Tennessee Glamping Retreat Proposal Faces Local Pushback

A proposed glamping-style retreat in Poga, Tennessee, has sparked public concern following social media commentary about the owners’ backgrounds and intentions.

Bastian and Marisol Yotta, who plan to develop a retreat called Hidden Harmony on their property, have faced opposition from some residents and local officials, despite asserting the legitimacy of their plans.

The retreat, according to the couple, would consist of 10 domes intended to support couples seeking connection, spirituality, and personal growth.

“This is our heart project, the project where spirituality and faith is number one,” Yotta said in a report by WCYB, pushing back against widespread rumors on social media suggesting the development might function as a brothel.

“This has nothing to do with hidden harmony. We’re not coming here to record some porn. We’re not coming here to do some shady things,” he added.

Despite these clarifications, the project has met local resistance. Concerns raised by nearby residents include road conditions, increased traffic, and the general suitability of the area for a tourism-focused retreat.

Suzanne Brandenburg, a nearby resident, commented, “I’m kind of a ‘live and let live’ kind of person but I don’t think that this road is appropriate for any kind [of] resort like that.”

Local government has also been drawn into the debate. Carter County Commissioner Angie Odom, while not condemning the project outright, acknowledged the sensitivity of the issue.

“Of course this is a concern because we have children and family and ministry in the same county… But what I am concerned about is the safety of children and bringing anything into our town that could be negative,” she stated.

For professionals in the outdoor hospitality sector, the controversy underscores the importance of community engagement and transparency when launching a new venture—particularly in rural or tight-knit communities.

Establishing trust with local residents and officials can be crucial to mitigating resistance and avoiding reputational risks. While alternative accommodations like glamping domes continue to grow in popularity, developers may need to consider not only zoning and permitting but also the cultural and social dynamics of the surrounding area.

Yotta noted that all necessary paperwork has been submitted to county authorities, though no formal decisions have yet been announced.