New Orleans KOA Holiday will mark its 50th anniversary Sept. 25 with a community celebration featuring a lodge dedication honoring New Orleans jazz musician Kermit Ruffins.
The public event, hosted by campground owners Michael and Deborah Dunn, will include a ribbon-cutting ceremony, second line parade, live performance by Ruffins and his band, food and drinks, and family-friendly activities.
The celebration begins at noon.
The lodge dedication will launch a new tradition at New Orleans KOA Holiday, with future lodges planned to honor notable local artists whose work reflects New Orleans’ cultural heritage.
The street leading to the new lodge also will be named in recognition of Ruffins and his family.
“This anniversary isn’t just about looking back at 50 incredible years,” said Deborah, owner of New Orleans KOA Holiday.
“It’s about celebrating the community, culture and people that have made this campground such a special place. There is no better way to mark this milestone than by honoring Kermit Ruffins, whose music and spirit represent the very best of New Orleans,” Deborah added.
New Orleans KOA Holiday has operated in River Ridge since 1976, serving travelers visiting New Orleans and its music, cuisine, festivals and culture. The campground accommodates RVers, cabin guests and tent campers.
Ruffins, a New Orleans jazz performer, was selected for the campground’s first artist-inspired lodge dedication. His performances have become associated with the city’s musical culture, according to KOA.
The anniversary celebration will include the 50th anniversary observance, ribbon-cutting, lodge dedication, street naming, second line parade and live jazz performance by Ruffins and his band.
The event comes as KOA highlights the economic and cultural activity generated by camping.
According to KOA’s annual Camping and Outdoor Hospitality Report, campers contributed $66 billion to local economies in 2025, with the average camper spending more than $200 per day while camping.
The report also found that 33% of campers were interested in visiting small towns, while 38% were drawn to historic sites.
New Orleans KOA Holiday offers RV sites, Deluxe Cabins and tent camping, with access to attractions throughout New Orleans. The Sept. 25 anniversary celebration is free and open to the public.
