Now I understand KOA campgrounds!

when it comes to campsites I am a bit of a snob. i want solitude, with amazing views. Which is why I never really had any time for KOA (Campgrounds of America). But I just realized I had it all wrong.
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[@GibbersPlaysAirsoft]

Glad you came to the light side 🙂 I'm in agreement, KOA is only about getting those amenities. I often use them when I'm on a longer road trip and I know that I just want to have a quick hop off after driving late into the night, have a sleep and then wake up and take a shower, and then get on the road again.

[@AdventureOtaku]

Exactly! Thanks for stopping by!

[@Bartsnightmare]

Best KOA review I’ve ever heard. I’ve camped all my life from deep forest backpacking to KOA’s.

[@AdventureOtaku]

Thanks brother, I appreciate that a lot.

[@jimimmler9110]

I got a great kick out of this. I used to focus on boondocking but sometimes paying out some greenbacks is worthwhile. A couple of other details: endless supply of water and the sewer water runs right out. In my coach I can technically have an endless shower. No more quick wetdown, lather and rinse. Batteries always charged. Also, no worrying about a state trooper banging on your rig at 4:00am. I’ll camp with a ‘K’ anytime.

[@AdventureOtaku]

And it’s great for that! Thanks for watching

[@GamerKidEdits]

Having never thought of a KOA before either, I’m a total fan now. It was just me and my child, State Park lost all power due to wind storm. No one at park office, no cell coverage, no nothing. Welp, we headed off to the nearest campsite I could find on map, KOA. I was totally blown away by the amenities. Hot shower, clean running water, flushable toilets, a quick shop so to speak in the office with hot made to order food. It was everything I didn’t know I needed. The best part, about 20 other kiddos roaming around without a care in the world. My son was in nirvana. He was running around till midnight having the time of his life with all his new pals, it’s how I grew up. Now you’ve got to set up play dates months in advance. Anyway, not having ever even thought of KOA’s, I was completely shocked and happily surprised. We have since booked in KOA 2 more times. Oh, we needed the same thing, 110 outlet to run our space heater, whiteout blizzard. Great content, thanks for the info and letting us tag along.

[@AdventureOtaku]

Hey, thanks for stopping by and a great comment. Yeah, it isn’t our first choice, but when you need one of those things - like you were saying, heat, showers.…. - they are a great resource. Thanks for stopping by, and taking the time to comment.

[@VANESSASVANLIFEJOURNEY]

Thanks for explaining this

[@AdventureOtaku]

Thanks for stopping by!

[@somedayistodayrv]

I do understand your prospective on KOA. To me they are like a little Oasis of sorts that fills in a few gaps in my travel plans that include Harvest Hosts, boondocking and select Independent RV campgrounds on occasion. They are also upgrading their amenities and camp spaces. I like open space when I camp as well but there are times that certain things are needed. Nice video! Thanks for your thoughts and take care.

[@AdventureOtaku]

Thanks for watching!

[@somedayistodayrv]

You are welcome!

[@DCOutdoors]

I appreciate your take on this and I agree. Having full services is a nice thing, but it's totally different than more rugged forms of camping. I think the hotel or resort analogy is pretty spot on. We don't have KOA in Canada, but we do have some similar 'camping' resorts.

[@AdventureOtaku]

Yeah, not my first choice. I want some solitude, I want quiet. BUT, when I have to have power, or a hot shower. It isn’t a bad option. Thanks for stopping by and leaving a comment.

[@phonebooth7007]

I stayed at the koa in Niagara Falls in Canada 🇨🇦 and that was absolutely the best trip of my life, will never forget it

[@juniperdog5523]

There are at least 27 KOA campgrounds in Canada.

[@dREaDneck_Moto]

I love your bull terrier! From a fellow van camper and bull terrier owner.

[@AdventureOtaku]

Thanks… she’s a little monster but I love her.

