Kampgrounds of America Inc. (KOA) has congratulated Jimmy and Joe Watson on the conversion of the Yuma River Front KOA Journey. With years of experience in the outdoor hospitality industry, the Watson brothers bring creativity, craftsmanship and passion to their newest venture, transforming a piece of Arizona history into a wonderful KOA campground, KOA said in a release.
Located along the Colorado River, this spacious property offers campers direct river access, oversize RV sites and a taste of history. The campground features a historic 1880s building, now being reimagined into a museum filled with Model T cars and antiques, a space the owners describe as “American Pickers meets Cars Land.” With its blend of nostalgia, adventure and comfort, the Yuma River Front KOA Journey is set to become an effective stop for travelers exploring the Southwest.
“This property was destined to become a KOA, having river frontage, historical buildings, and huge sites with plenty of room for expansion,” said Jimmy Watson, co-owner of the Yuma River Front KOA Journey. “We feel blessed to own it and for it to become a rock-star KOA property.”
Campgrounds have a significant economic and cultural impact on local communities. According to KOA’s annual Camping and Outdoor Hospitality Report, campers injected $61 billion into local economies in 2024, with the average camper spending $200 daily while camping. Campers are looking to experience the culture of local regions, with 27% of campers saying they are interested in visiting small towns, and another 27% drawn to food tourism.
Conveniently located near the highways and byways of North America, KOA Journey campgrounds are the perfect stop after a long day on the road, the company said. With long pull-thru RV sites for quick and easy setup, well-lit after-hours check-in, and a robust line of RV supplies, KOA Journey campgrounds promise a hassle-free stay for travelers.
The Yuma River Front KOA Journey offers a variety of new and upgraded amenities, including a new pool and spa, pickleball courts, modern bathhouses and a boat dock providing easy access to the river. Combined with Yuma’s warm climate and renowned sunsets, the campground offers a lovely setting for winter visitors, road trippers and outdoor enthusiasts.
The Yuma River Front KOA Journey is one of more than 500 open-to-the-public KOA campgrounds in the U.S. and Canada. Other brands in the KOA Family of Campgrounds include KOA Holidays, designed as the ideal base camp for the great outdoors, offering plenty of activities and amenities for every type of camper. KOA Resorts provide an abundance of staff-led activities, on-site dining, group meeting space and more.
Located at 2300 W Water Street in Yuma, Arizona, the Yuma River Front KOA Journey is open all year.
For more information, visit the campground’s website, or call 928-783-5868. Reservations are also available by going online or using the KOA App.
