Yogi Bear’s Jellystone Park Camp-Resorts Franchise

Values & History

Like many business ventures, Yogi Bear's Jellystone Parks began with one man, an idea, and enough gumption to take a risk. Doug Haag, of Manitowoc, Wisconsin, was already a successful advertising executive in the summer of 1968 when a drive down the local highway changed his future.

As he whizzed past numerous cars packed with families pulling pop-ups and trailers, the concept struck him. All these campers needed a place to stay and might want something better than a campground along a busy highway. What if there was a "destination" campground, where families could spend their vacations swimming, playing, and enjoying nature? From this simple idea, Jellystone Parks was born.

Founded in 1969, the Jellystone Park system has grown to include over 75 locations in the US and Canada, making it the second largest campground franchise in the country. And, it is the only franchised campground that focuses on families and kids.

Industry Performance

Leisure Systems Inc. (LSI) is the only outdoor hospitality franchisor ranked on Entrepreneur Magazine's "Franchise 500." Our inclusion in the Franchise 500 not only reflects the growing financial strength of the Jellystone Park franchise system, but rising consumer and investor awareness of Jellystone Parks as the family camping venue of choice across North America.

Even during times of economic challenges, the franchise has grown both in locations and revenue. In fact, during the recession from 2006-2011 the average revenue per park grew by 10 percent and the number of locations grew from 65 to 77. Given today's improving economic climate which is seeing more and more families using their expendable income for leisure and travel, there has never been a better time to join this $7 billion industry.

Training & Support

When you partner with Leisure Systems Inc., your franchise business will benefit from over 40 years of campground experience. We have a seasoned staff who is ready to assist your transition through training, consulting and resources. In addition, you have access to the knowledge and advice of 79 other franchisee owners and operators.

Training programs are provided at no cost to franchisees beyond hotel and airfare. Leisure Systems Inc. (LSI) has created extensive training programs for both new and experienced Jellystone Park owners. We strive to keep our owners and operators on the forefront of the camping industry through a variety of education opportunities including conferences, seminars on hot topics, notable speakers, and a resource library.

Training programs and opportunities include:

• Certification and Management Program (CAMP)
• Caring About Recreation and Entertainment (CARE)
• NSPF Certified Pool Operators (CPO) Course
• Spring Meeting
• Symposium & Trade Show
• Operations Manual & Resource Material
• Online Business Learning

Ideal Candidate & Qualifications

Owning and operating a Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park requires a high level of energy, enthusiasm, and commitment. Successful franchisees are often those who currently own or have experience working in a campground, but this is not a requirement. What is essential, however, is a genuine enjoyment of people--especially families and children--and a desire to create fun and exciting experiences for them to enjoy.

Purchasing a Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park Camp-Resorts Franchise

The costs for opening a Jellystone Park franchise can vary considerably depending on several factors. For this reason, the total initial investment can range from $200,000 to $2,000,000. Different pathways to ownership exist, including conversion of a currently owned campground, purchasing of a campground for conversion, and building from scratch. Each of these pathways has its own requirements in order to maintain brand integrity, so we encourage you to contact us for more information about your specific situation.