10 Best KOAs in the U.S.

The family vacation you've been waiting for. 

10 Best KOAs in the U.S.

Kampgrounds of America, or better known as simply KOA, have been the go-to choice for family camping trips for decades. No matter where you travel, there’s likely a KOA nearby chock full of amenities and situated near all the area’s top attractions. They’re affordable, family-friendly, and loaded with fun, especially when you make these 10 best KOAs in the U.S. your next choice for vacation. 

St. Louis West/Historic Route 66 KOA, Eureka, MO

There’s enough at this campground to keep everyone in the family busy for the whole trip. Train rides, scavenger hunts, outdoor movies, crafts, four-seat bicycles, and special flashlight lollipop hunts are just a few of the on-site amenities. The campground is also a short drive away from some of St. Louis’ favorite activities, including Six Flags, the botanical gardens, and the world-famous arch.

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Okeechobee KOA, Okeechobee, FL

Not all of Florida’s best tropical resorts are on the beach, and this KOA shows a different side of Florida that’s worth exploring. Situated near Lake Okeechobee, the campground is packed with sports activities, mini golf, banana bike rentals, hiking, pools, and a nine-hole golf course.

Ely KOA, Ely, NV

There’s so much more to Nevada than casinos and neon lights, and this KOA proves it. It’s the best place to experience all of the area’s natural and historic wonders, including the desert and the mountains, Lehman Caves, and real ghost towns from the 19th century silver rush.

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Cortez/Mesa Verde KOA, Cortez, CO

From the scenery to the cleanliness, this KOA is the total package. Travelers love staying at this little desert oasis because of its close proximity to the canyons, walking trails, and on-site dog park.

Moab KOA, Moab, UT

Just a short drive from three major national parks, you’ll have just as much fun on-site as you will away from your cabin. This amenity-rich campground features a general store, Wi-Fi, hot tub, dog park, camp programs, and a swimming pool backed by the beautiful mountains. 

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Pigeon Forge/Gatlinburg, KOA, Pigeon Forge, TN

Hidden off the beaten path of the Parkway, but not by far, this KOA is just minutes to Dollywood and other top attractions in the city. There’s enough here to keep everyone in the group entertained, including bike rentals, a giant jumping pillow, outdoor movies, sports and games, and their brand-new gravity zipline rail!

Winthrop/North Cascades National Park KOA, Winthrop, WA

With the scenic North Cascades National Park as the backdrop, you’ll feel miles away from everyone and everything. They offer a complimentary shuttle into town where you’ll find restaurants, shops, guide services, and museums that pay homage to the area's history as an old mining town. 

Nashville North KOA, Goodlettsville, TN

In true KOA fashion, there’s a ton for kids and adults alike to do on-site, including a playground, dog park, live music events, and campfires. But they also have a courtesy shuttle service that will take you into Nashville so you can explore Music City without fighting the traffic yourself. 

Crescent City/Redwoods KOA, Crescent City, CA

Located in the place where the redwoods meet the sea, you’ll be minutes away from some of the state’s best hiking trails. You’ve got your pick of national forests, parks, and beaches, so plan to stay long enough to enjoy it all.

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Bar Harbor/Oceanside KOA, Bar Harbor, ME

Fresh lobsters rolls for Mom and Dad to dine on plus campfire time, tie-dye events, and bike riding for the kids? This Bar Harbor KOA is just about perfect for the whole family. Open from May 10 through October 14, this KOA is the ideal summertime destination.  


Alli Hill is a freelance content writer and mom of two. She spends most of her free time exploring the great outdoors by trail or by kayak. She is also the founder and director of FreelanceSpeak, a blog to support other freelance creatives.