Kampgrounds of America Inc.

Founded: 1961 Franchising since: 1963
Dave Drum started Kampgrounds of America in 1961. He and other Billings, Montana, businessmen set up camping facilities off highways 87 and 212 in 1962, when the World's Fair in Seattle was attracting tourists along those routes. As he started franchising that year, Drum opened a system of campgrounds along America's highways. He was forced to use a "k" in "kampgrounds" instead of a "c" because of a copyright challenge.

KOA campgrounds offer hot showers, clean restrooms, laundry facilities, convenience stores, swimming pools and playgrounds. Eight of every 10 KOA campgrounds is within 100 miles of a metropolitan area, and some offer economical lodging for tourist destinations.

The parent company, KOA Holdings, also owns Franchise Services, whose subsidiaries include franchise companies Sir Speedy, PIP Printing and Comprehensive Business Services.

Address: P.O. Box 30558 Billings, Montana 59114

Phone: (406)248-7444 Franchisee Association KOA Kampground Owners Association

Franchisor is a privately-held company with 80 employee(s); 80 employee(s) in franchise department.

Franchise Units

Year	U.S. Franchises	Canadian Franchises	Foreign Franchises	Company Owned
2008	384	32	0	26
2007	382	32	0	27
2006	376	33	0	24

Where Seeking Franchisees
Nationwide
Outside the U.S.: Australia/New Zealand, Canada

Exclusive territories available.
Territory size: Varies

Total investment: $0
Franchise fee: $7,500 - $30,000
Ongoing royalty fee: 8%
Term of agreement: 5 years, renewable


Type of Financing Available

	In-House	Third Party
Franchise Fee	No	No
Startup Costs	No	No
Equipment	No	No
Inventory	No	No
Accounts Receivable	No	No
Payroll	No	No

Qualifications
Net worth requirement: $0
Cash liquidity requirement: $200,000
Business Experience:

• Industry experience
• General business experience
• Marketing skills

Operations

• 1% of all franchisees own more than one unit
• Number of employees needed to run franchised unit: 8
• Absentee ownership of franchise is allowed.

Training

• Available at headquarters: 1 week
• At franchisee's location: varies
• Conventions

Ongoing Support

• Newsletter
• Meetings
• Toll-free phone line
• Internet
• Field operations/evaluations

Marketing Support

• Ad slicks
• National media
• Regional advertising

Other marketing support

• Directory, website

Franchise 500® rank:
#260 (2006);

America's Top Global Franchises:
#190 (2006);