Discover the great outdoors with Kampgrounds of America (KOA)

If you're an avid camper, outdoor enthusiast, or a traveler seeking a unique adventure, you've likely heard of Kampgrounds of America, better known as KOA. With a history dating back to 1962, KOA has become a household name for those who embrace the RV and camping lifestyles. In this article, we'll explore the world of KOA campgrounds and all the reasons why they're the go-to choice for so many camping enthusiasts.

How KOA started

KOA's story began in 1962 with businessmen Dave Drum and John Wallace in Billings, Montana. Drum saw an opportunity when he noticed a lot of travelers heading to Seattle for the World’s Fair. The original campground was simply named Billings Campground and was on Drum’s property, north of the Yellowstone River. The campground provided hot showers, restrooms, and a small store. Each site had a picnic table and a fire ring.
The idea grew and by the next year, Drum, Wallace, and their partners were selling franchises. Over the years, the company has had as many as 900 campgrounds in the network. Today, the number is just over 500 campgrounds. Each year, campgrounds undergo a 600-point inspection to ensure their quality remains at the level KOA expects.

Picturesque locations across North America

Being early in the market has some advantages. This allowed KOA to set up in some of the choicest locations available. From the Puget Sound in Washington to the Florida Keys, KOA campgrounds provide campers with the scenery of their choosing. The KOA is often near many of our national parks as well, making it convenient to visit them as well.

KOA understands RV owners

KOA understands that campers have varying preferences. Many of KOA’s campgrounds offer full-hookup RV sites. Their website allowss RV owners to easily search by capabilities of the campground. It also lets owners filter by the amenities they may want. Many of the campgrounds even offer pull-through campsites.

Amenities that add comfort to your adventure

Speaking of amenities… Many KOA campgrounds are equipped with different amenities. Most locations offer clean restroom and shower facilities and laundry rooms. Many sites have convenience stores stocked with essentials, so you don’t have to leave the site after you’ve settled in. Some have swimming pools, mini-golf, and even dog parks. Their goal is to help campers of all ages find activities to enjoy.

Connect with nature in style

There may be times you want to go camping, but don’t want to pack up your RV. For those times, some KOA locations offer cabins as an alternative solution. These cabins come with all the amenities you need, including a kitchenette, bathroom, and comfortable sleeping arrangements.

These cabins can also be a good alternative if your friends or family nearby want to visit you for a few days. Reserving a cabin for them at the campground keeps them close enough for a lot of quality time together, just not in your RV.

Activities for the whole family

The activities available at each Kampgrounds of America location will vary. Most campgrounds host activities and events suitable for all ages. From campfire sing-alongs and nature walks to outdoor movie nights and themed weekends, there's something for everyone to enjoy. As you probably already know, campers are some of the friendliest people you will meet. These family-friendly activities give you a chance to meet new friends and create lasting memories.

KOA for the four-legged family members

Don't leave your furry friends behind when you camp with KOA. Many KOA campgrounds are pet-friendly and offer dog parks or pet-walking areas. It's an ideal setting for your dogs to run and play freely while you enjoy the great outdoors. Of course, be sure to follow the campground's pet policies to ensure a pleasant experience for all campers.

KOA Journey, Holiday, and Resort locations also offer KampK9, a dog-friendly, fenced area that gives your fur babies a designated place to run and play off the leash. Some KOA locations even have separate areas for large and small dogs.

Scenic views and stargazing

If you didn’t already know it, stargazing is a popular activity for RVers. KOA campsites are often located in areas with minimal light pollution, making them ideal for stargazing. Imagine sitting by your campfire, gazing up at the vast, star-studded night sky. There are both free and paid apps that help you locate and identify stars wherever you are.

If you’re really serious about your stargazing, you’ll want to check out the DarkSky International Project. The org has a list of “dark sky” locations that have minimal light pollution. Many of those locations are near national and state parks.

KOA rewards program

Who doesn’t like a good rewards program? Loyalty deserves recognition, and KOA understands that. They offer a rewards program that provides campers with discounts and special deals. The KOA Rewards Program allows you to accumulate points and enjoy exclusive benefits, making your camping experience even more affordable and enjoyable.

A commitment to sustainability

KOA has a long history of caring for the environment. As protectors and conservators for over 10,000 acres of land, the company is committed to sustainability and taking steps to minimize its environmental impact. One way has been with the Kamp Green initiative. This program encourages KOA owners and camping guests to adopt environmentally friendly practices.
Many campgrounds have implemented eco-friendly practices, such as recycling programs and energy-efficient lighting, to preserve the beauty of the natural surroundings for generations to come.

Planning your KOA adventure

Planning a camping trip with KOA is a straightforward affair. You can visit their website or use their mobile app to search for campgrounds based on your desired location and amenities. Once you find the perfect campground for your next adventure, you can reserve it. To help you make those choices,  KOA often provides detailed descriptions and photos of each location.

Your KOA adventure awaits

Kampgrounds of America (KOA) has a lot to offer the RV community. With picturesque locations, diverse campsites, and a commitment to providing a comfortable, enjoyable experience for campers of all ages, they’ve become a cherished institution in the world of camping. Whether you're planning a family getaway or a quiet escape for two, there is a good chance one of their campgrounds will suit your needs.  

Ready to take on KOA in an RV of your own?

Our friendly and knowledgeable staff is always available to help you choose from the highest quality RVs (and more) from top manufacturers. Find a location near you, or shop our online inventory and let our experts help you find the perfect new or used RV for you to explore everything KOA offers and more.