[@rroman72]

We installed a diesel parking heater (Planar 2D Air Heater) beneath the passenger seat in your old van, and that has been amazing for keeping us and the dog warm at night. While it was not especially cheap OR quick to install (there are a lot of helpful youtube videos to help get you through the install), it has been well worth the investment to help us extend van trips into the colder months. You could probably cook a chicken with our diesel air heater, it gets so hot!

[@AdventureOtaku]

I dont know the Planar? Ill have to check it out. I only know the Espar and the Chinese knock offs. Thanks for the tip!

[@rroman72]

sprinter-source.com/forums/index.php?threads/69040/ I think this was the link that got me looking into Planars, and we purchased it from: www.campervan-hq.com because that was the first source I could verify was real. I was a bit worried about buying something from a Russian website and expecting it to show up at my door without issue. I'll also mention that if you do install a diesel parking heater yourself, it takes a few cycles to actually get going the first time because it has to prime the gas line. Seems obvious, but I spent about 30 minutes absolutely distraught that I painstakingly installed a broken heater until I figured that out.

[@helidude3502]

Thank you for the clarity on perspective. I’ve recently tent camped at a couple state parks. Seemed like noisy backyard camping to me. Looking at this as an alternative. It may work for my purpose, but definitely more expensive than the state park “equivalent”. It’s unlikely that I will be experiencing 4 degrees, but the ability to use a small heater and shower while staying in a tent could prove useful.

[@AdventureOtaku]

Exactly, it serves a purpose and in that sense works really well.

[@LandieCandie]

Nice honest review

[@AdventureOtaku]

Thank you 🙂

[@ghostpepperrides4805]

Great information. I’ll be on a motorcycle and tent camping.

[@AdventureOtaku]

Hey have fun!

[@sunsunbubbles5272]

I'm taking my first rv trip in October, Chicago to California round trip. Have a little one and senior on board , rented RV. I plan to use KOAs , downloaded app. Its an experience / memories i hope gain. Camping would be carrying everything on your back and sleeping in a tent in the woods. Sleeping in a van is sleeping in van. I did appreciate your explanation of the different levels of KOA. I also didnt realize how expensive these sites are. Its gonna be one expensive trip. Shouldn't have went to Japan lol. Safe travels!

[@AdventureOtaku]

Regarding the prices (I just rewatched this video) and I think the prices are LOW. FYI. The app is super convenient. They are reliable. They are clean. You’ll have a great time. But now Im gonna give you a hard time…. So in order for it to be camping I have carry things in a backpack? Car camping isn’t a thing? When I load my gear into a kayak and camp from that, it isn’t camping? I think you might have to reevaluate that.

[@noviceadventurers]

Like you I didn’t get it either but we stayed at a few and the KOA is a well oiled machine and they have been great to us. I would rather be in the woods too but they have their purpose.

[@AdventureOtaku]

they absolutely do! thanks for watching.

[@philliphinkle2812]

Many times I'm heading to a destination and just need overnight accommodations. Koa is perfect for that. I think even when spending a few days at a location to site see or for a specific activity, KOA fits that bill great. But when Im out on a fishing trip, for example, I want to be close to the water or next to it. I will boondocks in those instances. Next year I plan to snowbird to AZ. Ill probably us KOA enroute and boondocks for a few weeks in the desert with the throngs of other snowbirds.

[@AdventureOtaku]

Totally agree. I use KOA like a hotel….

[@gmaneis]

I don't mean to sound snobby, but I figured that out about KOA about 50 years ago. Seriously! They're great if you're on your way across the flat plains to that beautiful spot in the forest and mountains. Kind of like Walmart parking lots!

[@AdventureOtaku]

It’s not snobby, it’s obvious. But if you never went to them - as we didn’t - it isn’t obvious

[@gmaneis]

@@AdventureOtakuYeah. That's so true. The only reason I figured it out 50 years ago is that I camped at one, thinking it would be like other campgrounds. Ha!

[@hightowermyjourney8717]

does KOA have any restrictions on the vehicle you can have and be a work camper. I drive a 2001 DODGE RAM 3500 converted van. would this be a problem.

