Kampgrounds of America (KOA) has been named a top franchise by Franchise Business Review in its annual report on the Top Recession-Resistant Franchises.
Founded in 1962, KOA is one of the world’s largest systems of privately owned campgrounds, with more than 500 franchised and company-owned locations across North America. For more than six decades, KOA has helped campground owners grow successful outdoor hospitality businesses through industry-leading marketing, technology, operational support and training, while connecting millions of campers to the outdoors and each year, KOA said.
Franchise Business Review, a research firm that conducts independent surveys of franchisee satisfaction, provides ratings of franchises based solely on actual franchisee satisfaction and performance. Franchise Business Review publishes its rankings of top franchises on its website, as well as industry reports throughout the year that highlight research on the top franchises in specific sectors.
More than 29,000 franchisees representing over 330 franchise brands participated in Franchise Business Review’s franchisee satisfaction survey over 18 months. From the research, KOA was one of just 50 franchise brands to be identified as a Top Recession-Resistant Franchise award winner and featured on the list of the Top Recession-Resistant Franchises.
KOA’s franchisees were surveyed on 33 benchmark questions about their experience and satisfaction regarding critical areas of their franchise systems, including training and support, operations, franchisor/franchisee relations, culture and financial opportunity.
“The brands on this list have proven they can weather economic uncertainty,” said Michelle Rowan, president of Franchise Business Review. “This year’s Top 50 recession-resistant franchises earned owner satisfaction ratings 10% to 40% above the industry benchmark. If you’re exploring business ownership right now, this list is the smartest place to start. These brands have performed in strong economies and weak ones, and their track record suggests they’ll keep outperforming when conditions get tough.”
KOA’s recognition reflects franchisees’ strong satisfaction across key areas of the franchise system, the company said, including:
- Financial opportunity and long-term business potential
- Company culture
- Peer-to-peer support
- Operational and business resources
“This recognition celebrates the strength of our franchise partnership and the remarkable resilience of the camping industry itself,” said Toby O’Rourke, president and CEO of Kampgrounds of America Inc. “People continue to prioritize outdoor experiences, even during times of economic uncertainty. Our franchisees understand that campground ownership is a smart, sustainable investment that meets this enduring demand. KOA is proud to support our franchisees who deliver best-in-class hospitality, drive profitability and prove that outdoor hospitality is a business built to last.”
The recognition adds to several Franchise Business Review honors KOA has received in 2026, including the Franchisee Excellence Award and designation as a Top Franchise, underscoring the company’s strong franchise system and franchisee satisfaction, KOA said.
Click here to see the full list of honorees.
