Kampgrounds of America, Inc. (KOA), the leader in outdoor hospitality, has been identified by Franchise Business Review as an award-winning franchise in its 2026 report on the Most Profitable Franchises, according to a release.
This recognition places KOA among just 50 franchise brands selected nationwide based on a combination of franchisee satisfaction, financial performance and long-term investment potential.
For over 60 years, KOA has helped entrepreneurs build successful campground businesses while connecting campers with memorable outdoor experiences. Today, KOA’s network includes more than 500 campgrounds across North America, serving millions of campers annually through a variety of camping experiences.
“We are honored to be recognized on Franchise Business Review’s Most Profitable Franchise list,” said Toby O’Rourke, president and CEO of KOA. “This recognition reflects the entrepreneurial spirit of our franchisees and their deep commitment to creating safe, consistent, and welcoming places for guests to camp. For generations, campers have returned to KOA campgrounds because of the relationships our owners build, the quality of the experience they deliver, and the value they provide to every guest. Our franchisees are the foundation of KOA’s success, and we are proud to support them with the tools, resources, and partnership they need to grow thriving businesses and create lasting memories for camping families.”
Franchise Business Review, a research firm that conducts independent surveys of franchisee satisfaction, provides the only 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.
To identify the award-winning companies on this year’s list of Most Profitable Franchises, Franchise Business Review analyzed data from more than 29,000 franchise owners representing 330 brands regarding their overall satisfaction with their brand and their likelihood to recommend it to others. Other factors include the annual income of franchise owners and the minimum startup capital requirement.
“The questions that matter before buying a franchise come down to profitability, satisfaction, and long-term return,” said Michelle Rowan, president of Franchise Business Review. “Few franchises succeed overnight. But owners who do their homework tend to come out ahead. That’s what sets our Most Profitable Franchises list apart: these brands deliver on income and rank highest in satisfaction according to the franchisees themselves.”
