Buffalo KOA Journey: Honored as 2026 Rising Star by KOA

Buffalo KOA Journey: KOA's 2026 Rising Star Awardee

The Buffalo KOA Journey, owned by the dedicated Peoples family, has garnered top recognition as Kampgrounds of America, Inc.'s (KOA) 2026 Rising Star. This prestigious award, revealed at the annual KOA Convention & Expo in Raleigh, North Carolina, is bestowed upon campgrounds that have been under the same ownership for less than five years and that exhibit exceptional standards in guest experiences, facility development, and community involvement.

Located in the picturesque backdrop of Wyoming's Bighorn Mountains, this campground has undergone significant expansion under the guidance of Paul and Anita Peoples. Having acquired the property just five years ago, the couple expanded the location by five acres along Clear Creek, adding a stunning 22-site section that offers breathtaking views of the iconic mountain range.

In collaboration with KOA's Campground Design Services, the Peoples have upgraded every RV site with full hookups and enhanced Wi-Fi capabilities capable of streaming. Additionally, their commitment to sustainability has led them to install solar panels, culminating in the campground earning the KOA Green certification, which recognizes eco-friendly practices.

"The Peoples family embodies the entrepreneurial spirit, innovation, and warmth that signifies the next generation of campground ownership within KOA," remarked Toby O'Rourke, CEO and president of KOA. Their ardor for hospitality, in conjunction with their profound investment in service, stands as an exemplary model of what can be achieved within the KOA network.

Paul Peoples shares that this journey began with their participation in KOA's Buyer's Workshop in Nashville. After purchasing a campground in Abilene, Texas, the couple made firm plans to establish roots at what they regard as their lifelong endeavor: the Buffalo KOA Journey. They discovered the campground when visiting the previous owners and believed it immensely attractive, driving their decision to create a community-driven haven in Buffalo, Wyoming.

The campground is rich with thoughtful enhancements, including high-quality furniture, commercial-grade fire pits, and a restored two-story log cabin office that reflect their commitment to comfort and tradition. The improvements have earned the campground a remarkable Net Promoter Score of 89, which ranks among the highest within KOA's extensive system.

Anita Peoples emphasized the familial aspect of their campground, stating, "Our guests are not merely travelers; they become part of our story. We've worked hard to cultivate an environment where folks feel at peace and truly belong."

The expansion of the Buffalo KOA Journey is testimony to the family's ongoing commitment to quality and community, with the next generation stepping in to help manage daily operations. Their eldest daughter, Rowan, leads these efforts alongside her husband, while the other daughters—Caitlin, Alyssa, and Morgan—play important roles in nurturing the family's enduring legacy.

Guests seeking an unforgettable outdoor experience can visit the Buffalo KOA Journey at 87 U.S. Highway 16 E., Buffalo, Wyoming. For more details, visit their website.

Kampgrounds of America, Inc. has been a pioneer in outdoor hospitality for over six decades. With a mission to connect people with the outdoors, KOA manages more than 500 campgrounds and continues to support campground owners through educational, design, and operational resources. To know more about KOA or the glamping venture Terramor Outdoor Resorts, visit KOA.com and TerramorOutdoorResort.com.