Why KOA Campgrounds Are the Perfect Camping Getaway for Families
We just spent 5 relaxing days camping at Lookout Mountain/Chattanooga West KOA Holiday and had an amazing time. Planning a family camping trip can oftentimes feel overwhelming or stressful, especially if it’s your first time, but that’s why we love KOA campgrounds, because they make everything stress-free. KOA offers cozy cabins, tent and RV camping sites, and amenities for the whole family.
During our stay, we were able to slow down, connect, and just enjoy the outdoors without sacrificing comfort. I have been camping with my kids since they were around 2 & 3 years old, and they absolutely love it. If you have been searching for the best place for a family-friendly camping getaway, KOA campgrounds are the perfect choice!
Disclaimer: This blog post is in collaboration with Kampgrounds of America
Family-Friendly Camping Options for Everyone
We have done all kinds of camping and, for us, we really enjoy tent camping in this season. I know that every family camps differently, and KOA makes it easy to choose the right fit. This campground had:
Tent camping
RV sites with hookups and all the comforts of being at home
Cabins (Camping or Deluxe) for families who want a bit more cozy camping trip
During this particular stay, we tent camped. We had a site right next to the pond and in close proximity to the restroom. For families who prefer not to tent camp, KOA cabins are the perfect way to experience camping without having to pitch a tent.
Comfort That Makes a Big Difference
One of the biggest challenges that can come with camping with kids is making sure everyone is comfortable and they have things to do. KOA campgrounds are truly designed with families in mind. They offer clean restrooms with hot showers, laundry facilities, playgrounds and pools where kids can play and unwind, as well as on-site camp stores for firewood, snacks, and any of the forgotten essentials. These small touches while camping make things less stressful and more enjoyable for the entire family.
Stress-Free Adventure for Everyone
We love camping because it allows us to slow down and make beautiful memories together. KOA does a great job at helping make that possible by removing the stress of logistics. Instead of worrying about how to keep the kids entertained during a camping trip, or the type of camping you will do, families can focus on everything else while camping, such as the campfire s’mores and chats, going on local hikes or connecting in nature.
If you’re new to camping, KOA offers a welcoming and reliable way to get started.
Consistency Wherever You Go
There are hundreds of KOA campgrounds across North America. You can count on finding many of the same family-friendly amenities whether you’re on a cross-country road trip or a weekend getaway like we had. I know having that consistency is a huge relief for parents! As someone who travels and camps often with my kids, knowing what to expect makes traveling with kids so much easier.
Easy Access to Local Attractions
Some KOA campgrounds are located near city centers, making it super easy to combine local adventures with outdoor fun. During our stay at Lookout Mountain/Chattanooga West KOA Holiday campground, we enjoyed some time exploring Chattanooga, which was about 20 min away. While in Chattanooga, we checked out a few family-friendly activities such as The Passage water steps near the Tennessee Aquarium, visited an alpaca farm + café, and cooled off at Coolidge Park’s splash pad. The city has plenty of free and budget-friendly attractions, so there is always something for families to enjoy. No matter where you stay, you can mix local attractions with campground vibes.
Tips for Planning Your Next KOA Stay
When it comes to planning your stay, here are a few tips I would suggest.
Book early if possible - cabins and popular tent sites are known to fill up quickly; especially on holiday weekends
Check the campground map for sites near the restroom/showers and the playground if that’s a priority for your family
Pack all your essentials, but remember that KOA does provide conveniences that save packing space if needed
Join KOA Rewards if you plan to visit multiple campgrounds. It’s a great way to save money on family camping trips.
The Perfect Family Camping Getaway
Our five days at this KOA campground gave us exactly what we needed; time outdoors, meaningful connection, and the right balance of comfort and adventure. Many times, we just camp for 1 or 2 nights, but KOA gives you a reason to stay longer! Whether you’re planning your first KOA camping trip with kids or are seasoned outdoor travelers, KOA makes it easy to create a new kind of memorable experience. The beauty of it all is that you can make your trip adventure-packed or take it slow like we did.
We left happy and will definitely be planning another trip soon!