Shortgrass Resort aimed to redefine luxury in the Black Hills of South Dakota. Their goal was to create a child-free, all-inclusive “un-resort” that prioritized privacy, stillness, and a deep connection to the rugged landscape. To achieve this, they needed accommodations that offered the romance of the outdoors without sacrificing the comforts of a high-end hotel—specifically structures that could withstand South Dakota’s variable climate while looking like an extension of the earth.
The Result: Triple Crown Recognition
Within its first full season, the infrastructure and guest experience facilitated by EJH Distribution catapulted Shortgrass Resort onto the global stage, securing three of the travel industry’s most prestigious honors:
| Award / Recognition | Source / Link | Description |
World’s Greatest Places |  | Recognized for “respect for natural rhythms,” innovative grotto-style accommodations, and blending luxury with authentic ruggedness. |
Best of the Midwest |  | Named a premier destination for the unique “Meander” dining experience and for establishing the Black Hills as a sophisticated, four-season retreat. |
Best Adventures |  | Selected as a top North American destination for its superior river access and “low-fatigue” approach to fishing and tubing from EJH-outfitted basecamps. |
EJH Distribution partnered with Shortgrass Resort to provide the core physical infrastructure of the property. Leveraging our expertise in high-durability, four-season glamping units and creative hospitality structures, we supplied:
- Custom Raised-Platform Bungalows: Working with our manufacturing partners (including De Waard Tenten), we delivered eight bespoke suites featuring French doors, heated flooring systems, and private decks designed for year-round comfort.
- Eco-Conscious Infrastructure: Supporting the resort’s farm-to-fork mission, EJH provided specialized structural solutions for their 2,000-sq.-ft. greenhouse and main dining hub, Meander.
- Operational Excellence: From luxury linens to climate control units, EJH streamlined the procurement of the resort’s guest room amenities to ensure a consistent “quiet luxury” aesthetic.