Beyond the Rough: Alaskan Comfort Awaits at BlueWater BaseCamp
Contributed by Alaska Small Business Development Center
Imagine this: you crave the breathtaking beauty of the Alaskan wilderness, but cozy comfort is equally important. Dream no more! BlueWater BaseCamp, a new venture by Teal Sky Heller and Russ Carpenter, is about to turn that dream into reality.
Nestled in the Eklutna Valley, BlueWater BaseCamp offers a luxurious escape. Teal and Russ, a couple fueled by a love for adventure and hospitality, have poured their hearts into creating a haven for those seeking an unforgettable Alaskan experience.
"Eklutna Valley is in Anchorage’s backyard, and we look forward to giving locals and their visitors an opportunity to escape into nature with a warm cabin without a long drive. BlueWater BaseCamp is a haven for adventurers who want to unwind in style," Teal explains.
Gone are the days of roughing it. BlueWater's eight stunning cabins boast all the amenities you could ask for, from running water and plush 1,000 thread count sheets to fully equipped kitchenettes. Open year-round, these cabins are perfect for a romantic getaway, a family adventure, or a base camp for exploring the wonders of Alaska.
Understandably, the journey to creating BlueWater wasn't without its challenges. Securing financing for their ambitious project proved difficult. However, with the help of Misty O’Connor at the Alaska SBDC in Wasilla, Teal and Russ were connected with the perfect lender who understood their vision and business model. “We learned to sell ourselves better with Misty’s help. We revamped how we market ourselves to banking institutions, and then through her contacts, we were able to find the perfect match in a lender,” Teal says.
Accessibility is another pillar of BlueWater's philosophy. Teal and Russ have faced health challenges, prompting them to prioritize handicapped accessibility in their cabins. Three of the eight cabins offer full accessibility on the first floor and the main office and event venue, The Gathering House. Their commitment to inclusivity recently earned them an Alaska Travel Industry Shark Tank award to purchase equipment to make the 5-acre property more user-friendly.
But BlueWater isn't just about individual cabins. Looking for a truly unique venue for a wedding, corporate retreat, or family reunion? BlueWater offers a "Property Buy-out Opportunity" – the complex, accommodating up to 22 guests and hosting events for up to 75 people, can be yours for a truly special occasion.
Opening its doors in March 2024, BlueWater BaseCamp is poised to become a premier Alaskan destination. Teal and Russ's passion for adventure, hospitality, and inclusivity shines through every detail.
So, pack your bags, embrace the spirit of exploration, and get ready to experience the Alaskan wilderness in luxurious comfort at BlueWater BaseCamp. Visit bluewaterbasecamp.com to plan your experience today.