Kampgrounds of America (KOA) held its first “Get Out There” event on Wednesday, in conjunction with the Yellowstone Boys and Girls Club. The event took place at the Billings, Montana, campground and is the latest extension of KOA’s long-running Get Out There grant program, It was established to provide financial assistance to individuals, friends and families looking to have their dream outdoor adventure.
KOA said its 2023 North American Camping and Outdoor Hospitality Report found that Gen Z represents the largest segment of new campers, and those who were introduced to camping at a younger age were highly likely to want to continue camping as they aged. So, Wednesday’s event was focused on introducing Yellowstone Boys and Girls Club’s fourth-, fifth-, and sixth-grade members to valuable, practical outdoor skills as they explore the world’s first KOA campground.
“Despite living in Billings, many families still don’t have the resources to expose their children to the outdoors’ benefits,” said Toby O’Rourke, president and CEO of Kampgrounds of America. “Our research shows camping is a great way to blow off steam, relax and build familial connections, especially among Gen Z and younger campers. “We hope this event serves as an entry point for youth, and that this event acts as a springboard for future events across our community, state, and nation.”
KOA plans to host several Get Out There events across the US through the rest of the summer.