If you are looking for information on the Kampgrounds of America franchise business opportunity, Campgrounds of America franchises or Kampgrounds of America franchising, then you have come to the right place.
Dave Drum started Kampgrounds of America in 1961. He and other Billings, Montana, businessmen set up camping facilities off highways 87 and 212 in 1962, when the World's Fair in Seattle was attracting tourists along those routes. As he started franchising that year, Drum opened a system of campgrounds along America's highways. He was forced to use a "k" in "kampgrounds" instead of a "c" because of a copyright challenge.
KOA campgrounds offer hot showers, clean restrooms, laundry facilities, convenience stores, swimming pools and playgrounds. Eight of every 10 KOA campgrounds is within 100 miles of a metropolitan area, and some offer economical lodging for tourist destinations.
KOA people are dedicated to making their campgrounds a great place to stay. Our owners and staff are camping professionals who put forth superhuman effort to make sure their campgrounds are clean, safe and the most fun places to be. Stay at any of North America's 475 KOA Kampgrounds. Only KOA provides toll-free campground reservations, clean restrooms, playgrounds and pools, plus a variety of lodging options -- from spacious RV sites to level tent sites to our exclusive Kamping Kabins , Kamping Kottages, and Kamping Lodges. Whether you're traveling to and from your winter destinations or looking to spend your vacation in unique places, you'll always find friendly people at KOA to help with your camping needs. Our caring staff of camping professionals will show you how fun KOA camping can be.
The parent company, KOA Holdings, also owns Franchise Services, whose subsidiaries include franchise companies Sir Speedy, PIP Printing and Comprehensive Business Services.
The information presented may have changed since first published. We recommend that you always verify fees, investment amounts and offers with the business opportunity directly prior to making a decision to invest.
1. What training and ongoing support do you provide?
You want to know what happens after you pay the initial fee. A strong franchisor provides comprehensive pre-opening training, site-selection help, operational playbooks, and continuous assistance with marketing, technology, and supply chains.
2. What is the total initial investment, and did actual startup costs match the estimates in Item 7 of the FDD?
The Franchise Disclosure Document (FDD) lists estimated startup costs in Item 7, but real-world expenses can run higher. Asking how closely current owners tracked to these estimates reveals if you need extra working capital or if hidden fees exist.
3. How do royalties and local/national marketing fees impact profitability?
You need to understand ongoing financial obligations-such as monthly royalty percentages and ad fund contributions-and evaluate whether the brand value and support justify cutting into your profit margins.
4. What are the common challenges new franchisees face, and how do you help them overcome them?
Transparent franchisors will openly discuss real hurdles like local competition, tight labor markets, or supply chain bottlenecks, and show you the exact playbook or field support they offer to solve them as well as allowing you to speak with other franchisees.
5. How many franchise locations have closed or left the system in the past few years, and why?
High turnover, store closures, or quiet franchise exits are major red flags. This question measures system stability, territory health, and whether the corporate team addresses struggling owners or lets them fail.
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