[@AdventureOtaku]

I don't think so, but of course they are all individually owned and operated. so the smart thing is probably to check the KOA's rules online. Though honestly, Ihave gotten more scrutiny when I say "van" from private campgrounds. so I think you are probably okay.

[@7mikeraj]

Interesting!

[@AdventureOtaku]

Glad you think so!

[@lynnleiby]

I've thought about campgrounds on roadtrips for those amenities you talked about. But for $60, you can get a Motel 6. Yes, it's the cheapest thing out there. But my experiences in say the last 5 times I've done it, I got a comfortable bed, a hot shower, internet service, etc. My wife refuses to stay in a Motel 6 and I'll take it up on a notch when I'm traveling with her. But when it's me and my son, or by myself, I have no problem with them. I would prefer to stealth park when I can. But if we're talking spending $60 for a shower and internet service, I'm thinking a cheap motel vs a campground is preferable.

[@AdventureOtaku]

I get what you’re saying, the difference for me, is I am bringing my bed with me. So all I need is the shower, and the Wi-Fi…. The real problem is since I made this video it is now hard to find a $60 KOA….. they are all closer to $100 now.

[@lynnleiby]

@@AdventureOtaku $100 for a campsite! Oh no! 😳

[@kennb.3389]

Agree with comments on KOA. Have used them since 2007. You can usually expect a certain level of quality and services.

[@AdventureOtaku]

Agreed. Thanks for watching.

[@RockiestRock]

Bold of you to assume I can afford KOAs 😂

[@AdventureOtaku]

Fair enough…. But that said it is cheaper than a hotel….. But not cheaper than boondocking!

[@philipgerry5228]

We use KOA on trips, they’re handy to find and they have fairly level sites. Your RV costs of depreciation, insurance, and fuel probably cost more than the KOA

[@AdventureOtaku]

well, my RV is a van, so it isn't too bad. But I get your point. But when the campground is $90, versus $20 for a state park... that's a big difference.

[@double-eagle-dave]

Mind that dog iv been a rancher in montana my entire life when a bully growls pay attention !! Theres usualy a good reason nearby they just dont walk around snarling forno good reason 😬

[@AdventureOtaku]

When Matilda growls, (our brindle bully) I totally agree. When Eloise growls, it is either because her sister is growling or she wants something. When she wants dinner she growls. When she wants attention, she growls - which isn’t the best way to get attention.

[@CenoteDeAtabey]

Ha! This is great! Totally funny and true. Ive always judged those places in the same manner- they’re like a land version of a cruise ship and not everyone are cruisers. But if you refocus your POV- he’s totally correct Love the jadedness, I’m from NYC so I appreciate it “unquote” 😂😆

[@AdventureOtaku]

I’m from NYC too. Thanks for watching

[@LMacias760]

You should be on “Naked and Afraid” sounds like you would do amazing on that show.

[@AdventureOtaku]

I don’t think anyone wants to see me naked, but thanks….

[@agt0076]

How does the check in process look like at KOA?

[@AdventureOtaku]

Great question. If you get there while their store/office is open, it is kind of like checking into a hotel. They give you a map, tell you the rules, where the bathrooms are, wifi password (usually printed on the map!) pretty straight forward. If you get there late, there is usually a bulletin board with late checkins pinned to the board. All that information above with your name printed on a big piece of paper. I have to say, they have their systems wired. Thanks for asking.

[@agt0076]

@@AdventureOtaku Do I need to bring the credit card I paid the reservation for or is that not required?

[@AdventureOtaku]

That probably varies location to location… I don’t remember them asking to see the card…. But I could be wrong. If you use the KOA app, you can pay for it right through there.

[@agt0076]

@@AdventureOtaku Will do! Thank you, sir. Love the channel by the way.

[@AdventureOtaku]

Thanks for stopping by!

[@piningbuck]

Showers are always nice after a long time without one👍 your pups dont like to get in the sleeping bag with you? Mine never did until it got really cold once and he crawled under.

