, for a camping like experience without the need for any special gear or planning.
I had purchased the land that the campground is on years ago and used it for recreation. It was a long process to get through all the permitting and approvals, find funding and to ultimately complete the project. It was a great learning experience, and I am excited to do more campground / glamping projects in the future! I’ve discovered that I have a lot of passion for this work, and it brings me joy.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
The road was not all smooth sailing. My biggest challenges were navigating all the government entities and figuring out how to finance the project and end up with a positive cash flow. There was minimal to no communication between government entities, so even if the City or the Department of Health approved something it didn’t mean the Township or the County would. I got lots of different answers to the same question, depending on who I asked. I also realized that people in local government hold a lot of power and often it’s more about who you know than anything. Some of the neighboring landowners were very skeptical and vocal. I was verbally harassed, called names and sworn at in a local establishment one night after the construction had started. It was clear the guy was trying to intimidate me, and it was in a public place in front of other people. That was interesting! I worked with some great government people who helped me find my way through it all and others who didn’t support it. Even on a personal level some family and friends were skeptical, rightfully so. In the end, the votes, by a small margin, were in my favor and my passion for the project kept me going.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your business?
Aefintyr is a wilderness inspired campground specializing in hike-in rustic glamping, treehouse cabins and outfitting. We are located in the Whitewater River Valley which is in the Driftless Region of Southeastern Minnesota. The property has 3 treehouse cabins and 8 spacious, private, “suite style” hike-in camp/glampsites spread out across 14 acres of bluff woodlands. We offer a small selection of retail items such as firewood and backpacking food. Our cabins and bell tents are pet friendly! This year we are launching outfitting services where guests can rent camping equipment and pick it up or have us deliver and set up camp for them.
Aefintyr was designed to be a peaceful place without crowds. The ethos revolves around reconnecting with nature, offering a wilderness-inspired experience that emphasizes simplicity, comfort, and the rejuvenating power of the outdoors. Aefintyr is for all experience levels. Whether you are a seasoned camper or never camper it is the perfect place for an authentic camping experience. It is a great place to try a first camping trip, for families or groups looking for a low stress, memorable adventure, a unique romantic getaway (esp the outdoor beds!) or a solo journey.
The treehouse cabins seamlessly blend rustic charm with modern comfort and are perfect for guests looking for a camping / glamping experience but prefer lodging accommodations. The cabins have heat, a/c, electricity, wi-fi, mini fridge, microwave and coffee pot. Hanging hammock chairs outside underneath the cabin. Private firepit. Shared outdoor seating areas and gas grill. Linens and towels are provided.
Our hike-in rustic glamping is a backpacking like adventure into the bluff woodlands with beautiful valley views. The perfect blend of rugged, remote, convenience and comfort for a revitalizing getaway. Enjoy a short but challenging hike up to your spacious, private woodland campsite and it will be ready for you! Private firepit w/ cooking grate/skillet, table with 4 chairs, mattresses, pillows, and linens (fitted sheets, pillowcases, sleeping bags and towels) included. Designed for active people looking for an authentic hike-in camping experience with creature comforts provided.
Aefintyr aims to lead in camping and recreation innovation while promoting sustainable practices and inclusivity. Nature is our favorite amenity! We invite you to unplug, relax and soak up the benefits of spending time in the woods. Connect with friends and family or come solo and take some time for yourself.
Is there any advice you’d like to share with our readers who might just be starting out?
There is a lot to know and don’t let fear of the unknown or fear of failure keep you from working toward your dreams and goals. Seek out people and organizations who can support you with education, resources, moral support and alternate perspectives. I benefited greatly from the Collider Foundation in Rochester as I was working through my idea for the hike-in glamping. I participated in the CO.STARTERS program through Collider which really helped me flesh out my idea and I met so many talented and inspiring people. Don’t be surprised if your plan changes significantly or becomes something completely different as you continue to test and develop your ideas. Eventually your business will become bigger than you and it is important to embrace the skills and expertise of others.
Pricing:
- Treehouse stays starts at $129 a night
- Rustic Hike-in Glamping stays start at $64 a night
- Outfitting packages start at $105 per night
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.aefintyroutdoors.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/aefintyr/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100088475505001
