Kampgrounds of America (KOA) Adds 12 Parks In 11 States
The 2016 KOA Directory, available now, included 12 new KOA locations in 11 different states, bringing KOA’s campground total to 487 in North America.
Here’s a look at the newest KOAs.
Gila Bend, Ariz., KOA Journey: In the middle of Arizona’s Sonoran Desert this Kampground is close to both Interstate 8 and Arizona Highway 85, so access is easy. You can tell this location was built by an RVer. There are plenty of roomy full-hookup sites, and they’re all big-rig friendly. There’s a clubhouse for RV rallies, reunions or other gatherings. Four-legged campers will enjoy the 4,000-square-foot Kamp K9 pet park, complete with three separate fenced areas and plenty of grass. The Sonoran Desert National Monument starts just a few miles from Gila Bend, and is only an hour away from Phoenix.
Craig, Colo., KOA: This site is returning to the KOA family after a several-year absence. It’s nestled between Dinosaur National Monument, Rocky Mountain National Park and Yellowstone National Park among the trees in the high desert of the Yampa River Valley, complete with its own Yampa Area Trails System.
Lake Oconee/Greensboro, Ga., KOA: Those who enjoy railroading will love this campground which was developed around a railroad theme. The campground has 23 actual railroad cars that are used as offices, in recreational areas, shops and even overnight accommodations. There’s a beautiful beach area right on Lake Oconee, along with a marina, pavilion, fishing and mini golf. The campground is open all year, and there are lots of activities planned all year around.
Ludington East/Pere Marquette River, Mich., KOA: This campground features plenty of mature trees for shade because it’s located in the middle of the Manistee National Forest. It’s surrounded by streams, and it’s just a mile-and-a-half from Michigan’s beautiful Pere Marquette River. This KOA has large open fields, hiking trails, a petting farm and boating trips available. There’s plenty of scheduled family events.
Greensboro, N.C., KOA: Located just off Interstate 40, this new KOA has extra-long pull-through sites and camping cabins. There are many nearby restaurants and special activities, including the Guilford Courthouse National Military Park and the Carolina SciQuarium. The campground provides access to walking trails, a pool and fun games and activities.
Andover/Pymatuning Lake, Ohio, KOA: Those who love fishing for walleye can try out this new KOA near the shores of Pymatuning Lake. The campground is very near the shores of the 17-mile-long waterway. Guests can rent one of the campground’s fishing or pontoon boats, or they can stay at the KOA and enjoy the large heated pool, game room, clubhouse or other events hosted by the park’s own full-time activities director. It’s located in historic Ashtabula County, which includes 10 covered bridges.
Natural Bridge/Watertown, N.Y., KOA: The famous Adirondack Mountains and the beautiful Thousand Islands region of northern New York State surround this new KOA location. There’s plenty of shade for RVs and tents under the canopy of trees. There’s a heated pool as well as wagon rides. On weekends, guests take to the dance floor at the DJ-hosted dance parties. Minutes from the campground are great fishing, boating and ATV trails. Also nearby are horseback stables for a ride through the Adirondacks, and even a scenic train ride. History buffs can tour the Singer and Boldt castles, and people can enjoy a relaxing boat excursion among the beautiful Thousand Islands.
Lumberton/I-95, N.C., KOA: This new KOA is halfway between Maine and Florida, at the intersection of Interstate 95 and Interstate 74. The RV pull-through sites here are huge, and they all boast 30/50-amp service. Guest can launch a kayak in the nearby Lumber River, stroll the scenic trails or refresh all day long with a dip in the pool.
Grants Pass, Ore., KOA: This campground is the perfect home base for a trip to southwest Oregon. Its beautiful location next to Jumpoff Joe Creek is a naturalist’s dream. The National Wild and Scenic Rogue River is just 15 minutes away, where people can try a jetboat excursion. The area also boasts great whitewater rafting, hiking and fishing. The campground covers 46 wooded acres filled with spacious RV and tent sites. There are even three seasonal swimming holes — check out the waterfalls — and plenty of wildlife to watch.
Lancaster/New Holland, Pa., KOA: You’ll get a 10-mile view of Lancaster County’s famous Amish Country when you stay at this new KOA. There’s plenty of big pull-through sites, even some with level terraces.
The area is filled with fun things to do, including the American Music Theater, Sight & Sound Theaters, Lancaster Central Market, and even an outlet mall. Train buffs will love the Railroad Museum of Pennsylvania, which includes more than 100 locomotives and rail cars on display. There are also train rides on the Strasburg Railroad. The area is in the middle of Amish Country, which comes to life at the Landis Valley Village and Farm Museum. Chocolate lovers will find Hershey’s Chocolate World just an hour away.
Bangor/Holden, Maine, KOA: Nothing says “Downeast Maine” like this new KOA. The campground is situated in a beautiful stand of woods, so it’s easy to immerse in nature and enjoy the nearby hiking trails or just relax under the trees. The Bangor/Holden KOA has a full roster of events, including kids’ games, weekend themed parties, card games, crafting and exercise classes. It’s a great place for group get togethers or reunions, with a large pavilion and the Red Barn Café, which serves pizza, sandwiches and Gifford’s Famous Ice Cream. It’s just six miles to downtown Bangor, with its shopping and waterfront concerts.
Cape May/Lake Laurie, N.J., KOA: It’s been way too long since KOA had a location in New Jersey and the company said it’s excited to be back in the Garden State, thanks to this Sun Communities property, just minutes from the Jersey Shore. It has its own private lake complete with a sandy beach. There’s also a swimming pool, tennis, basketball, pickleball and sand volleyball.
Throughout the summer, campers will enjoy arts and crafts, pig roasts and live bands. Along with great RV and tent sites, there are also Deluxe Cabins (park model RVs) with kitchens, private baths and flat-screen TVs. Guests can visit the charming seaside town of Cape May with all of the Victorian homes, seafood eateries and trolley tours. The amusement rides at Wildwood Boardwalk are just 15 minutes away.
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