[@AdventureOtaku]

My pups are too big to fit in a bag with me, and Eloise is a biter. Well… a nipper but that is no way to sleep.

[@garyp9906]

I'm not a big fan of KOA's, but we have used them in the past. There are a couple pluses, however. Usually they are right off a major highway or interstate. You don't have to go out of your way for the most part to find one on a long trip. Second, if it's not a holiday weekend you can usually make a reservation that day and get a spot. That's because they can be expensive for a night. Most people that travel opt in to find a place that's cheap to stay. One thing I don't like about them is you are usually packed in like sardines. But, if it's only for a night it's not a big deal. If you have kids, there are some things to keep them busy and most have a pool. Would I stay in one if I could find a place that is cheaper and decent?...No. But, we will continue to use them occasionally on our trips.

[@AdventureOtaku]

They absolutely have their uses.

[@doletawood5061]

Great for all the things you mentioned plus laundry facilities.

[@AdventureOtaku]

Did I not mention laundry? Wait till you see tomorrows video!

[@tomraidna8421]

Basically like Mcdonalds, you typically know what you are getting

[@AdventureOtaku]

You do, once you break the seal and try it out.

[@tomraidna8421]

@@AdventureOtaku I like to use if I need a stopover between destinations

[@dusk1947]

Yep

[@AdventureOtaku]

Yup…

[@anothercar]

Why not consider a small generator, you could run an electric heater off one.

[@AdventureOtaku]

I am pretty anti-generator. I would rather put the money into building a bigger battery bank to support an electric heater and not deal with the noise, the fuel, and the pollution. The smart thing to do is put in an espar heater which runs off the diesel tank. But pricey... that is the standard most vanlifers follow. There is a cheap chinese knockoff but they tend to break.

[@JessicaTravelsNY]

I personally prefer state parks but wondered about these when I have grand children.

[@AdventureOtaku]

They are, as I said…Hotels you bring the bed too. We use them when its cold, or we need reliable services.

[@susanproszek2295]

Many state and National parks charge you for the camping

[@AdventureOtaku]

I think all do! But I have never paid as much as I have for a KOA.

[@RockiestRock]

Only if you tell them 😉

[@lexerwin1121]

How much a night

[@AdventureOtaku]

It varies based on location, type of koa, type of site and time of year. From as low as $45 a night to $140 a night!

[@lexerwin1121]

@@AdventureOtaku thank you.😊

[@frankzicari784]

It is spelled with a K because campgrounds with a C is copyright protected

[@AdventureOtaku]

Really? An awful lot of campgrounds around spelling it with a C.

[@joeyfmd]

It’s February 2nd and I am in Michigan staying at a KOA, testing out my repaired motorhome. I wanted electricity and I have it. KOAs have their place. I don’t normally stay in them but they come in handy. This place doesn’t have bathroom or showers in the winter. (They do have full hookups, but my RV is winterized.). I am fine with it. I could have stayed in a hotel for $110 but this is fine for checking out the repairs.

[@AdventureOtaku]

Our van doesn’t have a bathroom, so that one would be a no-go for us.

[@ryanyoung7433]

I have a 45 ft riverstone and absolutely love KOAs. But nothing beats the space of a state park, ND has a lot of nice state parks. ALL the room you could want

[@AdventureOtaku]

Totally agree!

[@nancyclubb7510]

Most of my time spent at a KOA was with Grandchildren. They love the activities.

[@AdventureOtaku]

And its great for that.

[@EYEBALLKLOTT]

My family has an address leading to here so we should've had a stay but we don't own an RV or anything to go with so I'm afraid Ron Paul, Kennedy's and Ted Cruz got skipped through us

[@AdventureOtaku]

I may regret asking, but I don’t get the Ron Paul, Kennedy, Ted Cruz bit….

[@Usonian7]

Campgrounds like that for our family (2 kids under 6) it's a glorified playground that we can have a bonfire at.

[@AdventureOtaku]

Exactly.

[@danladd4764]

KOA is a resort living, not camping

[@AdventureOtaku]

And not particularly great resort living.