Kampgrounds of America Inc. (KOA) congratulated MacKenzie Powell and Autumn Weimer as the new owners of the Soo Line Trail / Onamia KOA Journey. Bringing a shared passion for camping, off-road recreation and outdoor hospitality, the new owners are committed to growing the campground as a destination for travelers while contributing to the local economy and broader outdoor community in Mille Lacs County, KOA said in a recent release. Powell and Weimer grew up immersed in the outdoors, surrounded by hunting, fishing, camping and riding, and had long hoped to own a campground. When the pair found the Soo Line Trail / Onamia KOA Journey, its location directly on a major ATV trail system made it feel like the right fit.
Located in Minnesota’s Northwoods, the Soo Line Trail / Onamia KOA Journey offers guests a convenient base for exploring the area’s outdoor recreation, with direct access to the Soo Line Trail system setting it apart as a destination for campers and off-road enthusiasts alike.
“Because both of us have spent our whole lives in the outdoors, we’re extremely excited to build on what makes this campground special and create a place where guests can enjoy camping, adventure and time outside all in one location,” said Weimer. “From direct trail access to new rental opportunities and future campground improvements, we’re really looking forward to welcoming both returning and new guests for an unforgettable stay in Minnesota’s Northwoods.”
Campgrounds like the Soo Line Trail / Onamia KOA Journey have a significant economic and cultural impact on local communities. According to KOA’s annual Camping and Outdoor Hospitality Report, campers injected $66 billion into local economies in 2025, with the average camper spending more than $200 daily while camping. Campers are looking to experience the history and culture of local regions, 33% say they are interested in visiting small towns, and another 38% are drawn to historic sites, KOA said.
Conveniently located near the highways and byways of North America, KOA Journey campgrounds are the perfect stop after a long day on the road. With long pull-thru RV sites for quick and easy setup, and a strong line of RV supplies, KOA Journey campgrounds promise a hassle-free stay for travelers.
The Soo Line Trail / Onamia KOA Journey offers 46 campsites, including tent sites, 17 full hook-up sites plus pull-through sites up to 80 feet long, perfect for large RVs and toy haulers, KOA said. Guests without RVs can stay in one of five indoor lodging accommodations within the main building, and a new camping cabin is being added for the 2026 season. One of the campground’s standout features is direct access to the Soo Line Trail system, allowing guests to ride directly from their campsite without trailering. Beginning in 2026, the campground will also offer Polaris Adventures ATV/UTV rentals on-site through Ride Soo Line, making it easy for guests to combine camping and off-road exploration in one stay. Future plans include adding more campsites, expanding full hook-up options, planting more trees for shade and privacy, and growing the campground’s cabin offerings.
Powell and Weimer said they expect the campground to continue serving as a meaningful contributor to the local economy, driving increased tourism and summer traffic that benefits businesses across Mille Lacs County — from grocery stores and gas stations to restaurants, fishing charters and other recreation providers. Rooted in the belief that small businesses succeed together, they are actively building partnerships with local business owners to foster collaboration and shared growth, KOA said. In addition, they are committed to giving back through community events and charitable initiatives designed to bring people together while supporting and expanding the region’s off-road and outdoor recreation community.
The Soo Line Trail / Onamia 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 food dining, group meeting space, and more
Located at 10889 Stevens Road in Onamia, the Soo Line Trail / Onamia KOA Journey is open May 1 to Oct. 19.
For more information or to make a reservation, please visit the campground’s website, or call 1-320-532-7027. Reservations are also available by going online or using the KOA App.
