If you’re new to the wide world of camping, you might hear the term “KOA” floating around in the community. Even if you’ve been camping or glamping all your life, you may have never stayed at a KOA. Though there are conflicting opinions (different camps of thought, if you will) about KOAs and their authenticity as a camping experience, it’s impossible to deny how widespread and accessible these campgrounds are. So let’s review the facts about KOA so that you can decide for yourself if it’s the right choice for your next camping or glamping vacation.
What are KOA campgrounds?
KOA stands for Kampgrounds of America, a cheeky but accurate name. There are over 500 KOA locations across the United States and Canada, all franchised (privately owned and operated). Each KOA location is unique in its environment, size, facilities, and recreational offerings.
What are the 3 types of KOA?
There are 3 types of KOA campgrounds: Journey, Holiday, and Resort. Depending on your needs and interests, any of these establishments can provide excellent value.
KOA Journey: Gateway to Adventure
KOA Journey campgrounds are ideal for brief stays along the road or short trips. Think of them as luxury pitstops. Rather than sleeping on musty, overpriced motel sheets, you could enjoy the beauty of local nature at a clean campsite. Journey sites are all conveniently located along highways and major roads, so they’re positioned perfectly for a quick stay as a vacation or rest stop.
KOA Holiday: Basecamp for the Great Outdoors
KOA Holidays are perfect for staycations or comfortable camping experiences. They feature a variety of amenities depending on the establishment, including guided tours, ziplines, lawn/outdoor games, playgrounds, picnic areas, game and rec rooms, on-site general stores, and more. These campgrounds are a great vacation for families or campers looking for activities to enjoy during their stay.
KOA Resort: The Destination for Recreation
KOA Resorts are next-level camping/glamping. These sites offer robust amenities and activities for the entire family, pools, dining options, kitchens, themed weekends, and much more. If you’re looking for resort-style amenities with direct access to nature, KOA Resort campgrounds are the way to go.
Do KOA campgrounds allow dogs?
Again, this depends on the location. Many KOA campgrounds are dog-friendly, but you’ll want to check the site’s information online or call ahead to make sure your furry friend is welcome. During your stay, always follow proper pet etiquette by keeping your dog on a leash or tether and picking up after them.
How much do KOA campgrounds cost?
Because KOAs are independently owned and operated, costs vary from location to location. Prices also vary depending on your dates of travel and the site type, such as a tent or RV spaces, as well as premium lodging options like cabins and glamping pods offered at some locations. However, I’ve seen tent site prices as low as $45 per night, RV spots as low as $69, and premium lodgings as low as $99. So, while they are pricier on average than other tent or RV campgrounds, KOAs absolutely have the potential to be cheaper than a hotel. As there are over 500 locations, it’s entirely possible that some have even lower prices!
How much is a KOA campground membership?
KOA offers a loyalty program called KOA Rewards, which costs $36 (plus taxes) annually. As a member, you’ll receive 10% daily registration rates, rewards points with each stay, and a free night of camping at a participating location during a specified KOA Rewards Weekend each year. The points system works on a tiered format, with Base, Bonus, and VIP levels, each with their own set of perks like free annual renewal, waived cancellation fees, and more. If you’re planning on being a frequent flyer at KOAs, their rewards program is definitely worth checking out to save yourself some money!
KOA campground alternatives
To my knowledge, there aren’t any direct KOA competitors in the sense of hundreds of franchised campgrounds, but there are plenty of sites where you can browse amazing camping locations:
Hipcamp
GoodSam
ReserveAmerica
SunOutdoors
CampSpot
ThousandTrails
Speaking from experience, KOA camping is fun and easy. Some locations may not offer the most authentic camping experience due to cramped, cookie-cutter tent sites and less-than-ideal surroundings (when located in major cities, many KOAs are close to highways or busy roads). But all in all, KOA camping is an accessible experience for first-time campers as well as a stress-free trip for seasoned campers and glampers who want a quick vacation or a site with premium amenities (so you don’t have to pack that solar shower, pop-up privacy potty tent, giant Jenga set, or Foreman grill). Learn how to turn camping into glamping so you can upgrade your next KOA stay to a glampcation!
To find a KOA campground near you, visit their US KOA map locator or their Canada KOA map locator.