Savor the Texas Outdoors Campaign: A Summer of Grilling and Camping
The partnership between Beef Loving Texans and Kampgrounds of America (KOA) has brought forth an exciting initiative titled
Savor the Texas Outdoors, aimed at rekindling Texans' love for outdoor adventures and communal meals this summer. Inspired by a rising consumer trend in nostalgic camping experiences, this campaign seeks to connect families and friends while celebrating grilled beef and the cherished memories it creates.
Connecting Through Camping
As the 2026 Camping and Outdoor Hospitality Report by KOA reveals, an impressive 50% of consumers yearn to relive their childhood camping adventures, while 55% have plans to tent camp this year. Not to mention, 44% show keen interest in mastering outdoor cooking skills. Recognizing these trends, Rachel Chou, the Director of Consumer Marketing for Beef Loving Texans, expressed, “Whether it's a camping trip, an RV getaway or a backyard cookout, some of our favorite memories are made around beef.” The campaign's focus is to help Texans reconnect with family through outdoor gatherings, delicious food, and the creation of new memories.
Exciting Events and Offerings
This summer, join the fun through
Savor the Texas Outdoors by accessing a plethora of outdoor cooking content, grilling recipes, and camping ideas. A particular highlight of the campaign will be a downloadable camping guide that’s free of charge for all participants, alongside a chance to win a weekend getaway to the new Fredericksburg KOA Resort opening on September 1, 2026. Beyond digital resources, the campaign will also host a series of engaging free public events at KOA campgrounds throughout Texas.
Leading these experiences will be renowned Pitmaster and Grill Master, Jerry McPherson. As a host of Beef Loving Texans' popular
Smoke Lab events, McPherson will venture to various KOA campgrounds to share his expertise in grilling steaks and making the most of leftovers for additional campsite creativity. His sessions promise practical outdoor cooking tips suitable for campers and backyard grillers alike, ensuring everyone can savor the season to its fullest.
Attendees will not only benefit from live grilling demonstrations but will also indulge in complimentary beef-inspired dishes, enjoy lively music, participate in lawn games, and take part in family-friendly activities that embody the essence of summer. As enthusiasts gather around to share delicious meals, they will also gain insights into outdoor cooking, while forging connections with camping traditions that continue to inspire modern travelers. It’s important to note that while attendance is free, prior registration is necessary due to limited space.
Event Details
Special experiences are planned at select KOA locations in Texas, including:
- - Austin East KOA Holiday: Saturday, July 11, from 6:00 PM - 8:00 PM
- - Galveston Island KOA Holiday: Saturday, July 25, from 6:00 PM - 8:00 PM
- - Lake Conroe/Houston North KOA Holiday: Saturday, August 1, from 6:00 PM - 8:00 PM
As Ethan Rafei, Vice President of the Texas KOA Owners Association, highlights, “We’re seeing more travelers seek experiences that help them slow down and reconnect with the people around them.” The focus on savoring time together through grilling, enjoying meals outside, and introducing new generations to camping traditions is resonating with Texans.
For those eager for additional recipes, outdoor cooking inspiration and further details about the campaign, visit
BeefLovingTexans.com/Savor-Texas-Outdoors.
About Beef Loving Texans
Beef Loving Texans acts as the consumer-facing entity of the Texas Beef Council, aiming to celebrate the diverse flavors, history, and experiences surrounding beef as a treasured Texas tradition. They empower locals with recipes, cooking inspiration, and expert resources to relish every meal and create special memories around the dining table.
About Texas Beef Council
The Texas Beef Council is a non-profit organization funded by local farmers and ranchers through the Beef Checkoff program, driving demand for beef both domestically and internationally through promotion, research, and educational efforts. Governed by a board of 20 cattlemen, it represents the state's 149,000 beef farmers and ranchers.
About Kampgrounds of America
Kampgrounds of America (KOA) has been a leader in outdoor hospitality for over 60 years. Their mission centers on uniting people with outdoor experiences. With over 500 campgrounds, KOA effectively supports campground owners, offering them significant resources in education, design, and marketing. Their first glamping neighborhood, Terramor Outdoor Resorts, reflects an upscale approach to outdoor adventures, having opened its flagship property in Bar Harbor, Maine, in 2020.