You may have seen the bright yellow KOA signs on the side of the road and wondered – what is KOA camping? When you start paying attention, there are a lot of KOA signs around the country – nearly 500 in fact.
What is KOA Camping?
KOA camping is camping in a KOA campground, which stands for Kampgrounds of America. KOAs are a group of franchised campsites in the United States and Canada that feature many different amenities beyond standard campsites, such as cabins, pools, and more (varies by location). Each campsite is unique and has different owners, but there are commonalities to all KOAs. Learn all about KOA camping here!
A Quick Look at KOAs
KOAs are usually conveniently located off major highways or roads, and frequently situated near state parks. Nearly every KOA campground has RV sites, tent sites, bathrooms, showers, seasonal activities, and allows pets, and has dog parks. Many KOAs also have cabin options.
The idea behind KOAs is to offer a plethora of camping sites and more amenities than the average campground.
For families, KOAs can be a great option. Most KOAs have a swimming pool, and many have kid-friendly activities like a game room, putt putt golf, crafts, and “jumping pillows.” With so many sites and amenities, one potential downside is that campers may not have much privacy compared to other campgrounds.
Another thing to keep in mind when asking – what is KOA camping? – is that there are three types of KOAs:
- KOA Journey – the classic version of Kampground of Americas with plenty of amenities, and tent, RV, and cabin options.
- KOA Holiday – this type has upgraded amenities, and are located in major cities.
- KOA Resort – the most luxurious option, KOA Resort has an array of onsite amenities like restaurants, coffee shops, gyms, and tennis courts for a resort-style camping experience.
Recommended: Top Campgrounds for Large Groups
1. Albuquerque KOA, New Mexico
Nestled close to the Sandia Mountains, this KOA has big rig 75-foot RV sites, cabins, and tent camping. Take a dip in the swimming pool or indoor hot tub. There is also mini golf, a playground, horseshoes, and a huge park for your pets to play. This KOA is conveniently located near main attractions like the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta, the world’s longest aerial Tramway, and the Expo New Mexico Fairgrounds.
2. Quechee KOA, Vermont
Quechee is the “Gateway to New England,” and this KOA is the perfect spot to explore the charms of the area. Located in the breathtaking Upper Valley of Central Vermont, this KOA is within easy reach of numerous destinations and right in between White Mountain and Green Mountain National Parks. In addition to the spacious big rig-friendly pull-through sites, there are other camping choices such as deluxe cabins with full bathrooms, kitchenettes, and flat-screen TVs.
Recommended: 7 Bucket List Trips to Book
3. Billings KOA, Montana
Ask a KOA expert – what is KOA camping? They might tell you Billings KOA. This was the first KOA established back in 1962. An award-winning campground in the middle of Big Sky Country, there is plenty to do and see here and in the area. The new Trailhead Adventure Golf is a fun on-site treat. There is plenty of fishing, hiking, and biking just off the campground. Take a short drive, and you have your choice of many outdoor adventures in Pompeys Pillar National Monument, Little Bighorn Battlefield National Monument, or the Beartooth Scenic Highway. Accommodations run from lodging with basic amenities to spacious Patio RV Sites.
4. Allentown KOA, Pennsylvania
The Allentown KOA is a family-friendly setting with plenty of onsite entertainment, like a game room, two playgrounds, a pool, and various organized sports. What’s more, the campground is conveniently located for day trips to New York City, Philadelphia, Amish Country, and the Pocono Mountains. There is also the nearby Appalachian Trail for avid hikers.
5. Bryce Valley KOA, Utah
The legendary Bryce Valley is a spectacular sight worth seeing at least once, if not time and again. This KOA is in the heart of the valley, just 12 miles from the entrance to Bryce Canyon National Park. Nearby attractions also include Kodachrome Basin State Park, Grosvenor Arch, Capitol Reef National Park, National Willis Creek Slot Canyon, Red Canyon, and Scenic Byway 12. There are also hundreds of miles of quiet back roads to explore. Ask the hosts, and they can direct you to the best places to hike, mountain bike, fish, and horseback ride.
Book a Cabin, Tent, or RV site
Recommended: Best Places to See Winter Wildlife
6. Mystic KOA, Connecticut
Modern facilities combine with century-old maples, quaint stone walls, and a reproduction of colonial architecture for a remarkable family resort. Most sites are pull-through, allowing for easy parking. There are also secluded tent sites, Camping Cabins, Deluxe Cabins, and a three-acre field for groups. The campground is in striking distance of Rhode Island beaches, Mystic Seaport Museum, Dinosaur Place, and the Mystic Aquarium.
Are you ready for your adventure? Plan your camping trip!