The West Palm Beach Lion Country Safari KOA Journey will close permanently on April 30, following the sale of the property to the family of Larry Ellison, cofounder of Oracle. The campground has stopped accepting new reservations, and guests with existing bookings will receive automatic refunds by February 17.
In a message to visitors, the KOA team acknowledged the role the campground played for multiple generations, stating that they were making the decision “with gratitude and a heavy heart.”
According to 12 News, the team added that the laughter and conversations of campers had filled the space “with warmth and purpose” for decades. They concluded, “From the bottom of our hearts, thank you for being part of our story.”
The campground has been notable for its location adjacent to Lion Country Safari, offering guests a unique experience that included waking to the sounds of wildlife from the preserve. The property has long been a destination for RV travelers, snowbirds, and families seeking a warm-weather vacation in Florida.
The closure of a long-standing campground like this one illustrates the challenges and opportunities facing operators of private campgrounds, RV resorts, and holiday parks.
For industry professionals, this event serves as a reminder of the importance of strategic property management, diversification of guest offerings, and the potential impact of real estate transactions on operational continuity.
Operators may also consider strengthening relationships with long-term patrons and exploring alternative business models to mitigate sudden closures or sales.
As the final closure date approaches, the KOA team is working to ensure a smooth transition for guests with reservations while reflecting on decades of service in the outdoor hospitality sector.
The closure also underscores broader trends in campground ownership and consolidation, highlighting how properties can shift from public accommodation to private ownership, with implications for local tourism and the RV and glamping market in Florida.